The Destination Issue 58 Vol 1

WEATHER ISLAMABAD Scattered Thunderstorms

ISLAMABAD ISSUE: 58 VOL: 1

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Precipitation: 20% Humidity: 67% Wind: 18 km/h Wednesday – July 19, 2017

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Shawal 24, 1438 AH.

Repatriation of Afghan refugees gains momentum: UNHCR

The repatriation of Afghan r ef u ge e s f r o m K hy b e rPakhtunkhwa to their homeland has gained momentum during the current summer. A Spokesman of UNHCR told Radio Pakistan that 32,500 Afghan refugees returned to their country since April this year. He said UNHCR is providing 200 dollars to each returning Afghan refugee besides food and other necessary items.

Turkish Air Force lauded PAF role in operation Zarb-e-Azb success

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Qatar appreciates Nawaz Sharif for boosting Pak-Qatar ties

Foreign Minister of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani dur ing his br ief visit to Pakistan, called on Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif yesterday in Islamabad.

During the meeting Sheikh

Mohammed briefed the Prime Minister on Qatar’s response to the demands of Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain and Egypt and on the current status of the mediation efforts of His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah,

Emir of Kuwait. The Prime Minister appreciated the sagacity and wisdom of His Highness, the Emir of Kuwait and said that Pakistan supports his sincere efforts in finding a solution to the current crises in the Gulf region. The Prime Minister noted the brotherly relations between Pakistan and the State of Qatar. The Prime Minister stressed that Pakistan maintains close, friendly and cooperative relations with all GCC countries and is concerned at the recent crisis in Middle East. The people and government of Pakistan wish to see a diplomatic solution of the problem between brotherly Islamic countries. The Foreign Minister of Qatar expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister for the warm reception and reiterated Qatar’s desire to further enhance bilateral relations between the two countries.

I SL A M A BA D — P r i m e Minister’s Advisor on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz Tuesday informed the Senate that Pakistan was taking action against all the terrorist groups without any discrimination, including Haqqani network.

“Our policy towards all militants and their networks, including the Haqqani network is quite clear. We will fight them wherever they are and will never tolerate

their presence on our soil,” he said while giving policy statement on a motion moved

by Taj Haider and others about the implications of the statement of Chairman US armed services committee in Kabul soon after his visit to Pakistan. He said, all this was being done in our national interest and this policy was not dependent on attitudinal change of any country.

The advisor said, “We remain

convinced that Pak-US cooperation is a pre-requisite to achieve lasting peace in the region and we have conveyed that the end-state for both US and Pakistan is a stable and peaceful Afghanistan that has no ungoverned spaces from where terrorists plan and carry out attacks on a third country. McCain is also of the view that Pak-US relations was more important than ever before.”

Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman Awarded Turkish Legion of Merit

Corruption of not even a single penny proved against PM: Marriyum

Infor mation Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb has said on Tuesday that corruption of not even a single penny has been proved against Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. During media talk outside Supreme Court, she pronounced that Joint Investigation Team (JIT) was not able to provide evidence over any accusation against the premier. “The public voted for PM Nawaz and he will fight for the nation,” she asserted.

AIOU declares results of its post-graduate program

Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) on Tuesdaydeclared f inal results of its M.Sc (Statistics) program for the Semester Autumn, 2016 and same has been placed at the University’s website. Results of Arabic Teacher Training Course (ATTC), Primar y Teaching Certificate (PTC) and Certificate of Teaching (CT) have also been announced.

Accordi ng to Cont roller Examination, intimation cards have been dispatched to all the concerned students at their postal address.

ISTANBUL—Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force was awarded the Legion of Merit in the recognition of his services for promotion of defence ties between two air forces in an impressive ceremony held at Turkish Air Force Headquarters at Istanbul, yesterday. Earlier, on arrival at Headquarters of Turkish Air Force, a smartly turned out contingent of Turkish Air Force presented him

the guard of honor. Later he called on General Abidin Ünal, Commander Turkish Air Force at his office. Both the dignitaries remained together for sometimes and discussed matters of professional and mutual interests.

Air Chief highlighted the PAF’s key role in ongoing counter terrorism operations in Pakistan. He also reiterated to enhance the cooperation with Turkey in the fields of security, training and Information

Technology. General Abidin Ünal, Commander Turkish Air Force, lauded the role played by PAF in the success of operation Zarb-e-Azb. He also thanked the Air Chief for enhancing defense ties between both the friendly countries. Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force also met Dr. Ismail DEMIR, Undersecretary for Defence Industries (SSM) during his visit. Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman, Chief of the

Putin welcomes MAKS airshow as venue to promote Russian aircraft on global markets

Artists from China and Pakistan traversing the CPEC

Chinese and Pakistani artists, eight from each country, will travel in a cultural caravan in three segments of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), each segment spanning a maximum of ten days’ duration. “Creative Caravan of artists, musicians and film makers from China and Pakistan traversing the CPEC and documenting Art and Culture en-route,” The Silk route has played a significant role in the culture and economy of the region through the history. Its visionary transformation into CPEC will be seen as the most powerful engine of change, development, progress and economic turnaround for the entire region. According to schedule the first segment will undertake the Western Passage covering route from Peshawar to Gwadar. The second segment will take the Eastern Passage from Karachi to Islamabad while also taking detour between Eastern Western and Central Passages.

The third segment will cover Northern Passage starting from Kashgar and culminating at Islamabad.

OIC to organize int’l conference on Al-Quds in Baku from Thursday

OIC in cooperation with the UN Committee on Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People (CEIRPP) is organizing a two day international conference on Al Quds in Baku from Thursday.

This moot will discuss serious aggression against Al Aqsa mosque, altering its historical characteristics and its Arab, Islamic and Christian features.

Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force is presently on an official visit to Turkey on the invitation of Turkish Air Force.

Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force (PAF) was awarded the Legion of Merit in the recognition of his services for promotion of defence ties between two air forces in an impressive ceremony held at Turkish Air Force Headquarters at Istanbul.

Agencies ZHUKOVSKY—The 13th MAKS airshow will help develop cooperation in the aircraft sector and promote Russian products on international markets, Russian President Vladimir Putin said at the opening of the aviation ex hibition on Tuesday. “We expect that a large exposition will be on display here, in the town of Zhukovsky outside Moscow, in the next few days. Leading

Russian and foreign companies will demonstrate their developments while conferences and workshops will be held on the topical issues of the sector’s development.

A whole number of negotiations and the signing of large contracts are planned,” the Russian leader said.

“We would like all these events to contribute to the strengthening of production cooperation, the growth of international

cooperation and the promotion of Russian products on the domestic and foreign markets,” Putin said, adding that Russia’s aircraft-making industry had something to offer to potential buyers.

The Russian government has lent substantial support to the domestic aerospace complex in recent years and serious modernization of its capacities has been carried out and now projects are underway for creating new

and competitive civil hardware, the Russian president said, mentioning the Kamov Ka-62 helicopter and the new MC-21 medium-haul airliner.

The head of the Russian state also noted that Russia’s positions in the field of military aircraft-building and the space sphere were also strong. “The potential of these sectors will continue strengthening in the future,” the Russian leader said. The MAKS-2017 International; Aerospace Show is being held in Zhukovsky on July 18-23. Over 650 Russian and foreign companies will demonstrate their products at the airshow. Overall, about 700 military exhibits will be on display. A total of 99 enterprises will demonstrate the achievements of the Russian defense industry. This year, about 180 foreign corporations and companies from 36 countries are taking part in the MAKS-2017 airshow compared to about 150 foreign firms from 30 counties that attended the previous exhibition.

Neither JIT report authentic, nor its probe fair: Sharif family lawyer

ISLAMABAD, 18 JUL (DNA) - Presenting arguments over Panamagate Joint Investigation Team (JIT) report in Supreme Court of Pakistan, Sharif family lawyer Khawaja Harris said that neither JIT report is authentic nor its probe was fair.

A three-member SC bench comprising Justice Ejaz Afzal, Justice Sheikh Azmat Saeed and Justice Ijazul Ahsan resumed the hearing of Panama case during which Khawaja Harris said that JIT proceeded from the mandate as it was allowed to find answers of only thirteen questions but it included two more queries by its own.

No probe can be carried out on the report, he continued.

Responding to the counsel’s stance, the bench remarked that

the case was forwarded to JIT due to unsatisfactory arguments of Sharif family. The members said we are not bound to follow JIT suggestions while the court can make decision on uncontroversial documents. Justice Ijazul Ahsan said that Sharif family adopted the approach to not tell anything to the JIT tasked to inspect every available record.

The counsel said JIT inspected those cases which were already disposed of by the courts over which the bench asked do you mean that JIT cannot review the past cases.

The court remarked that Sharif family hasn’t denied any document in its plea on which Khawaja Harris said that JIT didn’t ask for explanation on

any data.

Justice Azmat asked about the bank account of Prime Minister (PM) Nawaz Sharif in Saudi Arabia on which Khawaja Harris said that he has one and that the details of premier’s assets have already been submitted in the court.

He said volume 10 was not made public on which Justice Ijaz remarked that there is no evidence present in this volume but we can also open it if you insist.

The court has also assured that JIT is not investigating the case anymore. Moreover, the hearing has been adjourned till Wednesday.

PM Nawaz Sharif in April narrowly escaped disqualification after the Supreme Court ruled

there was insufficient evidence to remove him by a 2-3 split over documents released by the Panama Papers leak into off-shore wealth.

But it ordered further investigations, and the formation of the Joint Investigation Te a m ( J I T ) p a n e l t h a t included Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) Additional Director General Wajid Zia, Military Intelligence’s Brig Kamran Khurshid, National Accountability Bureau’s (NAB) Director Irfan Naeem Mangi, State Bank of Pakistan’s Amer Aziz, Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan’s (SECP) Executive Director Bilal Rasool and Inter-Services Intelligence’s Brig Muhammad Nauman Saeed.

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Pakistan targets all terrorists groups including Haqqani network: Sartaj

2 Wednesday- July 19, 2017

THE DESTINATION

NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL PHOTO OF THE DAY

Iran receiving ‘contradictory signals’ from US on fate of nuclear deal, Zarif

Shandur Top (el. 12,200 feet (3,700 m)) located in Chitral District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.

Shandur is often called the ‘Roof of the World’ and having the world’s highest Polo ground.

Canadian HC eyes various sectors as potential areas of cooperation with Pakistan

ISL A M A BA D — Pe r r y John Calderwood, High Commissioner of Canada on Tuesday said that Pakistan and Canada have good potential to enhance cooperation in information and communication technology (ICT), agriculture, energy, mining and other fields and private sectors of both countries have to play the leading role in exploiting these opportunities. Addressing the business community at Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), he said, “Canada and Pakistan could complement each other in many areas by sharing expertise and developing partnerships. Canada was quite strong in oil and gas, hydro and solar power and Pakistan could benefit from its expertise to improve

its energy generation.”

Perry John Calderwood said, “Canada is an advanced economy and Pak ist an could achieve better results by developing close cooperation with it. Canada is providing development assistance to Pakistan for women economic empowerment and added that the new development policy of Canada would also benefit Pakistan.” He said, “Pakistan is a potential country for business and investment, but due to security concerns, Canadian investors were avoiding to visit Pakistan.

However, the security situation was now improving and was hopeful that it will help Canadian investors to explore Pakistan.”

K halid Iqbal Mali k, President, ICCI in his

address said, “Pakistan and Canada enjoy old friendly relations as they established diplomatic relations in 1947.

However, bilateral trade of just over $1 billion in 2015 did not reflect the real potential of both countries.” He said, “Trade in limited items was the main reason of low trade volume and stressed that both countries should focus on trade diversification to improve bilateral trade figure. Trade balance was in favor of Canada and it should enhance its imports from Pakistan as many Pakistan products could meet the needs of Canadian customers at affordable cost.”

He emphasi zed t hat, “Canadian businessmen should benefit from Pakistan’s IT-enabled services in animation and gaming, retail banking and finance, mobile content, document management and call centers.” ICCI President said, “Many sectors of Pakistan’s economy including oil and gas, infrastructure, power generation, information and communication technologies, mining, agro business, wood sector and science and technology offered great investment potential to Canadian companies and they should explore these

sectors.”

He said, “Pakistan needed more oil rigs and mining equipment to exploit its vast natural resources and Canada should take benefit of these opportunities. Canadian investors should also explore joint ventures and investment in China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects in Pakistan. He said that Pakistani exporters have to face cumbersome visa formalities for attending trade fairs in Canada while its travel advisories discouraged Canadian businesspeople from visiting Pakistan.

Khalid Malik, Senior Vice President, ICCI welcomed Perry John Calderwood, High Com missioner of Canada and introduced his profile to the business community. He urged that Canadian authorities should revisit business visa regime and travel advisor y for Pakistan to facilitate more bilateral economic engagement between the private sectors of both countries.

Tahir Ayub Vice President ICCI, Zafar Bakhtawari, Shaban Khalid, Nadeem Mansoor, Shakeel Munir, Fatima A zeem, Zeenat Ayesha and others also spoke at the occasion.

Pakistan Delegation calls on Indonesian Ministers, Deputy Speaker JAKARTA—The Pakistan Delegation during its study visit to Indonesia called on General (R) Ryamizard Rya cudu , I ndonesia n Minister for Defence, General (R) Wiranto, Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs and Dr. Fadhli Zon, Vice Speaker of the Indonesian Parliament in Jakarta on Tuesday.

The eight-member PILDATfacilitated Pakistani delegation led by Senator Mushahid

Hussain Sayed, Chairperson, Senate Standing Committee on Defence is in Indonesia to study democratic consolidation in Indonesia. In conversation with General (R) Wiranto, Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs, the delegation was briefed on functions of the Coordinating Ministry especially in coordination and synchronization of the formulation, determination and implementation of policies

related to issues of politics, law and security in Indonesia.

In meeting with members of Commission-1 of the House of Representatives (DPR), members of the commission briefed the delegates on the role of oversight of defence, foreign affairs and information.

Defence Minister of Indonesia, G e ne r al ( R) Rya m i z a rd Ryacudu shared Indonesia’s policies to combat terrorism. Dr. Fadhli Zon, Vice Speaker of the House of

Representatives (Indonesian Parliament), briefed Pakistan delegates on the key features of the Parliament, election process and constituency politics in Indonesia. In addition to the leader of the delegation, members includes Syed Naveed Qamar, MNA Chairperson, National Assembly Standing Committee on Railways, PPPP; Senator Muhammad Javed Abbasi, Chairperson, Senate Standing Committee on Law and Justice1

UNITED NATIONS—Iran is receiving “contradictory signals” from the US administration about the fate of the nuclear deal but Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said he has yet to discuss it with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson. In New York to attend a UN forum on development, Zarif said he was open to speak with Tillerson as Washington carries out a review of the 2015 agreement reached with world powers on curbing Iran’s nuclear program. “There are no communications between myself and

Secretary Tillerson,” Zarif said at an event at the Council on Foreign Relations.

“It doesn’t mean there can’t be. The possibilities for engagement… have always been open.” President Donald Trump campaigned on a pledge to scrap the nuclear ag reement – wh ich he described as “the worst deal ever” – and in May ordered a review of the pact. “We receive contradictory signals,” Zarif said when asked about the possible outcome of the review. “It’s very clear that Iran is serious about the

nuclear deal and we believe the nuclear deal can lay the foundation.” The absence of communication with the US administration is in sharp contrast with Zarif’s dealings with former secretary of state John Kerry, with whom he negotiated the agreement.

Zarif said he and Kerry spent more time together “than with anybody else.” The foreign minister asserted that Iran would never seek to develop nuclear weapons and recalled that the UN nuclear watchdog, the IAEA, had certified that Tehran

was in compliance with the agreement.

Representatives of the five nuclear powers – China, Russia, France, Britain, the United States – plus Germany are to meet in Vienna on Friday to take stock of the deal. Zarif said they would discuss Iran’s complaints about non-US compliance, accusing the US administration of failing to lift sanctions in line with the deal. Any move by the US Congress to re-impose sanctions on Iran would ‘of course’ be “a violation” of the nuclear deal, Zarif said, but he did not say what Tehran’s response would be to such legislation. The foreign minister also offered to do “all it takes from my side” to address, on humanitarian grounds, the case of a Chinese-American sentenced to 10 years in prison and that of other US detainees.

Asked about Xiyue Wang, a 37-year-old researcher at Princeton University, Zarif said Iran’s courts were independent and that “we in the government do not have any control over the decisions of the judiciary.—DNA

BISP to initiate University Poverty Graduation Buddy Programme: Marvi RAWALPINDI—Minister of State and Chairperson Benazir Income Support Programme MNA Marvi Memon on Tuesday said that BISP is going to initiate a “University Poverty Graduation Buddy Programme” that would link youth with the poorest vulnerable women of Pakistan with the aim to help them graduate out of poverty.

“Under this partnership, university students would help BISP beneficiaries in identifying their potential, fine tune their abilities and guide them on sustainable solutions to the challenges faced by them,” she said while chairing a meeting on poverty graduation at BISP Headquarters.

Marvi said, “Under this

initiative, Higher Education Commission (HEC) enlisted universities across Pakistan have been asked to nominate 20 students each to participate in the competition in which students will be linked with BISP beneficiaries in the areas near to the participating universities.”

“One student will pair up with one beneficiary. The student will evaluate the potential of BISP beneficiary and help her in overcoming challenges and constraints faced by her by suggesting viable solutions. The student will guide the beneficiary in product development and marketing skills.

The student will also render help in marketing of product made by beneficiary through E-commerce, thus

helping her graduate out of poverty. The student will then showcase the success in a case study to a panel of judges who will choose the best graduation model,” she added. The Chairperson said, “BISP has contributed significantly towards reducing malnutrition, poverty reduction, political and economic empowerment, school enrollment and is helping its beneficiaries graduate out of poverty.”

“However, the talented BISP benef iciaries face several challenges like lack of information, access to opportunities, less understanding of market and exclusion. So, BISP plans to engage youth for the guidance of the beneficiaries,” she said. She appealed

that, “Universities should encourage their students to participate in this initiative, as this is not only a competition but a noble cause that would help BISP beneficiaries graduate out of poverty.”

The idea of “University Poverty Graduation Buddy Programme” is derived from “Empower her,” a Maghreb Women Economic Empowerment Initiative by World Bank that is based on Hackathon model. The model seeks to identify creative ways to address constraints preventing women participation in labor force by bringing together young developers and women associations that come up with creative solutions for the under privileged women.

Pakistan has developed comprehensive policies to tackle climate change: Zahid I S L A M A BA D — Fe d e r a l Minister for Climate Change Zahid Hamid on Tuesday said that the although Pakistan is ranked amongst the top ten countries considered most vulnerable to climate change, it has developed comprehensive policies and plans and is taking both adaptation and mitigation measures to tackle these issues. He was addressing the Pre-COP 23 Consultative Dialogue Framing Pakistan’s agenda on mitigation and adaption organized by the Civil Society Coalition for Climate Change with the collaboration of Ministry of Climate Change in Islamabad. The Minister s a id , “ T h e P r e - C OP-22 Consultative Dialogue held last year did help to crystallize our thinking regarding the Climate Change issue highlighted in

Marrakech.”

He further added, “The organizers have initiated the consultative process four months before. A series of six dialogues are planned to be held over six weeks on specific thematic areas, which includes Adaptation and Mitigation, Loss and Damage, National Determined Contributions, Means of implementation, New Market Mechanisms and Transparency Measurements.”

He highlighted var ious achievements aced by Ministry of Climate Change in last various years that includes ratification of Paris Climate Agreement, submission of Intended Nationally Determined Contributions, Green Pakistan Program, approval of Forest Policy from Council of Common Interest,

passing of Climate Change Act, declaring Astola Island first marine protected area of Pakistan, reforming Global Change Impact Study Centre and adoption Sustainable Goals as National goals by National Assembly of Pakistan.

He also mentioned that, “We should point out three key aspects from submitt ed I nt e nded Nat ional ly Determined Contributions at COP-23. First, the projected increase in Green House Gases emissions is four times.

Second, the potential of reducing emissions by 20 percent is subject to availability of $40 billions at current price and adaptation needs ranging from $7 to 14 billions per year over the period 2010-2015.”

Director General Environment Irfan Tariq gave historical

background of Conference of Parties held every year. He said, “Pakistan has been an active negotiator and participant every year.”

Dr. Tariq Banuri Executive Director Global Change Impact Study Centre said, “Climate Change is global agenda and requires collective efforts.

Pakistan needs to have strategic approach for mitigation.

We must develop pro-active proposals for COP-23 in order to play active role in global mitigation group.”

Ayesha Khan Chief Executive of civil Society Coalition for Climate Change said, “We have just initiated the process of development where developed countries have consumed their carbon budget.” The event was attended by civil society, media and government officials.

Turkey’s PM vows to continue fight against terrorism

Ghani orders sweeping changes to Kabul Police

Spanish soccer federation president and son arrested

US health care reform collapses as more Republicans say no

Turkey’s Prime Minister Binali Yildirim has said his country will continue to conduct its fight against terrorism until the last terrorist is dead. Speaking at the parliamentary group meeting of the ruling Justice and Development Party in Ankara yesterday, he said we will continue our fight against terrorism not only at home, but also abroad using our rights, under the international law.

Afghan Ministry of Interior Spokesman Najib Danish on Tuesday said that Afghan President Ashraf Ghani has called for broad changes to be brought to the Kabul police structures. In a statement, Danish said, “Based on the President’s orders, all officers at Police District level, in the capital, will be rotated out to provinces.”

Spanish Football Federation president Angel Maria Villar, FIFA’s senior vice president and a long-time player in world soccer, was arrested Tuesday along with his son and two more federation executives in an anti-corruption investigation. Villar, who is also a UEFA vice president, was suspected of having arranged matches for Spain that led to business deals that benefited his son.

Two more US Republican senators announced their opposition to their party’s efforts to revamp Obamacare, derailing the controversial legislation in its current form and potentially dealing a monumental setback to President Donald Trump. Republican leaders are desperate for a major legislative victory this year -- and keen to fulfill Trump’s campaign pledge.

THE DESTINATION

Wednesday- July 19, 2017

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NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL Rana Tahir Shahbaz Source: mct.gov.az

T

he rich historical, cultural and natural heritage of the country attracts visitors from all over the world. Untouched nature, mineral springs, the world’s only oil field treatment - naphthalene, a unique ancient architecture, unique culture, cuisine, and more contribute to the formation in Azerbaijan of all types of tourism: business, sport, medical, cognitive, hunting, exotic, beach and even gastronomic.

Azerbaijan is a territory of 9-out of 11 of the world’s climatic zones. Climate of our country enables to organize summer and winter holidays. Very common are ecological tours to Azerbaijan, which include visits to nature reservations, trekking and climbing routes. Midday sandy beaches offer opportunities for diving, and swimming season starts in Azerbaijan in May. Tourism sector in Azerbaijan is developing day by day, becoming one of the most important sectors of the economy.

The “State Program on development of tourism in the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2002-2005” approved by the Decree of President Heydar Aliyev, as well as the “State Program on socioeconomic development of regions” were of great importance for the tourism industry, and their implementation will create favorable conditions for building rich infrastructure and lay the foundation for our country’s integration into the international tourism market. Gained in those years of social and economic experience has created new opportunities for the full development of tourism. World Heritage List of UNESCO included the Inner City of Baku “Old City” with the Shirvanshahs Palace and Maiden Tower and museum of petroglyphs “Gobustan”. On turn other unique historical and archaeological curiosities.

Announcement by the President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev the year 2011 as the Year of Tourism, preparation of and holding a prestigious international contest “Eurovision-2012” in the capital of Azerbaijan have created new opportunities to increase the flow of tourists from all over the world, and given a powerful impetus to the development of domestic tourism. In particular, in the Year of Tourism there were opened a lot of new hotels in tourist regions, roads in the direction of historical and cultural reservations and sites of special purpose have been improved and repaired, tourist traffic signs have been established, the construction of a tourist complex “Shahdag” has been sped up, the works on Development of tourism infrastructure in the cultural and historical reservations such as Shabran and Lahij, have been carried out. A draft navigation GoMap which includes data on tourist areas, monuments and other landmarks of the country has been implemented as well.

As a result of government’s actions in the country, a modern hotel and service infrastructure has been established, training of personnel for the tourism industry has been provided, and an extensive network of travel agencies (more than 200 travel agencies) has been ensured, information and advertising structures are successfully operating, a lot of tourist routes

Pakistani Students Take Part in Int’l Chemistry & Physics Olympiads ISLAMABAD—Two teams of Pakistani students have participated in International Chemistr y and Physics Olympiads at Bangkok, Thailand and Yogyakarta, Indonesia respectively.

Teams comprising four Chemistry and five Physics students competed against over 300 talented students of respective subjects from around the world. Students were selected under the STEM Careers Programme after nationwide screening tests held in all major cities of the country. Top 50 students for each competition were shortlisted for training in the subjects. After attending three-week long training camps, these students were further shortlisted and trained. Finally, two teams were selected to represent Pakistan in these Olympiads. Final camps for the two teams were set up in Hussain Ebrahim Jamal Research

Institute of Chemistr y, K a r ach i a nd Pa k ist a n Institute of Engineering and Applied Sciences (PIEAS), Islamabad respectively.

Students for Chemistry Olympiad included Maha Ayub from The Lyceum School, Karachi, Shah Muhammad Hassan from Gener at ions School, Karachi; Amna Masood from Beaconhouse School System, Islamabad; and Mahnoor Moeen from Iqra Army Public School & College, Quetta. Whereas, the team of Physics students comprised Muzammil Ali Shaikh from Government Degree College, Larkana, Baqir Hassan Jafry from Karachi Grammar School, Karachi, Zoraiz Naeem from Beaconhouse School System, Abbot t abad, Ubaidullah from ACME College of Excellence, Sargodha and Muhamad Mubeen f rom FG Si r Syed College, The Mall,

Rawalpindi.

These Inter national Olympiads are one of the most prestigious competitions for college students up to age of 20 years.

The f irst Inter national Chemistry Olympiad was held in Prague, Czech Republic in 1968, while the f i rst I nter national Physics Olympiad was held in Warsa, Poland in 1967. Over 75 countries send their teams to compete in each of these competitions. STEM Careers Programme is a joint venture of Higher Education Commission (HEC) and PIEAS aimed at grooming talented youth of the nation to opt for career in Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics and preparing them for participation in the annual International Oly mpiads in Physics, Biology, Mathematics and Chemistry.

Kashmiris face severe shortage of commodities SRINAGAR—The authorities in the name of so-called security are impeding the free movement of trucks carrying essentials of life to Kashmir valley, resulting in severe shortage of essentials of life, medicines and other goods in the Valley. The movement of trucks from India to Jammu is smooth, but the onward movement is scuttled. The business activities have virtually come to a halt in the valley and if the things continue to prevail there would be economic devastation in Kashmir, a daily paper from Jammu said.

For the past couple of weeks hardly a tr uck car r ying

essentials of life has reached the Kashmir valley. As a result of official order for the stoppage of the trucks after every 30 kilometers on the highway, it takes at least 10 days for a truck to reach Srinagar from Jammu.

The authorities manning the Srinagar-Jammu highway are creating hurdles in the free movement of trucks carrying essentials of life, medicines and other goods. The nonentry of the trucks has led to scarcity of the goods in the Kashmir valley, the paper revealed.

“In the name of security, the officials are causing unnecessary harassment to the drivers

carrying essentials of life, medicines and other goods for the valley. These officials order for the stopping of the trucks at regular intervals on the Srinagar-Jammu highway. These officials say that import of goods to the valley is not a priority for them,” the report added. The report said that since the raw material needed for the industries of Kashmir comes from outside such entities are facing huge economic losses. The people manning the industries are using their influence to get their trucks released on the highway, but still there is no relief for them.—DNA

China tries hard to avoid military clash with India: Global Time

A leading Chinese newspaper Global Times has said that China tries hard to avoid a military clash with India, but it doesn’t fear going to war to safeguard its sovereignty.

In a report on Tuesday, it urged both countries to exercise restraint and avoid the current conflict spiraling out of control. The newspaper said one important reason that prompted India triggering the border dispute this time is its worry over China’s development in recent years.

UN calls for int’l, regional support to stabilize situation in Mosul

The United Nations has called for regional and international support to stabilize situation in Iraqi city of Mosul, which has been liberated from Islamic State terrorist group. UN Secretary General’s Special Representative for Iraq Jan Kubis stressed the need for de-mining, stabilization and reconstruction efforts to enable the return of displaced people.

Rallies held in Gaza for release of detainees from Israeli jails

Over 6,500 Palestinians currently held at detention facilities throughout Israel. In Gaza, thousands of Palestinians staged a protest rally to demand release of their relatives held in Israeli jails. The protesters carried photos of their incarcerated relatives and banners in a march outside the offices of the International Committee of the Red Cross.

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

AZERBAIJA

Tourism Destination which pass through the most picturesque and fertile regions have been created and tested in Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan learns quickly and gains experience. The country is annually held international exhibition “Travel and Tourism» AITF. Azerbaijan, in turn, participates in the 20 most prestigious international tourism forums in London (WTM), Berlin (ITB), Moscow (MITT), Istanbul (MTE), etc.

Writers are requested to send their contributions at editor@thedestination.com.pk

The flow of tourists is increasing every year (according to official information in 2011 Azerbaijan was visited a record number of foreign nationals - more than 2.2 million), so in the capital and other tourist areas there is a growing number of hotels with the highest level of service. Today their number is more than 500. Among the most popular hotels in the capital are the chain of brand hotels such as Four Seasons Hotel Baku, Hyatt Regency, JW Marriott Absheron Baku Hotel, Jumeirah Bilgah Beach Hotel, Grand Hotel Europe, Hilton Baku, Kempinski Hotel Badamdar etc.

Hotels, recreation, entertainment and sports centres operate also in the regions of Azerbaijan - a chain of hotels and amusement park Qafqaz Gabaland in Gabala, the epic winter and summer tourist complex “Shahdag” in Gusar region, more than 15 Olympic sports complex having necessary infrastructure for receiving tourists all over the country, etc. All this indicates that tourism in Azerbaijan is one of the priorities of the state policy and holds great promise for economic development.

Security is important topic in EU-Pakistan cooperation: Francois Cautain

PESHAWAR—Ambassador of the European Union (EU) Jean-Francois Cautain on Tuesday said that the security is important topic in the EU-Pakistan cooperation. He expressed these views during the launch of “Understanding the Counter Terrorism Response – Case Analysis of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Report” by United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in collaboration with the Home and Tribal Affairs Department of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) under a European Union funded programme in Peshawar. The Ambassador emphasized that, “The report is the first step in implementation of 7 million

euros counter terrorism project funded by the EU, and it highlights the issues that may be overcome and lead to success in fighting terrorism only by close cooperation of all criminal justice institutions in the country.” The report was completed under the auspices of “Pakistan’s Action to Counter Terrorism with a special reference to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa” projectwhich is supported by the European Union and aims to build national capacities of law enforcement and criminal justice agencies in effectively countering terrorism.

The Home and Tribal Affairs Department of KP constituted a committee which consisted of members from the Police, Prosecution and the Judiciary

who provided practical recommendations for further strengthening the criminal justice response to terrorism. The committee has put forward 30 recommendations which reflect the capacity, process, legislative improvements The recommendations would also act as a road-map and a cornerstone to UNODC and the EU’s intervention in the province under the “Pakistan’s Action to Counter Terrorism Project.” During the report launch, UNODC Country Representative Cesar Guedes highlighted upon the importance of the recommendations and stated that, “An evidence based approach would continue to be adopted while delivering technical assistance for KP’s response to terrorism.”

National Coordinator of NACTA, Ihsan Ghani said, “Coordination both at federal and provincial levels is essential when responding to terrorism and NACTA remains committed to assist provinces in improving information sharing and for developing a collective response.” Home Secretary KP, Siraj Ahmad said, “This exercise serves as an example of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s strong commitment for promoting greater coordination between law enforcement and criminal justice agencies to develop a robust response to terrorism.” Chief Justice KP, Yahya Afridi was the Chief Guest on the occasion and in his closing remarks he appreciated the assistance being rendered to the institutions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa by UNODC and the EU and added that, “Only through a collective response we can overcome the menace of terrorism.”—Diplomatic News Agency

Martin Dow launches National Consensus Guidelines Handbook ISLAMABAD—Martin Dow in collaboration with Dr. Salman Faridi announced on Tuesday the launch of “National Consensus Guidelines for Chemoprophylaxis and Surgical Site Infections” handbook at an event. The twenty five page pocket book containing these guidelines has been compiled after consulting with a consortium of leading practicing surgeons, infectious disease specialists, gynecologists and microbiologists from teaching and public hospitals from across the country. A total of thirty-one of the top surgeons in the country provided their input in preparing these guidelines for the purpose of advising surgeons nationwide.

This handy guidebook on evidenced based practices, as per international literature, would serve to reduce the incidents of infection in surgical procedures.

Speaking to the doctors and media, Dr. Salman Faridi, MBBS, FRCS, Professor of Surgery, Medical Director at Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Karachi commented, “Currently there is a lack of uniformity among surgical practices across the country. Through the National

Consensus Guidelines for Chemoprophylaxis and Surgical Site Infections we hope to bring all surgeons on the same page.”

“One of the problems of surgical practice in Pakistan is the lack of standardization when it comes to treating and preventing surgical infections. Inappropriate antibiotic usage also leads to drug resistance which in practical terms means many infections become difficult to eradicate.

Hence the need was felt for having advisory guidelines across the country on best antibiotic usage practices as evidenced by international literature and local microbiology,” he said.

The primary objective behind developing these guidelines is to provide an infection control document which encourages the appropriate use of antibiotics, both, as a chemo prophylactic agent and as a curative agent for surgical site infections with an additional benefit in preventing drug resistance.

This will result in strengthening antibiotic stewardship by reducing the irrational use of antibiotics in dealing with such conditions. Jawed Akhai, Chairman Martin Dow Group stated, “We are

happy to represent the ‘Consensus guidelines on Chemoprophylaxis and Surgical Site Infections.’

By introducing this handbook we hope to provide surgeons with guidelines to help ensure and enhance patient safety, by reducing infections and preventing drug resistance so antibiotics don’t lose their efficacy.”

“At our company we are continuously striving to create a distinction in healthcare. On behalf of my company, I would like to thank Dr. Salman Faridi and all the surgeons who contributed towards the development of this handbook, through which we aim to add quality and value to the profession of surgery. We hope that these guidelines will open up new horizons in the fields of medical education and practices in the country which will bring about a significant change in the lives and well-being of patients,” he said. The consensus guidelines handbook which is to be launched in multiple cities across Pakistan covers all general, surgical and gynecological surgeries.

Saudi Arabia to continue its policy towards Qatar

While presiding over a cabinet meeting in Jeddah, King Salman bin Abdulaziz appreciated US role in efforts to eliminate Islamic State terrorist group. He also reaffirmed Saudi commitment to eliminate terrorism. Meanwhile, the United States has announced to lift a ban on passengers on Saudi Arabian airlines carrying laptops onboard US-bound flights.

OIC to organize int’l conference on Al-Quds in Baku from Thursday

Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), in cooperation with the UN Committee on Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People (CEIRPP) is organizing a two day international conference on Al Quds in Baku from Thursday. This moot will discuss serious aggression against Al Aqsa mosque, altering its historical characteristics and its Arab, Islamic and Christian features. It will also discuss attempts being made to isolate Al-Quds AL-Sharif from its Palestinian surroundings.

Syrian army captures five oil fields from IS militants in Raqqa

Syrian army has captured five oil fields in Raqqa following battles with the Islamic State group. The captured fields include Dbaisan, Houran, Bir Rmailan, Zamleh and Rajem Jouzeh in southern countryside of the city. The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces have also claimed that they made new progress against the IS militants in Raqaa.

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 Wednesday- July 19, 2017

NTC Signs Agreement with National Savings forICT Services

Artists from China and Pakistan traversing the CPEC Chinese and Pakistani artists, eight from each country, will travel in a cultural caravan in three segments of the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), each segment spanning a maximum of ten days’ duration.

“Creative Caravan of artists, musicians and film makers from China and Pakistan traversing the CPEC and documenting Art and Culture en-route,”.

The Silk route has played a significant role in the culture and economy of the region through the history.

Its visionary transformation into CPEC will be seen

as the most powerful engine of change, development, progress and economic turnaround for the entire region.

According to schedule the first segment will undertake the Western Passage covering route from Peshawar to Gwadar.

The second segment will take the Eastern Passage from Karachi to Islamabad while also taking detour between Eastern Western and Central Passages.

The third segment will cover Northern Passage starting from Kashgar and culminating at Islamabad.

Coke Studio reaches unique milestone with Season 10

National Te l e c o m Corporation and National Savings (“NS”) have signed an Agreement to establish an ICT platform for data hosting and performing transactions in a safe, reliable and easily accessible manner on a real time basis. In the first phase, 223 National Saving Centers (“NSCs”) throughout Pakistan will be connected as part of its automation project. NTC will complete the first phase in the next 3 months. Thereafter, rest of the 153 NSCs and more than 25 offices of National Savings will be brought on to the platform in phase two.

The signing ceremony was attended by Brig (Retd) Viqar Rashid Khan, MD NTC and Mr. Zafar Masud, DG NS. The Agreemen twas signed by the respective delegates of both organizations.

NTC is the official IT & Telecom service Provider for the Gover n ment of Pak ist an and has been granted integrated license to provide Telecom / ICT services to Armed Forces, Defense Projects, Federal Government, and Provincial Gover n ments or as the Federal Government may determine. NTC is committed to providing secure, efficient and state-of-the-art ICT services to its valued subscribers. Speaking on the occasion, Brig (Retd) Viqar Rashid Khan, MD NTC expressed that NTC adopted technology and system for most innovative and reliable ICT services to its subscribers. He added that the secure ICT infrastructure provided

by NTC will facilitate the subscribers in automating and thereby improving NS functions, operations and processes. He also thanked DG NS for reposing his trust in NTC. Director General NS, Mr.

Zafar Masud, commented that ICT plays the role in improving efficiency, transparency and help management to enhance productivity.

He reiterated the resolve of NS to complete its modernization plan. He added that improved and reliable data connectivity between geographically dispersed sites shall improve services for customers and will allow the organization to develop and manage new products efficiently. This ICT platform will be the starting point for NS to offer its customers different electronic banking channels in line with the vision and initiative of Honorable Minister for Fi n a nce, Reve nue, Economic Affairs, Statistics and Privatization Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar. DG NS added that we anticipate bright future while shaking hands with NTC to facilitate the customers as NS has a long history of Public Service with the mandate to issue prize bonds, saving certificates and engage in operations of other saving schemes. It maintains a strong presence across the country.

MD NTC Brig (Retd) Viqar Rashid Khan enlightened the audience of the achievements of NTC during the past four years. NTC is the first operator in Pakistan to establish a Cloud Based National Data Center for the Public Sector.

NTC has witnessed unprecedented financial growth of 359% during 2015-16 and an increase in broadband subscriber base by 36%. NTC has extended its services from 54 districts/cities to 87 including underdeveloped districts in Sindh and Baluchistan.

The number of exchanges increased from 139 (in 201213) to 260 in 2016, thereby overall 87% increase. NTC

utilized 99% of its ADP budget in FY 2016-17. Also NTC is the first to use M2M (Machine2Machine) and P2P (Point2Point) networks for extending fixed lines and data connectivity. Large scale Wide Area Networks of NS, Election Commission, State Bank, AGP and other strategic organizations have been established. Pertinent to mention that, NTC has also signed a Service Provider License Agreement (SPLA) with Microsoft to provide SaaS in the country through its cloud based National Data Centre. NTC under Public Private Partnership is pursuing strategic partnership with private operators in the Telecom industry to provide new services for its subscribers. NTC is the first in the country to introduce new apps like Go-Smart for its customers and have extended 3G/4G Mobile data connectivity to its subscribers under Public Private Partnership.

MD NTC further briefed about the future plans and projects of NTC. These include establishment of strategically vital submarine cable landing station at Gawadar as an alternate route to existing Submarine Cable Networks. NTC further envisions expanding its network to all districts of Pakistan within the next 3 to 4 years. NTC is also managing Country Code Top Level Domain (CCTLD), ‫ نات سکاپ‬dot, for Urdu and local languages. NTC will Insha’Allah continue to serve the Government and Public Sector through reliable and secure telecom infrastructure to safeguard against cyber threats. NTC is committed to achieving ‘Digital Pakistan’ — a vision of Honorable Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif.

Turkish firm to develop two solar power plants in Pakistan ANKARA—Turkey’s Zorlu Energy Electricity Generation Compa ny a n nou nced on Tuesd ay t hat t hey have received approval for building two solar power plants in Pakistan, the Turkish media reported. The development came after the necessar y pre-licenses were provided to the company. The power

plants will each have a 100 megawatts capacity and will be developed through the subsidiaries of Zorlu Energy, Zorlu Sun Power Limited and Zorlu Renewable Pakistan Limited. The agreement was signed between Punjab government and Zorlu Energy in February this year however; the completion date is still

to be announced. In January, Zorlu and Pakistan agreed to a 100-megawatt solar project, Quaid-e-Azam. The company previously announced plans to finish its first 100-megawatt Quaid-e-Azam solar project within the year. The latest 200MW project will mount up the solar capacity in Pakistan to 300 megawatts.

Islamabad— Pakistan’s iconic music platform, Coke Studio is all set to launch its Season 10 in early August, setting a unique milestone for continuity, innovation and popularity over 10 consecutive years. This important milestone resonates intrinsically with the country’s celebration this year of its landmark 70th anniversary of independence. In the past decade, Coke Studio has featured scores of singers, musicians, instrumentalists, music producers, while showcasing the talents of music industry professionals like sound and recording specialists, set designers, wardrobe specialists, and numerous others. For the people of Pakistan, especially the youth, it has been a source of great inspiration, pride and identity. Coke Studio has projected a more positive image and a softer side of Pakistan internationally, with the fan base of Coke Studio spanning to over 150 countries, and with at least 20 countries starting their own version of Coke Studio. Moreover, it has helped reignite the music industry of Pakistan with ever-increasing resources and platforms mushrooming over the last decade.

Speaking about the milestone Sea son 10, t he General Manager of CocaCola Pakistan, Rizwan U. Khan stated, “We have come a long way since we embarked on this challenging journey a decade ago. Looking back, we

feel greatly humbled that Coke Studio has been able to achieve so much, in terms of bringing virtually unknown or little known musicians into the national limelight, re-introducing music genres like qawwali and sufimusic to the youth of Pakistan, continuing to stay true to the promise of producing quality fusion of music and practically playing an important role in reviving the music industry of Pakistan.” Over the years, Coke Studio has also served as a platform for rising newcomers to perform alongside established artists and legends in the music world, turning lesser known names into household ones. Coke Studio Season 10 will feature more such new talent alongside some of the biggest names in Pakistani music. Among these younger performers are the children of some of the country’s leading singers performing with their fathers, bearing forward the heritage and legacy of their parents.

As Coke Studio celebrates its 10th anniversary, it can look back proudly to the difference it has made, not only for the featured performers but also for the house band, individual musicians, technical support specialists and many others. Fans of Coke Studio, the Sound of the Nation, can look forward to this Season as one which they will remember with great nostalgia and fondness for many years to come.

France’s Renault reports increase in first-half sales PARIS—Renault, France’s second biggest carmaker, on Monday announced rising sales of its brands in the first half of this year on resilient demand in Middle East, African and Asian markets. For the JanuaryJune period, the French auto manufacturer saw its sales up by 10.4 percent compared with the same period last year, after providing world markets with 1.88 million vehicles. Over the period, the Asia-Pacific region absorbed 100,452 units, up by 50.5 percent.

In China, Renault sold about 36,000 vehicles, thanks to strong performance of New Koleos launched in late 2016 and produced locally.

In Europe, the group registrations grew by 5.6 percent to 1,025 units, making it the

second most sold brand in Europe, Renault said. “We set a new record... Our sales volumes and market share increased for all our brands and in all regions. Our strategy of range renewal and geographical expansion continues to produce results,” said T h ie r r y Kosk a s, member of the Executive Com mittee and Group Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing. For the second half of the year, “the group will continue to take full advantage in Europe of its renewed range and internationally of the momentum of Koleos in China, Kaptur, Xray and Vesta in Russia, QM6 and SM6 in South Korea, and the new SUV range in Latin America,” the French car maker said in a press release.

Timings of the three segments of the caravan will be decided keeping climatic and other factors in mind.

The film makers will have all their equipment including editing systems with them so they can continue editing their films and also engage local talent in the process of filming and editing.

The painters and photographers will be encouraged to engage with local enthusiasts in creative processes by sharing their knowledge and skills with them and also letting them to take pictures and paint images.=DNA

Kuwait Airways—History

On the wave of the oil boom of the 1940s, a national carrier was born in 1954.

Initially, Kuwait Airways Company served a limited network of Abadan, Beirut, Damascus and Jerusalem but a year later the fledgling carrier was facing economic hardship, and the government of Kuwait took a 50% interest in the airline, subsequently doubling the company’s capital. Having entered the rough and tumble world of aviation, the government finally took out 100% share in Kuwait Airways. Kuwait Airways entered the jet age in 1962 by leasing a Comet 4-C, the world’s first jetengined airliner. In the 1960s, the national carrier rapidly expanded its route map, and

scheduled services to London begun three times a week. To keep pace with fast-moving aviation needs, three Boeing 707s were delivered in 1968.

Ten years later, Kuwait Airways had an all -Boeing 707 fleet of eight aircraft.

In 1978, Kuwait Airways entered the wide-body age by taking delivery of its first two B747-200s, adding a third the following year.

This expansion permitted Kuwait Airways to extend its network to New York to the west and Manila to the east.

Modernization of the fleet continued, and four B727200s were delivered in 19801981. Two years later eight Airbus A310s and A300-600s were delivered, and in 1986 three Boeing 767-200ER

aircraft joined the wide-body fleet. Following the destruction of its premises and 15 of its aircraft during the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, the airline was relaunched. Kuwait Airways fleet now comprises three A320-200s, three A310300s, five A300-605Rs, four A340-300s and two Boeing B777s, bringing the fleet to 17 aircraft, equipped with the latest entertainment systems. Kuwait Airways aims to re-establish its network to reach more than 46 countries around the globe with a firm commitment to providing the finest service and comfort to passengers while continuing to rank safety as one of highest priorities.

Macron puts France top of ‘soft power’ rankings: survey

PARIS—France has leapfrogged the United States and Britain as the world’s top so-called soft power, helped by the election of President Emmanuel Macron, a study of countries’ non-military global inf luence showed Tuesday. While France has risen, Donald Trump’s ascent to the White House has seen the US slip from the top last year to third place in the Soft Power 30 study, compiled

by PR company Portland Communications and the Universit y of Souther n California. Soft power measures a country’s ability to secure international alliances and influence others through its attraction and appeal.

The study uses polling in 25 countries and digital data to measure a country’s influence. It takes into account factors such as the ability of countries to attract foreign

students to its universities and tourists, as well as its cultural allure. France’s rapid rise from fifth place last year, when it was in the doldrums under unpopular ex-president Francois Hollande, is partly due to the centrist Macron’s election in May. But the country’s diplomatic reach also played a key role.

“France’s greatest strength lies in its vast diplomatic network,” the study says.

“It is unrivalled in terms of membership to multilateral and international organisations, as well as in its diplomatic cultural missions.

“With Macron having long campaigned for cooperation and integration, it is not unreasonable to expect France’s global engagement and influence to grow.”

France also remains the world’s top tourist destination, the report said.The

terror attacks that have cost the lives of more than 230 people since 2015 “have not stopped tourists flocking to France and enjoying its rich cultural offering, cuisine, and lifestyle,” the report says. The top five countries by order are France, Britain, US, Germany and Canada.

Japan has risen to sixth place from seventh, Switzerland is seventh and Australia slips to eighth. The survey attributes the US decline — it has slipped from first last year to third — to a deterioration of “global sentiment” as a result of Trump’s “America First” policy.

The US was still “unrivalled” in higher education, technological innovation and the production of film, music and TV, it pointed out.—Source: kuwaitairways.com

Faysal Bank launches PayPak Debit Card

Haleeb unveils new corporate website

GE, Sapphire collaborate to operate an emergency medical facility

Telecom operators invest $287.6mn in six months

Faysal Bank Limited (FBL), one of the leading banks in Pakistan, has launched Pakistan’s Domestic Payment Scheme “PayPak” Debit Card.

Faysal Bank’s ‘Made for the Nation’ PayPak Debit Card will provide a convenient solution for those Faysal Bank customers who need to conduct ATM and retail purchase transactions locally to meet their day to day financial needs without carrying cash around, and do not require any international transactions.

It is a PIN based card to ensure security on both ATM and POS channels.

Haleeb Foods, Pakistan’s dairy pioneer, on Tuesday launched its new brand identity supported with a revamped corporate website. Having a contemporary design, the new clean interface www.haleebfoods.com encompasses a handful of dynamic functions which are aimed at enhancing the online consumer experience.

As part of company’s recent investments in customer-focused digital channels, Haleeb’s revamped website is an excellent initiative that will help consumers easily navigate through the entire portfolio of Haleeb brands.

GE Renewable Energy and Sapphire Wind Power Co Limited (SWPCL) recently joined forces for a first-of-its-kind initiative, installing an emergency medical center within the premises of Sapphire Wind Farm, Jhimpir, a village in Thatta district.

Jhimpir falls in the Gharo-Keti Bandar Wind Corridor, which has a potential to generate up to 50,000MW of electricity, per the Alternative Energy Development Board (AEDB).

The Jhimpir corridor is in the south-eastern part of Pakistan between Hyderabad and Karachi, and approximately 95 km inland from the coast in a semi-desert area.

The telecom operators in the country, witnessing a positive growth in the sector, have invested a significant amount of US $ 287.6 million during first six months of previous fiscal year 2016-17. The main driver behind this investment was cellular mobile sector which has invested US $ 262 million during the period.

Official sources said through enabling policies of Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications, the sector has not only witnessed steady growth but also contributed to national exchequer in term of revenues.