WEATHER ISLAMABAD Sunny
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Ramadan 26 1468 AH.
Pakistan, Iran to sign free trade pact: Dastgir
Commerce Minister Khurram Dastgir Khan has said Pakistan and Iran will soon sign the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) as the two countries have reached consensus in this regard. In an interview, he said, “Under the first major step towards FTA, central banks of Iran and Pakistan signed an agreement few months ago and all the required notifications have been done.” He said, “The negotiations are underway to immediately open letters of credit at Pakistani banks for trade with Iran.” Khurram Dastgir said, “Our bilateral trade has exceeded one billion dollars and this will grow even further in future.”
CPEC to give new dimension to
regional, global scenario: President
Kushner in Jerusalem to restar t Israel i Palestinian peace talks
The US chief Middle East adviser, Jared Kushner, has arrived in Jerusalem for a daylong visit aimed at restarting long-dor mant IsraeliPalest i n ia n peace t al k s. During his visit, he will have meetings with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on the issue.
ISLAMABAD—President
Romanian PM ousted Mamnoon Hussain has after no-confidence expressed the confidence vote in parliament that operations Zarb-e-Azb Romanian Prime Minister Sorin Grindeanu has been forced from power by his own party, in a no-confidence vote in parliament. He has been accused for failing to carry out necessary economic reforms in the country. Grindeanu lost the censure motion by 241 votes to 10.
SC not usi ng any account, page on social networking websites
The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Wednesday clarified that it is not using any account or page on the social networking websites. According to a statement issued by SC, a fake facebook page carrying name of Supreme Court of Pakistan is being run on social media. “It is, therefore, clarified that Supreme Court of Pakistan is neither using any facebook account or page nor any other ID on any other social networking websites,” the SC said. “Moreover, concerned quarters i.e. Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and Pakistan Telecommunications (PTA) have also been asked to block such IDs, pages and take legal action against the delinquents in accordance with law.
Australia to resume airstrikes against IS in Syria
Australia says it will resume soon air strikes against Islamic State targets in Syria which were suspended following U.S. fighter jet shot down a Syrian warplane this week. Australian Defense Force Chief Mark Binskin told media in Canberra that their warplanes suspended operations in Syria just after shot down of Syrian warplane but it has been decided to restart the operation. He said that Australian warplanes had also been supporting Iraqi security forces in retaking the city of Mosul.
Govt decides to streaml i ne v isa issuance process to Chinese nationals
The government has decided to streamline and regulate the entire process of visa issuance to Chinese nationals to ensure their maximum security in Pakistan.
and Radd-ul-Fasaad would yield positive results soon to make Pakistan a citadel of peace. He was addressing 17th Convocation of National Security and War Course at the National Defence University in Islamabad on Wednesday morning. The President said challenges facing the country multiplied mainly because of extremism and terrorism but Pakistani nation and state institutions emerged victorious in fighting the war of survival. He said the Government and state institutions are courageously implementing the National Action Plan and have taught a bitter lesson
to the enemy. Mamnoon Hussain said Pakistan came into being to play a positive and constructive role for regional and global peace and stability. He said internally the objective for creation of the state was to portray to the world a model of welfare state where citizens could live with dignity and honour. He said there have been impediments in realization of these cherished objectives but the country has moved forward. The President referred to China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and said this, together with One Belt, One Road project, would give a new strategic dimension to the regional and global scenario. He said a new Strategic Doctrine would emerge and hoped that institutions like
National Defence University would be taking stock of the emerging changes. The President said the participation of friendly countries in the War and Security Course will help further promote Pakistan’s relations with them. Recognizing the role being played by the National Defense University as a think tank , Mamnoon Hussain expressed the confidence that the institution will further improve its perfor mance in the days to come. Earlier, the President gave away certificates to the participants of the course. Speaking on the occasion President of NDU Lieutenant General Rizwan Akhtar said that one hundred and fifty nine participants including from twenty six friendly countries attended the course.
The President appreciated that, “NDU has played a valuable role in the study of defence matters, training of the officials of different tiers in state institutions and honing their skills.” He hoped that, “With the passage of time the performance of this national institute will further improve which will be useful in the defence issues not only for our country but also for the friendly countries.” Senior officers from armed forces and state institutions as well as 42 senior officers from 23 friendly countries also attended the course. President NDU Lt. Gen. Rizwan Akhtar also addressed the ceremony which was attended by National Security Adviser Lt. Gen. (R) Nasir Janjua.
Pakistan starts fencing of entire Pak-Afghan border to check infiltration
Pakistan has started fencing of entire Pak-Afghan border to check infiltration. According to ISPR, the fencing will be done in phases. In the first phase, high infiltration prone border areas in Bajaur, Mohmand and Khyber Agencies are being fenced. Fencing of remaining border areas including Balochistan will be executed in the second phase. Besides fencing, Pakistan Army and
FC Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are constructing new forts and border posts to improve surveillance and defensibility. These measures are being taken to improve security situation along the Pak-Afghan border. A secure Pak-Afghan border is in common interest of both countries and a wellcoordinated border security mechanism is essential for enduring peace and stability.
Pakistan and France sign credit facility agreement for sustainable energy sector reform programme
Pakistan and France signed 100 million Euros Credit Facility Agreement for the Sustainable Energy Sector Reform Program yesterday. Mr. Tariq Mahmood Pasha, Secretary, Economic Affairs Division (EAD), Mr. René Consolo, Chargé d’Affaire a.i., Embassy of France, and Mr. Jacky Amprou, Country Director of the French Agency for Development (A FD), signed the agreement. The Asian Development Bank has also approved $300 million in co-financing of the program. The Finance Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar congratulated EAD and AFD on the signing of the agreement. He underscored
the importance of reforms in the energy sector which will directly impact the overall economic growth of Pakistan. He expressed appreciation for AFD’s continuous support for development projects in Pakistan, including in the energy sector. He added that with signing of this agreement, economic cooperation between Pakistan and France would be further strengthened. The main objective of the program is to revamp the energy sector to make it more affordable, reliable and sustainable, supporting the country’s economic growth, and alleviating the energy crisis through expeditious implementation of the National Power Policy, 2013.
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Pakistan to remain neutral in Qatar-Gulf rift, Sartaj Aziz
Briefing to members of the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, Aziz said that Pakistan would remain neutral by taking neither sides in the recent stand-off between Saudi Arabia and Qatar. “Pakistan will adhere to its non-partisan policy on the Middle East issue, hence it will not intervene in matters of other countries, ”Aziz asserted. Apprising the Senate committee, he said that the parliamentary resolution on the Saudi-Yemen issue was also passed in
April of 2015 by determining that the country would keep distance from Saudi-led campaign inside Yemen and continue with its pursuit of a diplomatic solution to the war in Yemen. “Pakistan’s policy remains unchanged,” he added. On June 5, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain, Yemen, Libya and the United Arab Emirates announced that they were cutting off all ties with Qatar, accusing the Gulf state of supporting terrorism.
Later, the diplomatic and business boycott was adopted by Yemen, one of the Libyan governments, Maldives and Mauritius. However, Kuwait is attempting to play the role of a mediator and hopes to diplomatically resolve the crisis among the Gulf Cooperation Council members. Subsequently, Qatar has denied the claims made by Saudi Arabia and the other states, but hopes to resolve the crisis fearing an economic downturn.
Uzbekistan to take part in the meeting of the CIS Economic Council at Moscow
T he delegat ion of t he Republic of Uzbekistan headed by Deputy Prime Minister Ulugbek Rozukulov will attend the 74th meeting of the Economic Council of t he Com monwealt h of Independent States in Moscow, scheduled for June 23, 2017. The Economic Council of t he Com monwealt h of Independent States is the main executive body
ensuring the implementation of agreements adopted within the framework of the CIS, decisions of the Council of Heads of State and the Council of Heads of Gover n ment of t he Commonwealth on the formation and functioning of a free trade zone and other issues of socio-economic cooperation. The main functions of the Economic Council are the
development of proposals for the establishment of a system of mutual settlements and payments for trade and other transactions, the creation of legal, economic and organizational conditions for the transition to higher levels of economic cooperation based on the free movement of goods, services, labor and capital, the entry of the CIS member states into the world economic system.
Europe sizzled under a continent-wide heatwave on Wednesday, with London bracing for Britain’s hottest June day since 1976 as Portugal struggled to stamp out deadly forest fires. More than 1,000 firefighters were
still battling to control the flames that broke out in central Portugal at the weekend, killing at least 64 people. Two forest fires have also broken out since Sunday on Croatia’s southern Adriatic coast, prompting the authorities
to evacuate 800 tourists, although the blazes have now been brought under control. “We were scared, it’s true,” Swedish tourist Karolina told local media. “From the hotel room window it seemed like the fire was at our doors.”
Heatwave scorches Europe, from London to Siberia
PCB announces players for high performance camp T he Nat ion a l Sele c t ion Committee on Wednesday announced 27 players for a 10-week High Performance Camp at the National Cricket Academy, Lahore commencing from July 3, 2017 to September 9, 2017. According to PCB, the camp has been organized keeping in view the future commitments of Pakistan cricket team where the players would train under the supervision of
NCA Coaches. The selected players are advised to report at NCA on July 2, 2017 except for Fakhar Zaman and Shadab Khan who will join the program in the 3rd week. 27 players for the camp include Sami Aslam, Fakhar Zaman, Imam ul Haq and Sahibzada Farhan (O peners), Umar Amin, Haris Sohail, Usman Salahuddin, Asif Zakir and Umar Akmal (Middle Order), Usman Shinwari, Sameen
Gul, Muhammad Irfan, Mir Hamza and Ruman Raees (Fast Bowlers), Muhammad Asghar, Shadab Khan, Bilal Asif, Muhammad Irfan and Usama Mir (Spinners), Amir Yamin, Fahim Ashraf, Ammad Butt and Hussain Talat (Fast Bowli ng A ll Rou nders), Mu h a m m a d Nawa z a nd Agha Salman (Spin Bowling All Rounders), Muhammad R iz wan and Mu ham mad Hassan (Wicket Keepers).
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THE DESTINATION
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Nuzhat stresses need to enhance parliamentary cooperation between Pakistan, Sri Lanka
PHOTO OF THE DAY
ISLAMABAD—Senator Nuzhat Sadiq, Chairperson Senate Foreign Affairs Committee on Wednesday underscored the need to further enhance parliamentary cooperation between Pakistan and Sri Lanka by accelerating exchange of parliamentary delegations. She expressed these views during a meeting with 4-member Sri Lankan parliamentary delegation led by former President of Sri Lanka Mahinda Rajapaksa. She said, “Pakistan highly values its bilateral relations with Sri Lanka and desires to further expand the friendly ties in different spheres.” She said that both Sri Lanka and Pakistan are
Strange Mud Mountain in Hingol National Park, Balochistan, Pakistan Exclusive photo by The Destination team.
Pakistani students prepare to depart for U.S. graduate, post-graduate programs Moona Liaquat ISLAMABAD—In preparation for their upcoming graduate and post-graduate studies in the United States, approximately 260 students attended orientation sessions hosted by EducationUSA at the United States Educational Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP) in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. EducationUSA Pakistan Advising Manager Umair Khan congratulated the students on being accepted into
American universities and encouraged them to make the most of this opportunity. “You have achieved a great milestone,” Khan said. “Your focus should now be to gain knowledge, learn about different cultures, face challenges with a positive attitude, and make the most of this educational experience.” American Embassy Acting Cultural Affairs Officer Maureen Mimnaugh encouraged st udents to actively share their own
culture with the Americans they encounter. “In addition to pursuing your studies, you will have a unique opportunity to serve as ambassadors of Pakistan in your American classrooms and communities,” Mimnaugh said. “I’m certain that the American students you encounter will be eager to learn more about your background, just as you learn from them about American culture.” Many of the students who participated
in the orientation sessions took advantage of USEFP’s free educational advising services earlier, while they researched universities. “USEFP aims to strengthen the relationship between American universities and Pakistani students, and we are pleased to be able to help talented students achieve admission to American colleges and universities,” said USEFP Executive Director Rita Akhtar.
London—Nabeel Javed, a noble businessman alongwith his father-in-law accompanying Pakistan cricketer Abdul Razzaq, during an Iftar dinner.
faced with common challenges and share similarity of views on regional and global issues. Senator Nuzhat Sadiq , who was accompanied by Senators Karim Ahmed Khawaja, Momin Khan Afridi, Shibli Faraz and Daud K han Achak zai, obser ved that both the nation have stood by the side of each other in testing times. Leader of the delegation Rajapaksa appreciated Pakistan’s cooperation. He said that Sri Lanka wants to learn from parliamentary experience of Pakistan as Sri Lanka is also considering various constitutional reforms. Ad d i t io n a l S e c r e t a r y
DUBAI—Australia ramped up its preparations for the ICC Women’s World Cup with a comfortable 103 runs victory over South Africa on Tuesday. Elyse Villani stole the headlines at Oakham School as she plundered 137 runs from 112 balls – finding the boundary rope no fewer than 20 times in a scintillating innings, with the reigning World Cup champion posting a score of 324 for five. She was ably supported by Ellyse Perry, who made 67 before being run out by Nadine de Klerk, before veteran Alex Blackwell and
Alyssa Healy also chipped in with quick-fire knocks of 32 and 25 respectively. The Proteas’ run chase got off to the worst possible start when Lizelle Lee was run out by Beth Mooney without even facing a ball, and opening partner Andrie Steyn (12) followed shortly after as she was caught trapped in front by Jess Jonassen. Trisha Chetty did offer some resistance with a measured 62, as did skipper Dane van Niekerk, who also notched up a half century, but Australia turned the screw and bowled tightly for all 50 overs – with Jonassen
the pick of the attack, taking three wickets. Meanwhile in Leicester, Pakistan’s clash with the West Indies went down to the wire, but Nain Abidi’s unbeaten 81 was the difference in a five-wicket triumph at Grace Road. The Windies made full use of its 50 overs, reaching a total of 246-7 as Felicia Walters top scored with 59 before she was caught by Nain off the bowling of Sadia Yousaf (1-44). Wicketkeeper Merissa Aguilleira also impressed with 43 runs, while Shanel Daley produced a thrilling cameo for
spectators in Leicester as she bashed 24 off just 12 balls. Early wickets for the 2013 finalist had Pakistan wobbling on 63 for three, but when Bismah (75) and Nain came to the crease the result never looked in doubt as their 141-run partnership put their side in the driving seat, Kainat Imtiaz (14 not out) eventually sealing victory in the 48th over. Australia faces Pakistan on 22 June, and South Africa plays West Indies in the final WWC warm-up matches ahead of the tournament.—DNA
ISLAMABAD—On behalf of The Queen, British High Commissioner, Thomas Drew CMG, has presented honorary British awards to Nishat Riaz and Shazia Khawar in recognition of their services for the British Council in Pakistan. According to a press release issued by the US Embassy on Wednesday, both Nishat and Shazia have been appointed Members of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE). This honour is awarded to individuals for significant achievements or exceptional service to the UK, which stands out as an example to others. Speaking at the ceremony in Islamabad, the British H i g h C o m m i s s i o n e r, T h o m a s D r e w C MG ,
said, “I am delighted to present Honorary MBE awards to Nishat Riaz and Shazia Khawar in recognition of their services to UK-Pakistan cultural relations and education.” “These awards reflect not only their significant individual effort over a number of years but also that they are excellent role models and leaders inside and outside of the British Council,” he said. Head of the British Council Pak istan, Rosemar y Hilhorst, said, “I am pleased to congratulate Nishat Riaz and Shazia Khawar on receiving their well deserved honou r s. T he Br it i sh Council Pakistan team are delighted that their outstanding contributions have been recognised.”—DNA
NEW YOR K— U N Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said that diplomatic efforts are being made to reinitiate a dialogue between Pakistan and India for resolving the decadesold Kashmir dispute. Responding to a question, Antonio Guterres said that he met Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif thrice and two times Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to bring them to the negotiating table. “For someone accused of doing nothing, it is quite a number of meetings,” he said. He expressed concern
over the escalating tensions between the two countries amid repeated violations of the Line of Control. W hen asked about the S e c r e t a r y G e n e r a l’s response to the situation in Kash mir, Guter res’ Spokesman Stephane Dujarric said, “Guterres was following the situation in the region closely.” Dujarric said, “The UN Chief reiterates his call for India and Pakistan to find a peaceful solution through engagement and dialogue to resolve the Kashmir dispute.”—DNA
Pakistan’s defence exports considerably increased during recent years
by Pakistan Army in fight against terrorism and militancy. Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Islamic countries can contribute immensely towards global peace and stability and OIC offers a platform to do that through conflict resolution and dialogue. He said that Pakistan plays a very important role towards that end and multi-faceted cooperation between the two brotherly countries will have a positive influence.
Australia says it will resume soon air strikes against Islamic State targets in Syria which were suspended following U.S. fighter jet shot down a Syrian warplane this week. Australian Defense Force Chief Mark Binskin told media in Canberra that their warplanes suspended operations in Syria just after shot down of Syrian warplane but it has been decided to restart the operation. He said that Australian warplanes had also been supporting Iraqi security forces in retaking the city of Mosul.
Chelsea set to profit handsomely FULHAM— Liverpool’s record signing Mohamed Salah will give a hefty financial boost to the Reds’ Premier Leag ue r ivals Chelsea. The Blues are set to profit on the impending arrival of the Egyptian winger from Roma, according to which is tipped to be wrapped up this week. The reds are expected to fork out a club-record fee of £39million for the 25-yearold after he competes a medical, due to take place this week. Salah went to Roma
from Chelsea in a £12million deal in 2016 after a successful loan spell at the club. He has been tagged by Liver pool boss Ju rgen Klopp as a top target to complement his only other established wide player is Senegal international Sadio Mane, the club’s player of the year last season. As part of negotiations the now champions negotiated a sell-on clause in his contract worth 10 per cent of the profit on any future sale.
Chinese foreign minister to visit Pakistan on June 24 ISLAMABAD —Amidst surge in tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will pay visit to Pakistan on June-24 and then he will depart for Kabul. The visit is aimed at defusing tensions between t wo neighbours. Wang Yi will hold talks with Army Chief Qamar Bajwa and Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz. Sources privy to foreign ministry have verified the
news while terming the visit highly impor tant. Sources further narrate that all bilateral efforts to normalise relations in the past have yielded no output and interference of third party seems mandatory to fill the void. Pakistan has welcomed the visit of Chinese foreign minister. It is pertinent here to mention that Pak-Afghan rift have deepened further after Ghani’s regime put blame of attack in Kabul s diplomatic area on Pakistan.
India must keep politics away from sports: Abdul Basit
Turkey applauds Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa called on Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Turkey on Wednesday. Matters of mutual interest and regional security were discussed. General Qamar Javed Bajwa thanked the President for perennial Turkish support to Pakistan and its role in bringing peace and stability to the region. The Turkish President acknowledged sacrifices made by Pakistan and contributions
majesty of the parliament. The delegation termed the briefing informative and expressed the desire to benefit from the knowledge and experience of Pakistan.
British HC recognises Australia to resume airstrikes Pakistani British Council staff against IS in Syria for outstanding service
Diplomatic efforts on for Pak-India dialogue to resolve Kashmir dispute: UN Chief
Villani helps Australia cruise past S Africa, Nain Abidi steers Pakistan to win
Senate, Dr. Pervez Abbas briefed the delegation about working of the senate, its constitutional role, powers and functions with special reference to the new initiatives taken to restore
Senate Standing Committee on Defence Production has been informed that defence exports have shown considerable increase during the recent years. T h e c o m m it t e e m e t i n Islamabad today with its Chairman Khawaja Suhail Mansoor in the chair. The meeting was briefed that the volume of exports during
2006-07 was over sixty-three m i l l io n d ol l a r s , w h i c h increased to over ninety-eight million dollars during the current fiscal year. The committee hoped that defence exports will further improve after execution of export agreements of Mashahak aircraft and their spares with friendly countries.
NEW DELHI, JUN 21 (DNA) Pakistan’s High Commissioner to India Abdul Basit said that Pakistan and India must remain in touch regarding all matters including terrorism, and urged India to keep politics away from sports. Abdul Basit expressed his views while giving an interview to Indian newspaper The Hindu, and said the meetings of Pakistan with Hurriyat leaders must be taken positively, as these meetings help to understand a better solution of prolonged controversy of Kashmir. Abdul Basit told that Pakistan
considers Hurriyat Conference as the representative of people of occupied Kashmir. Pakistan will take no time to determine the procedure of holding dialogues once India is interested, he remarked. Commenting on Indian spy Kulbhushan Jadhav’s case, the high commissioner said Jadhav’s confession proved Pakistan’s concerns. Abdul Basit said that both countries should not only play cricket with each other, but also the sports. He added that it is not a sane decision to suspend sports activities until the problems are solved.
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Thursday - June 22, 2017
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A
lgeria’s Unique and Diverse Culture and Tradition Algeria’s culture is strongly influenced by the country’s recent history, as well as other aspects such as their literature, music, arts, crafts and religion. Arabic is Algeria’s primary language and is spoken by around 82% of the populace. The French colonialism experienced by the country in the past has resulted in French being the second language of many educated Algerians, and English is very rarely spoken. Many people of Algeria also speak different dialects of Berber. The culture of most countries is also influenced by its past and this is certainly true of Algeria. There are also many ethnic groups in the country that contribute to its diverse and fascinating culture. Islam is the official religion of Algeria and the majority of Algerians are Muslims. Since the departure of the French, Christianity is a secondary religion. Approximately one percent of Algeria’s population is Jewish. Algerian literature is split between French and Arabic and the country has produced a number of famous novelists, Mohammed Dib, Kateb Yacine and Assia Djebar, during the 20th century. Assia Djebar’s works are widely translated. The musical genre of Algeria that is best known abroad is Rai. Rai is a pop-flavored, opinionated take on folk music, featuring stars such as Khaled and Cheb Mami. Chaabi style music also remains very popular with stars such as El Hadj El Anka and Dahmane El Harrachi making their mark on the local music scene. For those with a more classical taste in music, Andalusi music, brought from Al-Andalus by Morisco refugees, is preserved in many older coastal towns. Algeria has a thriving handicrafts industry. Part of the charm of the country is the richness of its production. From carpets to ceramics, from leather to lute making, from pottery to glass working to silverwork, the country has a tremendous variety of skills that produce goods which are sold in many other countries as well as to visiting tourists - all evidence of Algeria’s rich and diverse culture.
Rana Tahir Shahbaz
Algeria’s Historic, Cultural and Natural Attractions Algeria is a vast country offering tourists a wide selection of attractions and activities. The capital city of Algiers has a rich past and ruins at Djemila, Tipasa and Timgad are fascinating to see. Main attractions in Algeria include the National Museum of Fine Arts as well as the Bardo Ethnographic and Local Art Museum. Step back in history by making your way to the Hauts Plateaux where you will discover the historical city of Tlemcen as well as the Grand Mosque, Almohad ramparts and Masourah Fortress. Heading out towards the formidable Sahara opens up a whole new world of attractions in Algeria. The holy town of Beni-Isguen, with its well-guarded gate and auction market, makes for an interesting stop. Ouargla, also known as ‘the golden key to the desert’, is a lovely town featuring a malekite minaret, market square and gorgeous architecture. Natural attractions in Algeria also abound with Kabylia and the Chiffa Gorges. Take in the beauty of the ocean along the Turquoise coast or the Sidi Fredj peninsula. With so much to see and absorb in this historical and attractive country, visitors may find themselves struggling to choose what attractions they most want to see. If this is the case with you, why not start by deciding what type of attraction you most enjoy? Then you can choose the three attractions within that category that most appeal to you. The rest of your time can be filled with a variety of other attractions that you can enjoy, confident in the knowledge that you have at least seen the most appealing attractions in Algeria. This remarkable country truly has something for everyone, so visit Algeria soon. Oil, Industry and Agriculture Driving Algeria’s Economy Algeria’s economy has seen significant reforms in recent years. Continuous improvements to the economy of Algeria are being made by the government, which has had a positive impact on
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 B727-200s were delivered in 1980-1981. Two years later eight Airbus A310s and A300-600s were delivered, and in 1986 three Boeing 767200ER 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 f leet now comprises three A320200s, three A310-300s, 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. Balsam Charity Kuwait Airways linked up with Kuwait Red Crescent, to provide relief for the less privileged and to bring a smile to their faces’. Kuwait Airways launched ‘BALSAM’, a humanitarian project jointly with the Kuwait Red Crescent Society, to provide remedial measures for the needy. The objective of ‘BALSAM’ is to encourage passengers to donate coins or currencies, which will not be used back home or at their original destination. Further, the different kinds of currencies collected is then forwarded to the Kuwait Red Crescent Society, to be used in rescue operations and social services, for casualties and prisoners of war, as well as for needy children. To facilitate passengers to participate in this fundraising project, special envelopes carrying the slogan ‘Bring a smile to their faces’, is available on board all Kuwait Airways flights. The donations from Kuwait Airways passengers are forwarded to the Kuwait Red Crescent, a humanitarian society which supports charitable causes universally, and is a member of the International Red Cross. It is yet another symbol of Kuwait Airways’ strong commitment towards serving society. Kuwait Airways will continue to exert additional efforts to expand the airliner’s conscientious support for social and humanitarian causes. (kuwaitairways.com)
Special safety cell being established in Peshawar
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government in collaboration with Pakistan Army has established a special safety cell in Peshawar to counter organized crimes and protect lives and properties of general public. A spokesman of the provincial government told our Peshawar correspondent that the cell is working round the clock to help people of the province and tribal areas.
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
Algeria at a Glance
Despite efforts to diversify the Algerian economy, the government has not been able to do much about unemployment or raise the population’s living standards. Although agriculture doesn’t play as large a role in Algeria’s economy as it did in the past, it is still an important sector for the country. Around a quarter of Algeria’s population is involved in this sector. Over 30,000kms of Algeria’s land is used in cereal grain farming, which takes place chiefly in the Tell region. The main crops are wheat, oats and barley whilst many citrus fruits are also exported. Fishing forms a small percentage of the economy. Fresh fish such as bonito, sprat and smelt are sent to France whilst preserved fish are exported to Italy and Spain. The government is working hard to improve Algeria’s economy and, at the same time, the situation of its people. With increased foreign interest and investment the country can look forward to growth in the future, particularly as the economy becomes more diversified.
investment in a number of different business sectors. According to international standards, Algeria is categorized as a lower middle-income country. Let us consider the history of Algeria’s economy and its current status. Algeria obtained its independence in 1962. Before this time the economy of Algeria was largely based on agriculture. During the 1960s and 1970s oil revenues began to rise dramatically and thus the government shifted its economic sights to the oil industry. Extensive industrialization took place and the economy flourished. Unfortunately oil prices dropped in the 1980s, negatively impacting on Algeria’s economy which had become almost completely dependent on oil. Today the hydrocarbons sector remains the principle industry of Algeria’s economy. Algeria is currently the world’s second biggest exporter of gas and it possesses the world’s fifth largest natural gas reserves. The hydrocarbons sector makes up approximately 52% of budget revenues, 95% of the country’s export earnings and 25% of the GDP (gross domestic product).
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Saudi Arabia’s Prince Mohammed bin Salman appointed crown prince
K ing Salman has also appointed Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Nayef as Saudi Arabia’s interior minister. Saudi Arabia has declared Prince Mohammed bin Salman as the kingdom’s crown prince while Prince Mohammed bin Nayef has been relieved from his position after a royal decree was issued by King Salman bin Abdulaziz early on Wednesday morning. Under the same royal decree, King Salman has also appointed Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud
bin Nayef as Saudi Arabia’s interior minister. Meanwhile, emir of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah has welcomed the appointment of new crown prince in Saudi Arabia. According to a statement carried by Kuwait’s staterun news agency the Emir of Kuwait sent a message of congratulation to King Salman on Wednesday over appointment of his son Mohammed bin Salman as crown prince of the Kingdom.
France: 2 more govt ministers resign from posts
In France two more government ministers, including the minister of justice have resigned from their posts. France press reported that Justice Minister Francois
Bayrou and European Minister Marielle de Sarnez told media today that they are leaving the government to allow newly elected President to push his goal of cleaning up politics.
Major Regions of Algeria There are a number of great destinations in Algeria just waiting to be discovered. A curious mixture of cultures and influences, Algeria has something interesting to see in just about every city. The country is also the second largest on the African continent - so you can be sure that there are plenty of towns and cities to visit. Granted, tourism in the country has slowed down somewhat since the beginning of political conflicts within the country, but with a trustworthy tour guide and some good advice, anyone can visit a large number of Algeria’s fascinating destinations. Ain Sefra is often called ‘the gateway to the Sahara’. The town itself may not be much to look at but it is a noteworthy destination because it is one of the best places from which to gain access to the desert. Algiers, Algeria’s largest and most important city, is definitely not a destination to be missed. This bustling metropolis will allow you the opportunity to sample Algerian city life, provide you with a refreshing glimpse of the Mediterranean and keep you busy for days as you tour all the interesting old and new buildings that abound here. Algiers is one of the best places to learn more about the French-Arab cultural distinctions in the country. Annaba is another great destination. A fairly large city that is similar in many ways to Algiers, Annaba offers good food, transportation and a wonderfully relaxing atmosphere. A visit to Batna will provide you with the opportunity to see ancient roman ruins, while a visit to the old side of Ghardaia will transport you back in time. There are many other fine destinations in Algeria that are well worth taking the time to see. Most visitors to the country may experience a sort of culture shock for the first few days since not many Algerians experience the luxuries that many Europeans and Americans may take for granted. Still, the people are often friendly and they have an interesting culture, great architecture, a fascinating history and a beautiful country - what more could you want from a destination? Visit Algeria today! (source: algeria.com)
Record high temperatures grip much of globe, hotter spell to come: UN Extremely high May and June temperatures have broken records in parts of Europe, the Middle East, North Africa and the United States, the United Nations weather agency reported Thursday, warning of more heatwaves to come. The heatwaves have arrived unusually early, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said, noting at the same time that average global surface temperatures over land and sea are the second highest on record for the first five months of 2017, according to analyses by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). In Portugal, extremely high temperatures of around 40 degrees Celsius contributed to the severity of the devastating, fast-moving weekend wildfires that ripped through the country’s forested Pedrogao Grande region, some 150 kilometres (95 miles) north-east of Lisbon, leaving dozens dead and more injured. WMO reported that Portugal is not the only European country experiencing the effects of the extreme weather, as neighbouring Spain “which had its warmest spring in over 50 years” and France, have seen record-breaking temperatures. France is expected to continue see afternoon temperatures more than 10 degrees above the average for this time of year. On the other side of the Atlantic, the US is also experiencing record or near-record heat. In parts of the desert southwest and into California, temperatures have hovered near a blistering 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius). Media
reports suggested today that some plane traffic was halted in and out of Phoenix Sky Harbour International Airport in Arizona because it was too hot to fly. The flight cancellations came amidst of one of the hottest days in the past 30 years of record keeping in the US state. Death Valley National Park in California issued warnings to visitors to expect high temperatures ranging from 100 to over 120 degrees Fahrenheit (38 to over 49 degrees Celsius), WMO added. WMO will set up an international committee of experts to verify the temperature and assess whether it equals a reported 54 degrees Celsius recorded in Kuwait last July, what was then the highest temperature for Asia, as well as for the entire Eastern hemisphere.
EU urges Gulf countries to engage in dialogue to defuse crisis The European Union has called on Gulf countries to engage in a direct dialogue to defuse ongoing crisis between Qatar and other Arab states in the region. Speaking after her arrival at the Foreign Affairs Council in Luxembourg, EU Foreign Affairs head Federica Mogherini said that tensions should be resolved through finding common ways at the table. She said the European Union wants to strengthen cooperation among the Gulf countries especially in the fight against terrorism.
Pakistan’s win against India was celebrated in Kashmir like never before For the last few weeks, the weather in Kashmir has been a bit irritating. It rains every late afternoon after a sunny and hot morning. June 18th was no different. The sun started strong but by mid-day, lost its intensity. Clouds gathered overhead and rain was not far behind. We left the mosque after zuhr prayers and sat outside a shop, giving our ‘analysis’ of what was about to
come — the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2017 — between Pakistan and India, a match that brings both excitement and fear to Kashmir and Kashmiris in India. As we discussed the possible outcomes, Nab Kak, the most senior ‘analyst’ of the locality, joined us. He is in his late 70’s, prays on a chair, and uses a walking
stick. Half of his teeth are missing and the other half have eroded and are nearing decay. Throughout his life, he has watched cricket only because of Pakistan. He remembers the famous Miandad six, and the World Cup win in 1992. Name any important moment in the history of Pakistan cricket, and he is there to tell you a story.
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 - June 22, 2017
Govt taking steps for development of agri sector: Shahbaz Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif says the government has taken concrete measures for development of agriculture sector which plays a key role in growth of national economy. In a statement in Lahore on Wednesday, he sid one hundred and forty billion rupees have been ear marked for agriculture, irrigation, livestock, forests, fishing and food departments for the next financial year. Shahbaz Sharif hoped the Kisan Package will have a revolutionary impact on prosperity of farmers. He said the government will continue to provide subsidy on fertilizers in the next fiscal year. Shahbaz Sharif said interest free loans are being given to farmers in Punjab to boost the agriculture sector.
Minister Tourism Fida Khan has said that the Provincial Government has set up women development department to address problems being confronted by the women. This he said while addressing the cheque distribution ceremony held in Gahkuch. He said the government plans to establish sub offices of Social Welfare in all districts to ensure welfare of people.
US voters express frustration ahead of President Trump visit to Iowa LOWA—Voters want to see last year’s tough-talking candidate as a thin-skinned chief executive and wish he’d show more grace. Iowa independents who helped Donald Trump win the presidency see last year’s tough-talking candidate as a thin-skinned chief executive and wish he’d show more grace. Unaffiliated voters make up the largest percentage of the electorate in the Midwest state that backed Trump in 2016, after lifting Democrat Barack Obama to the White House in party caucuses and two straight elections. Ahead of Trump’s visit to Iowa on Wednesday — his first since the election — several independents who voted for Trump expressed frustration with the president. It’s not just his famous tweetstorms. It’s what they represent: a president distracted by investigations into Russian meddling in the 2016 election and a court battle over his executive order barring refugees from majority-Muslim countries at the expense of tangible health care legislation and new tax policy. “He’s so sidetracked,” said Chris Hungerford, a 47-yearold home-business owner from Marshalltown. “He gets off track on things he should just let go.” And when he does spout off, he appears to lack constraint, said Scott Scherer, a 48-year-old chiropractor from Guttenberg, in northeast Iowa. “Engage your brain before you
engage your mouth,” Scherer advised, especially on matters pertaining to investigations. “Shut up. Just shut up, and let the investigation run its course.” Scherer said he would vote again for Trump, but pauses a long time before declining to answer when asked if he approves of the job the president is doing. Cody Marsh isn’t sure about voting for Tr ump a second time. The 32-year-old power-line technician from Tabor, in western Iowa, says, “It’s 50-50.”“People don’t take him seriously,” he said. Unaffiliated, or “no party” voters as they are known in Iowa, make up 36% of the electorate, compared with 33 percent who register Republican and 31 percent registered Democrat. Self-identified independents in Iowa voted for Trump over Democrat Hillary Clinton by a 13-percentage-point margin last year, according to exit polls conducted for the Associated Press and television networks. They helped him capture 51.8 percent of the overall vote against Clinton. Nationally, exit polls showed independents tilted toward Trump over Clinton by about a 4-percentage-point margin in November, but an AP-NORC poll conducted in June found that about two-thirds of them disapprove of how he’s handling his job as president. In North Carolina, Republican pollster Paul Shumaker says he has seen internal polling that has warning signs for his state, where Trump prevailed
last year. Independent voters are becoming frustrated with Trump, especially for failing so far to deliver on longpromised household economic issues such as health care, said Shumaker, an adviser to Republican Sen. Richard Burr. Inaction on health care and any notable decline in the economy will hurt Trump’s ability to improve his numbers with independents, with broad implications for the midterm elections next year, Shumaker said. At stake in 2018 will be majority control of the House. A favorable map and more Democrats up for reelection make the GOP more likely to add to its numbers in the Senate. “How the president and members of Congress move forward and address the kitchen-table issues facing the American voters will determine the outcome of the 2018 elections,” he said. In Iowa on Wednesday, Trump will be rallying his Republican base in Cedar Rapids. It’s his first visit to the state since a Nov. 6 stop in Sioux City, two days before the election. Earlier this month, Vice President Mike Pence attended Republican Sen. Joni Ernst’s annual fundraiser, where he talked about job growth and low unemployment since the start of the year, although economists see much of it as a continuation of Obama policies. Trump has only been in office five months. It’s a message the Republican establishment is clinging to, especially those looking ahead to 2018.
Sikhs, Kashmiris urge UK to tackle India’s Hindutva agenda LONDON, 21 JUNE (DNA) - Amid the alarming rise of a chauvinistic and belligerent Hindutva agenda in India, Sikhs and Kashmiris through a memorandum urged the United Kingdom to change its policy towards India. The memorandum was submitted by a delegation of Sikhs and Kashmiris at 10 Downing Street, the office of the British Parliament in London, Kashmir Media Service (KMS) reported on Wednesday. The Sikh and Kashmiri representatives characterised the Hindutva surge in India as a fascist threat to Christians, Dalits, Muslims and Sikhs alike – a threat which breaches India’s international legal obligations. They said that compelling India to comply with universally accepted legal and humanitarian norms was the key to bringing India back in to line. T hey cited t he hugely authoritative report issued in Febr uar y by the US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) which details the numerous constitutional and legal restrictions on minority religious freedoms in India, as
Govt sets up women development department in GB: Fida
well as this week’s open letter by 65 senior Indian civil servants which condemned the rampant ‘majoritarianism’ of the establishment. The delegation called for the implementation of the USCIRF report’s recommendations which include cha nge s t o t he I nd ia n Constitution (such as the removal of outrageous provisions that deem Sikhs, Buddhists and Jains to be Hindus for the purposes of personal and religious law) and operationalizing the UN Declaration on the Rights of Persons Belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities. T he memorandu m also heighted the atrocities committed by state and non-state actors aimed at crushing t he s el f- d e t e r m i n at ion movements in Punjab and Kashmir. It called for genocide perpetrators to be punished by the UN established tribunals and for peaceable conflict resolution by holding plebiscites so that the people of those regions could freely determine their own destinies. “An unchecked Hindutva agenda in India makes resolution of those conf licts
impossible; hence the international community must require India to formally accept and comply with the right of self-determination as enshrined in Article 1 of the 1966 Covenants on Human Rights,” the memorandum said. India has formally rejected that right – something which the UN and leading member states have said is unacceptable, it added. Lord Nazir Ahmed, Chair of Parliamentarians for National Self-deter mination, and Lord Qurban Hussain both endorsed the memorandum and joined Sikh and Kashmiri representatives in delivering it to the UK PM’s official residence. They urged the British government to listen to the UK’s massive diaspora communities which want their political representatives to act on their concerns. T he memor a ndu m wa s sig ned by A mar Singh Chahal, Prof Nazir Ahmed Shawl, Amrik Singh Sahota, Gurdev Singh Chohan and Joga Singh. Importantly, it was also countersigned by Dr Iqtidar Cheema, the author of the USCIRF report which was also formally handed over at the same time.
NAFTA agriculture chiefs hail treaty’s benefits MEXICO CITY—The ministers of agriculture from Mexico, Canada and the United States on Tuesday praised the North American Fr e e -Tr a d e Ag r e e m e nt ( NA FTA). “ T he Nor t h A m e r i c a n F r e e -Tr a d e Agreement has been very beneficial for our respective agricultural sectors, as well as for consumers,” all three said in a joint statement released by Mexico’s Ministry of Agriculture. At a June 19 and 20 meeting in the port city of Savannah, in the U.S. state of Georgia, M e x i c o’s A g r i c u l t u r e Minister Jose Calzada and his Canadian and U.S. counterparts, Lawrence MacAulay and Sonny Perdue, pledged to work together to strengthen regional agricultural trade. The trilateral meeting comes just weeks before the three countries are due to renegotiate the nearly two-decade-old agreement at the insistence
of U.S. President Donald Trump, who has criticized the deal for luring industry and jobs away from the U.S. “Our countries are connected not just geographically, but also by a deep integration of the agri-food sector,” they said. “Our trade ties are vital for the economy and the people of our respective countries. We are working to support and create jobs in the three nations,” they added. Agricultural trade disputes are “relatively few,” and pale in comparison to the 85 billion U.S. dollars a year in agricultural trade exchange between the three North American countries, they stressed. The three countries additionally carry out joint research and exchange best practices in the area of livestock and cultivation, helping to eradicate certain pests and diseases, the statement said.
Russia, Uganda sign agreement on use of atomic energy KAMPALA—Uganda and Russia have signed a framework agreement on the use of atomic energy in the east African country. A statement from the ministry of energy issued here on Tuesday said the agreement was signed between Uganda government and the Russian State Atomic Energy Corporation. The statement said this is the first step towards bilateral cooperation in area of peaceful uses of atomic energy by both countries. “The document establishes a framework for cooperation with a focus on development of nuclear power infrastructure
in Uganda and the uses of radioisotopes and radiation technologies, applications in industry, medicine, agriculture and other areas,” the statement said. The agreement will also include education and training, establishment of nuclear research centers, and nuclear energy among others. The two countries also established a joint working group which will define the scope of work for implementation of the initiatives. The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the ongoing IX International Forum ATOMEXPO-2017 in Russia.
Chelsea to sign Robert Lewandowski
WARSAW—Poland superstar striker Robert Lewandowski, who has scored 110 goals in 147 appearances for Bayern since joining the Bundesliga giants back in 2014, but the 28-year-old, is being heavily linked with a move away from the German club in the coming months. The Sun suggest Premier League Champions Chelsea have made contact over a possible move for the Poland striker this summer as Antonio Conte searches for Diego Costa’s replacement at Stamford
Bridge. The attacker signed a new contract at Bayern back in December, which expires in the summer of 2021, but has vented his frustrations with the German club in recent weeks. His agent, Maik Barthel, told Kicker: ‘Robert told me that he got no support and that the coach gave no call to help him in the last game to win the top-scorer title. ‘He was disappointed as I have ever seen him before. He really hoped that the team [would] support him proactively.’