The Destination Issue 42 Vol 1

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Ramadan 27 1468 AH.

PM felicitates HRH the Crown Prince of KSA

Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif felicitates His Royal Highness Mohammad Bin Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud on appointment as the Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. “I convey to you, on behalf of the government and people of Pakistan as well as on my own personal behalf, our heartfelt felicitations and warmest wishes on your appointment as the Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia”, the prime Minister said in his congratulatory message to His Royal Highness. The Prime Minister expressed great confidence that under the most dynamic and visionary leadership of the Crown Prince, the Kingdom will attain even greater glory and the brotherly people of Saudi Arabia will prosper even more.

China urges int’l community to support Pakistan’s counter terrorism efforts

Honest consumers to pay for mismanagement in power sector

Islamabad Chamber of Small Traders said that masses will never accept the plan of the government which wants consumers to pay for the entire circular debt which has swelled to Rs500 billion. The decision to make Nepra toothless by amending the relevant laws and punish honest consumers for mismanagement in the power sector should be reversed as it is against the interests of masses, it said.

Forex reserves increase to $20.36bln Pakistan’s total liquid foreign reserves increased to $20.361 billion during the week ended June 16 from $20.157 billion a week ago, the State Bank Pakistan (SBP) said on Thursday. Reserves held by SBP increased $125 million to $15.421 billion as compared to $15.296 billion a week before. The net foreign reserves of commercial banks also increased to $4.940 billion against $4.861 billion during the last week.

Salaries of federal govt employees being paid in advance

Monthly salaries to the federal government employees are being paid in advance. The measure has been taken with a view to enable the employees enjoy the Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations. Federal Finance Minister Senator Ishaq Dar had issued instructions for early release of salaries prior to his departure for Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah.

Trailer of Pakistani movie ‘Na Maloom Afraad 2’ released

The trailer of much-awaited Pakistani movie Na Maloom Afraad 2 has been released on June 21. After the success of Na Maloom Afraad 1, director Nabeel Qureshi had decided to produce its sequel with the same actors that include Fahad Mustafa, Mohsin Abbas, and Javed Sheikh whereas Urwa Hocane and Hania Amir would also be seen in leading roles.

The film is slated to release on Eid-ul-Azha. Producers Fiza Ali and Nabeel Qureshi have made two block buster films ‘Na Maloom Afraad 1’ and ‘Actor In Law’ under the banner of Filmwala Entertainment so far.

IGP Islamabad distributes prizes among best police performers Top three visa free destinations for Pakistanis

BEIJING—Terming Pakistan as important country in South Asia, China Thursday asked the international community to acknowledge and support the counter-terrorism efforts made by Pakistan on the basis of respecting its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

“Pakistan is on the forefront of the global fight against terrorism. It has been firmly opposing the terrorism and it has made important sacrifices and contributions to fighting terrorism and maintaining regional security and stability, Chinese Foreign Ministry’s Spokesperson Gen Shuang said during his regular press briefing in Beijing.

When his attention was d r aw n a b ou t a m e d i a report regarding the US Administration considerations of beginning a policy review of relations towards Pakistan – mainly because of current security situation in Afghanistan, he said, “We have noted the relevant reports.”

Pakistan is an important country in South Asia. Peace stability and economic development in Pakistan serves the interest of regional countries and people, he added.

Responding to a question about the Chinese foreign minister’s proposed visits to Pakistan and Afghanistan, he said, both Pakistan and Afghanistan are China’s neighbors and China has friendly relations with the two countries as well as close high levels exchanges.

“If we have any information regarding the visit, we will release it in due course of time,” he added.

The spokesperson remarked that China sincerely hopes that Pakistan and Afghanistan can enhance their communication so as to deepen mutual trust and improve relations. “They should also work together to improve and ensure regional peace and stability and China would like to play a constructive role towards that end,” he

added.

While brushing aside a question that China has offered Pakistan to build a dam in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and integrate it with the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), he said the CPEC is a new cooperation framework for the two countries to achieve a long term development.

He said this corridor will not only promote common and bilateral development of the two countries but also contribute the development and prosperity of the region. “We know that there are some concerns about this corridor but we keep stressing that this economic corridor is just an economic initiative for cooperation and it targets no third country and does not connect with any sovereign disputes,” he added.

Geng Shuang hoped that the disputes between India and Pakistan will be resolved properly through consultations and negotiations.

Regarding a question about update two Chinese nationals kidnapped in Pakistan, he said the Chinese government attaches high importance to this case, adding, “We are still coordinating with the Pakistani side to verify the situation.”

On the appoint ment of the crown prince of Saudi Arabia, he said, China has extended its congratulations to the new crown prince of Saudi Arabia. “We believe that stability and development of Saudi Arabia serves common interests of regional countries and the international community,” he added.He said that China and Saudi Arabia are comprehensive strategic partners and Chinese side stands ready to work with Saudi Arabia to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries and promote the greater development of China-Saudi Arabia relations

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‘Safe havens’ are inside Afghanistan, not outside, Maleeha

Pakistan has told the UN Security that the Afghan Taliban’s “safe havens” are inside, not outside, Afghanistan, given the large areas they control in that war-torn country. “The resilience of the insurgency led by the Taliban cannot be explained away by convenient references to external ‘safe havens’ or ‘support cent res’,” A mba ssa dor Maleeha Lodhi, Pakistan’s permanent representative to the UN, said during a debate on Afghanistan. Relations between the two countries have tur ned sour since Afghan President Ashraf Ghani accused Pakistan of waging an ‘undeclared war of aggression’ against Afghanistan. Pakistan and Afghanistan have long accused each other of turning a blind eye to militants operating along their porous border.

Pakistan, Lodhi asserted at the UNSC, was committed not to allow its territory to be used for terrorism against other countries. Pakistan’s Zarb-i-Azb and subsequent Raddul Fasaad military operations had succeeded in eliminating all terrorist and militant groups from its tribal territory bordering Afghanistan, she said.

She told the 15-member

Council that Pakistan is “implementing border controls, including the fencing and monitoring of vulnerable sections of the PakistanAfghanistan border.”

Responding to cr itical remarks made by her Afghan counter par t dur ing the debate, she said: “As a country that continues to host over two million Afghan refugees, Pakistan expects gratitude and not hostility from the Afghan government.” The main thrust of Ambassdor Lodhi’s arguments centred around the need for a negotiated end to the Afghan war. She said that it had been Pakistan’s consistent position that peace could be restored only through a negotiated settlement between Kabul and the Tehrik-i-Taliban Afghanistan.

This, she pointed out, “has also long been the consensus of the international community,” noting that a negotiated peace was also backed by UN SecretaryGeneral Antonio Guterres, who had recently visited Kabul. “The promotion of a political settlement and the pursuit of a military solution in Afghanistan are mutually incompatible,” she said.

Continued reliance on a military option, or enhancing

troop numbers without an accompanying political strategy, would only lead to more violence and bloodshed, Ambassador Lodhi told the Security Council.

“It would not yield a political settlement,” she added.

Stressing the need to find a negotiated solution, she said that Pakistan has done whatever it can to help facilitate such a negotiated settlement. She referred in this regard to the 2015 Murree talks and efforts under the Quadrilateral Coordination Group (QCG) framework.

She also recalled Pakistan’s engagement with the Heart of Asia conference, the International Contact Group, the Moscow Format, and, most recently, the Kabul process, among others.

However, she made it clear that while others could help by promoting a negotiated settlement, peace could only be negotiated when Afghan parties desired it and eschewed a military solution.

“Today, there is every reason for the Afghan parties and their friends to pursue the path of a negotiated peace.

All of them face a common threat from ISIS and the terrorist groups affiliated with it,” Lodhi said.

Terrorist spy of India Kulbhushan Jadhav appeals to Army Chief for mercy R AWA L PI N DI — Com mander Kulbushan Sudhir Jadhav, the serving Indian Naval Officer who has been sentenced to death on charges of espionage, sabotage and terrorism has made a mercy petition to the Chief of Army Staff. In his plea, Commander Jadhav has admitted his involvement in espionage, terrorist and subversive activities in Pakistan

and expressed remorse at the resultant loss of many precious innocent lives and extensive damage to property due to his actions. Seeking forgiveness for his actions he has requested the Chief of Army Staff to spare his life on compassionate grounds.

Commander Jhadev had earlier appealed to the Military Appellate Court which was rejected. Under the law he is

eligible to appeal for clemency to the COAS (which he has done) and if rejected, subsequently to the President of Pakistan. His second confessional video, in which he can be seen accepting his acts of terrorism and espionage is also released so that the world should know what India has done and continues to do against Pakistan.

Drone strikes violate Pakistan’s sovereignty: FO

Fo r e ig n O f f i c e ( F O) Spokesperson Nafees Zakaria on Thursday said that drone strikes are against Pakistan’s sovereignty. During the weekly news briefing, the spokesperson said that Pakistan’s policy regarding drone strikes had always been clear. The FO’s statement came a day

after a Pakistan Air Force JF-17 Thunder jet shot down an unmanned Iranian drone allegedly on a spying mission in Balochistan’s Panjgur area.

Officials said the drone was shot down after it had ventured “deep inside Pakistani airspace”. In a statement released hours after the drone was shot

down on Wednesday, the FO said Islamabad had notified Tehran of the development.

During Thursday’s briefing, the FO spokesperson refused to comment on foreign media reports that US President Donald Trump’s administration was likely to toughen its policy on Pakistan.

2 Friday - June 23, 2017

THE DESTINATION

NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL

Removing Assad no longer priority in Syria: Macron

PHOTO OF THE DAY

Khanpur Dam is a dam located on the Haro River near Potowar Plateau and the village of Khanpur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, about 25 miles (40 km) from Islamabad, Pakistan.

HUAWEI Y3 2017 now available in Pakistan

Islamabad June 22nd, 2017: Huawei, the leading telecommunications company has launched another entry level device in its winning mid-range series – HUAWEI Y3 2017. This revolutionary device is now available in the Pakistan and is indeed the best choice in terms of the innovative features it boasts.

Available in 3 beautiful colors; white, gray, gold, the HUAWEI Y3 2017 not only

gives off a premium feel but also promises a faster glitch free experience which no other smart phone in this price range offers. Equipped with 1 GB RAM and 8 GB ROM, the HUAWEI Y3 2017 promises the customers abundant speed and storage, allowing users to run multiple apps at once.

The 2200mAh battery allows the phone to last 2 whole days on a full charge, letting

the customers carry out their functions. Equipped with an 8 MP rear and 2MP front camera, the HUAWEI Y3 2017 captures crisp and clear pictures, making photography a part of the customers everyday lives. The HUAWEI Y3 2017’s marvelously crafted 2 point multitouch 5” big display gives off a picture-perfect resolution which will breathe life in all the pictures and apps.

The Country Head of Huawei in Pakistan – Mr. Blue king stated: “As culture and technology continue to intersect in every aspect of our world, we want to deliver new products and experiences that ultimately improve and enhance life. The HUAWEI

Y3 2017 is indeed the best choice for consumers looking for top-of-the-line features in anreliable phone.”

The HUAWEI Y3 2017 truly exemplifies value for money as it categorizes in the midranging series. Customers can purchase the reliableHUAWEIY3 2017 by simply visiting their nearest Huawei authorized store in the price tag of Rs. 12999. Huawei is rapidly emerging as an innovative industry leader within the electronics and telecommunications arena, aiming to deliver exceptional services to the rapidly expanding segment of smartphone users in Pakistan, who seek powerful global connectivity.

May to confront Brexit worries at EU summit BRUSSELS —Embat tled Br itish Pr ime Minister T he re sa May w il l t r y T hu r sd ay t o c onv i nce European leaders she can still push through Brexit despite being badly weakened by an election bet that turned sour. The two-day Brussels summit marks the debut of French President Emmanuel Macron, the figurehead of a renewed confidence among the remaining 27 states that Britain’s withdrawal can be a fresh start.

But talks on issues including post-Brexit defence plans risk being overshadowed by concerns that a disastrous election has left May so enfeebled that Brexit negotiations will be hampered.

“There is an enormous insecurity among the Europeans: how long will she last? Has she got the majority to deliver?” a senior EU official said.

In Brussels, security has been stepped up af ter Tuesday’s bombing at one of the city’s main rail stations

by an Islamic State sympathiser, following attacks in Britain and France. Over dinner, May is expected to fill in some of the blanks for the other EU leaders on Brexit.

It will be their first meeting since her Conservative party unexpectedly lost its majority in a June 8 election, leaving her in charge of a socalled “zombie government”.

Britain’s shock referendum vote to leave the EU was a year ago on Friday, and the country remains in a dark national mood after a string of terror attacks and a deadly tower block blaze.

“The PM will give an update to the other member states on the UK’s Brexit plans following the beginning of the negotiations this week,” a Downing Street spokesman said. During the dinner May will “outline some principles of the UK’s paper on citizens rights which will be published at the beginning of next week,” the spokesman said.

The EU has made a priority

of the rights of three million European citizens living in Britain, plus a million Britons resident in Europe.

At the first formal Brexit negotiations Monday, Britain accepted the EU’s timetable that the exit bill, citizens’ rights and the Northern Ireland border be settled before its request for a free trade deal be considered.

EU diplomatic sources said May will try to keep it simple, with no discussion. “We believe that the warming-up round of last Monday did create a positive atmosphere ...

I don’t think that May will want to shatter that understanding,” said one EU diplomatic source, who asked not to named.

After her comments, May will leave the room for the remaining 27 EU member states to discuss what she has told them, and the future relocation of key EU agencies from London. EU President Donald Tusk said the bloc appeared to have survived the worst of the

anti-EU sentiment which drove Britain’s shock vote to leave exactly a year to the day on Friday.

“The current developments on the continent seem to indicate that we are slowly turning the corner,” the former Polish premier wrote in his invitation letter. His upbeat assessment follows a series of election setbacks for populist and eurosceptic parties, including French far-right leader Marine Le Pen who lost heavily to newcomer Macron in last month’s presidential poll.

Macron has joined forces with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, pledging to put a post-Brexit EU back on track to deliver prosperity and security after years of austerity and crisis. Macron and Merkel are expected to recommend another sixmonth rollover of tough economic sanctions imposed in 2014 against Russia over the conflict in eastern Ukraine, which has claimed 10,000 lives.

Tang Pakistan proudly sponsors the country’s first ever super hero movie Islamabad—Tang, the number 1 powdered beverage manufactured by Mondelēz Pakistan Ltd. is the lead sponsor of Pakistan’s first ever super hero movie, ‘Project Ghazi’ which is set for releaseon July 14, 2017.

The trailer of this trend setting movie was unveiled in a ceremony held recently where Mondelēz Pakistan’s Managing Director, UsmanMuneer and Project Ghazi’s team spoke at length about its production and challenges.

Produced by Syed Mohammad Ali Raza and directed by Nadir H. Shah, the science fiction movie revolves around highlighting the intolerance prevailing within the society which is eventually shunned by highly skilled soldiersas a result of their fervent demeanour and the spirit of nationalism.It reflects the need for eradicating the evil prevailing within as opposed to outside the state

which is gradually succumbing to its malevolent activities. The cast of Project Ghazi includes SheheryarMunawarSiddiqui, SyraShehroz, HumayunSaeed, Adnan Jaffar, and NusratHidayatullah.

“The provision of Art and Culture is essential in bridging the divide among nations. We, at Mondelēz Pakistanhave been promoting Art and Culture in Pakistan and sponsoring Project Ghazi is part of the same strategy that focuses on establishing a positive image of the country.” said UsmanMuneer, Managing DirectorMondelēz Pakistan Ltd., “It is quite invigorating to witness that Pakistani cinema is geared towards a new direction with highly talented and educated peoplejoining this industry. The movie is quite unique given its genre, promising cast and strong narrative. We therefore saw the collaboration as an onset of an outstanding

relationship.”

While commenting on this genre, Nadir H. Shah, Director of Project Ghazi said, “I’m hopeful that being the first ever super hero movie of Pakistan, Project Ghazi will emerge as the stepping stone in our industry. Such movies are prevalent internationally as they significantly appeal to a larger audience. We need to play a pivotal role in promoting Art and Culture at a decent scale, whereby we are

able to give a positive message to the youth and those outside Pakistan. Hence, such movies can be a brilliant way of achieving this goal.” Project Ghazi has been completely shot in Pakistan while the background music has been composed by TaureesHabib, who has been par t of the music team in Hollywood film and television productions like Interstellar, Batman vs Superman, Man of Steel (Superman) to name a few.

PARIS—France no longer sees the depa r t u re of President Bashar al-Assad as a priority in the Syrian conflict, President Emmanuel Macron said Thursday, making the policy official for the first time.

The new French leader said instead that fighting militants such as the Islamic State group had to be the international community’s number one goal in a conflict that grew out of protests against the Syrian president in 2011 but has since become increasingly complex and multifaceted.

“The real change I’ve made on this question, is that I haven’t said the deposing of Bashar al-Assad is a

prerequisite for everything,” Macron said in an interview.

“Because no one has introduced me to his legitimate successor,” said the French president, who took office last month. His comments were met with dismay by the Syrian opposition.”Shame on France, whose leader Emmanuel Macron does not see Bashar as its enemy or an enemy to humanity,” tweeted Ahmed Ramadan, a member of the Syrian National Coalition, the main umbrella organisation of opposition groups.

“A tragic fall for morality and humanity,” Ramadan added. K haled K hoja, another opposition f igure, posted on Twitter:

Over 5m children in urgent need of aid in Iraq

“Macron’s statements are surprising, considering that France was among four countries in the core Friends of Syria group -- in addition to Britain, Turkey, and Qatar -- that had supported the departure of ‘Chemical’ Bashar.”

Macron said he now saw two key priorities in Syria. “My line is clear: one, a total fight against terrorist groups.

They are our enemies...

We need the cooperation of everyone to eradicate them, particularly Russia. Two: stability in Syria, because I don’t want a failed state.”

Macron said the international community had made a “collective error” in thinking the conf lict could be

solved “only with military force”, adding: “My deep conviction is that we need a political and diplomatic roadmap.” But he repeated his warning that the use of chemical weapons and the violation of humanitarian corridors set up to deliver aid to desperate Syrian civilians were “red lines” and that France would be willing to act alone in response.

France was among Western nat ion s pu sh i ng most vocally for Assad to go at the start of the conf lict, which has since left more than 320,000 people dead and forced millions from their homes.

US asks China to exert more economic, diplomatic pressure on N Korea

It said more than 1,000 children have been killed and over 1,100 wounded since 2014. The United Nations says more than five million children are in urgent need of aid in Iraq.

The United Nations Children Fund, in a statement, said children continue to witness sheer horror and unimaginable violence in Iraq. It said more than 1,000 children have been killed and over 1,100 wounded since 2014.

World population to touch 8.6 billion by 2030, 9.8 by 2050: UN The demand was made by US Secretary of State at a news conference in Washington. The United States has asked China to exert more economic and diplomatic pressure on North Korea to halt its nuclear weapons programs. The demand was made by US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson at a news conference in Washington.

Three new companies get approval to set up car assembly plants in Pakistan A UN report has revealed that world population will touch 8.6 billion by 2030 and 9.8 billion by 2050.

Director of the U.N Population Division John Wilmoth said at a news conference that the report includes information on the populations of 233 countries, including Pakistan.

The report says India’s population is expected to surpass China’s in seven years.

ECP likely to use biometric verification machines in coming by-elections ISLA M A BA D —Election Com m ission of Pa k ist a n (ECP) is likely to use Biometric Verification Machines (BVMs) in coming by-elections on trial basis. According to an official of ECP, these machines have been purchased to use in by-elections throughout the country as pilot testing, a fist time ever in the election process of the country.

He said that a complete data of electoral rolls will be feed in these biometric machines, which will further ensure transparency in scrutinizing

the voters’ names. He said that the commission was waiting for the response of NADRA on ECP’s request of providing thumb impression.

He said that the report on results of scrutiny of pilot testing will be presented before the Parliamentary Committee on Electoral Reforms. He sid that the ECP has so far received a consignment of 100 biometric Verification Machines from a private firm M/s Secure Tech Pvt. Ltd to use in election purposes.

KARACHI—In a major setback to Japanese-dominated automobile industr y in Pa k ist a n, Mi n ist r y of Industry and Production has granted approval to three new non-European conglomerates to set up car assembly plants in Pakistan.

The companies include United Motors Private Limited, Kia-Lucky Motors Pakistan Limited and Nishat Group while their applications have been approved under Greenfield investment category. The three conglomerates would invest mammoth $372 million to set up manufacturing/ assembly plants in Pakistan.

According to details available, United Motors will invest $18 million for construction of manufacturing plant. Nishat group would invest $164 million while the Kia-Lucky motors would invest largest sum of $191 million.

“ T he gover n ment of Pakistan is pleased to award the Category-A Greenfield Investment Status to United Motors (Pvt) Limited for assembly/manufacture of vehicles covered in the exclusive contract agreement,” stated a notification issued by the Ministry of Industry.

Nine companies have sought permission from federal govt to establish assembling/manufacturing plants but the govt, in the initial phase, has approved application of three.

It is pertinent here to mention that Engineering Development Board (EDB) has been abolished on directives of Prime Minister’s office after allegations of corruption and creating hurdles in the way of setting up new car manufacturing plants in Pakistan surfaced.—DNA

THE DESTINATION

Friday - June 23, 2017

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NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL Hakim Kenjaev Head of analyses of Investment agreements and projects Division of the Republic of Tajikistan

T

he Republic of Tajikistan possesses unique natural and economic resources possesses unique natural and economic resources necessary for international cooperation necessary for international cooperation.

Investment Drivers 1. Strategic Geographic Location; 2. Political and Economic Stability; 3. Positive Reform Dynamics; 4. System of Guarantees and Preferences for Investors; 5. Natural Resource Endowment; 6. High-Level Political Commitment; 7. Diverse Investment Opportunities.

Strategic Location • Borders China (length of border – approx.

430 km), Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Afghanistan – it provides access to markets of Central and South Asia, as well as and CIS; • Central Asia: Eurasian integration hub; • Traditional transit route for cross- Asian trade. “Silk Road”.

Stability • Model of political stability; • Sound macroeconomic management; • Relative resilience amid global economic crisis; • National Development Strategy Until 2015 is under implementation.

Results of Reforms • Simplified registration procedures of business (under “One stop shop” registration principle);

• Considerably simplified procedures of bankruptcy and reduced related costs; • Streamlined process of transactions and strengthened rights of minor shareholders; • Reduced list of activities where licenses and permits are required; • VAT was reduced from 20 to 18 percent and Income Tax from 25 to 15 percent; • Tajikistan was named as a TopReformer by the World Bank Report “Doing Business 2010”-2011.

Preferences & Guarantees for Investor Government regulations ensure: • Equal right of domestic and foreign investor; • Legal protection of investors; • Guarantee of noninter ference of Government in business; • Right of using and transferring abroad revenues and incomes; • Right to move out property and information; • Intellectual Property Rights; • Right to use natural resources; • Right to use produce, income and profit from concessions; fixed terms of concession agreements Income tax exemption: • For 2 years, with investment amount below $500.000; • For 3 years, with investment amount between $500.000 and $2.0 mln.; • For 4 years, with investment amount between $2.0 mln. and $5.0 mln.

• For 5 years, with investment amount of over $5.0 mln.

VAT and customs duties exemption: For a number of goods imported within the framework of priority projects approved by the Government of Tajikistan.

No royal wants to be king or queen: Prince Harry

LONDON— Prince Harry speaks about succession to the throne and Princess Diana’s death.

In an interview with Newsweek, Prince Harry said that no one in the royal family wants to be king or queen. “We will carry out our duties at the right time,” he added. It is a well-known that Harry, William and Kate want to see an overhaul of the British monarchy. Speaking to Newsweek, Harry said: “We are involved in modernizing the British monarchy. We are not doing this for ourselves but for the greater good of the people…. Is there any one of the royal family who wants to be king or queen? I don’t think so, but we will carry out our duties at the right time.” Prince Harry also spoke about his mother’s funeral, in a direct criticism of the royal family, stating that he was made to walk behind the funeral procession while the whole world watched on.

He was 12 years old.

“No child should be asked to do that,” he told Newsweek. He admits that he was traumatized by his mother’s death and was adrift for decades before finally getting professional help on the

advice of his father.

According to BBC correspondent, Peter Hunt, this interview can raise some eyebrows. It suggests that the Winsdor family isn’t fighting to fill what Princess Dianna called “the top job” when it becomes vacant. Prince Harry’s interview suggests that whoever fills the throne will do so because they have to, not because they want to. Another striking aspect of the interview is that it has no mention of Prince Charles by his son.

On a lighter note, Prince Harry also told Newsweek that he does his own shopping in an attempt to lead a normal life. He praised Princes Diana for showing him the lives of the ordinary people, especially the homeless, saying that people would be “amazed” at how ordinary his and Prince William’s lives are.

“I do my own shopping. Sometimes I worry someone will snap me with their phone. But I am determined to have a normal life, and if I am lucky enough to have children, they can have one too. Even if I was King, I would do my own shopping,” he said.

PEC enters into Washington Accord LAHORE—Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) has become the 19th signatory of prestigious Washington Accord which would facilitate mobility of engineering graduates and professionals of Pakistan at international levels.

With this entry, PEC’s accreditation system and processes has got an international recognition.

The graduates from PEC accredited engineering programs will be accepted for education and employment purposes in other member countries of Washington Accord.

The proposal for Pakistan’s membership was placed by the PEC delegation comprising of Engr. Jawed Salim Qureshi, Chairman PEC, Engr Prof Dr Niaz Ahmad Akhtar, Vice Chairman PEC (Punjab) and Convener Engineering Accreditation and Qualification Equivalence Committee (EAQEC), and Dr. Nasir Mahmood Khan, Senior Additional Registrar, PEC. The Washington Accord is an international agreement among registering bodies of member countries accrediting academic engineering programmes at university level, leading to the practice of engineering at the full professional level. Regular quality review is an important function to maintain international quality.

In terms of this agreement each registering body accepts the accrediting processes of the others.

The Accord recognizes substantial equivalence of programmes accredited by those organizations and recommends that the graduates of accredited programmes in any of the signatory countries be recognized by the other countries as having met the academic requirements for entry into the practice of engineering.

The founding Signatories of the Accord in 1989 were: Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) – USA, Canadian Council of Professional Engineers (CCPE), Engineering Council (EC UK), Institution of Engineers of Ireland (IEI), Institution of Engineers, Australia (IEAust), and Institution of Professional Engineers, New Zealand (IPENZ).

At present, the Washington Accord member countries are: Australia, USA, Ireland, New Zealand, UK, Canada, South Africa, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Chinese Taipei, Malaysia, and Singapore, and the provisional Members are Germany, Russia, Srilanka, India.

Membership of Washington Accord is recognition of the quality of engineering education offered by the country and an avenue to bring it into World Class category. PEC is the only authorized statutory body in Pakistan entrusted with the task of undertaking accreditation and registration of Engineering and technology education programmes. All Engineering

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

Tajikistan Opportunities for Investment

Natural Resource Endowment Inexhaustible water resources” Total length of 947 rivers is over 28500 km; Around 1300 lakes with total area of 705 sq. km; Glaciers with total area of 8476 sq Tajikistan’s hydro resources make up 60 percent of the total

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

in Central Asia.

Over 400 deposits of natural resources Over 400 deposits of natural resources • Gold and Silver; • Iron • bismuth; • Antimony and Wolfram; • Marble, • Granite • Volcanic Tuff; • Strontium; • Semi • precious stones.

Unique natural and climatic con High-Level Commitment • Establishment of the Consultative Council on Improvement of Investment Climate under the President of RT; • Council membership – representatives of key Government bodies, business, foreign investors and international organizations; • Successful implementation of the programme «Improving Business Environment - 200 Days of Reforms»; • New Government Programme on improvement of investment climate and international rating on selected indicators.

Diverse Investment Opportunities Priority areas for investment include: • Hydropower • Mining sector and manufacture of construction materials • Deep processing of cotton fibers and primary aluminum • Agriculture development • SME Development in processing of Agricultural products • Tourism and service industry Hydropower Opportunities: Tajikistan is on the 8th place

in the world in terms of availability of hydroresources, but less than 6 percent of available capacity is used; Market: International power transmission network is under construction; Preferences: VAT and customs duties exemption and a number of Government programmes; Examples: Sangtuda-1, Sangtuda-2 et al.

Mining and Construction Materials Production Opportunities: Explored and prepared over 400 deposits of natural resources; Market: China, Russia, Japan. European countries et al; Preferences: Law «On Concessions», open international tenders («Kanimansuri Kalon»); Primary Aluminum Processing Opportunities: production of over 400 tons of primary aluminum; Market: China, Turkey, Iran, countries of CIS and Europe; Preferences: VAT and customs duties exemption on import of technical equipment.

Agro Processing Opportunity: up to 20 percent of agricultural produce is lost due to lack of storage and processing capacity; Market: CIS Countries and European Union; Preferences: Programme of Export Promotion for Tajikistan until 2015; Cotton: In addition, there are significant opportunities in cotton processing, as production is approx. 400 thousand tons, but only 15 percent is being processed.

Tourism • Eco-Tourism; • Health & Spa; • Mountain Hiking and Hunting; • Rich Cultural Heritage. (gki.tj)

Islamabad police issue pamphlets stating precautionary measures for citizens ISLAMABAD—The capital police on Thursday sought help and cooperation of the citizens to curb crime, especially during Eid holidays. The police have compiled pamphlet for distribution among people living in different parts of the city which has the messages for the people to follow precautionary measures before leaving their homes on occasion of Eid. The pamphlets will be also handed over today to the prayer leaders to read them out after Friday sermons.

“The step has been taken to create awareness among people about the circumstances which help criminals to commit burglaries,” the police said.

The pamphlet compiled by SP City Zone Zubair Ahmed will be distributed among the people.

A large number of people leave Islamabad for their hometowns to celebrate Eid and as a result the possibility of thefts and burglaries increases in the city. The pamphlets stated that police have made

security arrangements to protect the life and property of the residents which cannot be possible without their cooperation.

It asks people to make proper light arrangements before leaving their houses or leave some person at home who can protect valuables in their absence.

It further stated not to leave gold, jewelery, cash or other valuable things at home and to proper lock all rooms before.

Newspaper vendors should be also informed not to give newspapers in these days and hire security guard arrangements with mutual cooperation of neighbors.

It further stated to inform the police before leaving and give complete bio-data along with CNICs of house maids, servants and drivers to police station. It further appealed the citizens to inform local police station in case of any suspicious activity around them.

These messages on pamphlets are being disseminated among citizens through ITP FM Radio 92.4.—DNA

PTDC expects tourists to increase on Eid in northern areascord ISLAMABAD —Pakistan To u r i s m D e v e l o p m e n t Corporation (PTDC) expects tourist flow would increase on Eid-ul-Fitr as everyone wants to enjoy festivity with their family at scenic hilly picnic attractions in the northern areas. In an interview, Managing Director PTDC Abdul Ghafoor said, “PTDC has announced summer tour packages in the start of the summer season which was continue till now with offering 20 percent discounted rates on different motels accommodation, meals and transpor tation of PTDC motels.”

He said, “Number of people had been booking hotels and rest houses in hilly picnic spots in northern parts of the country. MD PTDC said, “Northern parts of the country including Murree, Nathiyagali, Ayubia, Bhurban Patriata, Abbottabad, Swat, Naran, Kaghan, Shogran, Rawalkot, Nelum Valley, Gilgit-Baltistan had been witnessing a surge in domestic tourism.”

He said, “These areas were likely to receive 50,000 to 60,000 local tourists this year due to Eid holidays and summer vacations. Picnic spots including Abbottabad, Swat, Naran, Shogran and Kaghan were likely to receive 30,000 to 40,000 domestic tourists during Eid holidays, while they normally receive 10,000 tourists each during the summer.”

“Summer vacations were another factor encouraging domestic tourists to plan their trips to the beautiful hilly areas of northern Pakistan,” he added. He said, “PTDC motels were spacious enough to accommodate a large number of people and its Naran motel has 60 rooms, which was situated on the bank of Naran River.” “The Naran valley was very pleasant and peaceful, which attracts a large number of tourists every year,” he added. PTDC offered 20 percent discount on accommodation during this Ramazan, which attracted more domestic tourists.

Turkey, Saudi Arabia to ‘increase efforts’ to end tensions over Qatar Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a telephonic conversation with Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and the new crown prince, during which they agreed to “increase efforts” to end tensions in the region related to the dispute with Qatar.

An official statement issued in Erdogan’s office says he called the Saudi royals to congratulate them on the appointment of Prince Mohammed bin Salman as the new crown prince.

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 Friday - June 23, 2017

ADB provides $300mln to support Pakistan’s public sector enterprises reform ISLAMABAD—The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Pakistan on Thursday signed a $300 million loan to support Pakistan’s efforts to implement major structural reforms and efficiency initiatives to improve the performance, transparency, and financial sustainability of the country’s federal government-run public sector enterprises (PSEs).

Xiaohong Yang, ADB’s Country Director for Pakistan and Tariq Mahmood Pasha, Secretary Economic Affairs Division (EAD) for the Government of Pakistan, signed the loan agreement in Islamabad.

“Pakistan’s state-owned enterprises provide vital services to the people of Pakistan and to the country’s economy,” said Xiaohong Yang, ADB’s Country Director for Pakistan. “ADB is proud to support the government of Pakistan’s commitment to implement reforms that will ensure financially sustainability of these firms while improving efficiency and cost-effectiveness.”

The financial performance of many federal government PSEs in Pakistan, which employ more than 400,000 people have been weak in recent years, despite significant budget support from the federal government.

The Program will support government’s efforts to improve the performance of the PSEs by improving corporate governance and accountability, identifying and reducing financial burdens arising out of direct budgetary transfers to PSEs. This will strengthen fiscal sustainability and freeing of finances for priority development projects.

ADB’s assistance is the second sub program under the PSEs Reform Program, bringing total ADB financing for critical reforms in PSEs to $600 million since June 2016.

With ADB’s assistance, under the Public Sector Enterprises Reform Program, the government of Pakistan has carried out significant structural reforms and efficiency initiatives to help improve financial sustainability and operational efficiency of PSEs, and helped improve the compliance to the Corporate Governance Rules 2013.

Many policy actions have been introduced under the program to improve the financial transparency, monitoring, and corporate governance in PSEs. A critical target under the program’s second subprogram is to increase the compliance rate of companies to Corporate Governance Rules to 50 percent.

The restructuring and reform of selected public sector

enterprises, particularly Pakistan Railways, have also been initiated. Under the program, government has started publishing the financial performance report of all federal PSEs which will be available on its website.

ADB, based in Manila, is dedicated to reducing poverty in Asia and the Pacific through inclusive economic growth, environmentally sustainable growth, and regional integration. Established in 1966, ADB is celebrating 50 years of development partnership in the region. It is owned by 67 members, 48 from the region. In 2016, ADB assistance totaled $31.7 billion, including $14 billion in cofinancing.—DNA

Australian legend wants to see int’l cricket in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD—Former foreign cricketers believe there is a dire need to bring international cricket to Pakistan as the crowd and players are starved to see the game happening in their own country.

Former Australian Captain Ian Chappell said international cricket not played in Pakistan is a big problem too for Pakistan cricket to go ahead. He advised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to take some small steps in reviving international cricket in the country.

“Don’t try for five tests or something like that, just some small steps are needed to get the world comfortable of playing in Pakistan and then you can

start taking bigger steps,” he said while talking at a private news channel. West Indian cricket legend Sir Vivian Richards who is also the head coach for Pakistan Super League (PSL) team Quetta Gladiators said “we came here for the PSL final held in Lahore in March and the reception we got to see from the people shows how much they are starved for international cricket”.

“We have to find ways of getting international cricket in Pakistan in a big way. When you look at the world in terms of security to be fair we are not safe anywhere,” he said. Many other foreign and Pakistani cricketers also tweeted after Pakistan’s

Chinese FM to visit Islamabad to discuss peace, stability in Afghanistan: FO

ISLA M A BA D —Foreig n Office Spokesperson Nafees Za k a r iya on T hu r sd ay said that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi is visiting Islamabad this weekend to discuss matters pertaining to peace and stability in Afghanistan.

At his weekly news briefing in Islamabad, he said, “ Pa k i s t a n , C h i n a a n d some other countries are cooperating closely for peace and reconciliation in Afghanist an.” Nafees Zakariya said, “During the visit both the sides will also review the bilateral relations.”

When asked about the Afghan opposition to fencing along the border, the Spokesperson noted that, “Effective border management is necessary to stem cross border movement of terrorists and facilitate the movement of people and trade goods. In addition, he said Pakistan is carrying out the fencing on its side of the border.” To a question, the Spokesperson said, “There had been visits from Pakistan to Afghanistan in the recent past including that of the parliamentary delegation.”

He said, “Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani

during their meeting at the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (S C O) S u m m it h a d also ag reed to use the Quadrilateral Coordination Group and bilateral channels to promote peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan. We will therefore welcome visits from Afghan side.”

Responding to a question that the US reportedly plans to review its policy towards Pakistan, the Spokesperson said, “Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with the United States which are longstanding.”

He said, “We believe continued cooperation between the two countries is critical for promoting peace and security in the region and beyond.

Pakistan is carrying out operations against terrorists without any discrimination. These operations are driven by the national interests.”

He said, “The country will not allow its land used against any other country. Pakistan’s position on US drone strikes is very clear. These attacks are counterproductive and amou nt to violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty.”

Briefing about the latest situation in occupied Kashmir, Nafe e s Z a k a r iya s a id ,

“Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz has written letters to the UN Secretary General, the president of the UNSC and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Secretary General Dr Yousef Ahmad al Othaimeen to update them about the gross human rights violations in the held valley.”

He said, “The United Nations has a responsibility to resolve this long standing dispute which is on its agenda since long. Pakistan always welcomes mediation offers for the resolution of this internationally recognized dispute.”

When asked about the recent Indian Army Chief’s statement that the Indian troops cares for human rights in Kashmir, the Spokesperson said, “Such claims need to be seen in the light of ground situation.”

He said, “About 250 innocent Kashmiri people have been killed since last July while thousands of others have been injured. Hundreds of women have also been dishonored.

The Indian troops are committing atrocities in the valley without any impunity.”

He said, “The inter national community has also raised serious concer ns over the situation in occupied Kashmir. The OIC has always supported the just cause of Kashmiri people.

It has always emphasized the need for resolution of the dispute in accordance with the UNSC resolutions.” He said, “Pakistan calls upon the international community including its brothers in OIC to impress upon India to stop brutalities in the valley.

big win in the final of the Champions Trophy against India.

Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag congratulated Pakistan team for winning the final. “You played very well you deserved to win. This win will be good for Pakistan cricket,” he tweeted. Former English Captain Michael Vaughan said good cricket is played in Pakistan and Pakistan team’s performance in the final was awesome. Former South Africa Captain Graeme Smith said Pakistan team showed how Champions should play.

English cricketer Kevin Pietersen said he was proud of Pakistani skipper Sarfraz Ahmed. Former West Indies captain Darren Sammy said nobody thought of Pakistan winning. “You deserve this win. He also praised Fakhar Zaman and said it is a result of PSL,” he said. Former Sri Lanka cricketer Kumar Sangakkara said Pakistan team performed very well. “Passion to win was seen in the players,” he said.

Former New Zealand Captain Brendon Mccullum said Pakistan team played with aggression. “Young and experienced players all proved good in the match,” he said. Indian Commentator Harsha Bhogle said Pakistan took time in deciding what Sarfraz is capable of. “He’s a great leader and have made the whole team believe in him,” he said.

English bowler Stuart broad praised Muhammad Amir for his superb first spell in the final. Former Pakistani cricketer Wasim Akram said Amir’s bowling reminded him of his time.Former Pakistani cricketer Rameez Raja saluted Pakistan team for the victory. “I never doubted Pakistan team’s form and my sixth sense.

‘Dreamer’ Tusk says Brexit could be reversed

B RU S S E L S — E u r o p e a n Union President Donald Tusk echoed rocker John Lennon’s “Imagine” Thursday as he said he hoped Britain might still stay in the bloc. Speaking ahead of an EU summit in Brussels where Prime Minister Theresa May was due to brief leaders on her Brexit plans, Tusk suggested the process could still be reversed.

“Some of my British friends have asked me whether Brexit could be reversed, and whether I could imagine an outcome where the UK stays part of the European Union,” Tusk told reporters. “I told them that in fact the European Union was built on dreams that seemed impossible to achieve, so who knows?” the former Polish premier added. “You may say I am a dreamer, but I am not the only one.”

Tusk’s last line was a quote from “Imagine”, the iconic 1971 ode to world peace by late former Beatle Lennon.

Britain stunned the EU when it voted to end its four-decade membership of the 28-nation bloc in a referendum a year

ago on Friday. But May’s disastrous showing in elections on June 8 in which she lost her majority has sparked speculation that her Brexit plans may be watered down, or even reversed.

French President Emmanuel Macron and German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble both said last week that the “door was open” for Britain to remain in the EU. At the summit May is due to unveil a “generous offer” to resolve EU concerns about the rights of three million European expats living in Britain after Brexit.

Tusk meanwhile insisted the remaining 27 members had a renewed sense of optimism about the bloc’s future after years of crisis and mounting anti-EU sentiment culminating in the Brexit vote. Despite it being his 80th summit as premier or EU head, “never before have I had such a strong belief that things are going in a better direction,” he said.

“Our optimism should still be extremely cautious but we have good reason to talk about it.”