The Destination Issue 17 Vol 1

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Sha’aban-ul-Moazzam 29 1468 AH.

Rabbani calls for collective efforts to counter terrorism, extremism

Chairman Senate Mian Raza Rabbani on Thursday said that we need to make conscious collective efforts to counter terrorism and extremism from our society and should engage the young generation of educational institutions as these is our hope for future.

He said, “The Parliament of Pakistan is looking towards the positive and optimistic approach of youth of Pakistan to put an end to this culture of intolerance in the creeping into the society. He also said that it is the collective responsibility of educational institutions and the nation as a whole to achieve this task.”

Addressing participants of a seminar titled, “Contemporary Pakistan” at Iqra University Islamabad, the Chair man Senate obser ved t hat, “Unfortunately application of law is different for people belonging to different stratums of society.”

“The powerful can buy justice for them and poor people keep wandering in search of just treatment,” he said. He said, “If law was respected in the country and Constitutional supremacy was accepted then there was no reason that institutions couldn’t be strengthened, a stable system couldn’t come into place and law of land was not supreme.”

Turkey lauds Pakistan’s contribution in fight for global peace

Turkey acknowledged and appreciated Pakistan’s contribution in the fight for global peace. “Pakistan has paid a heavy price for global peace and security,” said Musa Heybet, High Rank Judge, Deputy Undersecretary of the Turkish Ministry of Justice while talking to Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq at Parliament House, Islamabad. A 13 Member Judiciary delegation also accompanied the High Rank Judge.

While welcoming the Turkish delegation, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, said, “Friendship between the Turkey and Pakistan is time tested and has roots in history.”

He remarked that, “Pakistan and Turkey are intertwined by stronger multi-dimensional relations well-grounded in shared strategic interests, people to people contacts and cultural affinities.”

The CGSS organized a Seminar on “Regional Challenges and ProspectsPakistan, Iran and Gulf Countries Relations”

The Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS) a r r a nge d a Se m i n a r on “Regional Challenges and Prospects-Pakistan, Iran and Gulf Countries Relations”.

The event brought together Diplomats, Scholars, Corporate Heads, Military officials and Government Representatives.

The aim and focus of the Seminar was to discuss the prevailing security challenges that are common to Pakistan, Iran and Gulf Countries while evaluating the prospects and possible way forward that could be worked upon by the respective governments and law enforcement agencies to deal with the existing security threats. Through the platform provided by the CGSS, many prospects were discussed that could be assistive for enhancing the security of the respective countries and for the development of mutually beneficial relations.

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GDP growth reaches 5.3% first time in eight years ECONOMIC SURVEY FOR OUTGOING FISCAL YEAR BEING RELEASED

Volume of country’s economy crossed $300b during outgoing financial year. The volume of Pakistani economy crossed the threshold of three hundred billion dollars during the outgoing financial year.

This was stated by Finance Minister Ishaq Dar while launching the Economic Survey for 2016-17 in Islamabad on Thursday.

Briefing the media about the performance of different sectors, the Finance Minister said that overall economic growth remained five point two eight percent which is the highest in the last ten years.

Ishaq Dar said that 5.3 percent growth has been witnessed in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in fiscal year 2016-17. While announcing the Pakistan economic survey in Islamabad, Ishaq Dar said that we have surpassed five percent growth rate in fiscal year 2016-17 while it is set at 6 percent for next year.

He said the industrial sector contributed twenty one percent,

agriculture twenty percent and services sixty percent to the GDP. Giving a breakdown, Ishaq Dar said that agriculture growth remained 3.46 percent, services 5.98 and industries 5.02 percent. He said that six percent growth target has been set for the next financial year. About the agriculture credit, he was confident that it will achieve the target of seven hundred billion dollars this year.

Economic Survey for the outgoing financial year is being released in Islamabad today. Finance Minister Ishaq Dar will formally launch the Survey, which will review performance of different sectors of the national economy in the outgoing year.

He will share key economic indicators and performance of different sectors of economy with media. The Finance Minister will also provide an overview of the economic progress made in recent years in Pakistan. He will highlight the main features of the comprehensive reform

CPEC to benefit entire region: Mamnoon

President Mam noon Hussain on Thursday said that landmark initiatives of ChinaPakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and One Belt, One Road (OBOR) will not only change the face of the world but will also bring in massive changes at political, economic and cultural levels and will also benefit the entire region.

President Mamnoon Hussain said this while addressing the 21st Convocation of Ghulam Ishaq Khan (GIK) Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology in Topi, Khyber Pa k ht u n k hwa. Gover nor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Zafar Iqbal Jhagra, Rector GIK, Jehangir Bashar, senior officials and parents of the graduating students were also present on the occasion.

The President stated that, “CPEC is a blessing from Allah Almighty which has placed great responsibility on our shoulders to make concerted efforts for successful completion of this grand project.”

He urged the youth to prepare themselves to gain maximum benefit from CPEC and expressed confidence that they will discharge this great responsibility with determination, resolution and strong will.

The President said, “Those

nations achieve progress and prosperity which excel in education and modern sciences. Present era is an age of science and information technology and asked the youth to gain expertise in these fields for progress and prosperity of the country.”

He said, “Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute is a distinguished institution of the country which was imparting education and research in science and technology noting that within a short period of time it has not only strengthened its separate identity but has also set an enviable standard in education of modern sciences.”

The President emphasized that, “The services of this institute will be of great significance in view of the changes which are going to occur in the world of technology in coming years.”

President Mamnoon Hussain stressed that, “If we desire to see Pakistan playing a role in the world in future then it is the foremost responsibility of the youth to acquire expertise in modern sciences.”

He said, “The European Industrial Revolution led to widen the chasm between the developed and underdeveloped world but a new world is emerging after the

introduction of information technology.”

He highlighted that, “Muslim scientists and social experts, on the basis of their hard work and God given intellect, laid that foundation upon which today’s academic world stands.”

He noted that, “Though social and political revolutions of the last few centuries and economic realities have weakened this educational tradition but in today’s world the humanity cannot be deprived of the benefits and fruits of sciences by limiting them.”

“In this background, it is the responsibility of determined youth of Pakistan to prepare themselves for exploration of new worlds of knowledge,” stressed the President.

The President congratulated the graduating students on completing their education and training and hoped that upon entering practical life they will come up to the expectations of their parents and the country.

The President expressed confidence that through hard work and commitment they will be able to transform the dreams of our founding fathers and elders into reality. He also gave away gold medals, certificates and degrees to position holders.

Canada issues Eid-ul-Fitr postal stamp

TORONTO— Canadian postal service has issued an Eid-ulFitr celebratory stamp on

country’s 150th anniversary.

“As Canada reaches its 150th birthday, our stamp committee reflected on some themes that need to reflect the Canada of today,” Deepak Chopra, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Canada Post said.

The stamp has ‘Eid Mubarak’ inscribed in Arabic on top of which is a minaret and a yellow pattern signifies architecture that is unique to Islam.

The stamp has blue and orange

as its base colours.

Canada last issued a stamp pertaining to Islamic festivities some 50 years ago and until then the state only celebrated Christian and secular holidays.

According to Canada Post, the stamp has been issued for three years and would become a practice if it does well.

Canada is set to issue stamps over Jewish as well as Hindu festivities as well.—DNA

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India involved in perpetrating, financing terrorism inside Pakistan: FO INDIAN ARMY IS CRIMINAL IN ITS BEHAVIOUR AGAINST CIVILIANS

Foreign Office Spokesperson Nafees Zakariya on Thursday said that India is involved in perpetrating and financing terrorism inside Pakistan.

“The confessional statement of Kulbushan Jhadav confirms Indian involvement in espionage and subversive activities in Pakistan,” the spokesperson said at his weekly news briefing in Islamabad.

About Kulbushan case, the Spokesperson said, “India clai m of v ictor y i n t he International Court of Justice (ICJ) is incorrect and misleading. The ICJ has just stayed the execution and we are preparing for the next hearing of the case.”

Responding to a question, he said, “The international community including the United States and the United Nations has expressed their concerns on the line of control (LOC) situation. India is heating up the situation on the LOC and heightening tension in order to divert attention from its perpetual atrocities in the occupied Kashmir.”

He said, “The world community is mindful of the perils facing the region. It is vital that the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions on Kashmir dispute are implemented at the earliest.”

“For this, the territory should be demilitar ized so that the Kashmiri people could exercise their right to self determination through a UN plebiscite in an environment free of bloodshed. India needs

to understand that it cannot wish away or suppress the Kashmir movement,” he said.

Responding to a question, the Spokesperson said, “Instability in India is a reality. Seventeen insurgencies are going on in the country while persecution of minorities is rampant there.

The gross human rights violations in occupied Kashmir have also been condemned by the world. The present situation in India has also raised fears amongst the investors.”

“Awarding Major Leetul Gogoi, who brazenly used a Kashmiri youth as a human shield, is condemnable. It is a crime and an insult to humanity. Amnesty International called awarding a move to condone human rights abuses in IOK,” he said.

“This is not first time that the Indian occupation forces have displayed such cowardice and inhumanity. In Indian occupied Kashmir, the Indian occupation forces are involved in acts of grave violence against civilians, rapes, extra-judicial

murders, arson attacks, kidnappings, violence against Kashmiri children and desecration of mosques and other sacred places. International Community, particularly, the UN should take cognizance to act,” he said.

“The Indian army is criminal in its behaviour against civilians. Indian occupation forces in IOK have been targeting Kashmiri civilians across LOC in Azad Jammu and Kashmir AJK. Many hundreds have been killed,” he said.

“Last week, Indian occupation forces killed Kashmiris during violent military operations in Pulwama and Kupwara districts, which we strongly condemn. 130 defenseless people, mostly students, were injured by using brute force, pellets and teargas shelling during peaceful protest against Indian illegal occupation of Jammu and Kashmir. Scores were arrested, including mostly students and cricket players, in Srinagar, Pulwama, Shopian, Budgam and Sopore areas,

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THE DESTINATION

NATIONAL PHOTO OF THE DAY

5,081 students studying with Chinese govt scholarships: Diana Bao

Shausar Lake situated in Deosai National Park, in Gilgit-Baltistan province of northern Pakistan. Exclusive photo by The Destination team

Resurgence of peace through literature Sania Zahra NDU, Islamabad Conflict is a part of our shared human experience and commonly exists within our own minds, as well as our families, institutions, local and global communities. Although peace has a much longer history, the field of peace studies is relatively a recent creation. We’ve had the idea of peace and conflict from the religious

teachings, traditions and customs. In 1950s the research of peace studies was being conducted in USA, Br itain and Scandinavian countries.

But the first appearance of peace research as a disciplinary label was in Norway.

Peace and conflict studies help students to develop the k nowledge, skills and values that empower them to resolve conflict

peacef ully. This program enables students to understand the dynamics of peace and conflict, mostly to be in touch with the world community and strive towards making lives more valuable to others. To learn about a life free of ethnocentricity and endeavor to help those less fortune than ourselves. Moreover one can sale war in form of weaponry, war strategies

and technological revolutions in arms, but peace is something which cannot be sold and has to be acquired, the only way of which is by learning it.

Peace studies is perhaps now best understood as an intellectual space for bringing together scholars who openly declare a commitment to non-violence and realization of peace by peaceful means.

Pakistan Vision 2025 Drives Future Cities Growth

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — 25 May 2017 — Pakistan Vision 2025 and the China Pakistan Economic Corridor are driving investment in Future Cities to deliver economic growth and enhance urban livability, the new country manager for Future Cities enabler SAP announced today.

With the United Nations projecting over half of Pakistan set to live in cities by 2025, the China Pakistan Economic Cor r idor pa r t ne r sh ip is investing millions of rupees in Future City projects in Islamabad, along with Gwadar, and Quetta, and supporting Pakistan Vision 2025 digital transformation goals.

Using innovations such as 3D pr inting, blockchain, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, Pakistan is transforming key industry verticals such as government,

healthcare, logistics, and transportation. Smart utilities and the smart grid, the smart supply chain, and public safety all present major opportunities.

“Pakistan’s cities face complex challenges that require innovative thinking and vision to reinvent how the country tackles economic, social, and environmental issues. Urban leaders in Pakistan are at the forefront of using citywide digital transfor mation to deliver better public services, good governance, safer cities, and economic prosperity,” said Saquib Ahmad, County Manager, for SAP Pakistan.

Supporting Pakistan’s Future Cities, SAP is exchanging global best practices from the recently-launched SAP Leonardo digital innovation system, the Future Cities program that co-innovates with over 4,500 local governments

Pakistani student beaten and ‘left for dead’ in Australia P E RT H — P a k i s t a n i national, Mehreen Ahmad, was beaten and ‘left for dead’ in a pool of her own blood in Australia by a man who she had met earlier that night. Mehreen is currently in intensive care at Royal Perth Hospital and the accused, Eduardo Santos Abrahao Filho (27) is under arrest.

Accord i ng to 7news, Mehreen, who is in her 30s, was brutalised by the accused and left for dead as blood stains were found at multiple levels of the stairwell outside

her apartment in Perth.

It has been reported that Mehreen and the man were together with a group of friends. The two were meeting each other for the first time.

Mehreen had gone out to get cigarettes but never returned, as per the police.

There is nothing clear about what happened in the stairwell but Mehreen is currently in intensive care at Royal Perth Hospital and her parents have arrived from Dubai to be on her side.—DNA

ISLA M A BA D — Pa k ist a n ranks the first among other 183 countries, in term of number of students got Chinese government scholarship, as 5,081 students are studying with Chinese government scholarship, which speaks volume about the Pak-China trusted friendship and brotherhood.

According to the statistics of Education Ministry of China, in the year of 2016, 5081 Pakistani students are studying China with Chinese government scholarship; however some Pakistani students go to universities in China at their own expenses, so the total number of Pakistani students studying in China right now is over 10,000.

These views were expressed

by Chinese Ambassador’s wife Mrs Diana Bao, while speaking at a Prize Distribution Ceremony here in Islamabad

Model College for Boys, F-7/3.

She said that Chinese embassy, Chinese companies and organizations also provide various kind of short term students exchange programs, teachers’ training programs and academic seminars since the start of CPEC. Dr. Tariq Masood, Federal Education Directorate and Dr. Shahid Haseeb, Principle of Islamabad Model College for Boys, F-7/3 were also present on the occasion. She graced the occasion as a chief guest.

She said that being an English teacher for over ten years, she had strong affections for education. There is an old saying in China, “It takes 10 years to grow a tree, 100 years to rear people”.

“I believe teachers and administration team of your prestigious college have done a very good job that’s why I can see

so many excellent students obtained awards today,” she added.

She said, “I would like to take this opportunity to introduce One Belt One Road Initiative to you,” and added, “One Belt refers to “The Silk Road Economic Belt” and One Road means “the 21st-century Maritime Silk Road”, both of which are initiated by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013, focus on connectivity and cooperation between China and countries of Asia, Middle East, Africa and Europe.”

One week ago, China successfully hosted the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooper at ion i n Beiji ng.

Leaders from 29 countries and representatives from over 130 nations and 70 international organizations including Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif participated the

forum and round table conference, she maintained.

Chinese President and Premier Li Keqiang had fruitful meetings with him at sideline of the Forum. This is because China and Pakistan are good neighbors, trusted partners, dear friends and iron brothers, and also because CPEC has achieved the most cooperative projects compared to other countries.

Last year, some of your talented students and teachers were selected to take part in Beijing International Summer Camp and Teachers’ Training at Beiji ng I nter nat ional Studies University. They were very much impressed by the economic development and achievement of China, and inspired to learn Chinese language and culture.

Malaysian Blues defeats Malaysian Whites in football match at Jinnah Stadium ISLAMABAD— Malaysian Blues defeated Malaysian Whites 1-0 in an exhibition football match played here at Jinnah Stadium on Sunday.

The match was arranged by the Embassy of Malaysia in connection with 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan-Malaysia (1957-2017). Both the teams fought well but the first half remained goalless. In the second half, M Shawal scored the winning goal for the Blues in the 57th minute. Shahid Saleem Sheikh, M Razip bin Yasin, Jamil Ahmed and Faisal Mirza played well for winning team, while Damaimi bin Junaidi, Irfan Kahn and

Ahmed Khan were instrumental for Whiles. M Syawal bin Aris was declared player of the match, while M Najeeb bin Jasmon of Malaysian Whites was declared the best

goalkeeper. Dr Hasrul Sani Mujtabar, High Commissioner, Embassy of Malaysia, was the chief guest and gave away trophies and individuals prizes to the teams. Deputy High

Commissioner Syed Nauzer Idid, PSB officials and Rana Tanveer Ahmed along with others were also present on the occasion.

Norway urges dialogue between Pakistan, India to resolve Kashmir Issue

worldwide, and the SAP Training and Development Institute that upskills youth.

With more than 16 years of IT experience in the region, Saquib Ahmad is committed to supporting new digital business models in Pakistan and driving Digital Economy growth.

“Pakistan is a strategic growth market for SAP, and we are

exchanging global best practices in using real-time technology to deliver clean, safe, and competitive cities. Saquib Ahmad has the experience, leadership, and disr uptor vision to drive public-private partnerships that support Pakistan Vision 2025,” said Gergi Abboud, Managing Director for the Gulf and Pakistan at SAP.

Young Pakistani professionals to study at US Community Colleges Thirty young Pakistani professionals attended a predepar t u re or ientation on Wednesday in preparation for a year of study at U.S. community colleges through the U.S. government-funded Community College Initiative Program (CCIP).

“Through CCIP, young professionals have the opportunity to develop leadership skills, technical proficiency in their field of study, and English-language proficiency,” said U.S. Embassy Cultural Affairs Officer Dr. Daniel S.

Nor way has emphasized the need for a dialogue between Pakistan and India to resolve the Kashmir issue. The emphasis was made during a debate in the Norwegian Parliament today, on an Adjournment Motion tabled by the leader of the Christian Democratic Party Knut Arild Hareide.

Arild Hareide lamented the gross human rights violations by India in occupied Kashmir. He expressed his concern and showed surprise on how a democracy like

India could impose curbs on freedom of expression including the social media.

Nor weg ia n Foreig n Minister, Borge Brende, wh ile re ply i ng to t he Motion, also reiterated the need for a peaceful settlement of the dispute.

Various other members of the Norwegian Parliament also spoke on the matter and supported the just right to self-determination for Kashmiri people.

3rd In-House project display 2017 arranged by NUML

Mattern.

“Pakistani participants also share information about their home country and culture with their American classmates and teachers throughout the program,” he said.

CCI P, which is managed by the U.S. Educational Foundation in Pakistan, allows participants to earn professional certificates in Business Administration, Agriculture, Media, Applied Engineering, Public Safety, Tourism and Hospitality Management, or Early Childhood Education.

Jashan-e-Huner festival showcases work of Pakistani women artisans British Pakistani businesswomen Anita Ali in collaboration with Ms. Bashan Rafique and others have brought the exhibition to Chelsea Old Town Hall to showcase Pakistani art and crafts made by women, and to open up opportunities in Britain for these skilled artisans. The Pakistan High Commission London is supporting this event –which translates art, craft, skill or adroitness –and seeks to promote the work of Pakistani artists and craftswomen.

The artisans featured in the exhibition are exhibiting their work including clothing, jewellery, silverware, ceramics, paintings and

embroidery.

The event was inaugurated by the wife of Pakistan’s High Commissioner to UK Mrs. Sadaf Abbas. On the occasion, she stated that there are so many highly skilled and talented women artisans in Pakistan producing unique and high quality art and craft

which needs to be promoted

and encouraged. She praised the event organizers for arranging such an important event highlighting Pakistan’s potential in yet unexplored handicraft market. She also assured the event organizers and the exhibitors of Pakistan High Commission’s support

the business community especially business women.

The exhibition is taking place at Chelsea old Town Hall from Monday from 22 to 24 May 2017. The Pakistani community is welcome to the exhibition to show their support to the designers from Pakistan.

I SL A M A BA D, M a y 25: Faculty of Engineering and Computer Sciences of National University of Modern Languages (NUML) arranged 3rd In-House project display 2017 Thursday, in which final year students of MCS, BSCS and BSSE displayed their final projects.

Rector NUML Major General Zia UD Din Najam (Retd) inaugurated the ceremony

while Di rector General NUMML Brig Riaz Ahmed Gondal, Registrar Brig (r) Aminullah Khan, Dean Dr. Muhammad Akbar, Director Administration Brig (r) Ziaul Hassan Sahi, HoD Computer Sciences Navid Aalam and HoD Software Engineering Col. (r) Jamil Ahmed Zia were also present on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion Rector NUML Major General

(r) Zia UD Din Najam said that students are the future of the country and today after seeing final projects of the students I am very much optimistic that Pakistan has a great future. He said that students must develop new ideas and bring innovation in the field of science to make Pakistan a prosperous country. He stressed the need to follow three principles of

Quaid-i-Azam which are Unity, Faith and Discipline to get excellence in life.

D e a n Fa c u lt y of Engineering and Computer Sciences Dr. Muhammad Akbar briefed the honourable Chief Guest about the details of the event and he alongwith HoDs accompanied Rector NUML to visit all the stalls displayed by the students of the said department.

THE DESTINATION

Friday - May 26, 2017

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NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL

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mazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ: AMZN), a Fortune 500 company based in Seattle, hosted in WWW in July 1995 and today offers Earth’s biggest variety.

Amazon.com, Inc. is perhaps Earth’s most customer-centric MSc and PhD University of company, where customers can discover and uncover anySouthampton, UK thing (Books; Movies, Music & Games; Digital Downloads; Assistant Professor, UET Electronics & Computers; Home & Garden; Toys, Kids & Pakistan Baby; Grocery; Apparel, Shoes & Jewelry; Health & Beauty; Research Associate www.sdpi.org Sports & Outdoors; and Tools, Auto & Industrial are name Email: eng.musi@gmail.com, a few) they might want to buy online, and endeavors to offer its customers the lowest possible prices. Amazons Operating cash flow increased 31% to $5.47 billion for the trailing twelve months in 2013 compared with $4.18 billion for the trailing twelve months ended December 31, 2012.In this article, we would go through the algorithm that Amazon’s product recommender engines uses to attract more customers.

A Recommender System (RS) consists of two basic entities: users and items, where users provide their opinions (ratings) about items. We denote these users by U = {u_1, u_2,..., u_M}, where the number of users using the system is |U| = M, and denote the set of items being recommended by I = {i_1,i_2,..., i_N}, with |I| = N. We can represent each element of user space U and item space I with a profile. We usually represent a user’s profile by de fining their characteristics like age, gender, geographical location, etc.; however, in simple cases we represent it by a unique user Identifier (ID). Similarly, we represent each item by de fining some characteristic; for example in a book recommender system, each book can be represented by author, topic, year of release, etc.

Recommender systems store the history of the user’s interactions with the system; for example, user purchase history, types of items they purchase together, their ratings, etc. Most of the recommender systems require users to rate some item, in order to recommend unknown items; for example, in the Netflix movie recommender system, when a new user registers they have to rate some movies in order to get proper recommendations from the system. The users will have given ratings of some but not all of the items.

Typically, the ratings are defined on a subset of I x U and not on the whole space. The task of the recommender systems then becomes to extrapolate rating (by a function) to the whole space I x U in order to make recommendations. There are different ways to extrapolate the utility function over the whole I x U space. We can use data mining and machine learning algorithms, approximation theory, and some heuristics for prediction.

Defining Users’ and Items’ Profiles: The main building elements of the recommender systems, i.e. users and items, need to be modelled in such a way that recommendation algorithms can exploit them. Recommender systems usually get initial information about users when they first register with the system.

The simplest way is to create an empty user’s profile, which is updated as the system gathers the user’s feedback. This method, however, would not be able to recommend any items unless it gathers some information about the user’s preferences. An alternative approach is where the user manually creates a profile. The user might need to give their interests (e.g. types of domain they are interested in), demographic (e.g. age, genre, etc.) information, and geographical (e.g. country) information. Another approach, used by the MovieLens video recommender system and iLike music recommender system (ilike.com), LastFm (www.lastfm.com) requires user to provide ratings on a predefined set of items. For example, when a new user registers with the Dr. Mustansar Ali Ghazanfar (AKA Dr Musi)

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Recommenender System: How Amazon gets money from regular and casual surfers iLikeweb-site, the system presents them a list of artists they need to rate before getting the recommendations.

After getting the initial information, the system maintains the user’s profile, as they provide feedback. The feedback can be explicit or implicit. Explicit feedback, where the user provides their opinions about certain items, can be positive or negative and usually comes in the forms of ratings. Rating scales can be discrete, although most of the recommender systems use discrete scales. Explicit feedback can also be gathered by allowing users to write comments and opinions about certain items. In implicit feedback the user’s interaction with the item is observed; for example, web usage mining (e.g. time spent in a web page), analysing the listening/watching habits in media player (e.g. in YouTube the system might store how a user plays, re-plays, skips, and stops videos), and observing the history of the transactions in the e-commerce website (e.g. items purchased or returned by a user).

An item’s profile can be defined in different ways: (1) by getting features (or meta data) about the item, (2) by using the ratings provided by users on that item, (3) by using the domain-specific Ontologies (categories), and (4) by using demographic information about items.

The Most Famous Recommendation Algorithm: Collaborative Filtering: The most famous and simple type of algorithm used to make

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

recommendation is Collaborative Filtering. Collaborative Filtering recommend items by taking into account the taste (in terms of preferences of items) of users, under the assumption that users will be interested in items that users similar to them have rated highly. Examples of these systems include Amazon and Ringo. Collaborating filtering recommender systems are based on the assumption that people who agreed in the past will agree in the future too.

There are three main steps to make a prediction (whether user will like it or not) for an item a user has not seen/purchased/rated before as follows: 1.

In the first step, users rate some items they have experienced previously.

2.

In the second step, an active user (the user for whom the recommendations are computed)’s profile is matched with other users’ profiles in the system. A set of similar users also called neighbors of the active user is found.

3.

In the last step, predictions are made for items that the active user has not rated based on the ratings provided by its nearest neighbors. Finally, these items are presented to the active user in a suitable order.

Example Based on Figure1: User Musi has not seen the movie “The Godfather” and he is in a dilemma---whether or not to rent this movie. Only two users, Hamza and Adam have already seen this movie. He knows that Hamza has the same taste in movies as he has, as both of them have liked “Troy” and disliked “Forest Gump” movies. Furthermore, he knows that Adam has quite opposite tastes to his, as Adam has liked the movies he disliked (i.e. “Forest Gump”) and vice versa. Considering this he asks Hamza’s opinion and discards (or acts opposite to) Adam’s opinion and makes the decision accordingly. It must be noted that Fahime has exactly the same taste as Musi; however, her opinion cannot be taken into account, as she has not rated the “The Godfather”.

What Recommendation Algorithm the Amazon Uses: The above-mentioned approach is called User-Based Collaborative Filtering (UBCF). The Amazon uses a slightly different approach---by selecting the most similar items rather than users---Item-Based Collaborative Filtering (IBCF). The steps in the IBCF are as follows: 1.

In the first step, all items rated by an active user are retrieved.

2.

In the second step, the target item’s similarity is computed with the set of retrieved items. A set of most similar items is selected.

3.

In the last step, the prediction for the target item is made by computing the weighted average of the active user’s rating on the most similar items.

The rationale behind using the IBCF rather than UBCF is that, the similarities between the items can be calculated using an off-line stage and that the items set is non-volatile, i.e. mostly in e-commerce web-site, the items set changes very often compared with the users (which keeps registering with the passage of time).

In-fact, Amazon is using much simpler approach to make huge money by giving personalized recommendations to users, nonetheless, the truth is it is working very well by converting casual surfer into regular ones and regular ones into potential customers. Amazon got its own Adware program, with a reach to more than 244 million customers worldwide.

In the next post I shall show, what sort of algorithms Google search engine, Google News, Netflix, and other web-giants are using to make huge money by giving users the personalized recommendations. It is worth mentioning; more than 90% of Google’s revenue comes from personalized advertisements, whether it’s AdWords or AdSense. The total advertisement revenue (in Millions) of Google from Jan 2014 to June 2014 is $28,225 (90% of Google’s total revenue that was $31,375); from which 21,404 (68% of total revenue) comes from Websites and $6,821 (22% of total revenue) comes from Network Members’ websites.

Thousands March Against Trump in Belgium ‘Not Welcome Here’ “If you don’t want Trump in Belgium clap your hands,” chanted some, while others opted for “hey hey, ho ho, Donald Trump has got to go.”

Thousands of protesters took to the streets to protest U.S. President Donald Trump’s arrival in the city he previously likened to a “hellhole.”

Marchers carried colorful flags and banners inscribed with slogans such as “Fight Donald Trump and his billionaire friends” and “stay out of our hole,” a reference to an interview Trump gave last year in

which he described Brussels as “like living in a hellhole right now.”

According to capital police, 9,000 people attended the rally. The president and first lady Melania Trump arrived in Brussels Wednesday for the fourth leg of his first foreign trip as commander-in-chief.

He will spend just over 24 hours in the city before flying to Sicily for the G7 summit.

The main reason for his visit to this city — the heartland of the European Union — is to attend a NATO summit in

which he is expected to push for members to boost defense spending to the equivalent of two percent of their GDP, in an effort to better share the cost of the alliance’s budget.

But for the Belgians protesting in the streets, the president was not welcome in their country as long as he continued to push “his war agenda.” (courtesy: CNBC)

KOICA Pakistan A meeting was held at Korea Inter national Cooperation Agency (KOICA) Pakistan Office with Asian Farmer’s Association and FAO. KOICA Pakistan was established in 1991, under the authority of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), implements and administers the grant aid and technical cooperation programs provided by the Government of the Republic of Korea. KOICA aims to make a better world together by promoting equitable and sustainable development of its partner countries. It is also actively participating in the international community’s efforts to enable poor people to improve

Negotiations on Pak-Turkey FTA to be held on June 6-7

their quality of life.

KOICA’s Obje ct ive s a re to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) for Poverty Reduction and to promote Sustainable Socioeconomic Development in

Developing Countries. Its strategic orientation is sharing Korea’s Development Experience and placing Priority and Respecting Par t ner’s Needs.

P r i o r i t y A r e a s i n cl u d e

Developing Human Resources, Building Governance Capacity, Maximizing Human, Potential, Improving Health, Assisting the Rural Poor, Providing Humanitarian Assistance.

Sweden—Cherry bloom in Stockholm Kungsträdgården (‘King’s Garden’) is a park in central Stockholm. The park’s central location and its outdoor cafés and restaurants makes it one of the most popular meeting places in Stockholm. It also hosts open-air concerts and events in summer, while offering an ice rink during winters. Credits: Lola Akinmade Åkerström/imagebank.sweden.se

ISLA M A BA D, 25 M AY (DNA) - The seventh round of negotiations on Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Pakistan and Turkey would be held from June 6-7, 2017 in Turkey in order to finalize the agreement.

“Pakistan and Turkey will also discuss specific sectors including textile during the negotiations,” a senior official of Ministry of Commerce said on Thursday.

He said , “Pa k ist a n a nd Tu r k e y ’s F r e e T r a d e Agreement (FTA) will be signed on August 14, of this year for enhancing the bilateral trade between two countries.

The two sides would exchange provisional lists for a final agreement in upcoming round of dialogue.”

“Pakistan’s trade balance with Turkey remained positive until 2011, however, it started decreasing since 2011, when additional duties on various commodities were imposed by the two countries,” he said.

The official said, “The two sides will hold discussions on agreement on goods,services and investment. After signing of new FTA with Turkey, both the countries, gain will be able to improve their trade balance.”

The official said, “Pakistan

will get market space in agriculture and pharmaceutical sectors in Turkey. Pakistan’s major imports from Turkey include manmade textiles, towels, steel structure, tanning and plastic chemicals, processed milk and whey.”

“Whereas, the country’s major exports to Turkey are denim PET, ethanol, cotton yarn, fabric and rice, garments, leather, carpets, surgical instruments, sports good, chemicals,” he said.

Pakistan Navy ship participates in Singapore event SINGAPORE— PNS Zulfiqar with embarked helicopter (Alouette) recently undertook goodwill cum training visit of Singapore and participated in Republic of Singapore Navy’s (RSN ) 50th an niversar y celebrations.

During stay at Singapore port, ship actively participated in International Maritime Review (IMR) 2017, International Maritime Defence Exhibition Asia (IMDEX) 2017 and Maritime Information Sharing Exercise 2017.

Upon arrival off Singapore, PN warship was welcomed at sea

by Republic of Singapore Navy Ship Gallant and after anchoring off Changi Naval Base, ship was warmly received by Defence Attache of Pakistan and Singapore Navy officials.

Commander Pakistan Fleet, Vice Admiral Kaleem Shoukat a long w it h C om m a nd i ng Officer attended various events in connection with RSN 50th an niversar y celebrations which beside others included Opening ceremony of IMDEX

Asia-17 and International Maritime Security Conference.

The visit provided ample opportunity to Pak Navy

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

officers and men to learn through professional interactions with their counterparts from 21 participating navies.

4 Friday - May 26, 2017

THE DESTINATION

Advance Telecom to launch Nokia Smart Phones in Pakistan President urges youth to equip themIslamabad, May 25, 2017: Advance Telecom recently announced that it will be launching Nokia Smart Phones in Pakistan as the official distribution partner of HMD Global-The Home of Nokia Phones.

At a ceremony held to celebrate the placement of first sma r t phone s orde r, M r.

Rizwan Majid, CEO Advance Telecom, reiterated the commitment that Advance Telecom has made to Nokia phones by voluntarily deciding to dedicate all its efforts and resources to Nokia smartphones. Mr. Rizwan Majid also encouraged all channel partners to buy legally imported stock available under Advance Telecom warranty. Mr. Kamran Khan, Head of Near East for HMD Global, appreciated the efforts made by Advance Telecom and thanked Mr. Rizwan Majid

selves with latest knowledge, skills

and Advance Telecom team for their commitment and dedication to Nokia phones.

He expressed confidence in Advance Telecom’s ability to successfully launching Nokia smartphones in Pakistan.

In response to a question, he recently confirmed that, since Dec 1, 2016 Advance Telecom has been HMD’s

active distribution partner in Pakistan. Advance Telecom is a trusted name in terms of mobile phone distribution in Pakistan. The company is perceived to be amongst the pioneers in offering innovative solution and services to its customers. Headquartered in Espoo, Finland, HMD Global Oy is the new home of

Nokia phones. HMD designs and markets a range of smartphones and feature phones targeted at a range of consumers and price points. With a commitment to innovation and quality, HMD Global Oy is the exclusive licensee of the Nokia brand for phones & tablets.

Nokia is registered trademark of Nokia Corporation.

Experts call for maximum use of innovative technologies

Tricast, a mobile and web solutions provider, in collaboration with Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) organized firstever video technology seminar titled ‘Digital Pakistan’ in Islamabad.

The seminar discussed issues of digital rights, digitization, privacy, piracy, content being aired on TV and IP TV etc.

A large number of the stakeholders of the industry, cable operators and senior officials of PEMRA attended the seminar and shared their views.

T he eve nt st a r t e d w it h i naug u r al word s of t he

Director General, Licensing (Distribution) PEMRA, Javaid Iqbal. He said, “Digitalization of the cable TV networks was the need of the hour and it is in the interest of all the stakeholders i.e. operators, viewers/ subscribers and regulators.”

“Unfortunately, our country lags behind others in the region and we need to pursue the case of digitalization proactively,” said Javaid Iqbal. He concluded that, “Digitization would help switch over the revenue of the media industry from advertising to subscription.”

Wakeel Khan, DG Licensing (Broadcast Media and DTH)

in his presentation highlighted the significance of digitalization and the advantages that all stakeholders will have once all analogue cable TV networks are up-graded to digital.

He said, “Digitalization of the existing cable TV networks would have a number of advantages including higher channel carrying capacity of networks, better quality of sound and video, addition of new features e.g. EPG, PPV, PVR, Parental control etc.”

Wakeel Khan elaborated that, “The licensing of new digital platforms like DTH, IPTV and the digitalization of existing cable TV networks would also result in new opportunities to develop innovative content and new revenue models, increased competition, more choice to viewers, inflow of foreign and private sector investment to our country, creation of new applications, research, billing, customer care and employment generation etc.”

Earlier, Abbas Raza CEO of Tricast welcomed the guests.

He highlighted the concept

of Digital Pakistan and convergence of technologies. He was of the view how with the passage of time, technologies are connecting and converging to make a smart way of living where one box or one screen can perform multiple operations in user-friendly environment.

This includes news, communication, storage and social media not just in one place but with on the go devices.

Jawad Ahmed, the IT expert explained the concept of innovation to realize the dream of ‘Digital Pakistan.’

He said, “Digital Pakistan is not yet ready to reap fruits of digital Pakistan. The concepts of ‘Citizen Journalist’ and ‘Easy Paisa’ are two examples of the change that social media and digital innovations have introduced in our lives.”

Asad Ullah Jaral Advocate talked about Intellect ual Property (IP) laws, piracyrelated issues, rights of the cable operators and working of special tribunals dealing with IP rights violations.

Facilitation from Banks will bring more investment in Marble and Granite sector of Pakistan Muhammad Farooq Ahmad ISLAMABAD—Pakistan Stone Development Company (PASDEC), State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) endeavors for “access to finance” to the marble & granite sector of Pakistan.

This was stated by the Chief Executive Officer of Pak ist an Stone Development, Mr. Zahid Maqsood Sheikh in the meeting with the banking industry of Pakistan and marble industry stakeholders. He also appreciated the State Bank of Pakistan role in recognizing true potential of marble & granite sector of the country. He said that the

bank’s recognition would bring more investment and stability in dimensional stone sector of Pakistan.

W hile presenting, Mr. Zahid Maqsood Sheikh highlighted the potential of sector and informed the participants that country has over 300 billion tons of estimated reserves and around 4,000 SMEs are working in the sector which lack support from the financial institutions. He said that lack of access to finance is one of the major reasons that the sector is still underdeveloped and failed to tap the international market. He emphasized the need that

the banks should play their active role in uplifting the sector and assured complete support to the banks and the industry in developing viable business models and products.

He also urged the need in accessing value of marble and granite leases, stock in hand and assets as collateral for extending credit facility to the sector.

It was also proposed that a committee comprising banks, stakeholders and PASDEC may be established to put up recommendations and make the sector bankable, furthermore committee members were advised to

devise a plan to appraise the value of marble and granite leases / square blocks / slabs as collateral to broaden credit facilities to the marble stone sector of Pakistan.

Meeting participants appreciated PASDEC and the State Bank for bringing them to a platform where they had the opportunity to understand the real potential of marble and granite sector and assured that they will develop suitable products for the sector in collaboration with the stakeholders.

The senior executives from 21 banks besides sector representatives participated in the meeting.

UNIDO commits vigilant support for food value chain development in Gilgit, KP ISLAMABAD, 24 MAY (DNA) - United Nations Industrial Development Organization (U NIDO) Pakistan has concluded a successful need assessment mission to Gilgit Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The organization explored the potential of agricultural produce of the areas and to help the government in transforming agriculture into agro-industry by addressing the gaps in various value chains for fresh fruits, dry fruits, fish and dairy sector.

UNIDO after a series of consultations developed a project proposal on AgroI ndust r y Development Program for Pakistan targeting three sectors i.e fresh fr uits, dr y stone fruits, trout fish as well as dairy. The concept for value addition was conceived in

close collaboration with the federal Ministry of Food Security and Research as well as active participation of Provincial Agriculture Departments.

The main objective is to assess the selected value chains relevant to provide assistance in processing, packaging, branding, certification as well as establishing linkages with national and international markets.

UNIDO has contributed $ 50,000 as a seed money to undertake this need assessment for the formulation of the project document.

The anticipated budget for the project would be 3 million USD for phase I, to be mobilized from government of Pakistan and some other international donors including UN funds.

A project for mulation mission lead by Esam

Alqararah, U NIDO Representative, and comprising of Bassel Alkhatib, UNIDO Project Manager at UNIDO Head Office in Vienna, and Youssef Doughan, Inter national food Expert from Lebanon, had undertook field visit to Peshawar and Gilgit Baltistan, where the meetings with various high level officials were held.

The mission also interacted with farmers and women associations to seek the problems faced by them and to identify the gaps where UNIDO could provide assistance for further strengthening of selected value chains.

The Chief Minister of Gilgit Batistan during his meeting with UNIDO team appraised UNIDO’s assistance for the uplift of poor communities in the area as well as for assisting the government to

have a system established for the certification of various perishable commodities like cherry and apricot to enable these products meet compliance and compatibility for export to China and minimize the post harvest losses. The government of GB is also facilitating to fund the project from local government resources.

UNIDO mission also had high level meetings at federal level including with Economic Affairs Division, where it was reiterated that through this project UNIDO is working on much needed interventions that comes under priority area for government of Pakistan. The government of Pakistan ensured all its support for the project and for funding from local and international donors once the project document is finalized.

President Mamnoon Hussain has urged the youth to equip themselves with latest knowledge and skills to help accelerate the pace of national progress and development.

He was addressing 21st convocation of Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Science and Technology at Topi yesterday.

The President said the world has taken a leap forward in science and technology and IT and telecom. He said Pakistani

students should also keep pace with the rest of the world by focusing on the modern education and technology.

He said the challenges facing Pakistan can be mitigated if our youth keeps moral values uppermost in the mind while acquiring conventional knowledge.

The President lauded the role played by the GIK Institute in imparting quality education to students.

Socio-Economic uplift of people priority of PML-N Govt: PM

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif says socio-economic uplift of masses is priority of the government and Budget Strategy is an important tool for achieving these objectives.

He said this while chairing a high level meeting in Islamabad today which was briefed regarding Budget

Strategy for the next financial year.

Prime Minister said government has focused on infrastructure development but at the same time accorded top priority to the social sector as well.

Nawa z Sha r if said the unprecedented growth in the

16thYoung Leaders Conference (YLC) to be held on July 26 – 31, 2017 I s l a m a b a d : 2 5 t h M a y, 2017: The Young Leaders Conference (YLC) proceeds with its 16th year of excellence, with the primary objective of changing the lives of youngsters by connecting them with opportunities for the future.

The theme for this year’s YLC is: The 300 – which calls out to the awakened, imaginative, disciplined, and dynamic youth of our country.

With the conference just two months away, preparations are at their peak. Each year, YLC hosts 300 young individuals, between the ages 18-24 from all over Pakistan who unite and spread the dream of a new era.

The champion for this year is Mehak Ameer, who is leading the 16th YLC along with passionate young facilitators, specifically skilled for the mega-event. Kamran Rizvi & Umair Jaliawala, Directors at School of Leadership (SoL), Hammad Saeed, Chief Executive Officer – SoL,

Maalik Khaskhely, Executive Director – SoL and Waqar Ali, Learning Consultant – SoL will serve as mentors for this team.

“YLC’17 will be a fusion of innovation and inspiration, which will urge the participants to look at future possibilities, and will activate a sense of social responsibility through post-conference social action projects. School of Leadership is keen to train and facilitate youth of Pakistan gathering at the platform.” states Mehak Ameer. She further said, “It is a blessing to be making this life-changing journey a possibility.”

During this action-packed week, participants will not only network and interact amongst each other but will also have an opportunity to interact with leading personalities from the world of politics, governance, business development, academia, technology, music, movies, culture, media,

marketing and advertising.

Over a period of six days, more than 40 learned experts, trainers, specialists from all over Pakistan and abroad will assist the diverse program. The YLC will primarily be centered on a diverse range of topics, including; self-awareness, developmental issues and problems in the society, emerging markets, rights & responsibilities, cultural, political and economics etc. to best assist the youth.

Head of Marketing EBM, Ayesha Janjua, said, “since the past 14 years “EBM and SOL have been partners in promoting this pioneering youth platform .We have great faith in SoL’s development program for the youth and it has proved itself by achieving greater heights over the last one and a half decade. There is no dearth of talent in this country, but what is lacking is direction, and initiatives like YLC help in bridging that gap”.

Si nce 20 02 , Y LC has

contributed over 4,400 young leaders to our global landscape. Their combined force has further influenced numerous individuals across Pakistan to bring about a positive change in their communities.

School of leadership does not stand alone in this initiative, and is partnered by various magnificent private and social sector organiz at ion s ove r t he ye a r s, including English Biscuit Manufacturers; Founding Partner, Cause Partners; Thal Limited, U-Report: Pak Avaz, UNICEF, Friedrich Naumann Stiftung, Feroze1888, ACM Gold, The United States Education Foundation in Pakistan (USEFP), Habib Metropolitan Bank (HMBL), Behtareen.pk KFC Pakistan, Cinepax Cinemas, Shamrock Communications and SEHER Foundation and Media Partners Jang Media Group, The News, Geo News and Radio Partner Suno FM 89.4.

Republic of Korea awarded Pakistani workers Overseas Employ ment Corporation (OEC), Ministry

of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development in collaboration with Human Resource Development (HRD) Department of Republic of Korea held an award distribution event on 25-4-2017 to honour successful Pakistani workers under the Employment Permit System of Republic of Korea.

Under the Employment Permit System, hundreds of Pakistani workers selected on the basis of merit proceed to South Korea every year to earn their livelihoods and valuable foreign exchange for Pakistan. During the past nine years, after the MOU was signed between

Republic of Korea and Pakistan, 6,149 have proceeded to South Korea.

Under the South Korean law, foreign workers have to return to their countries of origin after five years. Two Pakistani workers, Mr. Imran Anwar of Sialkot and Mr. Muhammad Imran of Jhang were selected on the basis of documentaries which highlighted t heir suc-

cess stories. After working in South Korea for nearly five, the workers returned to Pakistan to establish successful businesses with the help of their earnings to contribute to the economic development of their homeland. Mr. Pervaiz Ahmed Junejo, Managing Director,

Overseas Employ ment Corporation and Mr. Sou Jong Je, Representative of HRD Korea presented the awards to the successful Pakistani workers. They acknowledged the ser vices of Pakistani

workers and resolved to further strengthen the cooperation between Governments of Pakistan and the Republic of Korea in the field of human resource development and employment promotion.

Federal Education Minister Louds KPK being the first province for adopting all Education Standards

The 10th Inter-Provincial Education Ministers Conference (IPEMC) concluded today at Peshawar with a joint statement presented by the Federal Education Minister Baligh Ur Rehman at a press conference here.

Talking to the media, the Federal Minister Balig Ur Reh man said that IPEM Conferences are ongoing since 2012 and so far ten conferences have been conducted in Islamabad, Peshawar, Balochistan, Gilgit-Baltistan.

He appreciated the efforts of K hyber Pak ht u n k hwa Government and Elementary & Second a r y Educat ion Department for successfully organizing the conference in Peshawar.

“We have devised minimum education standards in seven areas and I appreciate and congrat ulate

K hyber Pak ht u n k hwa as the first province for being the first province for adopting all education standards” Federal Minister Baligh Ur Rehman remarked at the press conference“Education is a way forward and leads to prosperity of a nation. I am extremely happy to see all units of federation taking active part in the conference for ensuring joint commitments. Together we will improve quality of education in our country. The out of school children in 2012

were more than 260 million but without joint efforts now the numbers have dropped to 226 million, which shows overall improvement made by all units of the federation. It’s the responsibility of federal government to play coordination and provide a platform for experience sharing from each other. We are committed to achieve all SDGs by 2030 and have also decided to conduct assessment through international firms. All provinces have agreed to work

on non-formal education and improve adult literacy rates” he added.

Talking to the media, The K hyber Pak ht un k hwa Elementar y & Secondar y Education Minister Muhammad Atif Khan said that IPEMC is a sensitive matter, the federal government should not interfere in provincial matters however IPEMC is an ideal forum for experience sharing, direction setting and broader outlines which are discussed at this forum.