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Sha’aban-ul-Moazzam 30 1468 AH.
Unprovoked Indian shelling in Bhimber, AJK Authorities said a woman was killed when Indian troops resorted to unprovoked shelling from across the Line of Control in the early hours of Friday. Sixty-year-old Farzand Begum, a resident of Naali village in Bhimber district of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, died when a shell exploded in her house. Ramazan to start on Sunday as moon not sighted The moon, marking the beginning of the Islamic month of Ramazan, was not sighted on Friday and the first day of the holy month will now fall on Sunday (May 28). The announcement was made by the Chairman of Central Rue t-i-H i la l C om m it t e e Pakistan, Mufti Munibur Rehman, in a press conference held after the conclusion of an official meeting of the committee on Friday in the federal capital. SBP to obser ved ‘Bank Holiday’ on May 29 The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) will remain closed for public dealings on May 29, 2017, which will be observed as `Bank Holiday for the purpose of deduction of Zakat, according to the notification. Moreover, it was stated that all banks, development finance institutions (DFI) and microfinance banks (MFBs) will remain closed for public dealing on May 29, 2017. Govt employees gets 10% salary-raise Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, during his Budget 2017-18 speech on Friday, announced a salary raise for government employees in the country. A 10pc hike in salary has been given to the people working in government institutions. According to details, ad-hoc reliefs added in 2009-10 will be incorporated into the salaries. A 10% special allowance will also be provided in the salaries of Pakistan Army soldiers. 10% percent has been allowed in salaries and pensions of government employees.
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Rs1 trillion development budget is unprecedented: PM Sharif
ISLAMABAD—Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Friday said the allocation of Rs. 1 trillion development budget for the next financial year is unprecedented in the history of the country. The prime minister was addressing a parliamentary meeting of the Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz (PML-N) as the government prepares to unveil the annual budget for 2017-2018. This is fifth and last budget of the current PML-N government which took over in 2013. Prime Minister said despite the huge problems that his government inherited in 2013, Pakistan was stronger and more stable today. “We are accountable to the people of Pakistan and they will decide as to who delivered and who did not,” the Prime Minister told the parliamentarians. According to the remarks shared by PM’s Media Office, the Prime Minister said his government believed in the rule of values and not that of power and was serving the people of Pakistan with utmost sincerity. He said his government worked very hard and now the development projects were being completed on a fast pace with utmost transparency and efficiency. He regretted that in the past development projects were delayed and cost over-run was common,
however now savings were being achieved on these projects. He said the government was not only working on energy projects but was also trying to make energy affordable for the consumers. He said the projects under the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) were being completed on fast pace and said by next few months 3600 MW would be added to the national grid. The Prime Minister said his government was working for providing a secure base for sustainable energy sources for Pakistan. “We are working hard to complete even those projects that were abandoned … because we want development of Pakistan and our people,” the Prime Minister said. He said the whole country was being connected through network of roads and motorways. This connectivity would bring huge dividends for business, industry, exports. He said the government was working on governance reforms, which was a long process with opposition from various segments. However said that his government wa determined to bring in positive reforms. He said the security situation has improved during the tenure of the PML-N government. He said his government also focused on development of AJ&K, Gilgit Baltistan and FATA to bring these at par with other provinces.
Khurshid Shah defends farmers protesting in Islamabad
Opposition Leader said Friday during the National Assembly session on Budget 2017-18, oppression of farmers in Islamabad will not be tolerated. Farmers were marching towards the parliament while protesting ahead of budget announcement and clashed with police which intensified the situation. Metro bus service was also suspended due to the clash. He recorded the protest before Finance Minsiter Ishaq Dar’s budget speech. He complained saying occurrence of a bad incident in Sindh makes people emotional while cruelty with farmers is being ignored. “Farmers demand their rights,” he said. Commenting on the farmers protest in the capital city, Opposition Leader recalled that firing bullets and baton charge of farmers never happened in their era. He asked, “What’s the difference between you and a dictator?” Khurshid Shah told his party had no plans of staging a protest
but they couldn t keep silent on cruel behaviour with farmers. While clarifying the whole incident, he affirmed that the farmers were not protesting in red zone and they were beaten despite a peaceful demonstration. He mentioned contacting other political parties to express combined support for the agriculturists. Opposition lawmakers were wearing black ribbons during National Assembly Budget 2017-18 session to symbolise support for farmers. Later on, during Ishaq Dar’s speech, most of the members of Opposition walked out of the parliament in protest before making loud noise and chanting slogans against the ruling PML-N government. Opposition Leader asked parliamentarians not to disturb the budget session and requested the government to lift the sales tax on farmers.
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Budget of Rs: 5,103.8 billion for 2017-18 unveiled
Finance Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday presented the Rs: 5,103.8 billion budget for 2017-2018. The budget size is 4.3 percent higher than the size of the budget estimates 201617. The minister described the budget as incentive and relief-laden federal budget that he said will spur growth and development. The budget envisages merger of fifty percent adhoc relief allowance granted to civil employees and adhoc allowances of 2009 and 2010 for personnel of armed forces with the salary and ten percent adhoc relief allowance on the basic salary after merger. Zarb-e-Azb allowance for armed forces personnel will be in addition to this. The Minister announced ten percent increase in pensions. Minimum wages have been increased from the existing 14000 to fifteen thousand per month. Several allowances of different categories of employees have also been increased. These include sixty percent increase in daily allowance rate, enhancement of orderly allowance from 12000 to 14000 rupees, increase in the rate of burial grant from 1600 to 4800 and from 5000 to 15000 rupees; constant Attendant Allowance from 3000 to 7000 rupees and fifty percent increase in design allowance.
B a t m a n a l low a n c e a n d Hardlying Pay for Pakistan Navy and different allowance of Pakistan Post have also been increased. Personnel of frontier constabulary would get a fixed monthly allowance of eight thousand rupees irrespective of their deployment in any part of the country. The finance minister said the government will bear an additional burden of 125 billion rupees because of relief to government employees. The f inance minister announced launching of a new national saving scheme for the welfare of family members of martyrs. Under this scheme, heirs of martyrs of Pakistan Army, police and other security institutions will get an extra profit. Pakistan Savings will bring their branches online and introduce ATM cards and mobile and internet banking for the benefit of its customers. The budget of Pakistan Baitul Maal would be increased from the existing 4 to 6 billion rupees. He announced revival of the scheme launched by PML (N) government in 1999 envisaging payment of all dues of HBFC mortgage by the widows. The limit of loan for this scheme has been increased from three hundred thousand to five hundred thousand rupees. He said a one billion dollar
non-convertible bond would be issued to attract investment by overseas Pakistanis in the country’s infrastructure. The Capital Development Authority will also announce a separate sector to afford opportunity to overseas Pakistanis to make secured investment in real estate. The Finance Minister said all pending refunds of sales tax would be paid in two phases. Those involving one million rupee would be cleared by 15th of July and others by 14th of August this year. Ishaq Dar also announced relief measures relating to sales tax and federal excise duty for different sectors of economy. These include elimination of additional tax on lubricant oil by marketing companies, reduction in sales tax rates on import of hybrid electric vehicles at par with locally manufactured vehicles, automatic stay in cases related to federal excise duty till decision of appeal and elimination of withholding tax on supplies between registered individuals. The Finance Minister said that sales tax rate has been reduced from seventeen to seven percent on several different types of machinery used in poultry sector. Sales tax rate on multimedia projectors for use in educational institutions would be reduced from the existing seventeen to ten percent.—DNA
Pakistan Muslim League (PML) senior central leader and former Deputy Prime Minister Ch Parvez Elahi has termed the new federal budget as anti-people. He said that the PML-N government instead of providing relief is continuously giving pains to all segments including the poor, farmers, workers and traders, increase in salary and pension of government servants is very low as compared to price hike day by day, Nawaz Sharif and Ishaq Dar should stop pleasing Indian farmers, rulers Kissan packages are false which have been reduced to patwari packages, they will not get anything
even from new budget and electricity prices will also not come down. In a statement Friday, he strongly condemned oppression and violence on peaceful farmers protesting for solution of their problems and rights on budget day in Islamabad and said that peaceful protest is right of everyone but the rulers are dead drunk in power, there was no justification for brutal violence, lathi charge and tear gassing as well as arrests of the farmers, who are backbone of the national economy the rulers have once again proved that N-League government is enemy of the farmers whereas when
how a country can be prosperous when its farmers are not prosperous. He said Nawaz Sharif has only one motto “Modi friendship” and he does not want to annoy Modi in any manner, this the reason that import of India’s tomatoes, potatoes and other food items is being promoted and economic murder of own farmers being committed by providing them costly electricity and other items and this we will not tolerate in any case, the government should discard its anti-farmers tactics and should refrain from policies which are destroying the farmers.
Ch Parvez Elahi terms federal budget anti-people
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NATIONAL PHOTO OF THE DAY
Preston Entrepreneurial Challenge “PEC 17” concludes in the Capital
The Deosai National Park is located between Astore and Skardu in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. It has an average elevation of 4,114 metres (13,497 ft) above sea level, making the Deosai Plains one of the highest plateaus in the world. The park protects an area of 3,000 square kilometres (1,200 sq mi). It is well known for its rich flora and fauna of the Karakoram-West Tibetan Plateau alpine steppe eco region. In spring, it is covered by sweeps of wildflowers and a wide variety of butterflies. Deosai is second highest plateau after Chang Thang Plateau Tibet. Exclusive photo by The Destination team
US Consul General Launches English Access Microscholarship Program in Karachi
NUML University, Islamabad grabbed1st position in the mega competition. Second position was won by NUST, Islamabad followed by Superior College, Lahore which stood 3rd in the competition. ISLAMABAD (PR): Preston University Islamabad organized an All Pakistan Inter University Business Plan Competition titled “Preston Entrepreneurial Challenge PEC17” with the Slogan “PUR DAM HAI AGAR TU TOU NAHI KHATRA-E-UFTAAD. PEC-17, the mega interuniversity Business Plan Competition, was the 5th in the series of competitions organized by Preston University every year. More than 171 teams from eminent public and private universities, from across Pakistan, took part in the referenced event. From this long list of participating institutions 25 teams were shortlisted for the Grand Finale. The selection was made on the basis of their executive summaries pertaining to their respective business plans. The pur pose of organizing Preston Entrepreneurial Challenge was to provide a platform to the budding entrepreneurs of the country where they could present their innovative ideas, get themselves mentored by the domain experts, meet with the investors and get encouragement.
The event comprised of various competitions including Elevator Pitch, Business Plan Competition, Junk Yard Activity, Be An Entrepreneur & Advo ca cy. A l l t he se challenging & enlightening activities made Preston Entrepreneurial Challenge a remarkable occasion. The sponsors of the event were Naimat Pvt. Ltd., Zia Steel, Triangle Paints, Glass Smith (Gulzari Optics), Adam G Dura Built, Bashir Foods, Zomos Ken nel, Supreme Elevators, Habib Corporation, Fresco Food Lounge, Ameer Sons, CMAK, CRSS & Jazz. The scintillating closing
ceremony of ‘PEC 17’commenced at 7pm. The chief guest on the occasion was President Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (RCCI), Raja Amir Iqbal. In his keynote address, Chief Guest Raja Amir Iqbal highlighted the importance of creating entrepreneurial opportunities for the youngsters. He profoundly appreciated the efforts of the Management of Preston University to organize a great competition like PEC 17. This mega event, he said, provided the future entrepreneurs of the country an opportunity to demonstrate their skills and talents in entrepreneurship
development. Raja A mir Iqbal, President RCCI awarded 1st, 2nd & 3rd position holders with cash prizes, trophies and certificates. The winner of the competition was NUML University, Islamabad who won a cash prize of Rs. 100,000/. They were followed by 1st runners up from NUST, Islamabad which won a cash prize of Rs. 75,000/. The 2nd Runners up from Superior College, Lahore was awarded cash prize of Rs. 50,000. He also distributed souvenirs among the Strategic Partners, Sponsors, Jury members & the winners.
GB Police win Jashn-e-Baharan Polo Tournament
Karachi—Consul General Grace Shelton today formally launched the English Access Microscholarship Program (Access) for children from u n d e r s e r ve d a r e a s of Karachi. This two-year afterschool English-language and leadership program will train talented 13-20 year old students from disadvantaged communities. At the ceremony, Consul
General Shelton encouraged the students participating in this program to take advantage of this opportunity to sharpen their English language skills. “It is inspiring to see the enthusiasm and dedication I see in you today, and we only want to see that grow,” she remarked. Highlighting the objective of the program, Consul General Grace Shelton said,
Pakistan, Turkey vow to enhance cooperation in Defence Sector
Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Zubair Mahmood Hayat has held separate meetings with Turkish Chief of General Staff General Hulusi AKAR and Commanders of Turkish Land and Naval Forces in Ankara. Matters of bilateral interests with emphasis on security
challenges were discussed. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment for strengthening and enhancing existing defence and security relationship between the two brethren countries. The CJCSC was awarded “Legion of Merit” medal.
“We believe education is the key to a strong, economically stable Pakistan. That’s why we here at the U.S. Consulate in Karachi could not be more pleased to support the Access program.” T he English Access Microscholarhip Program gives youth the opportunity to develop excellent English la ng u age, c om mu n ication, and leadership skills.
Throughout the world, the Access Program has reached over 115,000 students in 80+ countries. The program first began in Pakistan in 2004 and has since reached over 13,000 Pakistani students. Prior to the launch of the Access program in Karachi, Access launched in other areas in Sindh including Hyderabad and Jamshoro.— US Mission Pakistan
Gilgit-Baltistan Police won Jash n-e-Baharan Polo Tournament beating GB Scouts by 11 to 8 goals in Gilgit. Governor Gilgit Baltistan Mir Ghazanfar Ali Khan who was the chief guest gave away shields and cups to the players of winner and runner up teams.
Sea King helicopters formally handed over to Pakistan Navy
Russia, China to further bilateral cooperation, joint work on int’l issues
Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for joint efforts by Russia-China to cope with concerned issues on the international agenda. He was talking to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Kremlin. Putin said the two countries should also work closely with each other
within multilateral frameworks. The Chinese Foreign Minister said Beijing and Moscow should enhance their strategic cooperation in international affairs and jointly promote the peaceful settlement of international and regional issues.
Book Launching Cermony of Dr. Nafisa Shah
Sea King helicopters purchased from the UK, were formally handed over to Pakistan Navy, in a ceremony attended by H.E. Syed Ibne Abbas, Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK. Mr Christopher Bob Richardson represented the UK Ministry of Defence
(MoD) in the formal handing over ceremony. Contract for purchase of seven (07) helicopters was signed last year. A separate contract was signed with M/s Vector Aerospace for maintenance of the aircraft before being shipped to Pakistan later this year.
The High Commissioner lauded the historic relationship between the Armed Forces of Pakistan and the United Kingdom and the role played by the UK in capacity building of Pakistan Armed Forces both in terms of equipment support and training. He thanked the
representatives of the UK MoD, Leonardo and M/s Vector Aerospace for their support in making this project a success and hoped that the cooperation between the two Armed Forces would continue to grow in future.
Koica Pakistan
Distribution ceremony of Hydroponic Development course in Pak-Korea Capacity building center for agriculture and livestock at Pir Mehr Ali Shah Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi.
THE DESTINATION
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NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL Muhammad Anees ul Hassan NUML, Islamabad
A
n old Chinese maxim states that a fur coat can be made out of scattered feathers and the world can look up at Chinese turning this adage into their actions. It was not a long time ago when foreign investors were hesitant to invest in Pakistan due to security issues and threat of terrorism. But despite of all the nuts there came the jim-dandy opportunity, unique ilk of foreign investments, what is now known as CPEC, the biggest foreign investment in Pakistan, thanks to China for bringing Pakistan with this game changer. If worked upon in the context of right time and space, CPEC can prove not only to be a milestone in the economic history of Pakistan but it also has the potential to make Pakistan stand out more brighter in the framework of international system as its capacity circle draws the attention of many countries, willing to be stake holders in this project. To very much extent, the interests of key players in international marketing, can’t be developed in Pakistan as long as the economy of Pakistan is internally stabilized and balanced. Which is why, the above mentioned factors are important to make Pakistan more attractive for foreign investors and CPEC founds the ground for this very matter. Focusing on these areas, in the terms of economic prosperity, CPEC can act as a catalyst in maintaining the tricky balance sheet of economy of Pakistan. An investment of more than $46 billion will make economy more resilient and stable. Various projects come under the headings of CPEC with construction of long motorways, energy projects, social sector development and infrastructure development as the most remarkable ones. CPEC can be an initiative to resolve the chronic energy crisis of Pakistan. There are total 17 energy projects. Pakistan has long history of energy short-falls and is facing energy crisis which are not only affecting Pakistan at domestic level but also affecting industrial structure of Pakistan thus putting the economy of Pakistan on a reverse gear, leading to economic deprivation and CPEC is actually a solution for this very deprivation.
Publishing 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
The Horizon of Internationalization At the same time many motorways and highways that’ll be built under CPEC will provide traders with easy access not only within their own country but also to China and CARs. The cost and time for transfer of goods will decrease, hence increasing the saving rate of transfer per container transferred. Moreover, transportation network like railways networks, roads will also facilitate. The implications of this
Writers are requested to send their contributions at editor@thedestination.com.pk
Argentine ambassador says relations with Pakistan growing
ISLAMABAD, MAY 26—To commemorate the 207th anniversary of the first Independent Government on May 25th 1810, the Argentine Ambassador Ivan Ivanissevich hosted a reception at the beautiful garden of his residence, which was a well-attended affair. Federal Minister for Ports and Shipping Mir Hasil Khan Bizenjo was the chief guest. The Argentine Ambassador invited many of his Pakistani friends, including politicians, businessmen and Argentinean nationals working or living in and around the capital. The Argentine Ambassador mentioned about recent meeting between Prime Minister Sharif and Argentine President Macri took place on the occasion of the OBOR meeting in Beijing which resulted
great desire by the Argentine Government to strengthen ties and cooperation with Asian Countries. He said, the relationship b et we e n A rge nt i n a a nd Pakistan goes back to the very origins of Pakistan, and it is like a tree, which people in Pakistan and Argentina cherish, one that they would like to grow even further. Our Governments have the obligation to nurture it for the benefit of future generations. He added, Argentina was one of the sponsors of Pakistan, at the time of the consideration of Pakistan membership of the UN. Both Argentina and Pakistan have held common positions in the UN, most notably in areas related to development and the Reform of the Security Council.
It may be mentioned here that there is a great potential for cooperation in the agricultural sector, and we must re-launch the cooperation which was undertaken in the past. Since Ambassador Iva n is sev ich a r r ive d i n Pakistan he has been very active, identifying possible partners and areas of cooperation. He has also proposed possible steps for the near future, involving visits of Pakistan experts to Argentina. Last year, the Argentine and Pakistan Air Forces carried out their first cooperation project in Antarctica. The Argentine Ambassador hopes that it may be the first of many other cooperation initiatives in the future. The Embassy has also been very active in the cultural area. It has promoted not only
Argentine music and painting in Pakistan, but it also sponsored a concert of traditional Pakistan music, with a special enphasis on Sufi singing. It has also made it possible for the Argentine artists to share their experiences with students of the National College of Arts in Lahore through workshops and one concert. There was a great Tango performance by well known Argentine couple Walter and Ayelen same Tango artists which performed last year. The guests offered endless gratit ude to Ambassador for welcoming them with great hospitality by offering traditional Argentine BBQ Empa na d a s, a nd pizzas.—DNA
connectivity might seems to be mere ‘between two countries, China and Pakistan’ to one or may be in South Asian or Central Asian region but the factuality is that it has intercontinental implications from Europe to Asia. It can be guessed from the fact that a container which usually takes 50 days to reach Hamburg from Beijing with $3,000 will arrive in only 15 days saving $1,800 after the completion of CPEC by 2030 as reported by Punjab Board of Investment and Trade (PBIT). CPEC is gaining popularity at international level, not only at regional level, as it connects China to CARs and Europe making international trade less expensive through easily accessible land routes. Russia is also looking forward to CPEC. In past Soviet Union sought access to warm waters through its war policies, failing miserably. Now, in the new era, time has changed but Russia still needs access to Gwadar port for the sake of trade and in order to sale it gas reserves as buyers of Russian gas in Europe are dwindling. For this very reason, Russia has shown signs of interests in CPEC. It is an important point to note that CPEC will also allow flow of goods and energy to and from the Middle East. Thus forming a connecting network in international trade system connecting Pakistan and China with CARs, Middle East, Europe and providing them all alternative and more feasible sea routes through Gwadar for trade where Pakistan will enjoy the prominent central position. Definitely, Pakistan will reap the fruits in terms of enhancing its trade in international marketing system. It will have a positive and good impact upon multilateral relations and bilateral relations of Pakistan with other countries resulting in more trade agreements and deals automatically benefiting the economy of Pakistan. So, CPEC is crucial to Pakistan for gaining a prominent position in international political system and international trade both. It’s the need of the time that government of Pakistan work honestly on the project of CPEC, solving all the pertinent issues regarding it, the way to success and progress.
Nepal intends to learn from Pakistan’s federal parliamentary system: Ambassador Sewa Ambassador of Nepal to Pakistan Sewa lamsal Adhikari said that Nepal would have federal governance structure soon for which guidance and support from Pakistan will be helpful. She expressed these views while meeting with Federal Secretary for National History and Literary Heritage (NHLH) Division, Engineer Aamir Hasan on Friday. She said Nepal aspires to learn from the experiences of Pakistan regarding federal parliamentary system. Sewa lamsal Adhikari said Pak ist an and Nepal can explore different avenues for enhancing collaboration in culture, education and literature. A draft of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Pakistan and Nepal was also
exchanged between Federal Secretary, Aamir Hasan and Sewa lamsal Adhikari according to which both the countries will initiate joint ventures in the field of Fine Arts and to hold exhibitions of antiquities and cultural heritage. The exchange of cultural delegations between the two countries and translation of valuable literature in each other’s language were also part
of the MoU. Sewa lamsal Adhikari congratulated Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Advisor to Prime Minister on NH&LH, Irfan Siddiqui and Federal Secretary, Aamir Hasan for arranging ‘Visak Mela’ and inviting Buddhist monks in Pakistan. She said Buddhist monks from Nepal will also visit Pakistan to attend ‘Visak Mela’ next
year and restoration of direct Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flights from Nepal will be helpful for this purpose. Speaking on the occasion, Engineer Aamir Hasan said Pakistan will heartily welcome the Buddhist monks from Nepal. He said the MoU will help enhance people to people contacts.—PBC
Independence Day of Philippines celebrated
New SAARC Secretary General visits Pakistan ISLAMABAD, MAY 26— Amjad Hussain Sial, Secretary General of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) paid an introductory visit to Pakistan f rom 22-24 May 2017. During the visit he called on the President of Pakistan, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs, and the Foreign Secretary. During the meeting at the Aiwan-e-Sadr, President Mamnoon Hussain reiterated that Pakistan attaches great importance to the intensification of interaction among member states for the realization of SAARC objectives as
enshrined in its Charter. He assured the Secretary General of Pakistan s strong support for regional cooperation and urged the Secretary General to accelerate the pace of SAARC process. During the visit, the SAARC Secretary General also called on the Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz. The Adviser reaffirmed Pakistan s commitment to regional cooperation under the umbrella of SAARC for promoting welfare of the people of South Asia and said that SAARC has a huge potential, which unfortunately remains untapped due to several
challenges. A mjad Hussain B. Sial, who assumed charge as Se c ret a r y Ge ne r al of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation
(SAARC) in March 2017, hails from Pakistan and is the 13th Secretary General of SAARC.—DNA
ISLA M A BA D — T he Ambassador of Philippines Daniel R Espiritu has said both countries enjoy cordial relations adding Philippines like many other Asian countries we also experienced 300 years of colonial life. He expressed these views while speaking on the occasion of 119th Anniversary of the
Declaration of Independence of the Republic of Philippines. Ambassador Espiritu further said, ever since independence Philippines has been actively involved in various regional and international forums. He said relations with Pakistan started soon after independence of Pakistan in 1947. The first consulates started working
in 1950, which in 1956 was upgraded to embassy. Since then relations between two countries have progressed steadily. Pakistan happens to be Philippines 37th trading partner of the Philippines out of 182 countries, he added. The ambassador said people to people relations between t he t wo cou nt r ie s have
also increased manifold. Currently there are about 1500 Philippines people living in Pakistan in different capacities. State Minister for CADD Tariq Fazal Chaudhry who was the chief guest on the occasion also spoke and expressed hope relations between Pakistan and Philippines will grow further in the coming days.—DNA
‘Women in Conflict: Voices for Equality’
Maldives—Malé City Male’ is the capital city of the Maldives and the seat of the executive, legislature and judicial branches of the government of the Maldives. Male’ is also the financial and commercial capital of the country. Accordingly major government offices, banks and businesses are based on Male’. Male’ city is one of the most densely populated cities of the world. Administratively neighbouring islands of Villingili and Hulhumale’ are considered as constituencies of Male’ City. Hulhumale’ is an artificially reclaimed island. (visitmaldives.com)
Women’s Regional Network (WRN) launched its latest report ‘Women in Conflict: Voi c e s fo r E q u a l i t y’ authored by Ms. Rukshanda Naz. The report presents a series of recommendations to all major stakeholders based on community
conversations with conflict affected women IDPs (internally displaced persons) from North and South Waziristan, presenting their concerns and perspectives on issues of militarization, security, peace and justice. Speaking at the occasion,
Ambassador H.E. Ms. Ingrid Johansson commended the efforts of WRN for allowing the voices of IDP women to be heard and form the basis of policy recommendations directly affecting their lives. In this context, she also presented Sweden’s feminist
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
foreign policy which aims to ensure that women and men have the same power to shape the society and their own lives. This approach is essential for bringing about sustainable change and development in society as a whole.
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THE DESTINATION
China to build world’s largest data center radio telescope GUIYANG— A data processing center for China’s giant space telescope -- the Aperture Spherical Radio Telescope (fast) -- is to be built near the telescope. China National Astronomical Obser vatories under the C h i ne se Aca de my of Sciences signed an agreement Wednesday with the government of Gui’an New District in southwest China’s Guizhou Province on the data center project. The building is estimated to cost 160 million yuan (23 million U.S. dollars) and will be a comprehensive laboratory for storing and processing data from the world’s largest radio telescope. The center will cover an area of four hectares. Zheng Xiaonian, deputy director of the observatories, said fast would produce
tremendous amounts of data. The data center would process them and put them into different categories to send to various institutions and companies for in-depth research. In the next 10 years, fast Data Center would have 100 Petabytes of data storage and
a computing power of 1,000 TFLOPS, he said. Dubbed as China’s Skyeye, fast, built in a valley surrounded by naturally-formed karst hills in Guizhou’s remote mountains, has a huge dish the size of 30 football pitches. It is made up of
4,000 individual metal panels. It enables astronomers to probe space for the faintest signs of life. The development and operation of fast, which was launched in September 2016, involved 41 Chinese institutions and companies.—DNA
FIRST EVER 0% INSTALLMENT PLAN AT DOLMEN MALL WITH FAYSAL BANK
Incumbent govt vows to promote forestation sector in Balochistan
The incumbent government is committed to promote forestation sector in order to make Balochistan self-sufficient in production of Timber and fire wood. A senior official of Provincial Forest Department told our correspondent in Quetta on Thursday, a project of forestation to enhance production of Juniper in the province is being executed at a cost of
more than 493 million rupees. Similarly, forest school is being established at Ziarat district at a cost of more than 176 million rupees. The official further said nurseries are being opened for enhancing production of Pine Nut, Walnut, Pistachio and Shina to earn maximum revenues for the progress and prosperity of the province.
Govt spending Rs5b for reconstruction of damaged infrastructure in FATA
These infrastructures were damaged during terrorist acts in tribal areas during the last few years. The federal government is spending five billion rupees on reconstruction and rehabilitation of damaged infrastructure in FATA. Sources of FATA Secretariat told Radio Pakistan Peshawar
cor respondent t hat t he amount will be spent on the repair of damaged schools, hospitals, clean drinking water supply schemes and levy’s check post. These infrastructures were damaged during terrorist acts in tribal areas during the last few years.
PTCL signs Fiber Leasing Agreement with Telenor Pakistan for 2nd Consecutive Year
Islamabad, 26th May 2017: Faysal Bank Limited (FBL), one of the leading banks in Pakistan, together with Dolmen Group yet again steps forward to offer the first ever 0% installment plan for Faysal Bank Credit Cards customers. Faysal Bank is proud to have signed a business alliance with Dolmen Mall. With this collaboration, FBL Credit Card customers can convert all purchase transactions made at Dolmen Mall into 0% installment plans for 3 months. Moreover every transaction will qualify for additional gifts through luck draws. On this occasion, Mr. Syed If tik har Ul Haq – Head Consumer Finance (FBL) said. “This business alliance between two leading brands FBL & Dolmen Mall is a testimony of our commitment to
our customers. We at FBL, continue to strive to build loyalty by offering innovative products and benefits to our valued customers.” Mr. Fahad Ullah Khan – Head of Un-Secured Business (FBL) further added “We are currently market leaders with more than 200 partners with over 700 outlets. This agreement will further strengthen our value proposition and provide our customers with the convenience and ease they deserve while shopping during this festive season.” Further, expressing his views about this alliance, Mr. Faisal Nadeem, COO Dolmen Real Estate Management Pakistan said, “We strive to give our customers the best of everything and this is another step in ensuring an enhanced shopping experience at our malls.”
A pioneer of the mall industry in Pakistan, Dolmen Group is known for making its mark when it comes to changing the real estate landscape of the country. Having built a legacy of innovation and trust, Dolmen Group has brought the concept of shopping malls to the countr y, introducing Pakistan to international standard malls, unparalleled amenities, family indoor entertainment centers and food courts. Faysal Bank believes that this alliance will play a pivotal role in cultivating a very strong mutually beneficial business relationship between Faysal Bank and Dolmen Group in the days to come. About Faysal Bank Limited: Faysal Bank Limited was incorporated in Pakistan on October 3rd, 1994 as a public
Limited company under the Companies Ordinance, 1984. The Bank’s shares are listed on Pakistan Stock Exchange. Faysal Bank is engaged in Commercial, Retail, Corporate and Islamic banking activities. The Pakistan Credit Rating Agency Limited (PACRA) and JCR-VIS Credit Rating Company Limited have determined the Bank’s long term rating as ‘AA’ and short term rating as ‘A1+’. Faysal Bank’s footprint now spreads over more than 100 cities with over 350 branches. With total assets in excess of PKR 444.5 billion, placing it amongst the significant players in Pakistan’s banking industry. Faysal Bank’s ambition is to provide par excellence service to its customers while meeting their financial needs.
Awards will be given to Misbah, Younis, Afridi in presence of all players: ShahryarMarble and Granite sector of Pakistan PCB Chief Shahryar Khan on Thursday delayed the ceremony pertaining to giving awards to Misbah-ul-Haq, Younis K han and Shahid Afridi who recently took retirement from all cricket format. Speaking at PCB’s annual function, Khan said that the awards would be given in the presence of all the cricketers. “We would talk with Misbah and Younis and would offer them our proposals which
hopefully they would accept,” he said. He said replacement of Misbah would be named before the test series against Sri Lanka in September. Meanwhile, Pakistan Super League (PSL) chairman Najam Seth said that the authorities have clarified Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCC) to play series or to pay compensation money. Najam Sethi also announced to approach tribunal if India refuse to organize series.
Islamabad: May 26, 2017: Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) and Telenor Pakistan (TP) for the second consecutive year have entered into a fiber back-haul and infrastructure sharing agreement, under which PTCL will deliver 950+ kilometers of fiber footprint to Telenor Pakistan, which will enable delivery of quality telecommunication services for the Pakistani market. The agreement entails to fiber leasing, which shall enable Telenor to utilize PTCL’s extensive nationwide fiber optic footprint and its expertise in deploying, operating and maintaining a fiber optic network. Dr. Daniel Ritz, President & CEO, PTCL and Irfan Wahab Khan CEO of Telenor Pakistan signed the agreement in a ceremony held at PTCL Headquarters. It is pertinent to mention here that earlier in 2016, PTCL successfully signed and delivered 900+ kms of fiber infrastructure to Telenor Pakistan. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Daniel Ritz, President & CEO PTCL said, “We are delighted to sign yet another partnership with Telenor Pakistan, in fact second year in succession for provision of PTCL’s fiber optic
network. Having served as the communication backbone of the country since inception, our partnership with Telenor Pakistan will help them to expand their 3G and 4G network further in order to provide high quality voice and data services. PTCL will continue to play its major role in fiber and other telecom infrastructure developments, contributing to the overall growth of the country.” Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Irfan Wahab Khan, CEO Telenor Pakistan said, “Our need for a more robust infrastructure will be met with this partnership with PTCL. This project is in line with our fiber needs for traffic expansions with regards to 3G and 4G
network advancement and will also help us with our mission of empowering societies and making mobile broadband services available to a larger customer base. We’re pleased to have entered into another fiber leasing agreement with PTCL and believe that the collaboration for second consecutive year will prove to be mutually beneficial for both business partners, and even more so for our valued customers.” The project is specifically aimed at en hancing and extending Telenor Pakistan footprint in order to offer high quality voice and data services to their rapidly expanding 3G/4G subscriber base across the country. The ceremony was attended
by senior management from both companies including Sikandar Naqi, Chief Business Development Officer PTCL, Taimur Qadar Khattak, Acting Chief Financial Officer PTCL, Kamal Ahmed, Chief Digital Ser v ices Of f icer PTCL , K hu r r a m Ash fa q, Ch ief Technology Officer TP and Bilal Waqar, Head of Sourcing & Supply Chain TP. The senior management from the two companies emphasized the need for deployment of cost-effective solutions which will enable delivery of quality telecommunication services for the Pakistani market. This partnership will go a long way in paving a bright future for both the stakeholders’ involved.
Pakistan participates in UN Bazaar for Syrian refugees
Islamabad City Mobile App developed by MOIT In the spirit of democratic governance, revolut iona r y pol ice s a nd visionar y approach, present gover nment of Pakistan gives very high priority to the Information a n d C o m m u n i c a t io n s Technology (ICT) sector particularly e-Governance for good governance and better public service delivery to citizens of Pakistan.
The Minister appreciated the efforts of MoIT, NITB technical team and CDA officials for taking such initiative to empower the citizens of Islamabad with indigenously developed mobile application that not only can help them to explore city life but also equip each citizen with instant access to various government departments, utilities, law enforcement
agencies and most critical emergency contact numbers based on user’s location. With significant improvements in mobile broadband coverage in the country in last 4 years, it is the right time to proliferate citizen facing mobile applications across all sectors. The Minister is also of the view that such initiatives will lay down a foundation
and a step towards establishing SMART CITIES for digital Pakistan which is in line with MoIT’s vision. The categories of information in Islamabad City App include Metro Bus Stations, E m e r ge n c y Nu mb e r s , complaint handling, crime reporting, hospitals, pharmacy, restaurants, fuel station information and much more.
NEW YORK—A range of Pakistani products, both food and merchandise, were on “display and for sale” at the annual United Nations International Bazaar held at the rain-swept UN Headquarters in New York. Despite wet a nd d rea r y weather, a number of people visited the bazaar, which was organized by the UN Women’s Guild (UNWG) in collaboration with permanent missions accredited to the United Nations. The event featured cuisines from around the world as well as fine arts and handicrafts. Marijcke Thomson, wife of the
president of the UN General Assembly, was among those who visited the bazaar. Pakistan had two stalls, one for food and other, the main one, sold a variety of items, including pashmina shawls, leather document cases and velvet wallets but the product that caught the imagination of visitors were the salt lamps. These were contributed by the Himalayan Salt Boutique from Pakistan, which has the world’s second largest salt mines. The salt lamps, which have proven health benefits apart from their aesthetic beauty, were much in demand and their various properties were displayed in
a large and colourful standee that embellished the Pakistan stall along with one that showed the famous tourist sites of the country. Thomson, the General Assembly president’s wife, also came to the Pakistan stall and went round it. Visitors to the UN Bazaar appeared impressed with the Pakistan stall, saying it was among the most well and imaginatively stocked. The food stall did brisk business, especially during lunch hour at the UN. People enjoyed the biryani, chicken tikkas and samosas among other Pakistani delicacies that
were on sale. “We were heartened and humbled that people from all over the world, which is what the UN is, came to our stalls to appreciate our products and cuisine,” Pakistan UN Ambassador said. “We were able to showcase Pakistan’s products and great cuisine”. The money raised at the bazaar will be donated to UNHCR for the welfare of Syrian refugees and to United Nations Women’s Guild administered projects to help children and women at different countries.—DNA