The Destination Issue 14 Vol 1

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Sha’aban-ul-Moazzam 26 1468 AH.

PA K I S T A N N E E D S STRONG EC A ND A P P R O P R I AT E APPOINTMENT PROCEDURE OF ITS MEMBER S, BA R R ISTER M A NS O OR SA RWA R KHAN Policies of PM Nawaz, and apathy of his PMLN party his leadership has put PAKISTAN under a economic siege due to his RAMPANT loans amounting to 22 billion dollars from IMF and world bank which is a death knell for the future of this country and its atomic defence.

PM has put PAKISTAN in the orbit of countries facing security hazards from within and without; by toeing the narrative of India against our beloved army which is the only institutions that is a sole guarantor of our sovergnity.

THE SUPREME COURT must take into account that the longer the PM stay in the office The more complicated the future of this country becomes.

The political reform committee should give autonomous powers including the financial autonomy to election of Pakistan: without a strong EC and appropriate appointment procedure of its members Pakistan’s political ship is headed for turbulent waters.

MALIK CRITICIZES TRUMP OV ER NOT MENTIONI NG PA K I S T A N ’ S S A C R I F I C E S AG A I N S T TERRORISM ISLAMABAD, 22 MAY (DNA) - Former interior minister Rehman Malik has criticized United States President Donald Tr ump over not mentioning Pakistan’s sacrifices in the war against terror during his speech in the US-Arab-Islamic Summit.

Expressing his reservations while speaking with media, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) leader Malik said, “Pakistan has rendered more sacrifices in the war against terrorism than any country in the world.”

He added that, “Undermining Pakistan in front of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was saddening.” “Trump has hurt the feelings of Pakistanis by not mentioning the sacrifices of Pakistan in the war against terrorism,” the PPP leader said.

US LAUDS PAKISTAN’S SACR IFICES IN WAR AGAINST TERRORISM The United States has lauded the sacr if ices made by Pakistan in war against terrorism. The appreciation came during a meeting of Pakistan ambassador to the United States Aizaz Chaudhary with Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Congressman Al Green & Congressman Bato O’Rourke in Houston.

Addressing a joint meeting of Congressional Group, A mba s s a dor C h aud h r y appr ise d t he Cong re ss Representatives of the role Pakistan has been playing as a frontline state in the war against terrorism and the staggering cost it has paid in terms of loss of precious lives.

Aizaz Chaudhry informed the representatives of the successes of Pakistan’s security forces in defeating the forces of extremism and intolerance in FATA and tribal areas.

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Pakistan would not permit use of its territory to conduct attacks against Afghanistan: COAS RAWALPINDI - Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Monday reaffirmed that Pakistan would not permit its territory to be used to plan or conduct attacks against Afghanistan.

He expressed these views du r ing a meeting with A me r ica n A mba ssa dor David Hale at General Headquar ters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi.

Ambassador Hale noted President Donald Trump’s call during his speech at the Arab-Islamic-American Summit for a vision of peace, security, and prosperity, and unity in conquering extremism and terrorism.

Ambassador Hale affirmed Pakistan’s role and great sacrifices in this effort.

to ensure that militants do not use Pakistan’s soil to conduct attacks against any country.

The A mbassador and

General Bajwa reiterated their nations’ commitment to a secure, stable, and prosperous Afghanistan.

Pakistan rendered huge sacrifices in global fight against terrorism: PM

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif says Pakistan had a deep commitment to the unity of Muslim Ummah and to the promotion of interfaith harmony and dialogue. He sated this during his interaction with Saudi King Salman Bin Abdulaziz, US President Donald J. Trump and other leaders from the Arab and Islamic countries in Riyadh.

The prime minister said that being the frontline state, Pakistan had rendered

remarkable sacrifices in the global fight against terrorism. He said the rising tide of terrorism and extremism is the most daunting challenge that the world confronts today.

He said the turnaround in Pakistan both on the security and economic fronts, with the last year witnessing the lowest number of terrorist attacks in a decade, could bring about the desired results in countries afflicted

with the scourge of terrorism. The prime minister appreciated the leadership of President Trump to make this Summit as his first overseas engagement.

The Prime Minister also exchanged views with a number of other leaders including the Emir of Qatar, King of Bahrain, Presidents of Tajikistan and Azerbaijan and Prime Minister of Malaysia.

US lauds Pakistan’s sacrifices in war against terrorism

The United States has lauded the sacrifices made by Pakistan in war against terrorism.

The appreciation came during a meeting of Pakistan ambassador to the United St ates Aizaz Chaud har y

with Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Congressman Al Green & Congressman Bato O’Rourke in Houston.

Addressing a joint meeting of Congressional Group, Ambassador Chaudh r y apprised the Congress Representatives of the role Pakistan has been playing as a frontline state in the war against terrorism and the staggering cost it has paid in terms of loss of precious lives.

Aizaz Chaudhry informed the representatives of the successes of Pakistan’s security forces in defeating the forces of extremism and intolerance in FATA and tribal areas.

Speaking on the occasion, Congressman Bato O’Rourke thanked Pakistan government and its people for their enormous sacrifices in the fight against terrorism.

C o n g r e s s wo m a n S h e i l a Jackson Lee expressed her desire to work with the Ambassador Chaudhry and the Pakistani American community to coordinate visit of Congressional Delegation to Pakistan.

Congressman Al Green reassured his strong commitment to strengthen Pak-US bilateral relations by supporting the Pakistani caucus in the House of Representatives.

ISLAMABAD, MAY 22, (DNA) – Joint Investigation Team (JIT) head Wajid Zia has submitted first report pertaining to Panama case probe in Supreme Court on Monday.

The hearing is being conducted by a three-member bench headed by Justice Ejaz Afzal. The bench is reviewing the interim report which comprises of two parts.

Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan is also present in the courtroom. While responding to a journalist’s question outside the SC that whether PTI will demand the court to open the report, he replied that decision will be taken after the report is presented in the court.

However; PTI has demanded to conduct the hearing of the case in open court for transparent probe.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Muslim Leag ue-Nawaz (PM L -N ) leader Daniyal Aziz lambasted at Imran Khan and said that despite the passage of three

weeks, he has not sumbitted his money trail. He said that the PTI chief is a proclaimed offender therefore he should be behind bars but he is roaming around in the streets fearlessly.

Two weeks back, a sixmember J IT const it uted by the Supreme Court initiated probe into Panama Papers case at the Federal Judicial Academy. The JIT

includes officials from InterServices Intelligence (ISI), Military Intelligence (MI), State Bank (SB), Securities & Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and National Accountability Bureau (NAB) while director-general level FIA officer will head the team.

JIT will have jurisdiction to travel abroad for investigation.

Dead line will not be extended beyond 60 days, Supreme Court

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Riyadh summit’s resolve to jointly combat terrorism is good step: PM

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has expressed confidence that “Arab-Islamic-American” summit will go a long way in eradicating terrorism from the globe.

Talking to newsmen in Madina Munawara on Monday, he said Riyadh Summit’s resolve to

Ambassador Hale thanked General Bajwa for his public commitment on May 18 that Pakistan is taking measures

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jointly combat terrorism is a good step. He said Muslim world should also join hands to eliminate militancy from their respective territories.

The Prime Minister urged Afghanistan to take effective steps to counter terrorism.

He said his interaction with

US President Donald Trump remained positive. He said Pakistan has rendered great sacrifices in the war against terrorism and it has suffered a loss of over one hundred and twenty billion dollars, besides losing twenty-four thousand lives in this fight.

Osama bin Laden is still alive, claims Edward Snowden

United States’ National Secur it y Agency ( NSA) w h i s t l e bl owe r E d w a r d Snowden while rejecting Central Intelligence Agency’s (CIA) claims of killing Osama bin Laden has said that he is still alive and well.

Snowden has claimed that he has documents pertaining to Osama bin Laden who is living in Bahamas along with his family.

“I have documents showing that Bin Laden is still on the CIA’s payroll. He is still receiving more than $100,000 a month, which are being

transferred through some front businesses and organizations, directly to his Nassau bank account. I am not certain where he is now, but in 2013 he was living quietly in his villa with five of his wives and many children,” reported Moscow Tribune.

“Osama Bin Laden was one of the CIA’s most efficient operatives for a long time.

What kind of message would it send their other operatives if they were to let the SEALs kill him? They organized his fake death and he simply abandoned his cover. Since

everyone believes he is dead, nobody’s looking for him, so it was pretty easy to disappear. Without the beard and the military jacket, nobody recognizes him.”

The former U.S. intelligence contractor was given asylum in Russia after leaking classified information about U.S. spy operations. His Russian lawyer stated at the beginning of the this year that Snowden has been allowed to remain in Russia for another three years and will next year qualify to apply for Russian citizenship.

2 Tuesday - May 23, 2017

THE DESTINATION

NATIONAL

Role of World Organization for Animal Health is vital for rural poverty alleviation

PHOTO OF THE DAY

Rama Lake is a lake near Astore in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is on the top of the beautiful Astore Valley, with a light cover of oak trees and other greenery.

Exclusive photo by The Destination team

YOUNG GRADUATES WORKING AS PARLIAMENTARY RESEARCH ASSOCIATES

For the first time in the h i s t o r y of Pa k i s t a n , young graduates in Public Administration, Social Sciences, Human Resource Development, Computer sciences and Business Administration are given an option to ser ve as research associates with their respective members of national, provincial or regional legislative assemblies under Prime Minister’s Youth Training Scheme, one of the six schemes of Prime Minister’s Youth

Programme.

Aimed at political inclusion of youth, these interns were placed to help their respective members of parliament in carrying out their legislative business more effectively on the basis of well-researched in put on various socio-economic issues. In order to prepare them for the said role, they were imparted 02 days compulsory training at Pakistan institute of Parliamentary Services (PIPS), Islamabad.

Honouring their personal

choice to work with the parliamentarians, initially 871 interns were placed with their respective members of legislative assemblies. This includes National Assembly: 369, KPK Assembly: 124, Punjab Assembly: 345, and GB Assembly: 33.

However, just 49% of them, 423 interns, are currently working on their respective assignments with the parliamentarians. This includes National Assembly: 213, KPK Assembly: 71, Punjab Assembly: 108, and GB

Assembly: 31. Rest of the 448 interns have either not joined or resigned from their internships in order to avail some other suitable employment opportunities relevant to their qualifications.

Chairperson Prime Minister’s Youth Program, Ms. Leila Khan, has termed it a beginning of a new parliamentary culture in the country, in which youth is granted a unique opportunity to become active part of the political process.

Festivals can connect the diaspora to their roots: Ibne Abbas

LONDON, 22 MAY (DNA) - Syed Ibne Abbas, Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK has said that literary and cultural activities can connect diaspora, especially the youth, to their roots and heritage as well as forge mutual understanding and tolerance among different communities He expressed these views in his opening remarks at the Karachi Literature Festival (KLF), said a press release issued here on Monday. He commended Ameena Saiyid and Dr Asif Farrukhi, the founders of the KLF for

bringing the festival to London.

He also thanked Belinda Lewis, Br it ish Hig h Commissioner to Karachi, for attending the event and supporting the initiative. Both the K LF founders expressed their gratitude to the Pakistan H ig h C o m m i s sio n i n London for its support in bringing the KLF to London.

K LF was pa r t of t he Southbank Centre’s annual Alchemy festival. The event celebrated contemporary Pakistan, its rich history

and culture in the context of the 70th anniversary of the country’s foundation.

This was a dynamic international festival that took place outside Pakistan for the first time. The full day festival featured talks and debates from some of the foremost writers, thinkers and poets from Pakistan and the UK. Earlier, the KLF delegates toget her w it h lea d i ng Pakistani fashion designers and models, who were in London to participate in Pakistan Fashion Week being jointly organized by the High Commission and

While Rector NUML Major General Zia Ud Din Najam (Retd), Director General NUML Brig Riaz Ahmed Gondal, Registrar, heads of departments and students were present on the occasion.

Mr. Naseer Memon, from Strengthening Participatory Organization (SPO) delivered his speech on a finite resource facing infinite challenges. He revealed that total water on earth = 1.4 billion cubic Km, 97.5% of this quantity is in oceans only 2.5% is fresh water. He said, according to a World Bank Report 40-60%

of water used by utilities is lost to leakage, theft and poor accounting, almost half of the water diverted for irrigation is lost to seepage and evaporation. He remarked that global water demand for the manufacturing industry is estimated to increase by 400 per cent from 2000 to 2050. Mr. Naseer Memon said, Pakistan has a population of approx. 180 million, more than half of the population rely on agriculture, 1/3rd of them are below the poverty line, 1/4th of them do not have access to safe drinking water and more than 76

Br a i n st or m i ng se s sion at P Pakistan Institute of Development Economics(PIDE) hosted the 2nd meeting of Pakistan Policy Intuition Network ( PI N N ) i n c ol la b or a tion with Public Policy Depar t ment of R iphah University and SATHA on

19th May,2017. PPIN is an alliance of all policy related educational and other institutes of Islamabad. Total of 10 institutes joined the meeting today including SATHA, SDPI, SDCP, PR I M E , NUST, NDUand others. It was decided in the meeting that all the institutes will

work in collaboration to formulate the policies regarding different issues of Pakistan and will forward the recommendations at appropriate level. Presently all ten stakeholders have decided to make policy for boosting the export of marble and gemstone along-with the

poverty alleviation, particularly in developing countries like Pakistan.

He said that in Pakistan, socio economic development hinges upon livestock development as over 8 million families derive 35% of their income from this sector. Addressing the challenge of livestock diseases remains a priority area for the government. He commended OIE’s technical support for developing and implementing disease control strategies and policies in Pakistan. Minister informed the delegates that Pakistan was successfully freed from rinderpest disease in 2007 and bird flu in 2008.

It has also initiated a national program to eliminate Foot and Mouth Disease in the country.

Minister hoped that OIE

General Assembly will develop guidelines for the member states to organize their animal husbandry and treatment practices on more scientific lines to better safeguard the health of the livestock as well as of the human beings.

The Minister termed OIE a valuable forum to deliberate new ideas and solutions for addressing the existing problems and bridging the gaps for qualitative development of

livestock sector, and for discussing and creating awareness for the challenges ahead.

The World Assembly of OIE Delegates establishes the policies of OIE, examines new inter-governmental standards covering animal and zoonotic disease control methods; safety of international trade in animal and animal products as well as animal welfare.

PTCL expands its reach to Europe through Sparkle Sicily Hub PTCL, the largest ICT services provider of the country has announced expanding its reach to Europe through Sparkle, its long term partner in the region, leveraging Sparkle’s open ecosystem and rich marketplace at Sicily Hub in Palermo.

Sparkle is the international service arm of TIM Group and ranks among the top 10 global operators.

Through the Sicily Hub,

PTCL will be able to peer with the world’s major content, media and CDN service providers already active in the Sicily Hub. This hub remains the closest European open ecosystem to the MENA Region. It provides improved latency and overall network efficiency to operators seeking to expand their presence in Europe. The increased quality will allow PTCL to effectively deliver on-demand as

well as bandwidth-intensive content and provide its users with enhanced data experience.

With its ever-g rowing presence of multi-breed global players, the Sicily Hub continues to expand by attracting new content and interconnections, configuring itself as a rich marketplace where service providers, content and media players, and system integrators have an

opportunity to grow their business.

PTCL’s presence in the Sicily Hub will also generate additional efficiencies for PTCL in terms of improved control over routing and IP traffic flows. In addition, Palermo also presents a strategic presence for PTCL as it provides additional access to its SMW4 and IMEWE cable systems.

Two-day Pakistan fashion week concludes in London

Riwayat, were hosted at a dinner-reception at the High Commission.

Speaking on the occasion, the High Commissioner lauded their work and efforts in presenting the true image of Pakistan abroad. He also shared with them the High Commission’s plans to celebrate the 70th Independence Anniversary of Pakistan throughout the year 2017.

The High Commission is supporting several social and cultural events this year as part of the celebrations of 70th Independence Anniversary of Pakistan.

Seminar on Water Crises held at NUML

ISLAMABAD, May 22: Office of Research, Innovation a n d C o m m e r c i a l i z a t io n (ORIC) of National University of Mode r n La ng u age s (NUML) organized a seminar on “Water Crises in Pakistan” here on Monday. Naseer Memon from Strengthening Participatory Organization (SPO), Ms. Seemi Kamal Senior Group Headg rant operation Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF), Muhammad Nadeem Senior Manager PPAF and renowned lawyer Ahmar Bilal Soofi were the speakers of the seminar.

PARIS - Pakistan greatly values its partnership with World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) for its livestock development, disease control and overall poverty alleviation.

T his was st ated by M r.

Sikandar Hayat Khan Bosan, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research during his speech delivered at the 85th General Session of OIE in Paris, today.

The event was attended by delegates from 180 countries besides observers from regional and international organizations.

While addressing the Plenary Session, the Minister said that the role of World Organization for Animal Health is vital for rural socioeconomic development, food security and

million have no sanitation. He said, at present groundwater use for agriculture accounts for more than 60 percent of the water at the farm gate in Punjab. He said, conservation and better management of water resources should be the priority.Ms Seemi Kamal and Muhammad Nadeem educate the audiences about the recommendation to avert possible water shortage in future and highlighted the importance of preservation of water.

Ahmer Bilal Soofi in his address discuss the legal aspects of the Water Treaty and suggested the government to present water crisis case in a best way with India to resolve the issue. To a question, he said that preservation of single drop of water is the responsibility of the every citizen. At the end Rector NUML said that it is the most important issue but it is being neglected by the stakeholders. He appreciated ORIC for organizing such a seminar on a very important topic.

Brainstorming session at PIDE CPEC zone. The members also highlighted the importance of CPEC and policies required for better utilization of resources to create improved economic zones to bring the fruits for the economy of Pakistan.

L ON D ON , 2 2 M AY (DNA) - The High Commission for Pakistan in collaboration with Riwayat organized a twoday Pakistan Fashion Week 2017 at prestigious Lancaster Palace in London.

The ceremony featured 36 Pakistan’s leading and

emerging designers. Dazzling models, wh ile elega ntly donning outfits, walked on the ramp and stunned the spectators.

The show was the part of a series of events planned by the High Commission to celebrate the 70th independence

a n n iversa r y of Pa k ist a n throughout 2017. It aimed to introduce Pakistani culture to the western audience–a much needed lens and direct access for London and the UK consumers.

Creative Director and Co-founder, Adnan Ansari

said, “It is an honour to be part of the official events celebrating Pakistan’s 70th Anniversary of Independence, and to hold the fashion shows at the exclusive venue of L a nca st e r Hou se wh ich is befitting this landmark celebration.

Pak-Belarus collaboration in defence production Federal Minister for Defence Production Rana Tanveer Hussain has stressed the need to enhance collaboration in the field of defence production / procurement between Pakistan and Belarus. He expressed these views during a meeting with Defence Minister of

Belarus Lieutenant General Andrei Alekseyevich on the sidelines of MILEX-2017, 8th International Exhibition of A r m s a nd M il it a r y Equipment in Belarus.

The two sides discussed matters of mutual interest, particularly cooperation in defence production. They

also expressed interest to explore the areas of defence cooperation.Federal Minister said, “The defence industries of both the countries have significant capacities and capabilities and closer mutual collaboration between the two countries would help them realize the full potential

in an optimal manner.”

Both Ministers desired that Pakistan and Belarus cooperation in defence would provide a healthy framework for both countries. There exists a potential for Pakistan and Belarus to collaborate in the fields of defence, he added.

Chief Executive Murree Brewery Group Mr. Isphayar Bhandara Presenting Shield to H.E Mr. Thamos Drew High Commissioner of Great Britain

THE DESTINATION

Tuesday - May 23, 2017

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NATIONAL / INTERNATIONAL Muhammad Asif Noor

This April, President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev, shared his thoughts about the strategy to unwind the energies The writer is Director, of the population of the country in one of the opinion policy Institute of Peace and pieces for people of Kazakhstan. President laid emphasis on Diplomatic Studies. enhancing the potential of the population which is considered to be the critical mass of any nation for promoting strength in the comity of nations. President has identified and provided the guidelines for the development of the society and suggested ways for improvement in the understanding of the citizens of the country about the future and national identity. He explained at length in his write up about the role of acquiring education, knowledge and understanding including being pragmatic about the future in achieving the ambitions for making the country as one of the leading one in the region. The objectives that were set in the article provides powerful impetus for improving the strength of the Kazakhstan’s potential and promote the role of human development with special emphasis on human capital, safeguarding the unity, diversity and national identity of the country along with humanizing the global competitiveness of Kazakhstan to manifold.

The opinion piece reflects President of Kazakhstan N.Nazarbayev views of how to make Kazakhstan’s society advance its steps into the future. The future appears volatile and difficult due to the height of several technological processes and the growing competitiveness of the economies of the world. Dynamics of world politics is changing also and provides Kazakhstan a unique opportunity to reach an entirely new level of development through adopting new outlook for the future that includes the impulsive role and participation of the citizens of the country too. It is important to note also that the contemporary epoch of international relations is characterized by paradoxical events in the relations of states. The global world with its accelerating dynamics requires a special type of nation consciousness, which is based on people’s spirituality and traditions based on the understanding of national identity as well. In these conditions the issues of preserving the society’s spiritual and value orientations remains a priority.

President Nazarbayev writes with consciousness in the article about the providing the guidelines for the third technological modernization process of Kazakhstan in order to ensure of presence of the country in the top thirty countries of the world. But the large scale technological modernization must be accompanied with the faster and transformation of the public conscious also. President notes that to date a lot of painstaking working has been done for making and establishing a stable Kazakhstan state. Now it is the time to start a larger and more fundamental work that will change the course of the nation is to uplift the awareness of the population. Preservation of own culture and own national code is the first condition for the modernization in Kazakhstan. Without this modernization will turn into an empty sound.

It should not be arrogant to look at historical experience and traditions. On the contrary it is

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

Kazakhstan’s Future: Role of Citizens necessary to make the best traditions an important condition for the success of modernization.

Nazarbayev emphasizes several directions of consciousness.

He laid the emphasis on adaptation of new realities and conditions by taking the best of the emerging era provides. Each citizen of the country must work in a new dimension and enhance the potential to offer something beneficial to region and international markets in terms of material products along with the intellect and knowledge as well. President wrote that to be able to do this, every citizen of the country must equip himself with computer literacy, knowledge of foreign languages and cultural openness. Therefore, the program “Digital Kazakhstan” is a trilingual program, and the program of cultural and confessional consent are part of the Kazakhstan ’s preparation for new beginning in the 21st century as the President puts it in the opinion piece.

In his article Nazarbayev emphasizes that modernization is impossible without changing habits and stereotypes, while

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

France supporting Green Energy Development in Pakistan M r s. Ma r t i ne Dor a nce, Ambassador of France along with H.E. Jean-François CAUTA I N, A mbassador of European Union visited the construction site of the national Hydropower Training Institute (HPTI) in Mangla and participated to the corner stone ceremony hosted by WAPDA’s member Water, Mr. Nasir Hanif.

France and EU th rough t he French Agency for Development (AFD) have provided the Government of Pakistan with a 4 million euros funding. The grant of 2.5 million Euros was delegated to the AFD by the European Union as part of the Asia Investment Facility.

In addition to the EU grant, t he French Agency for Development has provided additional funding of 1.5 million Euros for the successful and timely completion of the project.

Upon its completion by end of 2018, the hydropower training center will contribute to the capacity-building of public and private hydropower operators like WADPA, provincial operators and independent power producers. It will ensure a sound and skilled development of hydropower projects by strengthening the capacities of technicians and engineers in charge of designing and operating hydropower

plants.

For the last ten years, France through the French Agency for Development has been promoting green energies in Pakistan and has allocated more than 300 million euros to investments in hydroelectricity.

About 80% of this amount is financing projects implemented by WAPDA to develop the tremendous Pakistani potential in hydroelectricity.

France is committed to support the Government’s strategy to solve the energy crisis and to fight climate change through investments in lowcarbon- emission energy generation in line with COP21 Paris agreement approved by the Parliament of Pakistan.

A week back, on May 14 th 2017, H.E. Mrs. Martine DOR ANCE, Ambassador

of France visited the construction site of the Jaggran II hydropower plant in AJK and participated to the corner stone ceremony hosted

by H.E. Mr. Raja Muhammad Farooq Haider Khan, Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

France, through the French Agency for Development (AFD), has also provided the Government of Pakistan with a 68 million euros soft loan for the construction of the 48MW hydropower plant located about 90 km from Muzaffarabad city towards North-East.

The project is being built in the upper extent of Jaggran Nullah, a right bank tributary of the Neelum River. It is located downstream of the existing 30.4 MW Jaggran I hydropower project, funded

earlier with French support, and being operated since 2000 by the Power Development Organisation (PDO).

Jaggran II Hydroelectric Power Project will operate as a run-of- the-river scheme and will not entail any major environmental or social constraints. It will be connected to the national grid, and will help alleviate the energy crisis in Pakistan. Upon its commissioning in 2020, it will provide a reliable source of renewable energy and a permanent supply of electricity for the 1.2 million people living in the Muzaffarabad area, with strong social and economic positive impacts.

Besides the soft loan provided to the Government of Pakistan, AFD is also providing a grant for capacity-building of PDO.

Thousands celebrate as Real Madrid wins La Liga MADRID, MAY 22, (DNA) - Thousands of Real Madrid fans, many decked in the famous white team jersey, converged in the centre of the Spanish capital to celebrate the club’s 33rd league title after a 2-0 win over Malaga on Sunday.

Elated fans cheered and lit flares when the squad arrived on an open-top bus bearing the word “Campeones” (champions) on the side at the club’s traditional celebration spot, the Plaza de Cibeles, as confetti rained down.

Team captain Sergio Ramos and other players decked in white shirts with the number 33 on the back filmed the crowd with mobile phones from the top of the bus, which was escorted by police on horseback.

Ramos took to a walkway over the plaza’s fountain and draped the statue of the goddess Cybele with the club flag just before 3:00 am (0100 GMT) as Queen’s anthem “We Are the Champions” blared out from loudspeakers.

Real Madrid left-back Marcelo then tied a team scarf around the st at ue as the crowd cheered. “ We h a v e t o w i n t h e Champions League now. We are counting on all of your support. Let’s Go! Thank you very much,” Portuguese striker Cristiano Ronaldo said atop the walkway before singing along with the crowd.

Ronaldo and French striker Karim Benzema scored the two goals which gave Real their win over Malaga and their first Spanish league title since 2012.

The club will pursue a third UEFA Champions League

victory in four seasons in the final against Juventus, who on Sunday secured third successive Serie A and Coppa Italia double, in Cardiff on June 3.

“This is great and on June 3 against Juventus it will be even better,” said 37-year-old Real supporter Emilio Guillen as he celebrated with friends at Plaza de Cibeles.

If Real win the Champions League, it would be the club’s first La Liga and European champions cup double in nearly six decades.

Many fans heaped praise on Real coach Zinedine Zidane, the former French international who took over the club

for his first head coaching job less than two years ago.

“Hiring Zidane was the best decision Real has made in a long time,” said Alfredo Cordero, 36, who had a club flag drapped over his back and carried a large plastic cup of sangria.

The team will be welcomed to Madrid city hall on Monday for a ceremony to celebrate their Spanish league win.

“They are players of a very high quality, so I don’t have to say more. I am a Real Madrid fan and I am thrilled,” said 31-year-old Real supporter Alvaro Morales.

singling out an important direction - pragmatism. At one time, the nation’s extravagance led to the disappearance of the Aral Sea, the transformation of thousands of hectares of natural land into zones of ecological disaster, the article says. Therefore Nazarbayev notes - the ability to live rationally, with an emphasis on achieving real goals - this is the pragmatism in behavior.

It is important to preserve national identity. National traditions and customs, language and music, literature and wedding ceremonies, the national spirit should always remain with the people, the President Nazarbayev emphasizes. But it is necessary to get rid of some archaic and superfluous habits and addictions in modern realities. For example, you need to leave the regional division of a single nation in the past. We are building a meritocratic society, where everyone should be assessed on personal contribution and on personal professional qualities.

President Nazarbayev talks about the openness of consciousness, which is expressed in at least three basic aspects. This is an understanding of what is happening in the big world around your country and what is happening in your part of the planet. And this readiness to change which brings a new technological way, it will change the huge layers of our life - work, life, rest, home, the ways of human communication.

In his article Nazarbayev presented a kind of action plan, an agenda for the coming years.

He lists six specific projects that can be deployed in the foreseeable future. First of all, it is necessary to begin work for a phased transition of the Kazakh language to the Latin alphabet. We prepared for this with caution throughout the years of Independence, he writes. The head of Kazakhstan spoke about the need to switch to Latin alphabet in December 2012 in his annual Address to the people of the country. Latin - the dominant graphics in the world, using it Kazakhstan will become closer and more understandable to the world. This will have a positive impact on Kazakhstan’s competitiveness will show that the country is focused on the broadest interaction with the international community. In a strategic perspective switching to Latin alphabet for Kazakhstan is the right step, which meets national interests.

For nations to be successful and dynamic in order to be developed not only economically but political aware, the nations remain changing, developing and transforming as a continuous process. This is also necessary for the both states and nation to survive and bids well. In order to have this capacity, the nation and state need to have meaningful capability to adapt to the new ideas and transform for the better is the main idea of the entire article of the President of Kazakhstan Nursultan Nazarbayev. It also explain well about the fact that modernization is an ongoing process and for a new breakthrough Kazakhstan has a chance as the current year seems a unique “year of Kazakhstan” with various important international events are happening in the country. Kazakhstan is also at the lime light for very good reasons. Hence through renewal and fresh ideas, the country is at the leading position to own a better future.

To endure and carry on, change is necessity and anyone who remains stagnant and redundant, will face the wrath of history and time.

Japanese Ambassador inaugurates two projects Faisalabad Takashi Kurai, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, on Monday inaugurated two social development projects in district Faisalabad which have been completed with the financial assistance extended by the Government of Japan.

The projects include the construction of new building of St. Teresa Girls High School and installation of five Water Filtration Plants in Faisalabad.

The Embassy of Japan, under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) Program, provided financial assistance for these projects.

The inauguration ceremonies were attended by NGOs representatives, members of local communities, school staff and students.

The St. Teresa Girls High School was const r ucted w it h t he f i na ncial sup por t of US$ 76,110 provided by the Government of Japan to the NGO named Concern Lane Alliance for Rural Areas (CLARA) - a

non-governmental organization actively working in the education sector. Currently, around 100 students study in the school.

The new building can accommodate 300 students to get education in the school every year. Before this project, the school was being run in a small rented building, not a suitable venue for education.

Due to the limited space in the old building it was difficult for the school to offer admissions to new students. After successful construction of the school, students have been shifted to new building and NGO is now able to accommodate more students to fulfill their dreams of better education facilities.

The installation of five water filtration plants in District Faisalabad has been completed with the financial assistance of US$ 85,717 provided by the Government of Japan to Al Khidmat Foundation - a nongovernmental organization actively engaged in the sectors of health, education and

emergency relief.

Before the installation of water filtration plants, lack of access to safe and clean drinking water was a major problem for local residents. Contaminated water was one of the major reasons for the spread of water borne diseases like diarrhea, cholera, hepatitis etc.

After successful installation of five water filtration plants, the project is now benefiting around 30,000 people, including women and children, from five different areas in District Faisalabad.

Takashi Kurai, in his speech at the inaugural ceremonies, congratulated both NGOs

for timely and successful completion of these projects.

Ambassador Kurai wished that the assistance of Japanese Government will contribute to the creation of effective and affordable conditions for education of girls as well as provision of more safe and clean drinking water for the communities.

He hoped that through all these assistance, living standards of Pakistani people will improve, and the friendly and very warm relationship between the people of Japan and Pakistan will be further strengthened.

Mountaineer Abdul Jabbar Bhatti on Sunday became fourth Pakistani to conquer the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest. Bhatti is a retired lieutenant colonel of Pakistan Army. He is an accomplished mountaineer and a past recipient of the President’s Pride of Performance award and the Tamgha-i-Basalat (Medal of Good Conduct) by the government.

In the past, he has successfully summitted Broad Peak (8,051 metres high) in 1985; Ga she rbr u m 2 (8,035m) in 1986 and Spantik Peak (7,027m) in 2012.

It took him one and half months to complete the expedition. Bhatti was financing the Rs5-million trip partially from his own pocket and partially with the help of a private donor.

Before this, Bhatti had successfully summitted Broad Peak (8,051 metres high) in 1985; Gasherbrum 2 (8,035m) in 1986 and Spantik Peak (7,027m) in 2012.

Mount Everest, which stands 8,848m (29,029 feet) high above sea level has not been climbed by many Pakistanis before.

Re n ow n e d m o u nt a i n e e r

Hassan Sadpara was the only Pakistani to have climbed six of the world’s tallest mountains including Mt Everest (8848m), K2 (8611m), Gasherbr um I (8080m), Gasherbrum II (8034m), Nanga Parbat (8126

m) and Broad Peak (8051m).

Other than him, Samina Baig, who climbed Mount Everest in 2013, and Nazir Sabir, who scaled the peak in 2000, lay claim to the honour of scaling Mt Everest.

Mount Everest scaled by Pakistani Lt. Col. (Retd) Abdul Jabbar Bhatti

Norwegian Parliament moved on grim rights’ situation in IOK

OSLO, 22 MAY (DNA) - An interpolation has been tabled in the Norwegian parliament urging the world community to play its active role in resolving the Kashmir dispute to avert a possible nuclear war in the South Asian region.

The interpolation was tabled by Knut Ariled Hareide, Chairman of Parliamentary Group on Kashmir and a member of parliament and the head of the Christian Democratic Party, the Kashmir Media Service (KMS) reported on Monday.

Knut Arild Hareide termed Kashmir a serious and unresolved conflict which makes the

area highly militarized and thus creating the risk of war between two nuclear powers of India and Pakistan. He said that unresolved Kashmir dispute posed a serious threat to international security.

K nut Arild Hareide raised several pertinent questions in his interpolation. He asked Norwegian Foreign Minister “W hat st rateg ies Foreig n Minister considers are suitable and what initiatives will the Foreign Minister take to bring Pakistan and India into a process that could accelerate a peaceful solution to the conflict?”

He suggested that the

international community must engage more actively to find a solution to the Kashmir issue.

Norway can – preferably in cooperation with the Europe Union, the United States and other countries – examine whether the UN or other international forums can take initiatives to reduce violence and conflict levels, strengthen human rights situation, improve and pave the way for a peace process in Kashmir, he maintained.

Earlier a debate was held in 2010 and again in September 2012 when the Nor wegian parliament raised the issue of existence of unidentified mass

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

graves in occupied Kashmir. In May 2013 interpolation entitled “Kashmir on the backdrop of withdrawal of foreign troops from Afghanistan in 2014” was submitted for a debate by the Chairman of the Norwegian parliamentary Kashmir Committee and Christian Democrat (KrF) Party leader Mr. Knut Arild Hareide.

Ali Shahnawaz Khan, Executive Di rector of the Kash mi r i Scandinavian Council, Norway and leader of the Christian Democratic Par t y, lauded Norwegian Government for Kashmir interpolation move in the parliament.

4 Tuesday - May 23, 2017

THE DESTINATION

Pakistan values its partnership with OIE: Bosan ISLA M A BA D, 22 M AY (DNA) - Minister for National Food Security Sikandar Hayat Bosan has said that Pakistan greatly values its partnership with World Organization for Animal Health for its livestock development, disease control and overall poverty alleviation.

He said while addressing the 85th General Session of OIE in Paris, a press release Monday said.

The event was attended by delegates from 180 countries besides observers from regional and international organizations.

The minister said the role of World Organization for Animal Health is vital for rural socioeconomic development, food security and poverty alleviation, particularly in developing countries like Pakistan.

He said in Pakistan, socio economic development hinges upon livestock development as over 8 million families derive 35% of their income from this sector. He said the challenge of livestock diseases remains a priority area for the government.

The minister commended the OIE’s technical support for

developing and implementing disease control strategies and policies in Pakistan. He informed the delegates that Pakistan was successfully freed from rinderpest disease in 2007 and bird flu in 2008.

It has also initiated a national programme to eliminate foot and mouth disease in the country, he added. He hoped that the OIE General Assembly will develop guidelines for the member states to organize their animal husbandry and treatment practices on more scientific lines to better safeguard the health of the livestock as well as of

the human beings.

Bosan termed OIE a valuable forum to deliberate new ideas and solutions for addressing the existing problems and bridging the gaps for qualitative development of livestock sector, and for discussing and creating awareness for the challenges ahead.

The World Assembly of OIE Delegates establishes the policies of OIE, examines new inter-governmental standards covering animal and zoonotic disease control methods; safety of international trade in animal and animal products as well as animal welfare.

Cotton yarn, cloth production increase 0.78%, 0.51% in 9 months ISLAMABAD, 22 MAY (DNA) - Domestic production of cotton yarn and cotton cloth grew by 0.78 percent and 0.51 percent respectively during first three quarters of current financial year as compared the production of corresponding period of last year.

During the period from JulyMarch, 2016-17, 2.572 million tons of cotton yarn produced in the country as compared the production of 2.552 million tons of the same period of last year.

According the computation of Quantum Index Numbers of large scale manufacturing industries, domestic yarn production in Month of March, 2017 was recorded at 287,450 tons as against 282,695 tons of same month of last year.

Meanwhile, in last 9 months, about 784.250 million square

Ahsan asks people to reject propaganda of anti-CPEC elements

ISLAMABAD, 22 MAY ( DNA) - M i n i st e r for Plan ni ng, Development and Reforms, Ahsan Iqbal Monday asked the people to reject the propaganda of anti China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) elements, saying that such elements were creating confusion among the people to halt the rapidly growing development process of the country.

“The CPEC is a special gift of God given to us through ou r t i me tested f r iend China, which would give a boost to the country’s economic development “, Ahsan Iqbal talking to media after inaug u rating Cent re of Excellence Pakistan Planning and Management Institute (PPMI) said.

He said the anti-CPEC elements had embarked upon foreign funded agenda to

sabotage progress on the mega project. He said China was a peaceful country who had no other agenda but to extend economic activities throughout the region.

He said Chinese investment in the country would help enhance industrialization in the country and consequently huge number of job opportunities would be created for youth of the country.

To a question, the minister said in the upcoming budgetthe government had increased t h e bu d ge t of H ig h e r Education Commission, and health and infrastructure sectors significantly to facilitate especially the poor segment of the society.

He said the federal government was connecting far f lung areas of the country to mainstream through road network which would

Govt to impose five percent import duty on makeup products meters of cotton cloth were p r o d u c e d , wh ich we r e recorded at 780.233 million square meters in the corresponding period of last year.

Domestic production of cotton cloth was recorded at 87,500 thousand square meters in month of Mach as against 86,500 square meters

of same month of last year.

However, during the period under review, jute goods production decreased by 7.95 percent as was recorded at 41,793 tons as against 45,402 tons of same period od last year.

On month on month basis, 7,085 tons of jute goods produced in March as compared

the production of 2,681 tons of same month of last year.

In last nine months, sacking production was recorded at 23,702 tons as compared 25,095 tons of same period last year, which was down by 5.55 percent.

CPEC to promote mutual trade ties between Pakistan, China: Dastgir

S I A L K O T, 2 2 M AY (DNA) - Federal Minister for Commerce Engineer Khurram Dastgir Khan on Monday said that the grand project of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was opening the possibilities of promotion and strengthening mutual trade ties and business activities between businessmen of Pakistan and China.

“The government would soon organize awarenessraising seminars on CPEC project in all the main industrial cities,” he said while addressing a meeting of Sialkot business community at Pakistan Sports Goods Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PSGMEA).

The Association Chairman Khurram Aslam presided over the meeting.

He said, “Promotion of trade and exports was top priority of the country, as the government was successfully removing all the hurdles from smooth way of national economical stability.”

He said, “Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government was making effective and positive efforts to boost country’s trade and exports by taking business community into confidence and ensuring the continuity of government’s effective economical, trade and export policies. Government was well aware of the business community’s problems and making strenuous efforts to resolve them amicably.”

Khurram Dastgir said, “All

commercial consulars have been appointed in foreign missions of Pakistan purely on merit with special tasks to improve their performance for facilitating Pakistani exporters.” He also sought the regular feedback from Sialkot exporters about performance of the Pakistan commercial consulars abroad.

He announced to facilitate Sialkot exporters at maximum level for arranging foreign trade delegation, besides encouraging them to participate in all the international trade fairs and exhibitions including International Trade Fair to be held in January 2018 in Munich-Germany.

The Federal Minister said, “Gover n ment has made Pakistan a peaceful, prosperous and economically stable country by ensuring peace in Karachi and eliminating terrorism, saying that this indicated the success story

of PML-N government’s positive economical policies, which have put the country on way to economical and political stability. Today, Pakistan is more peaceful, economically stable, prosperous and enlightened, as government is successfully reducing energy crisis.”

He said, “Government was providing uninterrupted electricity to the industry, and pledged to provide further cheap electricity to them with completion of several new power generation projects.

Government is implementing its top agenda of economic growth under dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.”

He said, “Pakistan was negotiating with Ali Baba business company and discussing with the concerned officials to reduce the registration fees for the Sialkot businessmen.”

Engineer Khurram Dastgir

Khan said, “The government was also making all out sincere efforts to bring international PayPal and other payment gateways to Pakistan very soon, saying that international payment gateway PayPal will start its regular services in Pakistan very soon, as the necessary legislation was being made here under the supervision of State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).” He also pledged to provide advanced dr ugs checking scanners to all dry ports in the country, adding that government is taking a very lenient view for exporters and export sector.

Engineer Khurram Dastgir Khan narrated that, “The government was also upgrading and updating the old manufacturing technology to flourish and boost exportoriented industries of Sialkot on modern lines as well.”

The first of twenty-seven trains designed for Orange Line Metro will reach Lahore in July this year.

The first train will be handed over by Chinese company to Punjab government and the remaining twenty-six will reach at the end of this year.

China and Pakistan have signed a framework agreement to build the Orange Line of rapid mass transit system in Lahore.

The 26-kilometer line Orange Line Metro Train will have twenty-six stations, two of which will be underground.

In his tweet, Punjab Chief Minister shared photos of first Orane Line Metro train.

The train with five coaches has been designed for the 25.58 km Orange Line Metro in Lahore, Pakistan’s second largest city. An energy-saving air-conditioning system suitable for the constant high

summer temperature and unstable voltage in Pakistan is the showpiece of the design, according to a corporation engineer.

The design combines the national flower of Pakistan and the shape of the dome of the Badshahi Mosque. Heatresistant bogies increase durability, said the engineer.

The designed maximum operational speed of the train is around 80 km per hour. It

will be delivered in July with another 26 following by the end of the year.

Orange Line Metro train route will spread from Ali Town to Thokar Niaz Baig, from Multan Road to Scheme Mor, Chowbu r ji, M AO College, Mall Road, Laxmi Chowk and Railway Station, from Garhi Shahu Bridge to GT Road and UET and from Pakistan Mint to Dera Gojran.

First Orange Line Metro train to reach Lahore in July 2017

increase economic activities of the under developed areas.

Earlier, addressing the inaugural ceremony of PPMI, Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan’s economy had revived and showing positive growth over the past four years.

The economy was struggling with stagnant growth, unsustainable fiscal and external deficits, flagging investment and crippling energy constraints when our government assumed charge in 2013.

“Concerted efforts of our economic team have restored economic stabilization, peace and security”, he said adding the growth rate of 5.3 percent registered in 2016-17 was the highest in past nine years.

The government, he said also managed to bring down the fiscal deficit from 8 percent to 3.6 percent (July-March 2016-17). Similarly, he said,

health coverage to every citizen was one of the top priorities of PML (N) government which was obvious from the funds allocated to health and population welfare at Rs 56 billion in 2017-18 compared to Rs 30 billion in 2016-17 – an increase of 87 per cent.

“For national health programme, Rs 10 billion have been kept during 2017-18 and another Rs 9 billion are provided for new hospital in the country”, Ahsan Iqbal said.

He maintained the federal government was more conscious of education for every child of the nation.

He said the development outlay in education had been tremendously increased from Rs 30 billion in 2016-17 to Rs 47 billion in 2017-18 – an increase of 57 per cent.

Pak’s rich, diverse landscape can contribute to enhance GDP growth: Marriyum ISLA M A BA D, 22 M AY (DNA) - Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Mar riy um Aurangzeb on Monday said that Pakistan has a very rich and diverse landscape which can also contribute to enhancement of our Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth.

Addressing a seminar on ‘Bio Diversity and Sustainable Tourism’ in Islamabad, she said, “Tourism, sports and cultural activities are witnessing an upsurge due to improved security situation over the last four years.”

She said, “There is a deep connect between ecosystem and tourism. Many countries including India, Malaysia, and United Kingdom are using the nature to attract maximum tourism.”

She said, “National parks in these countries have helped development of their tourism sector.”

She informed that, “A proposal is under consideration to declare Astola Island a Marine Protected Area. This will be a major milestone in promoting tourist activities on the

Government has geared up to impose five percent import duty on the cosmetics in upcoming budget for fiscal year 2017 to 2018.

According to Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), the prices of eye makeup items that include mascara, artificial eye lashes and color lenses would be increased to 20 percent from 15 percent.

Hair extensions, shampoos and conditioners would also face price hike in the budget. Besides this, import duty of 20 percent is also expected on perfumes, aftershave and shaving creams.

The budget estimated at Rs 4,800 billion will be announced on May 26. Sources told that Rs 866 billion has been suggested to allocate for development projects including China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)

whereas the budget deficit will be around Rs 1500 billion.

About 10 to 15 percent increase is expected in the salaries and pensions of government officials.

On the other hand, Rs 94 billion has been reserved for Interior Ministry, Rs 37 billion for Cabinet Division, Rs 11 billion for Aviation Division, Rs 48 crore for Prime Minister Secretariat whereas President House will get Rs 45 crore for expenses.

The Law Ministr y will be given almost Rs 7 billion, Trade Ministr y Rs 33 billion, Information Ministry Rs 298 billion while Ministry of Education and Training and Higher Education Commission will be allotted Rs 4 billion and Rs 80 billion respectively.

GENEVA, 22 MAY (DNA) Minister of State for National Health Services, Regulations a nd Coord i n at ion Sai r a Afzal Tarar has said that the Government of Pakistan is carrying out aggressively the surveillance for polio and has established 53 environmental sampling sites which is the largest surveillance network in the world.

Addressing the meeting of World Health Organization (WHO) Eastern Mediterranean Region at World Health Assembly in Geneva, she said, “Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif is leading the effort and there is the strongest of political commitment to the cause.”

She said, “Unprecedented progress has been made in

stopping transmission of polio virus with lowest ever case count of 20 in 2016 and 2 so far this year.”

“These are our children and we will leave no stone unturned to protect them from this crippling disease,” said the minister while expressing her resolve. She also spoke at length on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) a n d p r og r e s s m a d e by Pakistan in developing the 5 year coasted National Action Plan (NAP) as part of Global Health Secu r it y Agend a and Inter national Health Regulations. Pakistan’s track record of dealing effectively with manmade and natural disasters was also shared by the Minister.

Meanwhile, Pakistan was presented as a model to countries attending the World Health Assembly as the first nation to conduct Joint External Evaluation of Core Capacities to respond to disease outbreaks and level of preparedness to deal with pandemics.

The recognition came at a special session on International Health Regulations at the World Health Assembly.

The session participated by delegates of 59 countries was chaired by Finland and Australia. Pakistan’s Joint External Evaluation exercise was presented as a model for other nations to follow.

Pakistan had initiated the exercise in early 2016 across the country with a team of

international public health exper ts and completed it late last year. Eight different core capacities were evaluated in the year long process.

Pakistan’ Director General Health Dr. Assad Hafeez made a presentation elaborating the process. Minister for National Health Services Saira Afzal Tarar said, “Transparency has been the hallmark of health reforms in the country which has been recognised at this prestigious global forum.”

She said, “Pakistan was ready to share its experiences with any country desirous of strengthening their core capacities as part of the Global Health Security Agenda.”

ISLA M A BA D, 22 M AY (DNA) - With an aim to increase share of indigenous resource into the energy mix, the Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) have signed two separate Coal Supply Agreements (CSA) with TEL and Thal Nova for supply of 1.9 million Tonnes of coal per annum each.

ThalNova is a joint venture between Thal Power (Private) Limited and Nova Powergen Limited subsidiaries of Thal Limited and Novatex Limited respectively.

Thar Energy Limited (TEL) is the subsidiary of Hub Power

Company Limited (Hubco), which is one of the largest IPPs in Pakistan. Thar Energy Limited and ThalNova are setting up mine-mouth power plants of 330MWs each at Thar Coal Block II, fully capable of running 100 percent on Thar coal. Both the power plants are scheduled to be commissioned by early 2020.

After commissioning of these two projects, SECMC would be mining 7.6 million tonnes per annum of coal from Thar Block-II which will reduce the coal tariff to approx. USD 41.35 per tonne, which will be equivalent to imported coal on

USD/MMBtu basis.

Earlier in April 2016, SECMC and Engro Powergen Thar Limited (EPTL) achieved combined Financial Close to supply 3.8 million tonnes per annum of coal to EPTL. Currently, a project to mine 3.8 MTPA and 660MWs power plant is progressing ahead of schedule and is expected to come online

by June 2019.

On behalf of SECMC, the CSA was signed by its CEO, Mr. Shamsuddin Shaik h, while Mr. Khalid Mansoor, CEO, HUBCO & Thar Energy Limited and Mr. Khalid Siraj Subhani, CEO and Mr. Rana

Zulfiqar, COO of ThalNova signed the agreements at the ceremony held at SECMC’s Office.

Speaking on the occasion, SECMC, CEO, Shamsuddin Shaikh said that SECMC aggressively pursuing expansion of its mining project with an aim to address electricity shortage in the country and to provide affordable electricity to the public.

He further stated that in order to ensure the energy security of Pakistan in the long run, development of indigenous coal is essential.

Island.” Marriyum Aurangzeb underlined the need for raising awareness amongst the people about the diverse bio-diversity of the country.

In this regard, she said, “The relevant stakeholders can cooperate with Radio Pakistan and Pakistan Television Network in showcasing the true picture of the country.” She said, “Documentaries need to be prepared to acquaint the youth about the landscape of the country. We have to preserve and promote our national heritage for our future generations.”

Pakistan has established world’s largest surveillance network for polio: Saira

TEL, ThalNova sign coal agreement with SECMC