ISLAMABAD, Aug 17: The Islamabad Citizens Committee (ICC) held here a befitting event to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the country.
A gathering of the notables passed a unanimous resolution on the occasion, pledging to work for the betterment of the motherland. It was chaired by the ICC’s President, Syed M. Siddiq Hasan. National Anthem was played and Pak flag was lifted followed by a cake cutting ceremony to mark the event in a befitting manner.
A Dua was led by Ali Ahmad Farooqui,I.T.Secretary,ICC for the integrity and solidarity of the country, the participants shared their views on the occasion about the significance of the Day. They highlighted the objectives and goals of independent homeland.
The resolution says, “We were fortunate enough to get an identity of our own 75 years ago as Islamic Republic of Pakistan. This independence was achieved after countless sacrifices of our ancestors and as a result of which we can live freely in our own homeland. To have a home, identity, is one of the most privileged things that money cannot buy. Therefore, it is up to us to make this homeland prosperous and bring deserved glory to it”.
It added, “This independence day, we pledge to make Pakistan proud by doing our part in our own capacity. We pledge to understand and stand by its principles, stay united and devote ourselves to the cause of working for Pakistan with dedication and sincerity. We hope to reaffirm oiur commitment towards our country and pray for its safety from all kinds of evils and disasters.”
The event was addressed among others by Naeem Siddiqui, Rashid Awan, Zafarullah and Allah Nawaz, Members of ICC’s Executive Committee.They also called for upholding the golden principles, faith, unity and discipline, given by Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. It was high time for the entire nation to think for the country, realizing the sacrifices rendered by our forefathers, they added.
BEIJING, Aug 17: Corn experts in China are expecting cooperation under CPEC to enhance per acre yield as well as its export, Gwadar Pro reported on Wednesday. They also are promising for maize related technology exchanges between the two countries. Currently 70 % of China’s corn imports come from the United States and 29% from Ukraine. Amidst global political and social upheavals, China’s demand for corn imports is gradually expanding. In June this year, waterlogging jeopardized maize yields in China’s north east region, especially in Liao Ning and Ji Lin, causing a 6-8million tones lost in yield, Chinese media revealed.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s maize production has been winning over the last decades: in Punjab alone, maize production jumped from 794,000 tones in FY00-01 to 8.04 million tones FY20-21, with only a 130% rise in terms of cultivated areas over the same period of time.
Admittedly, Pakistan is also facing risks. This year’s wheat harvest has caused uncertainties to domestic food security. There are debates over whether Pakistan should continue to export crops over the past several months. However, the trade convenience brought by China Pakistan Economic Corridor and the window of opportunities brought by the drastic changes in the global market cannot be ignored. How to mix up two iron-brothers’ comparative advantages and achieve best interests is a more important question to ask.
“We are more than happy to collaborate with Pakistan.” Corn Experts in China told Gwadar Pro.
At present, nearly 65% of maize in China is used as animal feed and 30% as raw materials for industrial processing. “China has a huge demand for silage corn，I have mentioned in several high-level meetings.” Zhao Jiuran, Chief Expert of the Corn Research Institute Beijing Academy of agricultural & Forestry Sciences said, “In order to feed cattle in China with high-quality silage maize, at least 4.95 million acres of land are needed for maize growing – based on the fact that there are about 15 million dairy cows and almost 100 million beef cattle in the country , the current output of silage corn feed is obviously not enough.”
“We have high-yield, pest-resistant seeds, leading cultivation techniques and relatively advanced harvest machines.” Zhao said while showcasing a test-field at Beijing’s Yu Jiawu International Seed Industry Technology Park. Since the establishment of the Technology Park in 2011, more than 100 types of maize seeds have been bred. Drip irrigation Technology can be observed all over the test-field–an irrigation method that is popular in China’s Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia region, saving both water and energy.
“The average yield for 1 acre of maize can reach 4.8 tons in China.” Zhao revealed.
“We have also developed maize varieties that can resist high temperatures in Si Chuan, Hai Nan and Xin Jiang’s test field, the upper limit of heat tolerance is 40 degrees. If heat is a problem for Pakistani farmers, we are more than happy to collaborate.”
“However, farmers are shying away from investing in maize planting. For jobs at a maize plantation, the average salary per day is 200 yuan, many farmers rather seek job opportunities in big cities.”
“We tried to cooperate with several Pakistani traders 8 years ago, yet that attempt was aborted, due to trust issues brought by inefficient communication.” Officials at the Seed Industry Technology Park said, “With CPEC gradually entering its second phase, and trade activities between the 2 countries normalized, I believe that the future is promising for maize related technology exchanges.”
Tehran, DNA – Iran’s Minister of Roads and Urban Development Rostam Qassemi arrived in Pakistan on Wednesday morning to participate in the 21st meeting of the Joint Economic Commission (JEC) in Islamabad.
Ambassador of the Islamic Republic Mohammad Ali Hosseini and officials of the Pakistan Economic Affairs Ministry received the Iranian delegation at Nur Khan Air Base, Islamabad.
The 21st meeting of the Iran-Pakistan Joint Economic Commission is scheduled to be held in Islamabad later today and will continue into Thursday.
Besides leading the Iranian delegation at the JEC meeting, Qassemi will also hold important meetings with Pakistani officials.
The last meeting of the Iran-Pakistan Joint Economic Commission was held in 2016 in Tehran and now Islamabad is hosting the new round.
Important negotiations are expected to be held between high-level delegations of Iran and Pakistan regarding barter trade mechanism, activation of border markets, facilitation of exports and imports, strengthening of transit and transportation links, and expansion of people-to-people contacts.
Indonesia and Pakistan share also remarkable similarities in their values, beliefs, food habits, and other aspects of social and daily life
Exclusive
Ansar M Bhatti
ISLAMABAD: Ambassador of Indonesia Adam Tugio has said the early resumption of Palm Oil supplies to Pakistan after phone conversation between President Joko Widodo and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif truly reflects the spirit of cooperation and sound development of our growing bilateral ties. President Joko Widodo ordered an immediate supply of 10 containers of palm oil and to initiate process for the shipment of one million tons of palm oil to Pakistan. The decision also shows Indonesia’s commitment to maintain sustained global supply of palm oil and this gesture of goodwill will surely provide renewed impetus to the trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.
He expressed these views while giving an Interview to Daily Islamabad POST. The interview coincides with the Independence Day celebrations of Indonesia.
The ambassador further said, Indonesia had to impose temporarily ban exports of palm oil on late April due to the scarcity of cooking oil in our domestic market. It was an irony that as the biggest producer of palm oil, people in Indonesia could not findedible oil in the market. The ban was lifted in May 23, 2022.
As a trusted friend, Indonesia paid prior attention to the visit of Pakistani delegation led by Minister for Industries & Production Makhdoom Syed Murtaza Mahmud to Jakarta from 12-14 June 2022 on the special instruction of PM Shehbaz Sharif. Prompt facilitation was extended by Indonesia in response to Pakistan’s request for the earliest possible palm oil shipments after the meeting of Pakistani minister with his Indonesian counterparts. Indonesian Ministers also assured that Pakistan would be the first country to which the commodity will be exported after the promulgation of new export regulations. Ten ships loaded with 140,000 Metric tons of edible oil have arrived in Pakistan during June and July, following phone conversation between our two leaders’.
The top leadership of both Indonesia and Pakistan fully realize the importance of continued communication and dialogue and committed to remain actively engaged on issues of mutual interest at bilateral and multilateral levels. Here, I would specifically like to mention recent bilateral consultations held at the political level. The 3rd Round of Policy Planning Dialogueand Bilateral Consultation Forum were held on 24-25 May 2022 in Bali.
During these talks both the sides reviewed the growth of Pakistan-Indonesia ties over the last 72 years, agreed to strengthen relations with a more structural approach. To this end, our two Foreign Ministers will meet on regular basis for taking stock the progress and providing strategic directions to further elevatetwo-way relations. Simultaneously, this forum serves also as a platform for bilateral consultation to address global issuesof shared concern.
He added, our two leaders also seized the momentum of Eid Adha Mubarak to express their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations by exchange the invitations for official visits. President Joko Widodo and PM Shahbaz Sharif further agreed that as the two largest Islamic countries, Pakistan and Indonesia should continue to work closely on issues of concern to the Ummah. The recent engagements between the leadership of the two countries have been a manifestation and reaffirmation of the two countries cordial and exemplary long-standing diplomatic relations.
While talking about religious and cultural relations the ambassador said, building of cultural bridge and expansion of academic linkages are important areas for greater understanding and cohesion between our two brotherly countries. We, therefore, need to enhance connectivity in the fields of cultural exchanges, people-to-people contacts, cooperation in education, science and technology, and even sports. Networking between academia, think tanks and intellectuals has been Embassy’s focus because of its great potentialfor fostering a sense of relationship based on mutual trust, respect and understanding of each other’s traditions and values.
With this contextual perspective, the Embassy in collaboration with the University of Peshawar organized an Online Internship Program (OIP) on “Contemporary Dynamics of Indonesia”. The main objective is to promote better understanding about modern Indonesia, its challenges and achievements during transformations of Indonesian society, and Indonesia’s growing political and economic integration in the region through ASEAN.The OIP was the second year in a row and the Embassy wishes to continue this program next year.Besides, the Embassy is keenly working to establish “Indonesian Corners” at number of leading Pakistani universities starting with the University of Peshawar.
The Corner will offer Indonesian language courses, cultural festivals and other activities of common interests that would be helpful in enhancing useful cultural linkages at large.I am confident that continued close collaboration and facilitation will improve networking at various levels and will surely contribute in strengthening bonds of friendship between our countries.
He said, Indonesia and Pakistan share also remarkable similarities in their values, beliefs, food habits, and other aspects of social and daily life. I am of the view that these similarities are the potent manifestation of the historical, religious and cultural relationship between the two societies since time immemorial.
To highlight this relationship, the Embassy in collaboration with Lok Virsa Museum, Islamabad recently organized an exhibition titled “A Night At LokVirsa Museum: The Confluence of Civilizations Between Indonesia and Pakistan”, featuring selected collection of photographs and videos on cross-cultural influence on both countries. I am encouraged by positive message we received from visitors and audience about the Exhibition – despite geographically distant apart our two nations are close in the hearts.
To a question about Independence Day the ambassador said, in recent years, Indonesia has been transformed politically, diplomatically and economically. These three key areas form parts of ournational identity: things that define Indonesia’s place at global arena, the relevance of Indonesia’s independent and active foreign policy and its contributions in the world community.As a founder member of Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), Bandung Spirit is the guiding principle of Indonesia’s independent and active foreign policy with a strong belief in multilateralism to resolve global issue amicably.
As Indonesia celebrates its 77th Independence Day this year, the world sees Indonesia as the third biggest democratic country in the world where Islam and modernity go hand in hand, the biggest economy in Southeast Asia, a successful country in its transformation and country that practices freedom, pluralism and tolerance.
Indonesia is committed to deepening and broadening cooperation with the international community and continues to be at the forefront in promoting the role of the United Nations in creating a more secure and peaceful world order. Moreover, as a member of ASEAN, G-20, APEC, ASEM, D-8, NAM, G-77 and OIC, Indonesia always strives for the promotion of international cooperation for global peace and prosperity.
At present, Indonesia also holds the Presidency of G-20, that demonstratesits fast-growing capacity to provide leadership and represents the voices of developing nations. The 17thG20 Summit will be held in Bali on 15-16 November 2022.
The three main pillars of Indonesia’s G20 Presidency are: Global Health Architecture, Sustainable Energy Transition and Digital Transformation which will allow taking lead on equitable access to Covid-19 vaccines and inclusive economic development.The above indicators reflect that Indonesia enjoys a respectable place among the comity of nation with its policies of good neighborliness and peaceful coexistence around the globe.
ISLAMABAD: The government has decided to arrest all the people behind the negative propaganda against Lasbela helicopter crash on social media, sources privy to the investigation told .
Sources said that the people who led the campaign will also be arrested after investigating the individuals involved in the propaganda. They added that the investigations have shown that Indian accounts were also involved in the social media campaign.
They added that a campaign was launched against the Pakistan Army by the workers of a political party and Indian social media accounts actively participated in it. The investigations show that at least 17 Indian accounts were linked to the campaign. Last week, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Cyber Crime Wing registered a case and launched an investigation into the malicious social media propaganda following the martyrdom of army officers in the Balochistan helicopter crash.
A joint investigation team headed by Additional Director General Cybercrimes Muhammad Jafar is carrying out the probe.
PESHAWAR, AUG 16 /DNA/ – Politicians, representing different political forces gave unanimously raised voices for return of peace and an end to every sort of terrorism and extremism in the region, specially the areas dominated by Pushtoons connecting Pakistan and Afghanistan with each others. In particular, the politicians along with representatives of civil society organisations and parents of Peshawar Army Public School have shown sever resentment over secret dialogues with banned Tehrik Taliban Pakistan and demanded taking in confidence the real stake holders into confidence in any peace deal to be made with the militants.
The politicians, representing different political parties, volunteers and office holders of civil society organisations and two mothers of APS children have made these demands while addressing in Pushtoons Quami Aman Jirga on Tuesday. The jirga held under the auspices of Awami National Awami Party at Bacha Khan Markaz was chaired by Aimal Wali Khan and addressed besides others by PML( N) provincial chief and advisor to Prime Minister, Jamaat Islami Parliamentary leader in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly Inayat Ullah Khan, Quami Watan Party’s Hasham Babar, National Party’s Dr Sarfaraz, Pakistan Mazoor Kissan Party’s Shakeel Waheed Ullah Khan, National Democratic Movement’s Abdullah Nangyal, Sardar Hussaun Babak, Pushtoon Tahafuz Tehrik’s Manzoor Pashteen, Mrs Durrani and Shahana Ajun Khan.
Almost speakers have expressed sever concerns over continue terror and violent acts in the country especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Despite authorities concerned claims, terrorists and extremists are present and active throughout the region. The terror and violent acts not only causing lives to innocent people but it has Akzo badly affected socio-politico and economic sectors in the region. The speakers in thus respect diverted attentions towards alarming situation of economic disorder, poverty and unployment. They alleged that through one or the other ways, relations with neighbouring Afghanistan are being made worst, thus badly affecting bilateral trade between the two neighbouring countries. The speakers time and again insisted on making smooth and friendly relations with Afghanistan which may be helpful in resumption of trade and business activities in the whole region.
Referring to latest situation of Swat and Waziristan region wheres the militants associates with banned TTP are active and causing panic amongst local people, the speakers have denounced the government fir its inactive role. Even the speakers even said that the government is playing role of silent spectator in heals and deals brokered between the security organs and banned TTP through Afghan Taliban. While if deals with banned militants should be made public before giving final touches.
Through 11-points declaration, the Pushtoon Quami Aman Jirga while expressing reservations over secret talks with banned TTP, asked government to revisit state policies and keep in mind the supremacy of parliament and constitution in this respect. Every sort of deals and heals with banned militant group may be made with consent of parliament. In particular, the jirga demanded taking into confidence the terror affected families including parents of APS victims.
The jirga has made it clear that it wouldn’t tolerate continuation of terrorism and extremism on the soil of Pushtoons who suffered a lot in last four decades.in this respect while denouncing the strategic depth policies has made it clear that they would never allow keeping Taliban as strategic assets any more. The Pushtoons are no more ready to let their soil surrender to Taliban even for a single day. Signing any sort of agreement with Taliban will be meant winding off of social contract- constitution of Pakistan it observed. The Jirga has also denounced Harnayee Baluchistan firing incident which caused lives to several civilians including an active stalwart of ANP and expressed solidarity with the protesters.
LAHORE, AUG 16 (DNA) — Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) Vice President Maryam Nawaz on Tuesday while rejecting the recent increase in petrol price by the government said that she can no longer support the government’s decision and stands with the people.
In a statement on Twitter, Maryam Nawaz said that the PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif is not in support of burdening the nation with further hike in petrol prices and he has strongly opposed the decision.
Also in reply to a comment, Maryam added that Nawaz Sharif even said that he cannot allow to burden the public with one more penny and if the government has any compulsion then he will take no part in this decision.
According to Maryam Nawaz, the PML-N supremo was firm on his stance and he left the meeting. =DNA
Senators voice serious concern over police torture on Gill
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) seven-member parliamentary delegation expressed serious concern over the police torture on Dr. Shahbaz Gill in detention.
The seven-member delegation of the PTI senators visited Adiala Jail on Tuesday and held meeting with Gill.
The delegation was led by Senator Dr. Shehzad Wasim comprising Senator Saifullah Niazi, Senator Shibli Faraz and Senator Azam Swati.
Besides, the delegation included Senator Abdul Qadir, Senator Saifullah Abro and Senator Sardar Gurdeep Singh.
The delegation met with Dr. Shahbaz Gill and inquired about his well-being.
The members of the delegation expressed deep concern over the violence on the PTI leader. The members of the delegation would inform the party leadership about the situation regarding the meeting.
Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: UAE always extended support to Pakistan in difficult times and I am obliged to Shaikh Ahmed Dalmook al Maktoum for taking keen interest in promoting cooperation with Pakistan in health sector.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif said this during a meeting with a Bio Tech and Sinopharm delegation under the command of Sabour Karamat General Council of Excellency Shaikh Ahmed Dalmook al Maktoum.
Federal Minister for Health Services Abdul Qadir Petail was also present on the occasion.
The delegation expressed keen interest in the promotion of cooperation in plasma fractionization and investment in the Digitalization of the health sector.
Pakistan Prime Minister directed all the concerned departments for extending fullest cooperation to the companies with regard to above mentioned projects.
Asad to lead PTI rally against media curbs, journalist harassment today
DNA
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) gave finishing touch to the arrangements for the much-needed two-day activities to express solidarity with the journalist community and to ensure safeguard and protection of freedom of expression and freedom of media.
Under the two consecutive days planned program, PTI would hold a protest demonstration today (Wednesday) and a big seminar would be organized under the title “Freedom of Expression and Protection of Media” on August 18.
PTI Central Secretary General Asad Umar issued special instructions to party officials on Tuesday in this regard.
In the two-day activities, the issue of the worst crackdown in the country against independent media and freedom of expression would be raised, as media and journalists have been facing worst harassment and curbs since the imported government seized the power through conspiracy.
The PTI’s protest demonstration to be held in the federal capital against the harassment of media and journalists would be led by Asad Umar to express solidarity with the media persons.
Similarly, the national seminar would be organized in Islamabad on August 18, where Imran Khan would give an important address. Key personalities from print, electronic and social media were also specially invited to the seminar. Moreover, people from all walks of life would attend the important event, which would also be addressed by various intellectuals and senior journalists.
