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RCCI observes Kashmir solidarity day with special ceremony

RCCI observes Kashmir solidarity day with special ceremony

Wife of Hurriyat Leader Yasin Malik, Mishaal Hussain Malik, Attends as Special Guest

RAWALPINDI, FEB 2: /DNA/ – The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) organized a special ceremony to observe Kashmir Solidarity Day, reaffirming unwavering support for the people of Kashmir. The event was attended by the wife of Hurriyat leader and political prisoner Yasin Malik, Ms. Mishaal Hussain Malik, as the chief guest.

Chairman Youth Affairs Movement Abdullah Gul and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Tourism, Sardar Yasir Ilyas, also participated in the ceremony.

Addressing the gathering, RCCI President Usman Shaukat stated that the people of Pakistan and the business community stand firmly with the oppressed people of Kashmir. He urged the international community to take immediate notice of grave human rights violations and Indian atrocities in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), and demanded the immediate release of Hurriyat leader and prisoner of conscience Yasin Malik.

Group Leader Sohail Altaf emphasized that the business community is united for the Kashmir cause and will continue to raise its voice at all forums.

Speaking on the occasion, Mishaal Hussain Malik expressed her gratitude to RCCI for organizing the event. She highlighted severe human rights abuses in occupied Kashmir, stating that innocent civilians have been killed and thousands of women rendered widows. She said that the Kashmir freedom movement is directly linked to global peace and alleged that Indian forces have crossed all limits of oppression. She demanded that the Government of Pakistan convene a joint session of Parliament on Kashmir and Yasin Malik’s case and take the matter to international courts.

SAPM Sardar Yasir Ilyas said that a united struggle is essential for the Kashmir cause and all political parties must come together. He stressed the need to develop unity like Bunyan-un-Marsoos and strengthen the economy to counter enemy propaganda. He also pointed out that India is investing heavily in propaganda, which must be countered effectively.

On the occasion, a symbolic solidarity rally was also led at the RCCI premises by President Usman Shaukat, Sardar Yasir Ilyas, Mishaal Hussain Malik, Sohail Altaf, and Abdullah Gul.

Senior Vice President Khalid Farooq Qazi, Vice President Fahad Barlas, Executive Committee Members, RCCI members, and women members were also present in large numbers.

Germany arrests 5 for illegal exports to Russia, including to arms companies

Germany arrests 5 for illegal exports to Russia, including to arms companies

Berlin, Feb 2: Germany has arrested five people for exporting goods worth at least 30 million euros ($35 million) to Russia, including to over 20 arms companies, in violation of EU sanctions, prosecutors said Monday.

                  The suspects allegedly used a company based in the Baltic Sea port city of Luebeck to arrange about 16,000 shipments to Russia in recent years, the Federal Prosecutor’s Office said in a statement.

                  The investigation, including raids at additional locations, was conducted by customs agents in cooperation with Germany’s foreign intelligence service BND.

                  The prosecutors said the procurement network “was presumably operated by Russian state agencies” and that the recipients included “at least 24 listed arms companies in Russia”.

                  Among those arrested was the trading company’s managing director, partially identified as German-Russian dual national Nikita S.

                  “Since at least the beginning of the Russian war of aggression against Ukraine in February 2022, he and the other accused used the company on numerous occasions to clandestinely procure goods for Russian industry and export them to Russia,” prosecutors said.

                  “To conceal the transactions, the accused used at least one other shell company in Luebeck, sham customers in and outside the European Union, and a Russian company as a recipient, in which Nikita S. also holds a position of responsibility,” they said in a statement.

                  “The aim of this operation was to circumvent European Union embargo regulations,” prosecutors added, without detailing what goods were allegedly illegally exported.

                  The other suspects arrested were partially identified, in keeping with German privacy rules, as German-Ukrainian Artem I. and German nationals Boris M. and Eugen R.

                  A German-Russian dual national, Daniel A., was also detained in the raids carried out by the Customs Criminal Investigation Office.

                  The suspects were arrested on charges of belonging to “a criminal organisation engaged in export business in violation of the Foreign Trade and Payments Act”.

                  They will on Tuesday face an investigating judge of the Federal Court of Justice who will serve the arrest warrants on four of the suspects and decide whether to also remand in custody Daniel A.

                  Officers also searched sites in the cities of Frankfurt and Nuremberg and two other locations, in an investigation targeting five other suspects who were currently at large, the statement said.

Kazakh, Uzbek Presidents’ visits to open new trade avenues: ICCI President

Kazakh, Uzbek Presidents’ visits to open new trade avenues: ICCI President

ISLAMABAD, FEB 2 /DNA/ – President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), Sardar Tahir Mehmood, has emphasized the need to further strengthen Pakistan’s economic, trade and connectivity relations with regional countries, particularly Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, terming the upcoming visits of their Presidents to Islamabad as highly significant and timely.

He said that the arrival of the President of Kazakhstan on February 3 and President of Uzbekistan on February 5 reflects growing mutual trust and shared commitment to regional cooperation, economic integration and sustainable development. These high-level engagements, he added, open new avenues for expanding bilateral trade, investment, and people-to-people contacts.

Sardar Tahir Mehmood noted that Central Asian states hold immense potential for Pakistan in sectors such as trade, energy, agriculture, mining, logistics and tourism. He stressed that improved connectivity projects, including railway and transit corridors, would play a pivotal role in linking Pakistan with Central Asia, enabling cost-effective trade routes and boosting regional commerce.

The ICCI President highlighted that Islamabad, as the federal capital and business hub, is well-positioned to serve as a bridge between Pakistan’s private sector and regional markets. He expressed optimism that business forums and B2B interactions planned during these visits would help Pakistani entrepreneurs explore joint ventures and long-term partnerships.

On their part, Senior Vice President Tahir Ayub and Vice President Irfan Chaudry reaffirmed ICCI’s commitment to supporting government efforts aimed at enhancing regional cooperation and facilitating the business community. They hoped that the outcomes of these presidential visits would translate into practical agreements, improved market access and stronger institutional linkages, ultimately contributing to economic growth and prosperity across the region.

They concluded by stating that stronger ties with Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan would not only benefit Pakistan’s economy but also promote regional stability, connectivity and shared progress, aligning with the broader vision of regional integration.

Tarar chairs review meeting on electronic media directorate projects

Tarar chairs review meeting on electronic media directorate projects

ISLAMABAD, Feb 02 (DNA): Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar chaired a review meeting on projects being undertaken by the Directorate of Electronic Media and Publications (DEMP).

The minister was briefed on the progress of the Central Monitoring Project and the establishment of the National Centre of Films (NCF).

Officials informed the meeting that the Central Monitoring Project, launched in January 2023, is scheduled for completion by June 2026, with its scope being expanded and technology upgraded.

Tarar emphasized the timely completion of the project, noting that the Central Monitoring Unit is aligned with modern requirements and will assist in compiling narrative-related reports and formulating effective strategies.

He added that the initiative would also benefit the private sector by providing facilities to analyze their content.
The DEMP administration assured the minister that all necessary steps were being taken to meet the June 2026 deadline in line with the approved PC-I and work plan.

The meeting agreed to hold regular review sessions to monitor progress and address any obstacles. Participants were also briefed on the establishment of the National Centre of Films, created through the reorganization of DEMP’s Film Wing.
The minister said comprehensive measures would be taken to promote quality film production in Pakistan.

Officials highlighted that the NCF, as custodian of the National Film Policy 2018, ensures coordination with stakeholders in the film and drama industry.
Under the policy, steps are being taken to implement incentives and promote Pakistan’s cinema industry internationally through structured linkages, agreements, and participation in global platforms.

The ministry has introduced financial incentives to support the revival of the film industry, including exemptions on cinematographic equipment, tax relief for cinema operations and feature film production, and tax credits under the Film and Drama Finance Fund.

It was further shared that memorandums of understanding have been signed with several countries to encourage cooperation in the film and drama sectors, including content exchange, joint productions, and participation in international film festivals.

British envoy hails “Brain Gain” as Pakistani scholars return home

British envoy hails

ISLAMABAD, FEB 2 /DNA/ – The British High Commission Pakistan hosted a warm and celebratory Welcome Home Reception for the 2024/25 Chevening and Commonwealth Scholars, marking their successful completion of postgraduate study in the United Kingdom.

This year, 83 scholars returned to Pakistan after completing prestigious UK government-funded awards. This included 42 Chevening Scholars and 41 Commonwealth Scholars, comprising 19 Master’s scholars, 15 PhD scholars, and 14 Split-Site PhD scholars.

The event recognised their academic achievements, global exposure, and leadership potential, while also celebrating their reintegration into Pakistan’s growing alumni community.

The reception brought together returning scholars, senior alumni, and leadership from across the British High Commission to network, reconnect, and explore future avenues for collaboration and national impact.

Chevening scholar Sameen Nadeem said:

“Chevening has broadened my understanding of what I can achieve and how I can create real impact. Through the skills I gained such as community, leadership and open-mindedness- I now feel more confident in my ability to make a difference. I am excited to join the global Chevening network and work alongside others to address some of the world’s biggest challenges.”

Speaking at the event, British High Commissioner Jane Marriott CMG OBE said:

“These scholarship programmes embody the very best of the UK–Pakistan partnership. Every year, talented Pakistanis go to the UK to study at world-leading universities and return with new ideas, global networks, and the confidence to lead. This is true brain gain, scholars bringing their expertise home to strengthen Pakistan’s institutions, drive innovation, and uplift their communities. Chevening and Commonwealth scholarships are investments in Pakistan’s future leadership, and we are incredibly proud of this year’s returning cohort.”

COAS Asim Munir, Libyan PM and Commander-in-Chief meet at GHQ

COAS Asim Munir, Libyan PM and Commander-in-Chief meet at GHQ

RAWALPINDI, FEB 2 /DNA/ – Field Marshal Khalifa Abu-al-Qasim Haftar, Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan Arab Armed Forces, along with H.E. Dr. Osama Saad Hammad, Prime Minister of the Government of Libya, called on Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, COAS & CDF, at General Headquarters (GHQ) today.

During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on matters of mutual interest, with particular focus on security dynamics in respective regions and professional cooperation. The discussion underscored the importance of continued engagement and collaboration between the Armed Forces of Pakistan and Libya.

Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir welcomed the distinguished guests and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Libya. He emphasized Pakistan’s support for peace, stability, and institutional development in Libya.

The meeting was held in a cordial and constructive atmosphere, reflecting the longstanding friendly relations between Pakistan and Libya.

Earlier, on arrival at Noor Khan Airbase, Field Marshal Khalifa Abu-al-Qasim Haftar was received by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, COAS & CDF. The dignitary also paid homage to Shuhada and laid wreath at martyrs memorial at GHQ.

CDA Chairman reviews successful e-stamp paper implementation

CDA Chairman reviews successful e-stamp paper implementation

ISLAMABAD, FEB 2 /DNA/ – Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, visited the E-Stamp Center located in the F-8 Markaz on Monday. CDA Member Admin Talat Mahmood, Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Irfan Nawaz Memon and other relevant officers were also present on the occasion. Chief Commissioner Islamabad and CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa reviewed the successful implementation process of E-Stamp Papers in Islamabad, which aligns with modern requirements and replaces traditional stamp papers.

Relevant officers briefed the Chief Commissioner Islamabad and Chairman CDA in detail regarding the issuance of E-Stamp Papers, informing them that the comprehensive E-Stamp system has been successfully launched in the Federal Capital, Islamabad, after the testing phase. The E-Stamp system is fully integrated with OneLink for digital payments. It was further briefed that the ICT in collaboration with the Punjab Land Records Authority (PLRA) has finalized the design of the E-Stamp Papers and also created the complete digital process for the issuance of E-stamp.

Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Islamabad Muhammad Ali Randhawa expressed satisfaction over the progress made regarding launching of E-Stamp Papers. During his visit, he also inquired about the feedback and issues from citizens visiting the E-Stamp Center regarding E-Stamp Papers. He directed that the mechanism be further simplified in light of citizens’ opinions and feedback on the system of E-Stamp Papers.

CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa said that in line with the Digital Islamabad vision of Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif and Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, the E-Stamp system will promote a cashless economy in Islamabad. Similarly, citizens will find ease in transactions related to property transfers, inheritance, buying and selling, etc.

Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Islamabad said that this initiative will ensure transparency in transactions and eliminate fraud and deception. He further said that the purpose of this initiative is to adopt an E-Governance model and further improve service delivery.

Shaheed Muhammad Shahzaib buried with full military honours in Mianwali

Shaheed Muhammad Shahzaib buried with full military honours in Mianwali

MIANWALI, FEB 1 /DNA/ – Shaheed Muhammad Shahzaib MGT-I was laid to rest with full military honours in his native village Isa Khel, District Mianwali. The namaz-e-janaza was attended by officers and personnel of Pakistan Navy, civil and military officials, and family members.

Shaheed Muhammad Shahzaib MGT-I sacrificed his life while defending against a cowardly terrorist attack at Pasni, demonstrating exceptional courage and devotion to duty.

Pakistan Navy pays rich tribute to the supreme sacrifice of the Shaheed and extends heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

Ashrafi emphasizes interfaith harmony for peace, national unity

Ashrafi emphasizes interfaith harmony for peace, national unity

LAHORE, Feb 1: Prime Minister’s Coordinator for Religious Harmony and Pakistan Ulema Council (PUC) Chairman Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi has said that Pakistan was committed to promoting interfaith harmony, dialogue, peace and tolerance which are vital for peaceful coexistence and national unity.

In a message issued here on Sunday on the occasion of World Interfaith Harmony Week, being observed from February 1 to 7, he said that interfaith harmony was vital for peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among different religions and communities.


The PM’s coordinator said Pakistan was a society enriched with religious, cultural, linguistic and ethnic diversity, which should be protected through dialogue and understanding. He added that Islam, the Constitution of Pakistan and the country’s laws guarantee respect for the rights of all humanity, irrespective of religion or belief. He said that the Constitution ensured religious freedom and equal rights for all citizens without discrimination.


Hafiz Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi said that on the occasion of World Interfaith Harmony Week, a renewed commitment was being made to fully implement the code of conduct outlined in the Constitution of Pakistan and the national narrative of Paigham-e-Pakistan. He said all efforts aimed at promoting intolerance, extremism and division in society would be defeated.


He also expressed solidarity with the armed forces and security institutions in their efforts to eliminate extremism and terrorism, saying religious scholars and citizens would stand shoulder to shoulder with state institutions to ensure peace, stability and national unity.


Ashrafi said promoting interfaith harmony was a shared national responsibility and urged all segments of society to play their role in strengthening tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence in the country.

Chairman TJP meets Qatar’s Ambassador

Chairman TJP meets Qatar's Ambassador

RAWALPINDI, Feb 01: Chairman Tehrik Jawanan Pakistan (TJP) Abdullah Hamid Gul, met His Excellency Ali Bin Mubarak, Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Pakistan, in Rawalpindi.

The meeting underscored the strong, historic and brotherly relations between Pakistan and Qatar, rooted in shared faith, cultural values and expanding economic cooperation.


Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral engagement, particularly in the areas of youth development, employment opportunities, investment and people-to-people connectivity.


Chairman TJP highlighted the role of youth as a bridge between the two nations and emphasized the importance of constructive cooperation for regional stability and mutual prosperity. The Qatari Ambassador appreciated Pakistan’s human capital and reaffirmed Qatar’s commitment to expanding collaboration with Pakistan.


The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to further deepen Pakistan–Qatar relations and promote meaningful engagement at constitutional and community levels.

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