ISLAMABAD, FEB 22 (DNA) – Air Marshal Arshad Malik, Chief Executive Officer, PIA visited Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry along with his team and signed an MoU with Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan, President ICCI to offer a 10 per cent discount to ICCI members and their immediate families on domestic and international flights.
Addressing the business community Air Marshal Arshad Malik said that PIA was now focusing on corporate customers for business generation and signing of MoU with ICCI was part of such efforts. He said that with the improvement in airline’s financials, PIA would consider offering up to a 25 per cent discount to ICCI members. He said that the business community should facilitate PIA in improving its cargo business.
He said that PIA was ready to dedicate aircrafts for cargo flights if private sector supported it with more business volume. He said that PIA needed an advisory board with representation of chambers in it. He said that PIA would soon start direct flight to Baku from Lahore and to Uzbekistan from March this year.
Air Marshal Arshad Malik said that PIA was a very challenging organization, but he was determined to address its challenges. He said that PIA in the past was not given commercial sense, but now with the efforts of his professional team, PIA has been put back on track. He said that unfortunately Covid-19 has badly hit the aviation industry.
He said that the outlook of PIA would be changed and old aircraft would be swapped with better quality and competitive aircrafts. He said that PIA HQ was not being shifted, rather there was a shift in its business model as 70 percent commercial activity was now biased towards north and south regions due to which PIA was focusing on these regions for business promotion. He said that regulator should facilitate airlines. He said that a consultancy team has arrived Pakistan to prepare a business plan for PIA that would come out within 8 weeks.
Speaking at the occasion, Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan, President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ICCI) appreciated the initiatives of Air Marshal Arshad Khan for bringing crucial reforms in PIA to revive its old glory. He said that airlines played an important role in business and economic development of a country, therefore, improving the performance of PIA was vital to promote Pakistan’s trade and exports to international markets.
He said that many areas of Pakistan including AJK and Northern Areas have great potential for tourism and said that PIA should start flights to Rawalakot, Muzaffarabad, GB and other destinations to promote tourism. He thanked CEO PIA for offering discount to ICCI members and hoped that it would be helpful in exploring new markets for promoting business interests of Pakistan.
Mian Akram Farid Chairman Founder Group said that Air Marshal Arshad Malik has shown tremendous performance in Pakistan Air Force and hoped that he would turn around the sinking airline.
He said that PIA should give frequent travellers more incentives. He said that Pakistan should be connected through air links with more countries that would help in promoting Pakistan’s trade and exports. He assured that business community would fully cooperate in promoting PIA’s branding.
By signing the MoU, PIA has agreed to offer discount to ICCI members and their immediate family members on Economy & Economy Plus on its flights for international and domestic sectors.
The discount would be offered on request from ICCI secretariat letterhead with production of valid ICCI Membership Card by the Members. Both sides also agreed to form a Coordinating Committee comprising of representatives of both organizations that will work to promote PIA and ICCI business interests, will meet once in a month to further enhance the business relations and will work in coordination for addressing operational issues.
ICCI will display PIA branding material at prominent places in its premises while PIA will provide ICCI with branding material for promotion of PIA services. ICCI will extend support for promotion of PIA products and services from all its platforms including electronic, print and social media. ICCI members will declare PIA as Official Travel Partner and PIA will be preferred travel airline for all their visits on both international and domestic sectors.=DNA
ISLAMABAD: The PTI candidate who lost the election in Nowshera has challenged the election results. According to him serious ‘irregularities’ were committed in the by-election. On the contrary, Liaqat Khattak, brother of Defence Minister Pervez Khattak, has something else to share. He claims PTI voters cast their votes in favour of PML N candidate so he had nothing to do with the defeat of PTI in the said constituency. Now matter is taken to court of law therefore we have to wait and see as to what comes out of it at the end of the day. One thing however is clear that all is not well in PTI KPK.
As mentioned in the Part I, Pakistan’s political and electoral history is replete with anomalies and rigging stories. Not even a single election has been held so far where political parties did not accuse one another of gerrymandering. Even during PML N time by-elections were managed in favour of the sitting government. And PPP rule is no exception either, when it comes to manipulating the elections, especially the by-elections. During dictatorial regimes similar methods were adopted to get own candidates elected. The irony of our political parties and leaders is that they present themselves as messiah and true well wishers of the country and people when they are in the Opposition, but as soon as they enter power corridors, they suddenly rare become commodities. Unfortunately this practice continues unabated.
Now all political parties are blaming the Election Commission for mess created recently and in the previous elections, which is quite intriguing because the Election Commission is chosen by these political parties. In the past the President of Pakistan used to appointed the Chief Election Commissioner and the members of the ECP but now after amendments in the Constitution the President does so on the recommendations of the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition. The PML N while being in power and the PPP in the opposition had introduced this amendment with a view to pick men of their choosing for the posts of CEC and the Chairman NAB. This arrangement, as we have observed, has backfired. The man picked up for these coveted slots becomes controversial immediately after his election for it is not possible for him to remain neutral. This system of picking up men for these highest and important offices therefore needs a review.
The incumbent government of PTI has a mandate of five years to rule this country and serve the countrymen and one should not have reservations even if PTI can win another term provided it is able to dispense justice. Common folks are least bothered about who is the man in charge. They are only concerned about resolution of their problems. There is no denying the fact that even the die-hard PTI workers now appear to have lost interest in party affairs, which should ostensibly be a source of concern for the party leadership.
The PDM leadership on the contrary, is hell bent upon getting some relief from the government. It seems least bothered about ordeals of masses, who have been leading a difficult life for so many years. Mere lip service cannot heal their wounds. The Opposition had to highlight and champion for the rights of hapless people of Pakistan, if it really wants people to be on its side when it comes to making a movement against the government successful.
RAWALPINDI, FEB 22 – The Director-General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Babar Iftikhar has said that Operation Radd-ul-Fasaad was launched to restore people’s confidence in the State and make terrorists completely ineffective.
In a media briefing in Rawalpindi on Monday on the completion of four years of Radd-ul-Fasaad, the DG ISPR said that the security forces carried out the operation under the two-pronged strategy of counter-terrorism and counter-violence with the support of people which has produced positive results in various areas.
The DG ISPR said that the war against terrorism could not be won without the support of the masses and unflinching resolve.
While giving details of the operation and its dividends, the DG ISPR said that significant achievements have been made in all the domains of Operation Radd-ul-Fasaad to ensure durable peace across the Country.
Major General Babar Iftikhar said that a total of 375,000 Intelligence Based Operations (IBOs) were carried out across the Country since the start of the operation in 2017. He said that the State’s writ was restored over 7,500 square kilometers through this operation.
The DG ISPR said that 353 terrorists were killed and hundreds of others were arrested during the operation.
The director-general ISPR said that most of the over 5,000 threat alerts were neutralized before their materialization during the last four years. He said that over 72,000 illegal weapons and five million ammunition were recovered. He said that 497 border posts were set up, adding that demining was also carried out in tribal districts.
Under capacity enhancement of Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs), Major General Babar Iftikhar said that 58 new wings of FC were raised and 15 others will be established. He said that police and Levies personnel were also trained.
The DG ISPR said that 96 percent Temporarily Displaced Persons (TDPs) have returned to their homes.
The DG ISPR said that several steps were taken under the National Action Plan (NAP) including the setting up of Military Courts. He said that 717 cases were referred to the Military Courts whereas 344 terrorists were awarded death sentences in these cases, and 58 of them were implemented. He said that 106 other terrorists were given life imprisonment.
Major General Babar Iftikhar said that over 1200 sub-nationalists have laid down their arms before security forces. He said that spread of hate-speech was also controlled considerably.
The director-general ISPR further said that the initiative of Paigham-e-Pakistan has considerably helped control extremism in the Country, and the religious scholars have played an important role in this regard. He said that under de-radicalization, over 5,000 people have been reintegrated to the society.
The DG ISPR said that Operation Radd-ul-Fasaad has contributed a lot to improve the law and order situation in Karachi as well. He said that the City’s position on Crime Index has dropped from sixth in 2014 to 106 today.
Major General Babar Iftikhar said that the socio-economic dividends of the operation have been witnessed in the tribal districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He said that 831 development projects worth over Rs 31 billion are being carried out there. He said that several development projects are also being implemented in Balochistan. He said that sports activities have also been restored across the Country.
KARACHI, FEB 22 (DNA) – Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Amjad Khan Niazi visited Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) Headquarters at Karachi. Upon arrival, the Naval Chief was received by DG PMSA, Rear Admiral Shuaib. The Admiral was presented Guard of Honour by smartly turned out contingent.
Thereafter, Chief of the Naval Staff was given briefing on roles & tasks of PMSA. The Naval Chief visited Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) where he was apprised regarding operational readiness of PMSA to enforce laws in the maritime zone of Pakistan.
While interacting with the officers and staff members of PMSA, Chief of the Naval Staff, Admiral Amjad Khan Niazi lauded the commitment and efforts of PMSA in maritime domain. Naval Chief emphasized that being the only maritime law enforcement agency, PMSA has responsibility to safeguard national maritime interests.
The Admiral stressed that PMSA has to play an active role in Governments initiatives related to development of Blue Economy. Naval Chief also appreciated the agency’s efforts in facilitating fishermen community and ensuring their safety and security at sea.
The Admiral expressed satisfaction over operational capabilities tasks performed by PMSA. He also assured that Pakistan Navy will continue to provide all out support to PMSA.=DNA
LAHORE, FEB 22 (DNA) – With the world gradually moving back to normal, the day when international borders of top study destinations of the world will open for foreign students, is coming closer. It is time that the students gear up and start preparing themselves to realize their dreams to study at top-ranked international universities.
With over 5000 alumni and 200,000+ IELTS registrations, AEO Pakistan over the past two decades has established itself as Australian & Global Education Specialists, the most trusted IELTS Official Test Centre and now the official OET Test Centre in Pakistan. AEO Pakistan operates as the official Liaison office for over 40 leading Australian Universities/Institutions and facilitates the enrolment of International students at these Universities / Institutions. Since 2002, AEO Pakistan has been conducting Australian Education Expos providing an excellent opportunity to Pakistani students planning to Study in Australia. Over the years thousands of students have benefitted from AEO expos held twice annually, across all major cities of Pakistan.
This February once again AEO Education Expo is being organized across 9 major cities of Pakistan i.e., Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Multan, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Abbottabad, Peshawar and Hyderabad. The AEO expo is providing an ideal platform to prospective students across the country, to get free expert advice and counselling about how to apply to study in at top ranked international universities in Australia, USA, Canada and UK. Representatives of more than 19 universities/institutes are participating at the expo providing golden opportunity for Pakistani students to get free guidance and counseling for their future study endeavors. Information about IELTS test and preparatory classes is also being provided at the expo.
The first exhibition of the series was successfully held today in Lahore at PC Hotel. Hundreds of students along with their parents participated at the expo with great interest and excitement to enroll for admissions at top ranked Australian and other leading International Universities. The participants appreciated AEO’s effort in provision of a perfect platform offering free counselling sessions with official representatives of international universities to explore the options of enrolling for a degree of their choice.
The next expo of the series is scheduled to be held in Sialkot on 24th February Hotel the Jeeven’s, Islamabad 25th February Serena Hotel, Faisalabad 25th February Hotel One, Multan 26th February Hotel One, Karachi 27th February Movenpick Hotel, Abbottabad 27th February Hotel One, Peshawar 28th February PC Hotel and Hyderabad 28th February Indus Hotel. Entry to the exhibition is FREE with a mask and Scholarships up to 75% opportunities are also available.
ISLAMABAD, FEB 22 (DNA) – The Government of Japan has announced on Monday a contribution of USD 3.7 million to support UNHCR’s programmes and activities for Afghan refugees and host communities in Pakistan.
This three-year project will focus on education, livelihoods assistance and community structures in the provinces of Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab, benefitting over 240,000 individuals.
The announcement was made at a ceremony in Islamabad. On this occasion, the Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, His Excellency Mr. MATSUDA Kuninori, and UNHCR Representative, Ms. Noriko Yoshida, signed an agreement. The Chief Commissioner for Afghan Refugees, Mr. Saleem Khan, was also present.
“Acquiring education and vocational skills is vital for the social inclusion of Afghan refugees. In this project, we will continue to provide financial support, which will greatly contribute to the stability and peace of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Peace and stability are the precondition for achieving voluntary repatriation and sustainable reintegration in Afghanistan,” said Ambassador MATSUDA.
Ms. Yoshida thanked the people and Government of Japan for their generosity towards refugees and host communities. “This funding will go a long way to empowering young refugees and Pakistanis through skills development and education.”
The UNHCR Representative further said that given the protracted Afghan refugee situation in Pakistan, Japan is supporting sustained investments easing the burden on host communities.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Commissioner for Afghan Refugees said that Pakistan has been hosting Afghan refugees for over 40 years and called on the international community to step up their support for large refugee-hosting countries.
“Japan has always played its part in supporting humanitarian efforts in Pakistan,” commended Mr. Khan.
Japan is playing an important role in burden- and responsibility-sharing, as set out in the Global Compact for Refugees adopted at the United Nations General Assembly in December 2018.
The Government of Japan is one of UNHCR’s largest donors and supporters of many years.=DNA
ISLAMABAD, FEB 22 (DNA) – Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS) and the Hans Seidel Foundation (HSF) Pakistan jointly organized a Conference on the topic of “Technological Transformation in Pakistan: An Asset or Liability?” at Margala Hotel in Islamabad on Monday.
The discussion commenced with the opening remarks by Mr. Ashfaq Ahmed Gondal, Former Federal Secretary Information and Broadcasting and Senior Member Board of Advisors, Center for Global & Strategic Studies (CGSS), Islamabad.
He stated that technological transformation is a very significant topic because things are changing very rapidly vis-à-vis technological development. Technology is an asset as it opens new avenues of development and prosperity on a broad level. It is a powerful tool for business growth if used prudently. If we fail to use it init’s true essence, it can become a liability.
Dr. Steffen Kudella, Resident Representative, HSF Pakistan in his welcome remarks discussed significant aspects of the topic at this conference. He stated that an algorithm is a mechanistic formula that automaticallyproduces an answer for each new case that appears. This happens with no orwith very minimal human intervention. Algorithms are marking the current ageof technology.However, algorithms face serious limitations.
Dr. Steffen stated that Artificial Intelligence is still far awayfrom having real super-human abilities.It is important for us to see not only the potential, but also the limitations ofArtificial Intelligence. However, it isunlikely that they will be able to replace human beings completely inthe future. Knowing this, human beings can and should adjust theirskills througheducation and training as per the needs of the future society.
Ali Muhammad Khan, Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Government of Pakistan was the Chief Guest at this conference. He stated that Germany, China and Japan have re-emerged because of their focused economic development through technology which has resulted in rapid economic growth within their societies.
He stated that the Government of Pakistan is taking efficient steps to introduce technology and innovation in various sectors within the country.
“We have aptly invested in health and education during the past years. Our youth is doing great and if we have not performed in the last seventy decades, we surely have the vigor and energy to do it now. We have great potential to deliver to the world and we should not be overwhelmed by any challenges.
Barrister Waqas Aziz Qureshi – Senior Law Expert and Managing Partner, Transact Advisorypresented speech on the topic “Legal and Legislative Perspective on the Technological Transformation in Pakistan.” He stated his concern regarding what is required in terms of legal framewok to enhance better technological development. Pakistan is inclined towards traditional investment patterns. Technology has not transformed our economy because of our lack of interest in its development. The Government of Pakistan has taken vigilant steps to match pace with the world in this regard. He recommended that special economic zones for technological development can be setup for economic boost in this field. There should be technology-based companies which should benefit from Government’s incentives and initiatives.
Mr. Amir Zafar Durrani, President, Reenergia(Expert of renewable energy, development, trade and connectivity) presented speech on“Adapting Pakistan to Post COVID-19 Technology Gains: Some Thought Pathways.”He stated that the biggest compression of technology is happening in our region. Life patterns are changing, with some job opportunitiesat lower vocational drying up. During such perilous times, resilient businesses have benefitted by adopting and embracing digital methods, showing new pathwaysabout how best to adopt technological development. “Unfortunately, we are teaching our kids everything but cognitive thinking which, in the long run, can be extremely dangerous and counterproductive for us. He stated that this is the era of fast emerging East because of the Chinese widespread investment in its immediategeographical vicinity and beyond. “We need to train our people and must stand as a nation to protect CPEC which is virtually the economic lifeline of our country in times to come. If technology is not used efficiently and prudently, it can become a lability. If we handle our resources and youth smartly, technological transformation has all the elements in it to become an asset”.
Mr. Ammar Jaffri, Director General, Center of Information Technology (CIT) presented speech on the topic “Technological Transformation in Pakistan through BRI & CPEC.” He stated, “challenges are present and we need to have joint platforms for facilitating and bringing technology in Pakistan. As for the government, it must regulate andintroduce suitable environment and should keep a strict check”. He stated that our biggest opportunity and trump card is our youth. “They have passion and I have faith in them if are guided well. Our universities must deliver the right manpower”.
Mr. Jawad Majid, Director, Silk Bank highlighted the “Impacts of Technological Transformation on Pakistan’s Financial Sector.” He stated that there are several opportunities that are present for the youth nowadays vis-à-vis this topic. “We can include youth by giving them initial capital to induce them towards financial betterment via technical development in monetary and banking sectors. Private banks can collaborate and work together cohesively with the government institutions and other stakeholders related to technological sector for exponentially boosting prospects of better technological development of Pakistan in due course of time”.
Mr. Tariq Malik – Former Chief Technology Officer, GHQpresented speech on the topic “Challenges to Social Security under the Technological Transformation in Pakistan.” He stated that millions of jobs are expected to be lost or displaced during the coming decades because of the technological development happening today and fear of losing job is rampant. He stated that “Artificial Intelligence can revolutionize segments of life and can bring new opportunities. If technology is not understood and adopted, unemployment is not far away. When we are part of the global economy, we ought to change ourselves. We need to understand destination jobs for tomorrow. On the other hand, if technological development is embraced with open arms and is allowed to sensibly grow in our country, many job opportunities can emerge”.
Dr. Minhas Majeed Marwat, Department of International Relations, University of Peshawarpresented speech on “Evolving Education Sector in the Prism of Technological Transformation: Challenges and Solutions.” She stated that technology has affected all aspects of life. Technology and learning process has become more effective due to technological development. Technology has changed the traditional role of teachers now. Presently, massive information is present on the internet and formal learning has consequently become much easier. Due to technological development, feedback between students and teachers has also become better because of this technological development. She concluded by stating that such development might be widening social gap within Pakistan but on the other hand, it can be a blessing as well.
Mr. Aamir Ghauri, Editor, The News presented speech on the topic “Technological Transformation Impacting Media: Increasing Challenges and the Way Forward”. He stated that the mushroom growth of media in Pakistan has created bigger challenges. He stated that the journalists work as the watchdog in public interest. Mr. Aamir stated that the biggest challenge that we are facing today is fake news. Mainstream media has to work under certain policy framework regulation. Having said that, lawmakers and legislative bodies must also catchup with the evolving technology. We also need to research sources to fact check the information. He also comprehensively elaborated the responsibilities of the media and reporters.
Ms. Bareerah Fatima,Program Liaison Officer Associate, Pakistan Council of Research in Water Resources (PCRWR)gave a glimpse of usage of digital technology for various multifaceted purposes vis-à-vis water conservation and management. She stated that at the moment, water conservation in agriculture sector requires quick improvement through technological development.
The esteemed speakers gave presentation on various aspects related to water conservation and management. Indus telemetry initiative is significantly helping in water management and conservation through its data gathering through its advanced technological mechanism and techniques. She also stated facts vis-a-vis aspects related to groundwater management and monitoring present in Pakistan at the moment. Real time canal monitoring was also discussed in considerable length. Satellite based water resource management has also significantly helped in this regard.
The event was attended by approximately130participants, and was moderated by Ms. Palwasha Nawaz, Project Executive, CGSS.
Till the recent past, very few Pakistanis were having the knowledge of the fact that their Chinese friends strictly follow the times old practice of observing the First day of their new year with great pump and show. It brings festivities for them. With the beginning of February every year, the Chinese start preparations for observing their new year which occurs as per Lunisolar Calendar.
Illumination of houses and buildings; lightening of a red Lantern here and there; fireworks; having families get to gathers; parades; traditional dances and visiting each other’s families to exchange festivities of the day are the most common customs and traditions of the Chinese society as part of the festivities.
With the successful progress on implementing plans like BRI Project and continuing with worldwide trade and business activities, the Peoples Republic of China has virtually accessed the nations across the globe. One can witness Chinese people doing businesses and availing employment opportunities not only all over the Asia continent but Europe, Africa, America and Australia as well. It is because of this very fact that like Christmas, the Chinese Spring Festival is also observed all over the world.
The Chinese New Year is attributed to bull. Extremely doing hard work, positive thinking, sincerity and honesty are judged the core qualities of an ox. The Chinese initiate preparations of observing the festivities of the year by cleansing and white washing of their houses in a colourful manner. The entire family joins hands with the elderly lady of it in doing all this. Whether it is a small flat of an urban locality or a sprawling house in the countryside, cleansing is a common practice with the beginning of the Chinese New Year. All the households and utensils as well as each and every nook and corner of each home are cleansed by the respective families and occupants. In fact a loud message is conveyed that all the backlogs are cleared.
After proper cleansing of homes, each and every thing is properly decorated and ornamented therein. The color: Red, gets prominence in all respects. The traditional red lanterns, red paper cuttings, Chinese knots would be seen everywhere and anywhere on the sagacious occasion. Home and family are the core points of observing the Spring Festival. It always is an earnest desire of each and every Chinese citizen to be with family members at the beginning of the Chinese New Year. Backing Chinese traditional “Pakwan” is another common practice on the occasion across the Chinese society.
Making complete roasted fish, noodles, van tan, rice cakes, dumplings and roasted ducks as part of festive menu is another common requirement of the festival. Some people also present dances of dragons and lions. The Chinese are in fact very fond of eating. There is an old Chinese saying: “eatables are the most important necessity of human beings”. Having got added the body weight to at least three pounds at the end of each festival, is a compulsory part of life, concludes a modern Chinese saying. The observance of Chinese New Year is a times old practice which dates back to 0011 to 0017 B.C.
Now let me come to the Pak China Friendship. Both Peoples Republic of China and Pakistan are staunchly bound in this historic relationship. Pakistanis also fully share the festivities of their Chinese friends. Here in Pakistan, special events were arranged to celebrating the Spring Festival. The Peshawar based China Window is emerging as an illuminating sign of Pak China Friendship. To share the festivities of the Spring Festival, a special program was arranged at the premises of the institution.
Mr. Abid Majeed, Secretary for Sports, Culture, Tourism and Youth Affairs – a dynamic personality – has been proved the moving force in doing all this possible at the China Window. Mr. Tashfeen Haider, Additional Secretary of the Department accompanied by his office colleagues, Mr. Saleem Jan Marwat, Director, Youth Affairs and Mr. Ajmal Khan, Director Culture have indeed spared no effort in translating the event into truly a success story. Mr. Abid Majeed himself formally inaugurated the event on the occasion. Talking to the media persons on the occasion, he said, “The Pak China Friendship is a living reality which also is an admitted fact world over”. The Peoples Republic of China, he added, bears an important role in our national history as well. Both the friends, he remarked, enjoy the exemplary brotherhood.
It is because of this vary fact that we, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, have chosen the China Window to observing the Chinese New Year festivities in a colorful way. What I conclude from the event, Mr. Abid Majeed said, a message of love and affection has gone to every Chinese world over from here today. While mentioning the relay of a video highlighting various aspects of the spring festival as part of the colorful event, he said, it is a very objective and meaningful attempt to developing better understandings about the festival. Hundreds of people, attending the various Spring Festival oriented activities will watch the video which contains traditional musical displays, Chinese and local foods. Children adorned with special clothes along with their families were enjoying all such festivities.
Amongst the participants of the festivities also included the students of Hayatabad Model School who had reached China Window early in the morning. To express their feelings, the students cut a cake at the China Window as part of the festivities. All the participants have been enjoying the event.
To the utter astonishment of the participants, the Chief Secretary of the province, Dr. Kazim Niaz had made his presence at the ceremony all of a sudden where he also cut a cake and shared his views with the participants befitting to the occasion.
A member of the provincial assembly, Mr. Wilson Wazir, Honorary Consul General of Tajikistan, Eng. Said Mahmood, provincial Secretary Sports, Culture, Tourism, Mr. Abid Majeed; Director Youth Affairs of the provincial government, Mr. Saleem Jan Marwat were also present on the occasion. The Chief Secretary was of the view that the Pak China Friendship is a time tested reality and it is being strengthened with the every passing day.
The Peoples Republic of China has always been found rushing towards Pakistan in every hour of its need. The exemplary state of support extended to Pakistan by Chinese friends, is one such example. The successful implementation of China Pakistan Economic Corridor, he said, is another example of the deep rooted friendly relationships between both the countries. All such factors, the Chief Secretary said, encourage the Pakistani people to whole heartedly share the festivities of the Spring Festival.
He also expressed pleasures over the arrangements which were made by the China Window to observing the Chinese New Year. The role of China Window, he said, in holding such a colorful event to mark the auspicious occasion, is indeed impressive. He expressed the hope that China Window would continue to hosting such events in future as well. Meanwhile, the guests continue to joining the festivities at the institution amongst them were also the representative figures from cross sections of the society.
The presence of the Inspector General of Police of the province, Mr. Sanaullah Abbasi at the China Window on the eve of Chinese New Year celebrations was another encouraging development which was highly welcomed. While talking on the occasion, the IGP said, the police force of the province has formally launched the security plan meant for CPEC and almost 10,500 new recruitments have been effected for the purpose.
Further, he said, 1200 newly recruited cops are going through hectic training and the first lot of security vehicles meant for the purpose has already received. The projects completed under CPEC, he said, are indeed tremendously contributing in ensuring accelerated development of the country. “We consider all the projects being implemented as off shoots of CPEC, extremely important and doing our best to ensuring their proper security”, he remarked.
He also congratulated the administration of the China Window for holding colorful ceremony and appreciated its efforts which are underway towards promotion of Chinese language. Meanwhile, the participants enjoyed the festivities; had tasty foods and danced in tune with the music tunes. A group of children adorned with Pakhtun kulah and lungi as well as traditional clothes of Kalash tribe attracted the audience to the utmost. All such activities continued till late night.
Naz Parveen
Author is Columnist of Daily Kasoti Peshawar and also Director of state of the art Chinese Cultural and Information Center China Window Peshawar
ISLAMABAD – WhatsApp’s new Terms of Service and privacy policy changes will come into effect on May 15, 2021. As per reports, the company has started sending in-app alerts to its users in order to prompt them into accepting the change.
The in-app alert that the company is sending to its users indicates that users will not be able to use the service if they don’t accept the company’s ToS by May 15.
But it remains uncertain as to what exactly will happen if WhatsApp users fail to hit the Accept button when the prompt shows up in the app. Now, the company has issued some clarification in this regard.
TechCrunch reviewed an email sent by the company to one of its merchant partners. In the email, the company said that it would ‘slowly ask’ the users who don’t accept its new ToS by May 15 to comply with the new terms.
If these users still don’t accept the new terms, “for a short time, these users will be able to receive calls and notifications, but won’t be able to read or send messages from the app.” WhatsApp has also updated its FAQ pages to reflect these changes.
The Facebook-owned messaging app on its FAQ page wrote that its policy related to inactive users will apply to users who don’t accept its new Terms of Service by May 15.
Notably, the company didn’t exactly define how long they will be able to use some of the app’s features if they fail to accept the new terms. But the company’s policy for inactive account states that “WhatsApp accounts are generally deleted after 120 days of inactivity. Inactivity means the user hasn’t connected to WhatsApp.”
This means that after May 15, WhatsApp users have 120 days or roughly four months to accept the company’s new Terms of Service or risk losing access to their WhatsApp accounts completely.
LAHORE, FEB 22 – The Lahore chief traffic officer (CTO) has said that FIRs will be registered instead of challan on serious violations.
He said that challan tickets were issued to 514,707 vehicles so far in an ongoing campaign. Action was taken against more than 451,000 vehicles for not having number plates according to the pattern issued by the government.
Tickets were issued to 43,522 motorcycles and vehicles for not having number plates. Tickets were issued to 4,456 vehicles for erasing registration numbers. As many as 19,657 vehicles tinted glass were ticketed.
Dolphin: Dolphin Squad and PRU of Lahore police showed immediate response to the all 443 calls received on helpline 15 during the last week. Dolphins and PRU helped around 39 people on different roads of the city.
Both the wings checked more than 151,000 motorbikes, 3,090 other vehicles and more than 155,000 persons. Around 1,407 motorbikes and three other vehicles were impounded and 244 persons were arrested in different police stations due to having incomplete documents. Dolphin Squad and PRU also arrested 15 criminals on the allegations of flying kites, doing wheelie and firing in the air.
