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Turkey an important NATO ally: German defense chief

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BERLIN, FEB 2: Turkey is an important NATO ally, the German defense minister said on Tuesday, following a meeting with her Turkish counterpart Hulusi Akar in the capital Berlin.

Akar and his delegation were greeted with military honors by Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer at the headquarters of the German Ministry of Defence, where the two ministers discussed various aspects of bilateral defense cooperation, international security issues, and the recent developments in the Eastern Mediterranean.

“Turkey is, and will remain, an important NATO partner,” Kramp-Karrenbauer said after the talks, adding that today’s meeting can be interpreted as “a special, and a good signal” for the allies.

She underlined that Turkey has always been a reliable and close partner, and made significant contributions to Europe’s security.

“Both countries have a shared interest in maintaining stability in the southeastern flank of the NATO,” she stressed.

Akar, for his part, thanked his German counterpart for her hospitality and said they had very frank and constructive discussions on a number of important topics.

“We have had the opportunity to discuss a wide range of issues, both bilateral topics, and security and defense matters within the framework of NATO and the EU,” he said.

Turkey-Greece dialogue 

Akar’s visit came after the resumption of direct talks between Turkey and Greece on Jan. 25, following Germany’s diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Kramp-Karrenbauer has welcomed the recent talks between Ankara and Athens, and expressed hope that this process would help finding diplomatic solutions to the long-standing problems between the two NATO allies.

“I hope that all sides would use this opportunity for dialogue, I see Germany here in a mediating role,” she said.

The German government has taken several initiatives in recent months to reduce tensions between Turkey and Greece, and facilitated the resumption of direct talks after a four-year hiatus.

Tensions in Eastern Mediterranean 

Turkey and Greece have long been at odds over the maritime boundaries in the Aegean and the Eastern Mediterranean.

Ankara has rejected maritime boundary claims of EU members Greece and the Greek Cypriot administration, and stressed that these excessive claims violate the sovereign rights of both Turkey and the Turkish Cypriots.

Last year, the Turkish government had sent several drill ships in the Eastern Mediterranean to explore for energy resources, asserting Turkey’s rights in the region as well as those of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

Turkish leaders have repeatedly said the problems in the Aegean and the Eastern Mediterranean should be resolved through peaceful means and dialogue, but also underlined that Turkey has the will and determination to protect its rights and interests arising from international law and agreements.

KFU marks the Week of World Interfaith Harmony

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RAHIM YAR KHAN, FEB 2 (DNA) – World Interfaith Harmony Week is an annual event observed during the first week of February.  World Interfaith Harmony Week (WIHW), conceived to promote peace and nonviolence, was first proposed by King Abdullah II of Jordan at the United Nations in 2010.

Recognizing the imperative need for dialogue among different faiths and religions to enhance mutual understanding, harmony and cooperation among people, the General Assembly encourages all States to spread the message of interfaith harmony and goodwill in the world’s churches, mosques, synagogues, temples and other places of worship during that week, voluntarily and according to their religious traditions or convictions.

The World Interfaith Harmony Week provides a platform—one week in a year—when all interfaith groups and other groups of goodwill can show the world what a powerful movement they are. This week will allow for these groups to become aware of each other and strengthen the movement by building ties and avoiding duplicating each others’ efforts.

To celebrate the Interfaith Harmony Week and to spread the message of peace and harmony of Khwaja Ghulam Fareed (R.A) to all corners of the world, Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology cohosted a virtual international conference on 2nd February 2021. The conference was organized in collaboration with ‘The Universal Peace Federation International’, ‘Coalition of Faith-Based Organizations’, ‘International Association of Parliamentarians for Peace’ and  LIOS-SOIL Organization. KFUEIT provided IT resources and consultancy for the virtual conference. Over 500 international participants from 27 different countries registered and attend the virtual conference. The daylong conference consisted of two sessions.

The first session covered the discussion on the topic of “Interfaith Cooperation for Securing Peace in the 21st Century”. The speakers for this session were Prof. Dr. Mohammad Nizamuddin former Chairman PHEC & Pro-Rector Superior University Lahore Pakistan, Ms. Prof. Dr. Basmah Ahmed Mohammed Jastaniah Professor of Umm Al Qura University Makkah Saudia Arabia, Bishop Humphrey Sarfaraz Peters President Bishop Church of Pakistan & Bishop of Peshawar Pakistan, Ms. Prof. Dr. Roida Rzayeva Oktay Azerbaijan National Academy of Sciences Baku Azerbaijan, Ms. Prof. Dr. Musferah Mehfooz Professor of Islamic Studies COMSATS University Lahore Pakistan, Rev. Prof. Dr. Zaka Ahuche Peter Head of Public Theology Department Nigeria, Ms. Prof. Dr. Konul Bunyadzade Department Head of Islamic Philosophy National Academy of Sciences Azerbaijan and Dr. Ismath Ramzy Senior Lecturer University of Malaya (UM) Kuala Lumpur Malaysia.

The second session discussion was on “Role of Faith-Based Organizations in Social Support and Combating Crimes. The speakers of the session were Prof. Dr. Abul Saboor Dean Faculty of Social Sciences PMAS Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi Pakistan, Prof. Dr. Ridwan al-Makassary Research Coordinator on Public Policy Jayapura Indonesia, Ms. Dr. Zainab Moin Lecturer Fatima Jinnah Women University Rawalpindi Pakistan, Sahibzada Sultan Ahmed Ali Chairman (Research Think Tank) MUSLIM Institute (Islamabad-London) Pakistan, Dr. Allapitchay Mohamed Mihlar Vice-Principal Zahira College Colombo Sri Lanka, Ms. Tabassum Parveen, Researcher working on the Political Economy of Arab Gulf states Qatar and Dr. Shahid Habib Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering & Information Technology Rahim Yar Khan Pakistan.

All speakers highlighted the importance of interfaith harmony. It is impossible to develop a prosperous world without peace. For a peaceful world, it is necessary to develop a culture of tolerance and to promote interfaith harmony.

It is the duty of each individual of society as well as all institutions of state to spread awareness. Vice chancellor Khwaja Fareed University Prof. Dr. Suleman Tahir appreciated the efforts of the conference organizing team and said that it is the need of time to spread awareness about interfaith harmony.

It will bring peace, prosperity, culture of tolerance and would strengthen the bonds of society for a prosperous and bright future. To spread awareness among students, KFUEIT will work on the theme not only in this particular week but for the whole year because it is a social and moral responsibility of each educational institution.=DNA

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PAF Academy Aerobatics team “Sherdil” presents thrilling aerial display

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RAWALPINDI, FEB 2 (DNA) – The graduation ceremony of 144th GD (P), 90th Engineering Course and 100th AD courses was held at PAF Academy, Asghar Khan today. Chief of Army Staff( COAS) , General Qamar Javed Bajwa, was the chief guest on the occasion . Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan, Chief of Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force was also present at the ceremony .

COAS congratulated the graduating cadets on their landmark achievement. While addressing the graduating cadets, COAS said that Pakistan is a peace loving country that has rendered great sacrifices for regional and global peace. We stand firmly committed to the ideal of mutual respect and peaceful co-existence. It is time to extend hand of peace in all directions, COAS remarked.  Pakistan and India must also resolve  the longstanding issue of Jammu and Kashmir in a dignified and peaceful manner as per the aspirations of people of Jammu and Kashmir and bring this human tragedy to its logical conclusion, COAS emphasised.

However, we will not allow anybody or any entity to misinterpret our desire for peace as a sign of weakness. COAS said that Armed Forces of Pakistan are fully capable and prepared to thwart any threat. The immaculate coordination and harmony displayed by all the three services in operations against the enemies of Pakistan has brought great improvement in the internal security environment, COAS said. COAS specially commended the critical role played by Pakistan Air Force in War on Terror.

The outstanding courage and professional excellence displayed by brave air warriors of Pakistan Air Force during Operation Swift Retort is a manifestation of our resolve and capability. The whole nation is proud of its Air Force and I earnestly hope that PAF will scale new heights of glory and excellence in the years to come, COAS reiterated. COAS hailed presence of cadets from KSA for training at PAF Academy Asghar Khan. This is a manifestation of warm fraternal ties between Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and our Defence Forces indeed. we are proud of the strong bonds of Islam, brotherhood and cultural communion that bind us together, COAS concluded

A total of 133 graduating Cadets including 11 Royal Saudi Air Force Cadets and 6 lady cadets graduated at the occasion. COAS awarded branch insignias to the graduating officers and also gave away trophies to the distinction holders.

Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Trophy for the best performance in General Service Training was awarded to Aviation Cadet Faizan Iqbal.

Best Allied Cadet Trophy was won by RSAF Cadet Hatem Muhammad Alsofiani. Chief of the Air Staff trophy for overall best performance in Air Defence was won by Aviation Cadet Shahryar Khan. Chief of the Air Staff trophy for the best performance in Engineering was won by Aviation Cadet Muhammad Usman. Chief of the Air Staff trophy for best performance in Flying Training was awarded to Aviation Cadet Danish Qayyum. Sword of Honour for overall best performance in College of Aeronautical Engineering was won by Aviation Cadet Muhammad Usman. Sword of honour for overall best performance in college of Flying Training was won by Muhammad Ibtisam Naeem.

The ceremony was followed by a thrilling aerial display by PAF Academy Aerobatics team” Sherdil” and a specialized military drill” Hamza Flight” of the academy.

Earlier, on his arrival, the COAS was received by Air vice Marshal Shakil Ghazanfar, Air Officer Commanding, and PAF Asghar Khan Academy. The ceremony was witnessed by high-ranking Military & Civil Officials, Diplomats, foreign dignitaries and a large number of guests of graduating cadets.=DNA

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100 days of Orange Line Metro Train’s operations

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LAHORE, FEB 2 (DNA) – The Orange Line Metro Train System (OLMRTS) successfully completed its first 100 days of operations on February 02, 2021 while ensuring strict implementation of all the necessary standard operating procedures (SOPs) related to Covid-19.

The operational timings of these sleek, hi-tech trains are from6:15am to 10pm. The gap between each train is up to5 minutes depending on peak or off-peak timings, making it an immensely dependable, convenient and economical mode of transport for the daily commuters. The passengers also enjoy the reduced travelling time from 2.5 hours to 45 minutes from DeraGujran to Ali Town through its 26 stations.

Ushering a new era of modern transport, Pakistan entered the first large-scale technologically advanced rail transit project under the “Belt and Road” initiative and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in October 25, 2020.The OLMRTS project was jointly constructed by China Railway Group Co, Ltd. and China North Industries, a China Ordnance Industry Group Corporation, while its Operations and Maintenance is looked after by Norinco International, as the leading companyalong with Guangzhou Metro Group (GMG) and Daewoo Pakistan Express Bus Service Ltd.

With its smog and emission free trains, the OLMRTS project is not only providing the best-in-class transport services to the residents of Lahore, but also introduced a new momentum into the development of urban modernization in the country with rules of urban green development.=DNA

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Embassy of Pakistan in Azerbaijan hosts webinar titled “Kashmir: An Unfinished Agenda”

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ISLAMABAD, FEB 2 (DNA) – A webinar titled “Kashmir: An Unfinished Agenda” was hosted by the Embassy of Pakistan on 1st February 2021. The President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Sardar Masood Khan, and Member of Milli Majlis (Azerbaijan’s Parliament) and Chair of Pakistan-Azerbaijan Parliamentary Friendship Group from Azerbaijan side, Ms. Ganira Pashayeva were the keynote speakers.

The panel also included prominent Kashmiri activist Ms. Mushaal Hussein Mullick (spouse of jailed Kashmiri liberation leader Mr. Yasin Malik), and a human rights activist based in US, Malik Nadeem Abid.

During the webinar, video messages prepared by the Azerbaijani youth expressing solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJ&K) were also shown.

DNA 2-15

This collage comprising the self-made videos by the Azerbaijan youth sent a clear and unequivocal signal of Azerbaijan’s support to the just cause of Kashmir.

In his emphatic statement,Sardar Masood Khan talked about the historical, geographical, cultural and commercial linkages of Jammu and Kashmir with Pakistan. He argued that India occupied the territory through deceit and repression. On 5 August 2019, India reoccupied the territory and did all it could to suppress the Kashmiri people.

President Masood Khan rejected creation of new political class in Kashmir. He demanded India to release all Kashmiri political leaders and stop genocide in Kashmir.He called upon the UNSC, OIC, friendly countries, international civil society and Human Rights organisations to play their role in ending the dispute.

Malik Nadeem Abid highlighted the atrocities committed by the Indian occupation forces in Kashmir and equated Indian actions in Kashmir to genocide.He proposed that the UN Secretary General should nominate plebiscite administrator for Jammu and Kashmir as per the UNSC resolutions.

Ms. Mullickin her recorded message stated that Kashmir had been turned into a largest prison in the world where torture, arbitrary confinement, and rape was used as a weapon. He appealed to the international community to raise voice against the injustices committed in Kashmir by the Indian forces.

Member of Parliament Ms. Pashayeva noted that Azerbaijan and Pakistan had a number of similarities and common interests. Our challenges were also similar. She stressed that Justice for Kashmir and restoration of Peace in the region was among the greatest desires of Azerbaijan. Ms. Pashayeva added that Azerbaijan would continue to support Pakistan’s rightful position in resolving the Kashmir dispute.

Ambassador Bilal Hayee moderated the event and made introductory remarks highlighting the current situation in the IIOJ&K. The event was live streamed from the Embassy’s official Facebook page.=DNA

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Chairman CDA reviews progress on anti encroachment drive

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ISLAMABAD, FEB  2 (DNA) – Chairman CDA Amer Ali Ahmed has chaired a meeting to review progress of anti encroachment drive on Tuesday.

During the meeting he issued directions to the officials of CDA ICT police to ensure the retrieval of all illegally occupied lands and land grabbers be dealt with iron hand.

The chair decdied to hold daily meeting to monitor the progress of this drive and directed all concerns to enhance coordination to achieve desired results.=DNA

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Bolsonaro allies elected to head Brazilian Congress

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SAO PAULO, FEB 2 – Both candidates supported by Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro for speakers of the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies emerged victorious in a secret election held Monday night.

The victories of Senator Rodrigo Pacheco and Congressman Arthur Lira strengthen the position of the country’s far-right leader at a time when society is convulsing, with many asking for Bolsonaro to be impeached. It also comes as Brazil has over 225,000 COVID-19 deaths and a messy vaccination plan.

Both were elected for a two-year term.

Lira was elected to the Lower House by an overwhelming 302-145 vote. He has shown resistance to accepting an impeachment process against Bolsonaro and to kick off an inquiry on the federal administration’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a speech after his victory, Lira said he had opinions, “but as speaker of the Lower House, my opinion must reflect that of others.” Lira is the target of corruption investigations. He is accused of receiving bribes and is also being investigated by the state of Alagoas’ Public Prosecutor’s Office on suspicion of participating in a money embezzlement scheme at the local Legislative Assembly.

Amid fears over an impeachment process after two weekends of demonstrations in several cities against Bolsonaro, the federal government sought to interfere in the election of Lira to help him win. His campaign was marked by promises of amendments and positions in exchange for votes. The government even discusses recreating ministries to accommodate allies.

Last Friday, Bolsonaro himself said he intended to recreate the ministries of Culture, Sport and Fisheries. Lira’s main rival, Baleia Rossi, defended the independence of the Bolsonaro administration. Rossi had the support of the current speaker, Rodrigo Maia.

Hours earlier, the Senate voted 57-21 to elect Senator Pacheco, who succeeds Davi Alcolumbre. Alcolumbre himself engaged in articulating support and votes. Pacheco’s campaign had the support even from the opposition, such as the Workers’ Party (PT). He defended the importance of the Senate’s independence from other branches, although the federal government also acted to strengthen his campaign.

His most direct competitor, Senator Simone Tebet, lost strength in the final stretch of the campaign, mainly after her own party split.

After his victory, Pacheco said both tax and administrative reforms need to be tackled urgently, but without undue haste.

“Many important decisions lie ahead. The vote on reforms that divide opinions, such as tax reform and administrative reform, must be faced urgently, but without hustle. The pace of these and other important reforms will always be set together with leaders and the plenary,” he said.

Pacheco has vowed to seek a compromise between fiscal restraints and assistance to socially vulnerable Brazilians hurt by the pandemic.

U.S. – Pakistan scholarship program celebrates 16 years

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ISLAMABAD, FEB 2 (DNA) – The Government of Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC) celebrated the 16th anniversary of the Merit and Needs-Based Scholarship Program (MNBSP), which is administered in partnership with the United States Government through the U.S. Agency for International Development.

Since 2004, USAID has worked with HEC to provide equitable access to higher education and increase enrollment at Pakistani universities through merit scholarships for economically disadvantaged students.

MNBSP has granted more than 5,300 scholarships in total, and more than half of the scholarships have been awarded to female students.

Recipients demonstrate strong academic skills and financial need, and the majority live in remote rural areas.  The MNBSP awards scholarships to study agriculture, engineering, medical sciences, and social sciences.  Recipients are eligible to study at 30 private and public partner universities across the country.

“USAID is proud to partner with HEC in our shared desire to bring more highly-skilled and well-educated young Pakistanis into the workforce,” said USAID Mission Director Julie Koenen.

HEC Chairman Dr. Tariq Banuri thanked USAID and noted that USAID’s Merit and Needs-Based Scholarship Program is the model for the Government of Pakistan’s Ehsaas Undergraduate Scholarship Project, which also provides financial aid to disadvantaged students.

At the anniversary event, alumni from the MNBSP program shared their personal stories and highlighted their academic and professional achievements.=DNA

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OGRA has authorized HDIP for inspections of Sui Gas Meters

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DNA

ISLAMABAD, FEB 2 – Oil & Gas Regulatory Authority has authorized Hydrocarbon Development Institute of Pakistan (HDIP), for the inspections/testing of industrial and commercial gas meters which will be carried out on the request of the consumers. All the inspections in future will be jointly taken by HDIP and the Sui Companies.

OGRA has taken this decision in pursuance with Natural Gas Measurement (Technical Standards) Regulations, 2019.Both the SNGPL & SSGCL have been directed to coordinate with HDIP before initiating inspections, replacement or testing of meters carried out on request of industrial and commercial consumers.

Belarus businessmen keen in importing Pak products

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Ambassador Sajjad Haider Khan held a meeting with Pavel G. Topouzidis, owner of “Korona Chain Stores

MINSK (DNA) – Ambassador Sajjad Haider Khan held a meeting with Pavel G. Topouzidis, owner of “Korona Chain Stores” who is also the Chairman of the Board of Directors of “Tabak Invest” to discuss trade and investment opportunities with Pakistan. Mr. Topouzidis is also the Honourary Consul of Greece and Romania in Minsk.

 Highlighting the quality and price competitiveness of Pakistani exportable commodities, the Ambassador proposed providing opportunity for export of Home Textile products, rice, Himalayan Pink salt products, Kinnow and denim products to be sold at the Korona stores across Belarus.

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Besides, potential for import of tobacco and marble was also discussed.  Expressing gratitude for the briefing, Mr. Topouzidis assured to start import of basmati rice and Himalayan salt products in the near future, as a start.

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