TI Pakistan, WEF laud NAB’s anticorruption efforts: Chairman
DNA
ISLAMABAD, AUG 23 – Justice Javed Iqbal, Chairman NAB has said that Transparency International (TI) Pakistan and world economic forum have appreciated NAB’s overall performance in eradication of corruption and corrupt practices especially the recent report of transparency international Pakistan dated July 30, 2020 in which Mr. Sohail Muzaffar Chairman TI Pakistan has stated that NAB under the leadership of Honorable Mr. Justice Javed Iqbal, Chairman NAB, anti-corruption drive in the last 34 months has resulted in an excellent impact much needed since its inception, and NAB has so far made recovery of Rs 466 Billion which is a remarkable achievement.
TI Pakistan further stated said that NAB has played a very positive roles in curbing corruption. Transparency International (TI) Corruption Perception Index (CPI) of Pakistan is regularly improved. In 1999 Pakistan CPI Score was 22/100, the rank 87 out of 99 countries, and in 2019 Pakistan has achieved the CPI Score of 32/100, and the rank 120 out of 180 countries.
He said Transparency International has also evaluated NAB performance and compared to 27 South Asian ACA, NAB performance indicators are at par or better to other regional agencies. And in Pakistan, compared to anti-corruption organizations like the Federal Investigation Agency and Provincial Anti-Corruption Departments, NAB is perceived to be more effective.
The Transparency International, Pakistan had further stated that under the dynamic leadership of Honorable Mr. Justice Javed Iqbal, Chairman NAB has over 51 years judicial experience.
Honorable Mr. Justice Javed Iqbal, Chairman NAB is the only Chairman NAB who has held the office of acting Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Pakistan. His initiative to have interaction with businessmen so that businessmen feel free to do business in Pakistan as they are the backbone of National economy, and play a vital role in the development of the country. Transparency International Pakistan has been working with NAB since 2000, on awareness and preventive efforts to eradicate corruption, and has held many workshops, trainings, and seminars, specially on NAB’s interaction with business community and bureaucrats, assisting in NACS, UNCAC etc,
Honorable Justice Javed Iqbal, Chairman NAB said that NAB is determined to eradicate corruption in all its forms and manifestations as corruption is the mother of all evils.
In order to further improve the quality of inquiries and investigations on the basis of solid and documentary evidence, NAB has started combine investigation Team (CIT) system in order to conduct inquiries and investigations comprising of one senior investigation officer, one junior Investigation officer, Additional Director investigation as case officer, legal counsel, financial expert, land revenue expert and forensic expert under the supervision of Director and DG concerned to benefit from collective wisdom. NAB has established its own Pakistan Training and Research Academy in which specialized training has started to impart investigation officers as well as Prosecutors officers on modern lines in order to conduct investigations of cases of money laundering and white collar crime cases besides establishment of state of the art Forensic Science Laboratory in NAB Rawalpindi for scrutinizing documents and fingerprints, analysis of digital data etc.
The Forensic LAB of NAB not only saves time but also ensures secrecy and quality which is lending quality in conduct of Investigations. NAB has also established Anti Money Laundering Cell in NAB headquarters as well as witness handling cells in all the regions to improve the standard and quality of investigations as per law.
NAB is regularly reviewing the performance of NAB through computer based specially devised state of art monitoring and evaluation systems but also physically inspecting through Chairman NAB’s Inspection and Monitoring Team (CIMT) to further review overall performance of NAB.
On the instructions of Chairman NAB, Special complaint cells have been established in NAB Headquarters and all bureaus to listen to the complaints of the business community as NAB has great regard for the business community which play a vital role in the development of the country. Moreover, Honorable Hussain Asghar, Deputy Chairman NAB has life long experience in investigation of white collar crime cases. Similarly, Zahir Shah, DG Operations NAB and all DGs of Regional Bureaus of NAB are working very hard to examine the work of Investigation Officers in an analytical way in order to overcome the shortcoming if any well in time.
NAB intends to incorporate experienced legal counsel, prosecutors, deputy prosecutors and additional prosecutor general in its legal team in order to have vigorous prosecution of the Honorable Courts. NAB. Most importantly, Investigation Division and Prosecution Divisions of NAB under the supervision of Honorable Hussain Asghar, Deputy Chairman NAB and Syed Asghar Haider, Learned Prosecution General Accountability (PGA), NAB under the dynamic leadership of Honorable Mr. Justice Javed Iqbal, Chairman NAB are absolutely committed to root out corruption so that corrupt should be brought to justice and looted money should be recovered and deposit in national exchequer as per law.
Honorable Justice Javed Iqbal, Chairman NAB has said that NAB is the focal organization of Pakistan under United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) as Pakistan is signatory of UNCAC.
Pakistan is the only country in the world to which China has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for eradication of corruption. Pakistan and China are now jointly working for ensuring transparency in China Pakistan Economic Coordination CPEC projects. He said that World Economic Forum Report, Transparency International, Pakistan, PILDAT and Mishal Pakistan has lauded NAB’s efforts to aware people about the ill effects of corruption for corruption free Pakistan.
According to a survey of Gillani and Gallop Pakistan 59 people of Pakistan showed confidence in NAB. He said that NAB is the chairman of SAARC Anti Corruption Forum. This was a reorganization of NAB’s excellent work as NAB is considered as a role model among SAARC countries. He said that he signed a Memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Higher Education Commission to aware students of Universities/Colleges about the ill effects of corruption at an early age as youth is the future of Pakistan. In this regard, Character Building Societies (CBS) have been established in Universities/Colleges throughout the country.
Chairman said that NAB’s faith is Corruption free Pakistan and has chalked out anti corruption strategy of Awareness, Prevention and Enforcement.
He said that NAB’s major focus is logical conclusion of mega corruption cases. Since NAB’s inception, one of NAB’s major achievements has been the recovery of around Rs.466.069 billion which is a great achievement as per the annual report of 2019 of NAB. He said that the overall complaints in 2019 were 53643 and processed 42760 whereas complaints in 2018 were 48591 and processed 41414. NAB during 2019, processed 1308 complaint verifications, 1686 inquiries and 609 investigations and recovered Rs 141.542 billion from corrupt elements in 2019.
He said that NAB has introduced a new concept of Combine Investigation Team (CIT) in order to benefit from the experience and collective wisdom of senior supervisory officers, a system of CIT consisting of Director, Additional Director, two Investigation Officer, Senior Legal Consultant, forensic expert, financial expert, land revenue expert etc under the supervision of concerned DG, NAB.
He said that NAB has established its state of the art Forensic Science Laboratory in NAB Rawalpindi. In 2019, 15747 questioned documents and 300 thumb impressions were analyzed in 50 cases and forensic analysis was carried out on 74 digital devices (Laptops, Mobile phones, Hard Disks etc). NAB has always accorded high priority for training/capacity building of its Investigation Officers and Prosecutors on regular basis on modern lines as Training is a continuous process which is an effective tool for improvement and maintaining the quality of Investigation Officers and Prosecutors. He said that NAB recognizes the centrality of training as a tool of improvement and maintaining the quality of its manpower. The performance objectives of training programs will also be continuously evaluated so as to form a basis for subsequent review and improvements in future training needs. He said that NAB is committed to eradicate corruption by utilizing all its resources in all its forms and manifestations.
MoRA directs to provide optimum facilities to Sikh Yatrees
NAROWAL, Aug 23 (DNA): Secretary Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Sardar Ajaz Khan Jaffar has directed to provide optimum facilities to Sikh Yatrees in Kartarpur complex.
Speaking during his visit to Kartarpur complex in Narowal Sunday, he
said connecting roads leading to Kartarpur Gurdwara are being further
improved for smooth travel of Yatrees.
He said all efforts should be made to facilitate both domestic and
international pilgrims visiting Kartarpur.
The Secretary said Kartarpur is the best example of harmony among
different religions. DNA
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FEBR wants housing sector-like subsidy for entire industry across Pakistan
DNA
KARACHI, AUG 23 – With a view to keep the economy running and generate employment opportunities the Friends of Economic and Business Reforms (FEBR) President Kashif Anwar has urged the government to announce the construction sectors’ relief package for the entire industry across the country in the post-corona slowdown economy.
Kashif Anwar observed that the housing sector-like historic incentives for all industrial sectors would prove a turning point for the economy, besides providing financial flexibility to the low income people.
He said that government has already declared construction sector an industry as it had huge demand of up to 70 associated industries. He added that the move would add the positive impact to the country’s economic health when the same relief would be provided to those allied industries.
Kashif Anwar said that FEBR appreciates the PM to create a balance between maintaining a lockdown and keeping the construction sector running to save people from hunger and poverty. He appreciated the allocation of huge funds by the SBP for those who have lost their jobs or facing income issues during the coronavirus crisis, urging the government to formulate a mechanism to ensure fairness.
Hailing the special package for construction industry, the FEBR President, who is also the former LCCI vice president, said that the sector plays an important part in development of a country.
He also hailed the federal government to reduce the number of NOCs and made a one-window operation in all the provinces, besides reducing taxes in the provinces and now investors should take advantage of this short window of opportunity.
Kashif Anwar recommended that the purpose of the National Coordination Committee on Housing, Construction and Development should be removal of obstacles in the way of the construction industry and for this purpose the provinces should also be taken on board.
In the current situation, when whole global economy is in recession, the government has taken good steps to announce package for construction industry by providing it concessions and tax relations, he said adding that the same incentives for other allied industries will lead to a revolution in the economy of the country.
He said that he could see long-term effects of this pragmatic decision and said that in recent situation, it would uplift investments in property and construction sector and re-open huge potential for new investment.
He said that ultimate impact of these tax relaxations would leave good impact on the sector, which not only open up opportunities but also activate the circle of 70 others allied industries.
FEBR leader said that construction of high rise building and other big projects would also promote growth and investment. He said that small housing scheme for middle class would be better option to get benefits from this tax relaxation given by the government and also expected growth in country’s economy.
He said that this was takeoff time for construction industry, hence needed a comprehensive strategy to get more benefits from this government tax relief package. He also lauded the current tax relaxation to the construction industry and said this would promote market liberalization in this sector. The market regulation and liberalization would help promote growth in construction industry, he said, adding that this would give opportunity to the new investment and job opportunity in this sector. He said that the entire industry in Pakistan needs more tax liberalization to compete to other competitors in region and create more employment opportunities in country’s economy.
Chinese Cultural Counselor meets Nausheen Javaid
ISLAMABAD, AUG 23 (DNA): Pakistan is rich in cultural heritage, should be well reserved, excavated, restored and exhibited. Both countries should strengthen the exchange and cooperation in this area.
These views were expressed by the Chinese Cultural Counselor, Zhang Heqing in a meeting with Nausheen Javaid Amjad, Federal Secretary, National Heritage & Culture Division, at her office.
Zhang Heqing said that both sides appreciated mutual support in the fight against COVID-19, fully show the brotherly friendship between Pakistan and China.
Nausheen Javaid Amjad, Federal Secretary, National Heritage & Culture Division, said that Chinese people are fond of the Gandhara Civilization and the 19 antiquities exhibited in China have attracted a large number of audiences.
She said that Creative Cultural Industry plays a very important role in the social economy, China has done very well and is willing to cooperate with Pakistan to carry workshop and so on. She said that for the preservation of cultural relics in the construction site of Bhasha Dam, building an underground museum is a huge project, which is very expensive.
The Chinese side will try to provide the necessary assistance. Nausheen Javaid Amjad said that 2020 marks the 60th anniversary of the diplomatic relations of China and Pakistan, both sides agree to Join hands to organize some cultural events for the celebration.
Similar actions should be taken to other Big Days like Pakistan Dependence Day and National Day, and Chinese New year and so on. DNA
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Ertugrul Ghazi’s Esra tries Pakistani food, picks ‘Biryani’ as No.1 dish
Turkish actress Esra Bilgic, who played Halima Sultan in drama Ertugrul Ghazi, has selected ‘Biryani’ as her number one Pakistani dish.
The actress tried a variety of Pakistani food from pulao, chicken karahi, gol gappay, daal chawal, jalebi and chicken biryani.
While tasting the dishes, Esra termed Pakistani food as too spicy for her. However, she liked all the dishes but put Biryani on the top of the list.
Zaheer Abbas, Jacques Kallis inducted into ICC’s Hall of Fame
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced the inclusion of legendary Pakistan batsman Zaheer Abbas and former South Africa all-rounder Jacques Kallis in its Hall of Fame list.
The cricket’s governing body announced the development on their official Twitter account on Sunday.
Abbas, famously known as the Asian Bradman, represented the Green Caps in 78 Tests and 62 ODIs in his career where he managed to score 7,634 runs with the help of 19 centuries and 33 half-centuries.
The 73-year-old was the first batsman ever in the history of international cricket to score five consecutive centuries.
Abbas also remains the only Asian batsman to date who has managed to register 100 first-class centuries.
Kallis, on the other hand, is one of the most renowned all-rounders in cricket history.
The 44-year-old represented South Africa in 166 Tests, 328 ODIs and 25 T20Is in his illustrious career where he managed to score 25,534 runs and also claimed 577 wickets.
The list also features former Australian women’s captain Lisa Sthalekar.
The veteran all-rounder represented Australia in eight Tests, 125 ODIs and 54 T20Is where she scored 3,913 runs and also claimed 229 wickets.
US envoy Paul Jones leaving Pakistan
A.M.Bhatti
ISLAMABAD, AUG 22 (DNA) – Ambassador Paul Jones Charge D Affaires of embassy of United States of America has completed his term and leaving Pakistan.
Ambassador Paul Jones stayed in Pakistan for about two years. During his tenure he tried his best to put bilateral relations back on track.
Ambassador Jones stepped into shoes of his predecessor Ambassador David Hale. USA did not appointed full fledge ambassador after departure of Ambassador Hale. Analysts believe, Pakistan-USA ties have not been on a positive trajectory for quite some time.
As per diplomatic norms and principle of reciprocity, the USA was required to send a full ambassador to Pakistan however it preferred to run the mission with a Charge d Affaires.
It was for the first time during past few decades that the US did not appoint an ambassador to Pakistan. Unlike, Pakistan always chose to run its US mission with a fully empowered ambassador.
The US ostensibly is not happy with Pakistan for latter’s close ties with China. Likewise, Afghanistan is yet another issue that seeks to divide bilateral opinion. DNA
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IHC to hear Nawaz’s appeal against conviction in Al-Azizia reference on Sept 1
ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) will hear an appeal filed against former prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s conviction in Al-Azizia reference on September 1.
A two-member bench of the Islamabad High Court will hear the appeal on September 1.
Meanwhile, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) appeals against Nawaz Sharif’s extension of sentence and his acquittal in the flagship reference has also been fixed for hearing.The Islamabad High Court’s special bench comprising Justice Amir Farooq and Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani will hear the appeals of Nawaz Sharif and NAB.
Pakistan on Saturday had approached British authorities to repatriate three-time prime minister and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Nawaz Sharif, who is currently staying in London for his medical treatment.
Pakistan’s High Commissioner to United Kingdom Mohammad Nafees Zakaria had written a letter to the British authorities, demanding to handover the former prime minister to the country.
The development came a day after Federal Minister for Information Senator Shibli Faraz has said that it is necessary to bring back former prime minister Nawaz Sharif to Pakistan and the government will ask the Foreign Office (FO) to take steps for his return.
Encroachments on Karachi drains to be removed from Monday: Asad Umar
KARACHI : Federal Minister for Planning and Development Asad Umar has said that an operation will be launched from Monday to remove encroachments on major drains of the city.
Addressing a gathering the federal minister said that the government will resolve the problem of major nullahs of Karachi and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) will work over the problem.
The federal government and Sindh government will work jointly over the problems faced by the people of Karachi. He said sewerage, transport, water shortage and solid waste management issues will be resolved in coordination with the provincial government.
Asad Umar said that a budget of billions of rupees will be allocated for the cleaning of Karachi.
Earlier, provincial minister of local government Nasir Hussain Shah talking to ARY News said that the coordination committee of Sindh and federal governments has decided to remove encroachments from the sewerage drains in Karachi. The encroachments with no residence will be removed from Monday, he said.
The meeting also emphasized on speeding up the work of the federal government.
The meeting of the coordination committee at the Chief Minister s House in Karachi attended by Federal Ministers Asad Umar, Ali Zaidi and Amin-ul-Haq, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, Education Minister Saeed Ghani and Local Government Minister Nasir Hussain Shah.
Chairman NDMA and Secretary Planning attended the meeting on video link from Islamabad.
