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Pakistan-China institute launches strategic report on SEZ policies in Islamabad

Pakistan-China institute launches strategic report on SEZ policies in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD, JUL 27 /DNA/ – The Pakistan-China Institute, in collaboration with PowerChina, has launched a groundbreaking report titled ‘Aligning Special Economic Zones Policies of Pakistan and China’. The report aims to provide a strategic framework for enhancing the economic and industrial collaboration between Pakistan and China through Special Economic Zones (SEZs). The launch event, held in Islamabad, brought together key stakeholders and experts who shared their insights on the importance of this initiative and its potential impact on Pakistan’s economic landscape.

In his opening remarks, Mustafa Hyder Sayed, Executive Director of Pakistan-China Institute, emphasised the timeliness of the report. He noted that its release coincides with increasing collaboration between China and Pakistan, making it a pivotal moment for both nations. Sayed highlighted the critical need for Pakistan to adopt export-oriented policies to attract Chinese industries that are relocating to the global south due to rising production costs, business-friendly environments, and market access to regional markets. He stressed that the global economic landscape is highly competitive, and Pakistan must position itself as the prime destination for the relocation of key industries by developing unique selling points. Drawing lessons from China’s successful SEZ model, the report outlines what has worked in China and what needs to be adapted for Pakistan. Key takeaways include the necessity to attract investors with flexible policies and strategic locations for industrial zones, particularly near ports and business clusters, akin to the success seen in Shenzhen.

Su Dong, representing PowerChina, underscored the successful completion of 47 projects in Pakistan, with several others under construction. He expressed PowerChina’s readiness to continue working closely with Pakistan, extending best wishes for the report’s success. Su Dong emphasised the significance of this collaborative effort in driving economic growth and fostering a stronger bilateral relationship. He reiterated PowerChina’s commitment to supporting Pakistan in its industrial development journey, highlighting the potential for future projects and partnerships that can further enhance the economic ties between the two nations.

Federal Minister for Industries and Production, Rana Tanveer Hussain, delivered a keynote speech, lauding China as a great friend of Pakistan. He emphasised the significance of SEZs in attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and fostering industrialization, noting that the relocation of Chinese industries presents a significant opportunity for Pakistan. Hussain stated that the government is committed to offering more incentives and concessions to attract Chinese businesses, ensuring full security for their operations, and adopting Shenzhen as a benchmark for SEZ development. He highlighted that a few SEZs in Pakistan are already functional and stressed the importance of export zones in driving economic growth. The Minister underscored the need for Pakistan to compete with other regions, such as ASEAN, Bangladesh, and Central Asia, by creating a favourable environment for industrial relocation.

Mr. Zou Yaodong, Chief Administration Officer of China Overseas Ports Holdings Company Pakistan Ltd, extended warm congratulations on the launch of the report. He noted that in the past few years, SEZs have achieved significant development and become engines of economic growth. However, he acknowledged that there are still many challenges to overcome in the face of global competition. Zou Yaodong assured that his organisation is available to assist and support the improvement and development of SEZs in Pakistan, highlighting the importance of strategic partnerships and continuous efforts to enhance the SEZ framework to attract more investors and industries.

Dr. Erfa Iqbal, Additional Secretary and Executive Director General-II (EDG-II) at the Board of Investment (BOI), shared her insights on the report, emphasising that the topic is very close to her heart. She highlighted that economic survival depends on robust SEZ policies and that China serves as a valuable example for Pakistan, a model followed by countries like Cambodia and Vietnam. Dr. Iqbal pointed out that while Pakistan has made strides, the success of its SEZs is still debatable due to a range of problems. She praised the report for providing a comprehensive diagnosis of these issues and offering strategic recommendations. Dr. Iqbal stressed that the success of Shenzhen was not merely due to its location but a combination of factors such as land, labor, and capital, all supported by proactive government policies. She emphasized the need to reduce transaction costs, enhance supportive banking transactions for investors, improve security measures, and ensure business facilitation to create a conducive ecosystem for SEZ development.

The launch event concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening Pakistan-China economic relations through strategic SEZ policies. The collaborative effort marks a significant step towards economic growth and industrial development in Pakistan, paving the way for a prosperous future. The report, ‘Aligning Special Economic Zones Policies of Pakistan and China’, is poised to serve as a blueprint for policymakers and industry leaders, guiding the development of SEZs that can attract global investments and drive sustainable economic growth in Pakistan.

Chairman CDA reviews ongoing uplift work in diplomatic enclave

Chairman CDA reviews ongoing uplift work in diplomatic enclave

Lakeview and Ankara Parks to See Major Beautification and Renovation Efforts, Says CDA Chairman

ISLAMABAD, JUL 27 /DNA/ – Secretary Interior Muhammad Khurram Agha along with Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa on Saturday visited the Islamabad Industrial Triangle Kahota and Industrial Estate I-9/I-10.

The Interior Secretary said that the state-of-the-art development of Industrial Triangle Kahota should be done and the industrial estates of Islamabad should be ensured to provide all the facilities to the industrialists. He further said that all kinds of encroachments should be eliminated from the Industrial Triangle area.

Chairman CDA said that industrialists should be given special incrntives for the establishment and promotion of information technology and telecom industry in the industrial estates of Islamabad. He ditected that the allottees of such industrial plots who have not been able to establish industries on the allotted plots should set up industries on their plots as soon as possible. He said that all steps will be taken for the promotion of industry and for convenience of industrialists in Islamabad.

Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa also visited various other places of Islamabad on Saturday. Officers of relevant formations CDA accompanied the Chairman during his visit.

According to the details, Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa visited the Diplomatic Enclave. He reviewed the progress of ongoing uplift work in the diplomatic enclave and directed that the landscaping work should be done under a proper theme. He further said that after completing the landscaping and beautification work, measures be taken so that the beauty of the area could be maintained. Chairman CDA directed to complete minor construction and repair work at earliest.

Moreover, Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa also visited Jinnah Convention Center and made a detailed review of the ongoing renovation work in the Convention Center. He said that during the renovation work of Jinnah Convention Center, the seating capacity in the main hall of the center should be expanded. Chairman CDA said that the convention center is being renovated according to the international standards for hosting world level events. He further said that landscaping work in the green area of Jinnah Convention Center should also be completed soon.

Besides, Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa also visited Ankara Park. He said that landscaping should be improved to make Ankara Park more beautiful and the walls of Rawal Dam Interchange adjacent to the park should be beautified. Chairman CDA said that flags of all countries should be displayed in the park.

Later, Chairman CDA also visited Lakeview Park. Muhammad Ali Randhawa said that the walkways of Lakeview Park should be improved by constructing and repairing them and a comprehensive plan should also be presented to beautify the park and maintain it.

Kazakhstan win first Olympic medal as rain disrupts Games

Kazakhstan win first Olympic medal as rain disrupts Games

PARIS, JUL 27: Kazakhstan duo Alexandra Le and Islam Satpayev won the first medal of the Olympic Games on Saturday after claiming bronze in the 10-metre mixed team air rifle event.

Meanwhile, heavy rain disrupted the first full day of medal action at the Olympics as attention turned to sport after a spectacular but soggy opening ceremony.

Le and Satpayev cruised to victory over Germany’s Maximilian Ulbrich and Anna Janssen, outscoring their opponents 17-5.

A total of 14 golds are due to be up for grabs, with the first to come in the mixed-team 10-metre air rifle finals, taking place around 10:30 am local time.

But that number was swiftly reduced to 13 early on Saturday as the wet weather which deluged Friday night’s audacious opening ceremony along the River Seine continued to cause headaches.

The men’s street skateboarding competition, due to take place at the Place de la Concorde in the historic heart of Paris, was postponed until Monday due to rain overnight, organisers said.

The spectre of disruption also loomed over the opening rounds of tennis at Roland Garros, where only two of the 12 courts have roofs.

Torrential rain had lashed participants and spectators in Friday’s amphibious opening ceremony, where around 7,000 athletes paraded along the Seine in an armada of boats before a show-stopping finale which climaxed with a glittering light show at the Eiffel Tower and a performance from singer Celine Dion.

The ceremony received broadly favourable reviews, with France’s centre-right Le Figaro daily describing it as “full of surprises but often disjointed.”

Swimming duel
Elsewhere on the sporting front, swimming, badminton, rowing, cycling, hockey and basketball get underway along with the surfing competition, nearly 16,000 kilometres away on the French Pacific island of Tahiti.

Swimming will take centre stage at the La Defense Arena for the women’s 400m freestyle — one of the most-anticipated events of the entire Olympics involving three swimmers who have held the world record.

Australia’s defending champion Ariarne Titmus will dive in as favourite after clocking the second-fastest time ever last month behind only her own 3-minute, 55.38-second world best.

She stunned US rival Katie Ledecky in an electric Tokyo final three years ago, with the American great gunning for revenge.

Canadian teenage sensation Summer McIntosh, also a former world record holder, completes the hotly favoured trio.

Other gold medals on offer on the first night of action in the pool come in the men’s 400m freestyle and the men’s and women’s 4x100m freestyle relays.

Reigning French Open champions Iga Swiatek and Carlos Alcaraz are among the top draws on the first day of action on the clay courts of Roland Garros — weather permitting.

Women’s world number one Swiatek is first on court against Romania’s Irina-Camelia Begu, with Alcaraz to follow against Lebanese world number 275 Hady Habib.

But the biggest focus will be on the men’s doubles, with Alcaraz teaming up with 14-time French Open champion Rafael Nadal in a Spanish dream pairing.

Chinese shooters Huang Yuting and Sheng Lihao will start as favourites for the first gold of the Games after a dominant victory at last year’s world championships in Baku.

Medals will also be on offer early Saturday in the diving pool, with the women’s synchronised 3m springboard final, where another Chinese pairing, Chang Yani and Chen Yiwen, are favourites to strike gold.

The first cycling medals of the games will be decided with the men’s and women’s individual times trials taking place on a challenging 32.4-kilometre course. French rugby fans will flock to the Stade de France to see if Antoine Dupont can lead the host nation to gold in rugby sevens.

France however must overcome South Africa in Saturday’s semi-finals to reach the gold medal match against the winner of the other last-four clash between holders Fiji and Australia.

South Korea ‘regrets’ incorrect introduction
South Korea’s sports ministry on Saturday expressed regret over a gaffe during the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics in which its athletes were incorrectly introduced as North Korean.

As the South Korean delegation rode a boat on the Seine River and entered the ceremony as the 48th participating nation, the French-speaking presenter introduced them using the official name for North Korea: “Republique populaire democratique de Coree” in French, then “Democratic People’s Republic of Korea” in English.

The error sparked displeased reactions in South Korea, a global cultural and technological powerhouse that is technically still at war with the nuclear-armed and impoverished North, as the 1950-1953 conflict ended in an armistice rather than a peace treaty.

South Korea’s sports ministry “expresses regret over the announcement during the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics, where the South Korean delegation was introduced as the North Korean team,” it said in a statement.

Second Vice Sports Minister Jang Mi-ran, a 2008 Olympic weightlifting champion, has asked for a meeting with International Olympic Committee (IOC) chief Thomas Bach to discuss the matter, it added.

The sports ministry has also asked the foreign ministry to “deliver a strong protest to the French side” over the issue, it said.

South Korea’s National Olympic Committee plans to meet with the Paris Olympics Organising Committee and the IOC to voice their protest, request measures to prevent a recurrence, and send an official letter of protest under the name of the head of its delegation, the sports ministry said.

The International Olympic Committee issued an apology for the gaffe.

“We deeply apologise for the mistake that occurred when introducing the South Korean team during the broadcast of the opening ceremony,” the IOC said in a post on its official Korean-language X account.

Govt to end free electricity for bureaucrats, judges, parliamentarians

Govt to end free electricity for bureaucrats, judges, parliamentarians

ISLAMABAD, JUL 27 /DNA/ – The Ministry of Energy has decided to work on an emergency plan that includes the potential abolition of free electricity facilities in all government and semi-government institutions.

Sources indicate that the ministry is contemplating cutting off free electricity to all, including bureaucrats, judges, and parliamentarians, as part of the broader strategy to address the financial challenges facing the country.

Additionally, the ministry is considering the withdrawal of the free petrol facility in the second phase of the plan. Sources say that permanent default can only be avoided only through revolutionary measures.

They said that these measures are seen as essential to achieve the ambitious goal of reaching $60 billion in exports.

Sources further reveal that only industries and businesses will be given the permissible facilities, emphasizing a targeted approach to support economic productivity. There is also a proposal to reduce Maximum Demand Indicator (MDI) charges for factories, aimed at lowering operational costs for the manufacturing sector.

The ministry has also decided to review the performance of regulatory bodies such as the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) and the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) to ensure efficiency and accountability.=DNA

“Exotic Wildlife Pakistan” photo-exhibition to go on display at PNCA 

“Exotic Wildlife Pakistan” photo-exhibition to go on display at PNCA 

ISLAMABAD, JUL 27 /DNA/ – As many as twenty-nine large size photos of the exotic wildlife of Pakistan captured by Pakistan’s Wildlife Ambassador and former senator, Sardar Muhammad Jamal Khan Leghari will go on display at the National Art Gallery No. 2 from Monday.

The exhibition is being organized by the Snow Leopard Foundation and Devcom-Pakistan (Development Communications Network) in collaboration with the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA).

A formal ceremony to honor this exhibition will be a part of the Pakistan Wildlife Protection Awards on July 31. This ceremony will recognize the extraordinary efforts of wildlife guards, watchers, and rangers who have shown remarkable courage and dedication in protecting Pakistan’s wildlife.

Dr. Muhammad Ali Nawaz, Director and CEO of the Snow Leopard Foundation: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Devcom-Pakistan and PNCA to bring this exhibition to life. The photographs not only capture the splendor of our wildlife but also underscore the critical need for continued conservation efforts.”

Curator of the exhibition, Devcom-Pakistan Executive Director Munir Ahmed says: This unique exhibition aims to highlight the breathtaking biodiversity of Pakistan, featuring captivating images that showcase the country’s rich wildlife heritage.

The event will provide a rare opportunity for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and the general public to appreciate the stunning wildlife that inhabits Pakistan’s diverse ecosystems. “Our partnership with the Snow Leopard Foundation and PNCA is a significant step towards raising awareness about wildlife conservation.

This exhibition is a celebration of the extraordinary biodiversity of Pakistan and the dedicated individuals working tirelessly to protect it. The public and media are invited to attend and explore the beauty of Pakistan’s exotic wildlife through the lens of a genius photographer. This exhibition is an opportunity to connect with nature, appreciate the efforts of wildlife protectors, and foster a deeper understanding of the need for conservation.”

Pakistan’s internationally known wildlife photographer, Sardar Muhammad Jamal Khan Leghari is an honorary Wildlife Ambassador of Pakistan, member of Pakistan National Long-range Rifle Team, former Senator and former chairman BOD, Multan Electric Power Company, and the owner and manager of “Jamal Leghari Wildlife Sanctuary”.

Mr. Leghari believes that his dedication defines his quest to showcase Pakistan’s exotic wildlife in their natural habitats through his photography. “Travelling across the country at my own expense has been a deeply personal mission, a testament to my unwavering commitment to conservation and environmental awareness.

From the majestic mountains of the Himalayas to the sweeping deserts of Balochistan, I have ventured into the heart of untamed wilderness, seeking out elusive creatures and rare moments that define the unique tapestry of Pakistan’s biodiversity.

Armed with my camera and fueled by a passion for nature, I have braved challenging terrains, extreme weather conditions, and countless hours of patience to immortalize the wonders of the natural world.”

Jamal Leghari says: “Through my lens, I have brought to life the grace of the soaring raptors, the stealth of the prowling big cats, and the vibrant colors of the endemic bird species that call Pakistan home. Each photograph is a testament to my artistry, skill, and deep connection with the wildlife I seek to protect and preserve.

Sharing these captivating images with the world has not only showcased the splendor of Pakistan’s exotic wildlife but has also raised awareness about the importance of safeguarding their habitats and ensuring their survival for future generations. My photographs serve as a visual narrative of the fragile balance between humans and nature, inspiring viewers to appreciate, respect, and protect the natural world.

My selfless dedication to documenting Pakistan’s wildlife in their habitats goes beyond mere photography – it is a powerful tool for advocacy, education, and conservation. Through my travels and my art, I have become a storyteller, a messenger, and a guardian of the wild, shining a spotlight on the need to cherish and protect the precious biodiversity that surrounds us.”

As I continue my journey through Pakistan’s wilderness, my photographs will serve as a call to action, igniting a passion for conservation and environmental stewardship in all who are fortunate enough to glimpse the beauty and wonder of the country’s exotic wildlife through my lens. My tireless efforts, creative vision, and unwavering dedication are aimed at preserving Pakistan’s natural heritage for generations to come, he concludes.=DNA

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FPCCI to approach Supreme Court, SIFC on IPPs issue

FPCCI to approach Supreme Court

LAHORE, JUL 27 /DNA/ – Former Caretaker Prime Minister of Pakistan Anwar ul Haq Kakar has said that the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) issue is the issue of the entire nation alongside the business community and that instead of point scoring on it we will find out a viable solution through dialogue.

He said this while addressing a business conference organized by Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Conference and Industry (FPCCI) in Lahore as President of FPCCI’s Economic Policy Business Development Think Tank.

Kakar said that the issue of Independent Power Producers is discussed in the Senate. “We fought for people’s rights before, will fight this battle too and those spreading despair about the country’s future on social media should know that the country’s future is bright.

Former Federal Minister for Commerce and Interior Dr.  Gohar Ejaz and Chairman FPCCI’s Economic Policy Business Development Think Tank said that the government’s negligence towards IPPs is being borne by the people. An audit of IPPs should be conducted. The whole of Pakistan is saying in one voice that we are affected by IPPs and we need to find a solution to end the IPPs agreements. We never want our country to face a crisis but the policies should be made to move Pakistan forward. There is electricity, but the problem is the cost of electricity. How can we compete with the world with expensive electricity, he questioned.

Chairman UBG SM Tanveer said that they will approach the Supreme Court and SIFC to explain the real issue as well as the satisfactory solution to pull the country out of the existing economic mess.

FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh said that Anwar ul Haq Kakar’s business friendly policies will definitely bear fruit and will enhance the prestige of the fraternity.

Secretary General UBG, Zafar Bakhtawari said that Pakistan is full of investment and business opportunities but the only needed thing is to wisely formulate the economic policies in consultation with the real stakeholders.  He said that IPPs and the existing crisis are linked with the future of Pakistan, adding that the country is in an emergency situation and the leadership will have to take aggressive decisions to come out of the existing economic crunch.

Vice President FPCCI and Chairman Regional office Lahore Zaki Ejaz expressed gratitude to the participants by saying that we, unitedly, will take the country forward to make it a prosperous one.

Shaikh Khalid Tawab former SVP, FPCCI and senior leader UBG Riaz ud Din Shaikh also highlighted the business community’s difficulties vis-à-vis ease of doing business and impressed upon the government to resolve the grievances on urgent basis for the economic betterment of the country.

Earlier during the conference the business community demonstrated its unity against the agreements with Independent Power Producers and called for dialogue and policy changes to address the ‘unbearable’ electricity costs.

Due to wrong agreements, capacity charges have to be paid, and electricity prices are currently Pakistan’s biggest problem. Annual capacity charges of Rs. 2,000 billion are being taken from the pockets of 24 crore people, and 25% of industries have already closed down. The country cannot run with such IPP agreements.=DNA

Paris Olympics-2024: Games Wide Open

Qamar Bashir

By Qamar Bashir

I was posted in France as Press Minister in September 2016, and I had the unique opportunity to witness France being awarded the hosting rights for the 2024 Summer Olympics on September 13, 2017, during the 131st IOC Session in Lima, Peru. From that pivotal moment until our return to Pakistan after four years, we experienced firsthand the dynamic and transformative efforts of the French National Olympic management committee to turn the historic city of Paris into a vibrant Olympic city. The meticulous planning and extensive preparations were aimed at hosting 32 sports with 329 events. This unique ceremony, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Seine River and Parisian landmarks, promises to deliver an unforgettable experience unlike any other in Olympic history.

What we did not anticipate, however, was a sabotage attack in Paris that shocked the world as it targeted key infrastructure and disrupted planned events. The coordinated attack involved multiple explosive devices planted along the Seine River, where the historic ceremony was set to take place. The incident caused significant damage to several bridges and disrupted the transportation network, creating chaos and widespread panic among spectators and participants. Fortunately, emergency services, already on high alert and prepared for any emergency, responded swiftly to contain the situation, prevent further damage, and ensure the safety of the public.

Despite the attack casting a shadow over the opening ceremony, it failed to dampen the enthusiasm, anticipation, and excitement for the highly awaited, glittering event. The ceremony, with its delicate and romantic French touch, proceeded and left an indelible mark on the hearts of those present and the millions watching worldwide.

During our four-years sojourn in Paris, the highlight was walking along the majestic River Seine. We enjoyed the frequent boat rides, feeling the cold breeze on our faces while watching tourists of all colors, races, ethnicities, and languages throng the Seine banks. They were revealed in music, dance, and various games along the riverbanks. Little did we know that after four years, the Seine would be adorned with a majestic Olympic ceremony, featuring athletes parading on boats past iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame. Lined on both sides, 300,000 spectators will witness this event live, with a diverse array of cultural performances directed by Thomas Jolly.

These preparations, though impactful, added much excitement and dynamism to our sojourn in Paris from 2016 to 2020. The road closures, street upliftings, metro refurbishments, and river water cleaning and filtering were all part of the grand effort to get the city ready for the Olympics. The construction of new venues, such as the Paris Aquatics Centre and the Olympic and Paralympic Village in Saint-Denis, alongside the renovation of existing sites like Stade de France, were significant milestones.

We also witnessed the construction of temporary structures for events like beach volleyball at the Eiffel Tower and archery at Les Invalides, showcasing a commitment to minimizing long-term environmental impacts. Transportation upgrades, including the commencement of the Grand Paris Express project to extend and modernize the metro system, and the enhancement of existing public transport services like the metro, RER, tram, and bus networks, ensured efficient and sustainable travel for athletes, officials, and spectators. These developments transformed Paris into a vibrant Olympic city, reflecting the meticulous planning and effort behind the scenes.

The opening ceremony was held at 10:30 PM last night, and our entire family was glued to the TV to watch. Ninety-four boats carrying 200 delegations, mostly clad in their national dresses, paraded down the Seine River, waving flags, bunting, and hands under the dazzling lights and fireworks. The event took place under the watchful eyes of 45,000 police personnel and a contingent of 10,000 army troops, with strict security protocols bolstered by AI-powered high-definition video surveillance.

The hallmark of the Paris 2024 Olympics was a spectacular procession that began at the Austerlitz Bridge and traveled six kilometers, with 10,500 athletes representing 206 nations on boats passing iconic landmarks like Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Pont Alexandre III. Spectators enjoyed performances from 3,000 artists and 400 dancers stationed on bridges, creating a festive atmosphere. The ceremony culminated at the Trocadéro, across from the Eiffel Tower, where the Olympic cauldron was lit, highlighting Paris’s beauty and history in a memorable start to the Games.

The parade was enhanced by stunning singing and dance performances featuring Kelly Clarkson. A Grammy-winning artist, Clarkson brought her vibrant energy and powerful voice to the event, marking her first time hosting an Olympic broadcast. Their performance captivated the spectators, adding an unforgettable experience to the already spectacular opening ceremony.

The hosting of Olympics-2024 Paris gave the unique honor of hosting the Olympic Games three times. The first time was during the 1900 Summer Olympics, which marked the first occasion Paris hosted the Games. Paris hosted the Olympics for the second time in 1924. Now, in 2024, Paris will have the distinction of hosting the Olympic Games for the third time.

The ceremony culminated in a spectacular display of fireworks that turned night into day, filling the hearts and souls of the spectators. This heartwarming show was a testament to shared humanity, diversity, and unity, reflecting the spirit of sportsmanship and the gathering of nations from across the globe. Athletes from diverse cultures, languages, and backgrounds came together to showcase human resilience and shared objectives. The city of Paris was filled with a rich tapestry of cultures and colors, celebrating equality and upholding human values. Setting aside bilateral and multilateral disputes, conflicts, and wars, the event demonstrated that when countries, races, and languages unite, they create a powerful force of positive energy, love, friendship, and tolerance. These athletes conveyed a message to the world that working in harmony, supporting one another, and caring for each other can lead to peace, allowing us to realize our full potential and share our riches and wealth to make the world a better place for everyone, regardless of means.

APNS Leaders Hope for Strengthened Press Freedom Under New Secretary Information

APNS

KARACHI, JUL 6: /DNA/ – The APNS has welcomed and congratulated Ms. Ambreen Jan on her appointment as Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

Ms. Nazafreen Saigol Lakhani, President and Mr. Sarmad Ali, Secretary General of the All Pakistan Newspapers Society have hoped that during her tenure as Secretary Information Ms. Ambreen would protect and safeguard the freedom of press and address the problems of print media. They are confident that during her tenure, the print media would continue to enjoy good relations with the Ministry and the government as existed during the tenure of Ms. Shahera Shahid, the outgoing Secretary Information.

The APNS office bearer hoped that issues pertaining to the print media which are still pending would be addressed. These include the implementation of already approved increase in government advertising rates, increase in the quantum of Government advertising and payments of long outstanding dues so that the print media could face the liquidity crunch.

‘Govt still open for talks’: Tarar

Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar

Says when it was agreed to hold the rally at Liaquat Bagh, the march towards Islamabad is incomprehensible

Staff Report

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar accused Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) of breaching the agreement with the government about concluding their protest against inflation with a rally at Liaquat Bagh. However, the government remains open to dialogue, he added.

“When it was agreed to hold the rally at Liaquat Bagh, the march towards Islamabad is incomprehensible,” he said while addressing a press conference alongside Amir Muqam in Islamabad on Friday.

Tarar emphasised that the government is still willing to engage in talks with Jamaat-e-Islami.

Reacting to Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur’s speech at the Bannu rally, Tarar remarked, “We understand his constraints. He reassures in the Apex Committee, but speaks differently in public. After the decision to bring back TTP terrorists, terrorism has increased.”

Tarar criticised the CM Gandapur further, saying, “What should have been done is to outline your actions against terrorism. They have made an agreement with a fake artificial intelligence institution, uncertified by any organisation, which will not benefit the youth.”

Meanwhile, the Islamabad police have arrested numerous participants of the Jamaat-e-Islami sit-in at the federal capital’s D-Chowk, with ongoing efforts to detain more.

The arrested individuals have been transported in prisoner vans, and the routes leading to D-Chowk have been blocked with containers by the police and administration.

Containers have also been placed at the city’s entry points, and major roads and intersections are only allowing one lane of traffic. This has resulted in long queues of vehicles and significant inconvenience for residents.

Additional containers have been placed under the Zero Point Bridge too, leaving only two lanes open for traffic.

A heavy police presence is deployed at Faizabad, equipped with water cannons and tear gas. Operational police units have been issued 10,000 tear gas shells from police lines to manage the protesters.

Heads of three government hospitals have been instructed to keep their emergency departments on high alert until Monday to handle any potential emergencies arising from the situation.

Parliamentary elections to be held in Uzbekistan on 27 October

Parliamentary elections to be held in Uzbekistan on 27 October

TASHKENT, JUL 26: Elections to the parliament and local councils in Uzbekistan will be held on 27 October. The election campaign starts from 26 July, the Central election commission announced. Elections of the deputies of the Legislative chamber and the senators of Uzbekistan, as well as deputies of local (regional, city and district) councils will be held on 27 October, the Central election commission announced on Friday.

The elections date — the last Sunday of October — is set in the Constitution. The election campaign starts from 26 July — three months prior to the elections.

The slogan of this year’s campaign is “My choice is my prospering Motherland”, the commission said. The voters will elect 150 deputies of the parliament’s lower chamber and 56 member of the upper chamber, as well as 65 deputies of the Joqargy kenes of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, and deputies of the 12 regional, Tashkent city and 208 district and city (town) kengashes (councils).

A total of about 30,000 candidates and some 90,000 of their trusted representatives are expected to participate in the elections.

More than 120,000 member of election commissions and over 70,000 local and foreign observers will also participate in the process.

For the first time, the elections will be held on a mixed (majority and proportional) system: 75 deputies of the Legislative chamber should be elected from one-mandate districts on majority (voting) system, and other 75 on a proportional basis, that is based on votes gained by political parties (on party lists).

Previously, elections in Uzbekistan had been held on majority system, where winners were candidates who gained most votes in their districts.

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