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Sultan Azlan Shah Cup: Final between Pakistan, Japan begins in Malaysia

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Sultan Azlan Shah Cup: Final between Pakistan, Japan begins in Malaysia

Ipoh, MAY 11: After a gap of 13 years, the Pakistan hockey team are facing Japan in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup 2024 final on Saturday.

The finalists had already been decided before the last round of matches was played and Japan’s 3-1 win over Canada saw them finish two points above Paki­stan in the table.

The final of the Azlan Shah Cup hockey tournament is being played in Ipoh, Malaysia.

Pakistan continued their unbeaten run at the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup with a creditable 1-1 draw against New Zealand in their last round-robin mat­ch yesterday.

Pakistan and Japan had played out a 1-1 draw in their round-robin encounter and Pakistan’s coach Roelant Oltmans expected another tight match in the final.

“Japan have neither scored many goals nor conceded many. They are a good side,” Oltmans told reporters after the ma­tch against New Zealand.

“We need to open them up. We have the players to do it, but it will not be easy. They are compact and organised defensively.

Pakistan fell behind to Paris Olympics-bound New Zealand when Luke Hol­mes scored in the 35th minute but kept their unbeaten run intact thanks to Abu Bakr Mahmood’s penalty corner conversion eight minutes later.

“The first half was New Zealand’s and the second half was ours,” Oltmans told reporters.

“Our start was not good and we conceded two penalty comers in the first minute.

“But this cannot happen in the final against Japan. The players did very well in this tournament but I am not satisfied with our performances in the first half. We were terrible in ball possession. We lost it even before can could even dominate the game. It is not the way we should play. The boys came out really good and we created penalty corner opportunities. We managed to score even with one player less,” he said.

The government and the nation have expressed their best wishes for the team in the final, hoping for a victorious outcome.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the side for making it to the Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Tournament final after 13 years.

In a post on X, the premier said he was looking forward to today’s match, adding that the renewed interest in hockey throughout Pakistan signalled a promising trend for the future.

Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz expressed her best wishes for the Pakistan side.

“Pakistan will emerge victorious in the final against Japan. The team’s performance captured the nation’s attention, and hopes are high for a triumphant outcome.” Maryam Nawaz Sharif said.

“Pakistanis are fervently praying for victory,” she added.

Chief Minister Balochistan Sarfaraz Ahmed Bugti also commended the team for their undefeated record.

“Insha’Allah, Pakistan will win the final match; the Pakistani hockey team deserves recognition for making it to the championship game after 13 years,” he said.

The government has made special arrangements to broadcast the match live for the public.

DPM Dar to visit Beijing for Pak-China FMs’ Strategic Dialogue from May 13

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DPM Dar to visit Beijing for Pak-China FMs’ Strategic Dialogue from May 13

ISLAMABAD, May 11 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar will visit Beijing, China from May 13-16 where he will co-chair the fifth Pakistan-China Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue with Chinese Foreign Minister and Director of the General Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China, Wang Yi. The two sides will comprehensively review Pakistan-China bilateral relations including economic and trade cooperation; high-level exchanges and visits; up-gradation of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and future connectivity initiatives.

The two leaders will also exchange views on the unfolding regional geopolitical landscape and bilateral cooperation at the multilateral fora, a Foreign Office news release said. On the sidelines of the Strategic Dialogue, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister is expected to meet Chinese leaders, senior Ministers and leading corporate executives. Deputy Prime Minister’s visit is part of regular high-level exchanges between Pakistan and China. It reflects the importance attached by the two countries to further deepening the “All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership”; reaffirming mutual support on issues of core interest; enhancing economic and trade cooperation including China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC); and reinforcing joint commitment to regional peace and development.

France-China Relations: Regional Connectivity and Beyond

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Chinese President Xi Jinping

by Muhammad Asif NOOR

Chinese President Xi Jinping is on a three country visit to Europe where his first stop is in France and met with French President Emmanuel Macron and held a trilateral dialogue along with the EU Commission Chief Ursula von der Leyen to discuss issues of bilateral and multilateral nature. This visit holds special significance as both nations commemorate the 60th Anniversary of their diplomatic relations, marking a milestone in their shared history. This visit marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing evolution of Franco-Chinese relations poised to reshape the regional and global connectivity and landscape. Against the backdrop of geopolitical complexities, growing conflicts and wars to burgeoning economic interdependence, President Xi’s visit is a historic step towards building stronger global ties.

Rooted in centuries of historical connections, the strategic partnership between France and China has fostered collaboration across various sectors, shaping regional and global connectivity over the years.  From the establishment of diplomatic relations in the 1960s to the strategic partnership forged in 2004, the relationship between France and China has witnessed steady growth despite occasional challenges. President Macron’s proactive approach to enhancing economic and cultural ties highlights France’s recognition of China’s pivotal role in shaping global affairs. His visits to China laid the groundwork for substantive agreements in areas ranging from nuclear energy to agriculture, highlighting the depth of bilateral engagement.

One of the earliest engagements between France and China was in the field of civil nuclear energy, where France became the first Western nation to collaborate with China. This partnership laid the foundation for intergovernmental science and technology cooperation agreements, fostering innovation and knowledge exchange between the two countries. Additionally, France took the initiative to establish direct flights with China, facilitating easier travel and enhancing connectivity between the two nations.

France has also emerged as a significant destination for Chinese foreign direct investment (FDI), with an astounding 585.8 percent increase in French FDI into the Chinese mainland from January to February 2024. Chinese investment in France has also been substantial, totaling nearly $4.9 billion USD, with over 900 French companies benefiting from Chinese capital infusion. French companies are also actively participating in various construction related initiatives on Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) of China. BRI is a global mammoth connectivity project that is building on connecting word to transcend trade, ideas and prosperity for a shared future.

At the heart of President Xi’s visit lies a concerted effort to deepen economic ties and foster mutual understanding with Europe’s one of the largest economies. France, as a key player in the European Union, represents a crucial partner for China in advancing its interests in the region especially trade and economic partnerships. President Xi’s discussions with French counterparts are focused on enhancing trade and investment cooperation, particularly in sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and aerospace. The signing of cooperation agreements during the visit signifies a commitment to strengthening economic linkages and promoting sustainable development.

Against the backdrop of escalating tensions between the West and Russia, President Macron’s emphasis on engaging with China to prevent further divisions among global powers is a strategic imperative. This is also reflects a strong trust that France put on China to play a global role of a peacemaker in the world. As China seeks to position itself as a mediator in conflicts such as the Ukrainian crisis, tensions in Middle East, Macron’s diplomatic proposals amplifies the fact that President of France considers the importance of leveraging China’s influence to mitigate tensions and foster dialogue.

Trade relations between France and China have emerged as a cornerstone of their partnership, with both countries serving as vital export markets for each other. Despite fluctuations in trade volumes, recent data indicates a resurgence in China’s imports from France, particularly in high-value sectors such as beauty products and aerospace technology. Conversely, France continues to import various goods from China, highlighting the complementary nature of their economies. Bilateral trade volume reaching an impressive $78.9 billion in 2023. China’s imports of French goods increased with the rate of 5.5 percent year-on-year, underscoring the growing demand for French products in the Chinese market.

President Xi Jinping’s visit to France represents a significant milestone in the ongoing evolution of Sino-French relations. It also serves as a reminder for the enduring bonds between the two nations and potential for cooperation in addressing the shared challenges and opportunities. By deepening economic ties, promoting regional stability, and fostering cultural exchanges, China seeks to strengthen the strategic partnership with France. Despite the challenges and complexities inherent in bilateral relations, this important engagement reflect China’s commitment to building a more inclusive and interconnected world.  As China continues to assert its influence on the global stage, France’s engagement with China will play a crucial role in shaping the future of international relations and advancing common objectives of peace, prosperity, and sustainable development.

Author: Muhammad Asif Noor is Founder of “Friends of BRI Forum” and CEO of “Diplomatic Insight Group”.

This article reflects the author’s own opinions and not necessarily the views of Global Connectivities.

Ireland defeat Pakistan for the first time in T20Is

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Ireland defeat Pakistan for the first time in T20Is

DNA

DUBLIN: Ireland stunned Pakistan by five wickets in the first T20I of the three-match series at the Clontarf Cricket Club, Dublin, on Friday.

This was the first time Ireland defeated Pakistan in T20Is as both teams only locked horns once in the shorter format before where the Green Shirts emerged victorious.

Pakistan scored 182 in 20 overs on 6 wickets. The Irish team chased this target while one ball was still to go.

Brazilian Playwright and Historian Prof. Guiomar de Grammont visits Lahore for inspiring talks

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Brazilian Playwright

LAHORE, MAY 10 /DNA/ – At the initiative of the Embassy of Brazil and of the Embassy of Portugal, together with the support of Instituto Guimaraes Rosa and Instituto Camoes, Prof. Guiomar de Grammont; accompanied by Olyntho Vieira, Ambassador of Brazil, and Frederico Silva, Ambassador of Portugal; will participate in two main cultural sessions in Lahore.

On 11th May Saturday 11:00, an interactive talk co-organized with the Aga Khan Cultural Service – Pakistan. Main topics include History and Art, Heritage Preservation, UNESCO classified sites in Pakistan, Portugal and Brazil.

Later same day there will be another interactive talk at 16:00 co-organized with the Lahore Literary Council.

Main topics will include Portuguese Language around the world, Literatures of Lusophone Countries, Literary Festivals in Pakistan, Portugal and Brazil, literary work of Guiomar de Grammont.

Guiomar de Grammont, from Ouro Preto, is a renowned author, poet, dramaturg, historian, and professor. With a PhD in Brazilian Literature from USP, as an author she has been a recipient of the Casa de Las Americas Award and the Pen-Club National Award, amongst others.

As a playwright, she has staged seven plays in Brazil, including “Olympia” which toured all over Latin America and Europe.

Former executive editor of National Fiction at Record. Prof. Guiomar has curated multiple global book festivals including Rio de Janeiro, Bahia, Lisbon, and Paris.

Biography link: https://mertinwitt-litag.de/portfolioitems/guiomar-de-grammont/

Taxing cigarettes a way forward for public and economic health

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Pakistan

ISLAMABAD, MAY 10 /DNA/ – Pakistan has a “difficult-to-tax economy” and limited revenue generation options but the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has pointed out that taxing cigarettes and other non-essential items was the way forward.

The IMF’s advice is based on its February report titled “Tax Policy Diagnostic and Reform Options,” which highlights Pakistan’s tax system’s underperformance in revenue generation, efficiency, equity, fairness, and sustainability. The report underscores the need for structural reforms to tackle deep-seated issues in the tax regime.

Pakistan is all set to start negotiations for a long-term loan program with the global lender in upcoming days, health activists and experts have demanded the government to increase tax on cigarettes.

“Taxing tobacco is the way forward. It is win-win for public health and for generation of revenue for the government,” said Malik Imran Ahmed, Country Head of Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids (CTFK).

 Ahmed said that implementation of the IMF recommendations and jacking up the prices of cigarettes in Pakistan would push people to quit smoking and save hundreds of lives every year.

He said that despite the substantial taxes imposed on cigarettes, the revenue generated falls short of covering the healthcare costs incurred due to smoking-related illnesses.

Tobacco taxation in Pakistan has always been under the influence of major industry players particularly the multinationals who would convince the government against raising taxes until recently.

However, a change has been witnessed in past few years and the taxes on cigarettes have been increased substantially. But Pakistan still is a place where cigarettes are cheaper from the region.

The IMF report also mentioned that Pakistan has undertaken wide-ranging tax policy reforms in the context of an IMF-supported economic program. These included increasing excises for petroleum products and tobacco items.

According to details, excises cover a range of items, including fuel and tobacco but also cement and telecommunications services. Excise rates, particularly for tobacco and fuel products, were substantially increased, particularly in 2023.

“Similar to the DPL, FED rates on tobacco products were gradually increased between 2019 and 2022, and then saw a big increase by on average 146 percent in February 2023. Survey findings suggest that as a result of this increase, the consumption of cigarettes has declined by 20-25 percent,” the IMF noted.

As the authorities prepare for the IMF mission and for the next fiscal year’s budget, the Social Policy Development Centre (SPDC) has proposed 37% increase in Federal Excise Duty (FED) on tobacco products .

“Pakistan can save as many as 265,000 lives, generate an additional revenue of Rs 37.7 billion and push 757,000 people to quit smoking through increasing the FED by 37 percent,” said the survey by SPDC.

Azerbaijan Minister of Ecology calls on PM Shehbaz

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Azerbaijan

ISLAMABAD, MAY 10 /DNA/ – The Minister of Ecology & Natural Resources of Azerbaijan, H.E. Mukhtar Babayev, called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif at the Prime Minister House this afternoon.

The Azeri Minister handed over an invitation letter to the Prime Minister from H.E. Ilham Aliyev, President of Azerbaijan, to participate in the COP-29 meeting to be held in Baku in November 2024.

The Prime Minister thanked the President of Azerbaijan for the warm invitation and congratulated him and the Azeri people on Baku’s selection to host COP-29, the most important gathering of world leaders this year to deliberate upon the challenges posed by climate change.

The Prime Minister said that Pakistan was one of the most vulnerable countries that had borne the adverse impact of climate change in recent years, including the catastrophic floods of 2022. He stressed on the need for urgent action to enhance climate resilience. In this regard, he assured Azerbaijan of Pakistan’s full support and cooperation in ensuring the success of COP-29.

While accepting the invitation, the Prime Minister said he looked forward to participating in COP-29 where he would also have the opportunity to have detailed discussion with President Ilham Aliyev on the bilateral relationship, particularly to enhance bilateral trade and investment. The Prime Minister also reiterated his invitation to President Aliyev to undertake an official visit Pakistan.

The Azeri Minister thanked the Prime Minister for receiving him and offering Pakistan’s support for the successful organization of the COP-29. He said the Azeri side would work closely with Pakistan to set an agenda that suitably reflects the needs of climate vulnerable countries.

LHC stops Punjab govt from distributing e-bikes among students

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Lahore High Court

Lahore, MAY 10: The Lahore High Court has stopped the Punjab government from distributing electric bikes among students of the province until Monday.

The court’s directive to suspend the distribution of electric bikes extends until Monday, and it has sought comprehensive details of the project.

The court made these observations during the hearing of a case related to the elimination of smog in the province.

Also Read: Punjab govt launches bike scheme for students

The LHC has made the lucky draw of electric bikes contingent upon further court orders and has requested for detailed information from the Punjab government regarding the scope and implementation of the initiative.

The court has asked for a detailed report from the government on how many electronic bikes were being distributed in which cities.

Expressing apprehensions about the potential misuse of electric bikes, Justice Shahid Karim stressed that students should be encouraged to use public transport. He emphasized the importance of ensuring student safety and said if they were given e-bikes, they would resort to one-wheeling.

The judge also raised concerns regarding the possibility of male students gathering outside girls’ colleges if they were given these bikes. He said that instead of giving e-bikes to students, colleges should be provided with electronic buses. This shift in focus towards public transport aims to promote safer and more sustainable mobility options for students across Punjab.

Moreover, the court ordered to de-seal the cafés in Lahore’s Johar Town area after they submitted an affidavit. It also instructed the LDA counsel that if there were further violations, there would be fines of Rs1 million each.

The judge reiterated that cafes were allowed to remain open till 11pm and till midnight on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Also Read: Punjab govt announces 20,000 motorbikes for students

The court also expressed displeasure over the installation of colourful lights on Canal Road, admonishing that if plants were planted instead of lights, they would have been beneficial for the environment also.

Justice Karim said public money was being wasted by installing these strange lights. He also sought details of the amount of money spent on the lights from the PHA counsel.

Moreover, a member of the judicial commission told the court that 2,000 kilogrammes less chicken than before had started to be supplied at the Tollinton Market in Lahore following court orders.

Trophy Unveiling Ceremony and Press Conference Mark the Commencement of Central Asian Volleyball League

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Trophy Unveiling Ceremony and Press Conference Mark the Commencement of Central Asian Volleyball League

DNA
ISLAMABAD: The stage is set for the highly anticipated Engro Central Asian Volleyball Championship, scheduled to take place from May 11th to May 17th, 2024, at the Liaqat Gymnasium, Pakistan Sports Complex, Islamabad. With six national teams from Central Asian countries, including Iran, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, set to compete, the excitement among volleyball enthusiasts is palpable.

Today marks the grand commencement of the Central Asian Volleyball League, heralded by a magnificent press conference and trophy unveiling ceremony, graciously hosted by the prestigious Serena Hotels. This event promises to be an electrifying prelude to a week filled with exhilarating matches and intense competition.

The festivities will kick off with the first match of the tournament at 1:00 PM, featuring a showdown between Turkmenistan and Iran. This will be followed by a thrilling match between Sri Lanka and Kyrgyzstan. The highlight of the day will be the much-anticipated opening ceremony, scheduled for 5:30 PM, where esteemed guests and dignitaries will come together to celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship and international camaraderie. Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, Government of Pakistan, will grace the occasion as the chief guest.

Following the opening ceremony, the action-packed day will continue with a riveting match between Pakistan and Afghanistan at 6:30 PM, setting the stage for an exciting start to the tournament.

Pakistan Volleyball Federation (PVF) extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Pakistan Sports Board for providing the facilities to host this prestigious tournament in Pakistan. PVF also acknowledges the invaluable support of the Director General of Sports, the Minister of Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC), and the Secretary of IPC, whose unwavering support has been instrumental in making this event a reality. PVF extends its sincere gratitude to Serena Hotels for hosting the Press Conference and Trophy Unveiling Ceremony.

As the Central Asian Volleyball League gets underway, spectators and fans can expect a week of intense competition, thrilling matches, and unforgettable moments, showcasing the best of volleyball talent from across the region.

Keeping Humanity Alive….

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Keeping Humanity Alive….

Sardar Shahid Ahmed Laghari

International Red Cross Red Crescent Day is celebrated on May 8 every year around the world to honor the humanitarian works and humanitarian principles of the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement. Immediately after World War I, the world needed peace and stability. In 1934, at the 15th International Conference in Tokyo, the Armistice Report was presented by the Red Cross, which laid down principles for the protection of the wounded during war. The day is dedicated to those who suffer from food shortages, natural disasters, tragedies, war as well as epidemics, the day highlights the humanitarian values ​​of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. On this day, basic facilities are provided to those populations who are really in need. On the other hand, this day is also the birthday of “Henry Dunant”, the founder of the Red Cross. This day is of great importance as it is a day to pay tribute to the services provided by the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement worldwide for the survival and sustainability of humanity.

Under my supervision various events were organized by Pakistan Red Crescent throughout the week in connection with the International Red Cross Red Crescent Day. This year the theme of the International Day has been “Keeping Humanity Alive”. Under my leadership, the services of Pakistan Red Crescent for the flood sufferers got a new identity for Pakistan. We are a nation struggling with natural calamities and tragedies. We have flexibility. With such flexibility, we are ready to face another difficulty after suffering one problem. We are suffering from lack of resources, but we are not discouraged.

Model homes are being built for the homeless,for public facilities, toilets are being constructed in the affected districts, provision of livelihood is in full swing, and Red Crescent has distributed buffaloes and loader rickshaws for household support. The efforts of Pakistan Red Crescent have spread awareness, self-help and volunteering spirit. Pakistan Red Crescent has promoted the humanitarian spirit, building an ideal humanitarian society and highlighting the efforts of Red Cross.

On the occasion of Red Crescent Day, the first event was organized under the title of Art and Painting Competition among the students of the school.This event was visible in the F9 Park. Apart from more than four hundred students, Red Crescent staff, support staff and volunteers also participated in this competition. This healthy activity was supported by two members jewery, guest of honor, CDA authorities, school administrations and IFRC Head of delegation received a warm welcome.

The second event showcased the timely response of Pakistan Red Crescent during any kind of catastrophe. It was called the First Aid Simulation Exercise. The third event was called “Kindness Challenge”. INthis initiative, fruit baskets and gifts (toys) were distributed to the children under treatment in Hospital, for old age homes, orphanages.

Garbage and plastic were cleaned from the Lake view park. Hundreds of cadets of Hassan abdal Cadet College along with Pakistan Red Crescent participated in cleanliness campaign.The next day, tree planting was also done on the left side of faiz Abad Murree road.About two hundred and fifty saplings were planted.

A record number of people donated blood at the blood donation camp under Pakistan Red Crescent Regional Blood Donors Center at FAST University. An event was held at the Fatima Jinnah Auditorium of the National Headquarters on waste segregation, reduce, reuse and recycle initiatives. In addition to the awareness, the participants were also provided with information about the clean city project. By making the aforementioned events possible from May 2 to May 8, the PRCS raised its name in the national societies around the world. Similarly, the four provincial Branches including Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan and Tribal Areas (FATA) branch also celebrated the International Day in a grand manner.

International Red Cross Red Crescent Day reminds us of the importance of compassion, love, love, and help to others. The day also upholds the organizational principles, mission, values ​​and activities. I appeal to the youth of my beloved country that there is a blood donation campaign, or public awareness programs or first aid teaching sessions, you all should actively participate in them.

Pakistan Red Crescent organizes various events throughout the year for the promotion of healthy activities. International Red Cross Red Crescent Day is celebrated on May 8 every year around the world. This time Red Crescent has kept the youth busy for a whole week with service to humanity, blood donation, environmental protection, first aid, tree planting and cleanliness campaign. Go ahead. Support thePakistan Red Crescent for a humanitarian society.

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