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Turkiye keen to boost bilateral trade with Pakistan: Ambassador

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SIALKOT, Feb 23 (APP):Ambassador of Republic of Turkiye in Pakistan Irfan Neziroglu has said that his country is keen to boost mutual trade with Pakistan, and pledged to help remove all hurdles to it.
He stated this during an important meeting with Sialkot exporters at the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI). SCCI President Ikram-ul-Haq, Vice President (VP) Omer Khalid and Sialkot business community representatives were also present. The ambassador expressed hope that the trade volume between Pakistan and Turkiye would grow significantly in the near future. He assured his full commitment and support for further strengthening ties between the two countries and stressed that Turkiye was making efforts for enhancing and strengthening its economic ties with Pakistan. “Sialkot is the hometown of Allama Iqbal and Iqbal is our common hero,” he added.
The ambassador highlighted key potential sectors for collaboration, including education, textiles, leather and pharmaceuticals. “Entrepreneurs of both countries should know each other more and work hard to expand trade and economic relations while the embassy will fully cooperate in the efforts,” he said and stressed the importance of joint ventures, business-to-business (B2B) interactions and sector-specific meetings between both countries. He added that regular exchange of trade delegations would be crucial in exploring untapped potential. “I believe that commercial relations will make it easy for political, cultural and other relations. I will motivate the Turkiye business community to buy Sialkot-made products directly from Sialkot instead of purchasing them indirectly from other countries at high prices. The bonds between the people of Pakistan and Turkey are strong and enduring, with both nations standing by each other through thick and thin,” he maintained.
He said that Pakistan and Turkiye are two brotherly countries having centuries-old relationship. “The Turkish people have great love for Pakistani brethren.” The ambassador showed keen interest in SCCI’s documentary “Sialkot, the City of Progressive People”, which was screened during the meeting.
Speaking on the occasion, Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) President Ikram-ul-Haq said that there was a huge potential to increase the volume of bilateral trade. “Sialkot is an important economic hub and totally export-oriented city of the country. Sialkot represents an industrial setup producing specialized products that are supplied to top brands and buyers all over the world. We produce sports goods, surgical instruments, leather products, gloves of all sorts, textiles items, sports wear, martial arts uniform and accessories, musical instruments, kitchen ware & table ware, hollow ware, hunting knives, table cutlery/flatware, and military uniform badges,” he added. He said that Sialkot-made footballs, field hockey sticks, cricket gear and boxing gloves were used in international games including the Olympics and World Cups.
Earlier, the ambassador visited several leading industrial units in Sialkot. He witnessed the craftsmanship of artisans and took keen interest in the production process of spots goods and surgical instruments.

Furniture industry stakeholders to review budget proposals

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Mian Kashif Ashfaq
LAHORE, Feb 23 (APP):The Pakistan Furniture Council (PFC) is going to convene a special meeting of all stakeholders to review and consolidate their budget proposals for submission to the federal government.
Talking to media here Sunday, the PFC Chief Executive Officer Mian Kashif Ashfaq added that the meeting aims to address key challenges and opportunities within the furniture industry, ensuring that the sector’s needs are adequately represented in the upcoming national budget. Stakeholders including manufacturers, exporters, designers, and industry experts, would assemble to discuss strategies for growth, innovation, and sustainability.
He emphasized the importance of aligning the budget proposals with the government’s economic policies to foster a conducive environment for the furniture industry. Key agenda items would be tax reforms, incentives for local manufacturing, export promotion, and support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The council also plans to highlight the need for infrastructure development, skill enhancement programmes, and access to affordable raw materials. This collaborative efforts underscore the PFC’s commitment to strengthen furniture industry, which plays a vital role in Pakistan’s economy, he remarked.

AIOU holds seminar on ‘Cancer Awareness’

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):Allama Iqbal Open University(AIOU) has organized a national seminar on ‘Cancer Awareness’.
Dr. Muhammad Kashif, Associate Surgeon (Oncologist) at Federal Government Polyclinic Hospital was the chief guest, while it was presided over by Dr. Zaheer Ahmed, Chairman of the Department of Nutritional Sciences & Environmental Design.
During his lecture on cancer, Dr. Muhammad Kashif emphasized the importance of recognizing early symptoms to effectively combat the disease. While discussing the causes, stages, types, symptoms, and treatment strategies for cancer, he highlighted key warning signs, including lumps in any part of the body, non-healing ulcers or wounds, coughing up blood, persistent indigestion, blood in urine or stool, and unexpected vaginal bleeding. He stressed the need to consult a doctor if such symptoms appear, as early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
Dr. Kashif further stated that the most common type of cancer among women is breast cancer, while in men, prevalent forms include prostate, lung, intestinal, stomach, and blood cancers. He added that if diagnosed in the early stages, many types of cancer can be successfully treated.
The seminar was organized by the Department of Nutritional Sciences & Environmental Design under the Faculty of Sciences, with Dr. Mehpara Jadoon serving as the event coordinator.

ADT Rumanza Open Pakistan concludes

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):The Pakistan Golf Federation (PGF) successfully concluded the ADT Rumanza Open Pakistan at Rumanza Golf and Country Club.
The prestigious championship, featuring a total prize purse of $85,000, witnessed participation from 37 international players alongside Pakistan’s professional card holders recognized by PGF, said a press release.
The four-day event, played over 72 holes, saw Ahmed Baig successfully defend his title, clinching the championship trophy once again with a remarkable performance.
Project Director Brigadier Ahmed Ghumman extended heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Pakistan, PGF sponsors, Asian Tour and the management of Rumanza Golf and Country Club for their unwavering support and contribution towards the successful conduct of the championship.
A significant highlight of this year’s championship was the inclusion of five TARS-qualified referees from Pakistan who became part of the Asian Tour officiating team. The referees included Maj Rao Muhammad Ismail, Omar Javed Rao, Col Tahir Ayub, Col Zahid Iqbal, and Malik Mohammad Kamran from PGF.
The closing ceremony was graced by Lt Gen Qazi Muhammad Ikram Ahmed, President of PGF, who attended the occasion as the Chief Guest and congratulated all participants, officials, and organizers for hosting an international event of such high standard.

Bangladesh vs New Zealand: Rawalpindi gears up for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

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RAWALPINDI, Feb 23 (APP):The First match of the ICC  Champions Trophy 2025 in Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium will be played between Bangladesh and New Zealand teams on Monday.
Besides interesting point table positions of the participating teams, the citizens of Rawalpindi are desperate to watch the match.
All arrangements by the government have been completed regarding foolproof security, traffic flow, spectators entry points at the stadium and check points.
The spokesman police informed APP that more than 5000 police officials, contingents of Dolphins and Elite Force and expert sniper squads on important rooftops, have been deployed. Moreover, the security measures are fully collaborated with Pak Army, Rangers and other security agencies to provide the best environment for cricket fans.
The spectators arriving at the stadium to watch the matches will have to strictly follow the SOPs devised by the security establishment.
Triple security check points and walk-through gates are the standard entry procedures while bringing any kind of unauthorized equipment is strictly banned.
The city will host two more important matches of the tournament; Australia vs South Africa, and Pakistan vs Bangladesh scheduled on 25th and 27th February. All the matches will be played in day-night format providing an enormous opportunity to the spectators for sporting entertainment.
Hosting Champions Trophy matches has put a new zeal among the residents of Rawalpindi, a city that has contributed various cricket heroes including Miran Bakhsh, Shoaib Akhtar, Shadab Khan, Sohail Tanvir, Yasir Arafat, Muhammad Wasim and many others.

National Cricket team must perform it’s best to defeat India today, CM Murad says

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KARACHI, Feb 23 (APP):The Chief Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah has expressed his best wishes for the national cricket team to win over India in the ICC Champions Trophy, here on Sunday.
He said, ‘Today’s match is very important and it is hoped that the national team will play with full enthusiasm.’
 The Chief Minister said that the entire nation prays for the victory of the Shaheens.
  He said that the national team must perform at its best today.

CTP finalize all arrangements to regulate traffic on city roads during Champions Trophy matches

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RAWALPINDI, Feb 23 (APP):City Traffic Police (CTP) Rawalpindi have finalized all arrangements to regulate traffic on city road during Champions Trophy matches to be played at Rawalpindi cricket stadium.
According to a CTP spokesman, CTP on the directives of Chief Traffic Officer, Rawalpindi Beenish Fatima have also finalized arrangements and implemented a comprehensive and organized traffic plan for the Champions Trophy practice match at the cricket stadium on Sunday, Feb 23.
CTP have devised a special plan for maintaining smooth traffic flow on the city roads during the Champion Trophy matches scheduled to begin at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Feb 23.
Some 367 traffic police personnel, including DSPs/Circle in-charges, inspectors/sector in-charges and wardens would be on roads to maintain traffic flow during the matches to be played from Feb 23 to Feb 27, Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Beenish Fatima said.
The CTO said additional personnel have been deployed to keep the traffic flowing on alternate routes during the movement of cricket teams.
The Murree Road, she said, would be completely closed from Faizabad to Double Road at the time of arrival and departure of the cricket teams from the stadium.
During the time, the traffic coming from Islamabad to Rawalpindi would be diverted from Faizabad to Expressway, while the traffic from Rawalpindi would be able to enter Islamabad via Saidpur Road using 6th Road. Similarly, the traffic from Ghousia Chowk would be diverted to the Kurry Road via Farooq Azam Road.
She said during the match, the Stadium Road, from 9th Avenue Chowk to Double Road Turn, would remain fully closed for traffic.
The traffic coming from Islamabad via 9th Avenue would be able to enter Rawalpindi through Expressway via Faizabad, and IJP Road from Pindora Chungi, Katarian, Carriage Factory and Pirwadhai Mor Chowk, while those going to 9th Avenue from Murree Road via Double Road would enter Islamabad from Faizabad.
The CTO said five spaces had been specified for parking of vehicles, from where the shuttle service arranged by the district administration would carry spectators to the stadium.
She said the CTP would have displayed banners at different places for the awareness of people about alternate routes during the cricket match.
The public could also get guidance in that regard from the CTP’s social media pages and FM radio station, she added.
Beenish urged the citizens to cooperate with the traffic police for smooth flow of traffic on city roads during the cricket matches.
Special arrangements have been made to ensure smooth flow of traffic on alternative routes during the matches and movement of the players. The citizens would also be provided with all information about diversion points and traffic situation through the official social media pages of Traffic Police @ctprwp and FM radio stations, Beenish Fatima added.

DC for eleborate security measures for Champions Trophy matches

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):Deputy Commissioner (DC) Islamabad, Irfan Nawaz Memon has chaired a high-level security review meeting in preparation for the upcoming Champions Trophy matches at Rawalpindi Stadium.
The meeting focused on ensuring robust safety protocols for teams, spectators, and the surrounding areas.
Key stakeholders, including police and security agencies, participated to finalize arrangements and address potential challenges.
The meeting was attended by representatives from various security agencies, including the police, to discuss and evaluate safety measures for the international cricket event.
A major focus was on traffic management during the matches, with specific routes being assessed to minimize disruptions and ensure smooth movement.
According to the briefing provided by the Islamabad Police, over 900 surveillance cameras will be deployed to monitor the movement of cricket teams and the public. Continuous 24-hour surveillance will cover routes from the airport to hotels, the stadium, and surrounding areas.
Additionally, drone cameras, 202 body-worn cameras, and vehicle tracking systems will be utilized to enhance security coverage across all routes and accommodations.
The DC emphasized the need for foolproof security arrangements, instructing officials to leave no room for error. The comprehensive plan includes monitoring all access points, residential areas, and critical infrastructure to ensure a safe environment for players, officials, and fans.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of coordination among security agencies to address any potential threats swiftly. With the Champions Trophy being a high-profile event, the authorities are committed to maintaining a secure and hassle-free experience for everyone involved.
The collaborative efforts of law enforcement and security agencies aim to deliver a safe and seamless event, ensuring that cricket enthusiasts can enjoy the matches without concerns.

H-9 Itwar bazaar popular shopping point offers affordable prices

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By Tayyab Zarif
ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):Itwar Bazar, also known as the Sunday Market, is a lively shopping spot in Islamabad’s H-9 sector. Famous for its wide variety of affordable goods, the market offers fresh produce, second-hand clothing, electronics, household items, and more. It operates on Sundays, Tuesdays, and Fridays.
Shoppers can find everything from fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices to used clothes, toys, gadgets, and home essentials. The market is also a hotspot for street food vendors serving up local favorites.
Kamran Raza, the in-charge of the bazar, told APP that the stalls are organized into sections from A to H, with a total of 2,743 stalls.
At Itwar Bazar in Islamabad, a portion of the stalls was specifically allocated for female vendors.
According to Raza, approximately 100 to 150 stalls were set aside for women, offering them a dedicated space to run their businesses. This initiative helps promote women’s participation in the local economy and ensures they have access to a fair and organized environment within the market.
The stall allocation process is typically done through a transparent balloting system, where the stalls are fairly distributed among the vendors. This method ensures an organized and fair approach to the distribution of market spaces.
The stalls at Itwar Bazar are available in different sizes, with the smallest stalls measuring 8×8 feet, priced at 15,780, and the larger stalls measuring 16×16 feet, with a price of 62,000. Stalls are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring a fair distribution of space among vendors. This allocation system allows vendors to secure their preferred stall size based on availability and demand, he further said.
Meanwhile, during the construction of the metro station for the H-9 stop, several stalls located along the Metro Bus route were demolished to accommodate the new infrastructure. As new roads and bus stations were built, the layout of the market was altered, resulting in changes to the space allocation and adjustments in the way the market operated.
Vendors whose stalls were demolished had to be relocated to other parts of the market or surrounding areas. The authorities likely made efforts to compensate or assist vendors, but the demolitions did cause temporary disruptions to the market’s operations.
“During the construction of metro stop, some stalls at ‘section A’ were demolished but, later relocated at the same section.” he said.
The administration of bazar has developed a strict system for prices of the goods like prices of the vegetable, fruits and etc. After determination of prices, the list of prices of goods was distributed to the stalls for compliance.
He also mentioned that approximately 8,000 to 10,000 vehicles move in and out of the market area for shopping especially on Sunday.
This highlights the significant volume of shoppers and the high demand for goods at the market, making it a key commercial hub in Islamabad.
Most importantly, the use of single-use plastic bags has been banned in the bazaar, emphasizing the market’s commitment to sustainability. This initiative highlights the bazaar’s focus on being environmentally friendly and contributing to a cleaner, more user-friendly shopping experience.

KP universities to soon have permanent VCs: Meena Khan

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Meena Khan
PESHAWAR, Feb 23 (APP):Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provincial Minister for Higher Education, Meena Khan Afridi, has said that universities across the province will soon have permanent vice-chancellors.
He stated all necessary processes are in their final stages adding the matter will be resolved within a month.
In a statement to media, the minister also revealed that a comprehensive financial plan has been developed to address the financial crisis in universities. With its implementation, financial difficulties will be resolved by the next fiscal year.
Speaking on other matters, the provincial minister noted that any reshuffling in the cabinet would be decided by the leadership.
He further added that the Minister for Health is performing well, and positive steps are being taken in the healthcare sector.
Meena Khan Afridi reiterated his commitment to resolving the leadership and financial challenges faced by the universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Governor criticizes renaming of Arbab Niaz Stadium

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PESHAWAR, Feb 23 (APP):Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Faisal Karim Kundi on Sunday strongly criticized the provincial government for renaming the Arbab Niaz Cricket Stadium.
In his statement, Governor Kundi called the name change of the stadium “extremely inappropriate.
He accused the Chief Minister of being on a mission to “erase the province’s identity.” He stated that naming the stadium after the mastermind of the May 9 incident strengthens anti-state elements.
Governor Kundi assured that the people of Peshawar stand united against the renaming of the stadium.
He also criticized the previous ruling party, saying that despite being in power for nine years, it failed to renovate and restore the Arbab Niaz Stadium.
“On one side, we have an incompetent government, while on the other, the federal government and PCB have transformed stadiums in Lahore and Karachi within weeks,” he remarked.

PHA expands Halal verification framework to ensure global compliance: DG

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):Director General of the Pakistan Halal Authority (PHA), Akhtar A. Bughio, on Sunday said that authority was committed to strengthening its halal certification framework to align with global standards.
Talking to a PTV news, he said that the role of PHA in ensuring that all consumables, including cosmetics and processed goods, are free from non-halal ingredients through a rigorous verification process.
He said that PHA was dedicated to his role to identify halal products and certify and mark those products so that consumers have complete assurance regarding their purchases.
Answering a question, he said that Muslim-majority countries assume locally available products are halal, but the global market requires proper certification to verify authenticity. Where, Non-Muslim countries have significantly contributed to the halal market and have captured a major share. Pakistan, despite entering the sector later, is now actively working to streamline certification processes to align with global practices, he added.
He further said that modern food processing methods raise questions about the traceability and source of ingredients.
The PHA ensures that no haram substances are present in certified products through a rigorous verification system. The authority integrates technology with religious principles to maintain credibility, he added.
He also highlighted the issue of self-claimed halal products, noting that some entities falsely label products as halal. To counter this, PHA has established a facilitation center where consumers can verify product certification.
Answering a question regarding international collaboration, he said that Pakistan has initiated agreements with global halal certification bodies, including those in the United States and Russia. Recently, an MoU was signed with Turkey during President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s visit to Pakistan, strengthening bilateral cooperation in the halal sector.
He further stated that authority plans to launch a halal certification mobile application within the next six months. The app will allow consumers to scan QR codes on products to instantly verify their halal status, including certification details and production origin.
He added that PHA is actively engaging with local and international halal bodies and has partnered with 17 organizations, including universities and technology institutes, to enhance research and training in halal certification.
He expressed pride in the organization’s structured recruitment and training processes, ensuring that young professionals are well-equipped to contribute to the sector.
The director general was committed to adopt international best practices to strengthen its halal certification framework, ensuring transparency and credibility in the global halal market.

President RCCI, champions industrialization, tax reform at APCPC Faisalabad

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):President Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI)  Usman Shaukat, addressing the 3rd All Pakistan Chambers Presidents Conference (APCPC)  at the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCI), emphasized industrialization as the cornerstone for Pakistan’s economic uplift.
He highlighted the need for a robust industrial policy to drive growth, create employment opportunities, and enhance exports,said a press release issued here .
In his address during the conference’s first session, Usman Shaukat urged the  government  to adopt a collaborative approach in policy-making.
He stressed that taxation policies should be rationalized and developed through meaningful consultations with key stakeholders, including chambers of commerce and industry leaders across the country.

Sharjeel vows to accelerate development work by local bodies

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HYDERABAD, Feb 23 (APP):Senior Provincial Minister for Information, Transport, and Mass Transit Sharjeel Inam Memon reiterated his unwavering commitment to undertaking comprehensive development initiatives in his area, ensuring that his people receive optimal support and assistance.
Heading over a meeting with chairmen and vice-chairmen of local government bodies at the committee room of Rawal House, TandoJam, the provincial minister Sharjeel Inaam Memon emphasized the imperative of transparently utilizing funds allocated by the Sindh Government for public welfare projects.
Deputy Commissioner Hyderabad Zain-ul Aabdeen Memon, Divisional Director Information Irshad Ali Chandio, District officer Marvi Soomro, and local government chairmen and vice-chairmen of Taluka Tando Jam attended the meeting.
Sharjeel Inaam Memon directed the chairmen to optimize the utilization of funds received from the Sindh Government, cautioning that strict action would be taken against any chairman, if found misappropriating these funds.
The Information Minister  underscored that the Sindh Chief Minister has issued clear instructions to ensure that local government funds are utilized exclusively for public works, effectively addressing the problems faced by the people.
The provincial minister Sharjeel Inaam Memon reaffirmed his determination to establish his constituency as a model constituency, underscoring the importance of serving the people to further bolster their trust.
He instructed the chairmen to resign if they were unwilling to work, paving the way for dedicated and honest individuals to assume responsibility.
Concluding the meeting, Minister Sharjeel Inaam Memon directed Deputy Commissioner Hyderabad to convene a meeting with the concerned chairmen to address the aforementioned issues and provide necessary assistance.

IFA conducts special training for salt manufacturers

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):The Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) in collaboration with Nutrition International, has launched a series of training sessions aimed at salt manufacturers in the Federal Capital.
The initiative focuses on promoting the production of iodized salt, ensuring better health outcomes for citizens.
In this regard, a specialized training session was held at the Islamabad Food Authority office, attended by salt factory owners from the region.
The session was led by Deputy Director of IFA, Dr. Tahira Siddique, who emphasized the importance of iodized salt in daily diets.
During the training, experts highlighted the critical role of iodine in human health. Iodine is essential for brain development and helps prevent diseases like goiter. The session also covered key aspects of salt production, including quality standards, packaging, and hygiene practices.
Dr. Tahira Siddique stated that the primary goal of these sessions is to ensure the availability of high-quality salt for consumers. She noted that salt is a fundamental ingredient in all meals, making its quality a public health priority.
The training is part of a broader effort by the Islamabad Food Authority to improve food safety standards in the city. By educating manufacturers, the authority aims to reduce health risks associated with low-quality salt and promote better nutrition.
The session concluded with a call to action for manufacturers to adopt best practices in salt production. The Islamabad Food Authority plans to continue these training programs, targeting other sectors of the food industry in the coming months.
This initiative reflects the authority’s commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring access to safe, nutritious food for all residents of Islamabad.

Sindh University conducts entrance test for admissions to MPhil , PhD programs

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HYDERABAD, Feb 23 (APP):A total of 838 candidates participated in the entry test for admissions to various MPhil and PhD programs for the academic year 2025.
The entry test was conducted for 32 PhD and 37 MPhil programs.
Examination centers were set up at the Institute of Computer Science, Commerce, Physics, Business Administration, Faculty of Engineering & Technology and Pharmacy for the entry test.
The test commenced at 10:10 AM and lasted for one and a half hours, concluding at 11:40 AM, SU spokesperson
Excellent arrangements were made during the entry test for admissions to various MPhil and PhD programs, spokesperson
The Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Khalil-ur-Rehman Khoumbhati visited the examination centers at the Institute of Mathematics & Computer Science, Commerce and Physics.
Dr Khoumbhati expressed satisfaction over the arrangements made for smooth conduct of the test.

Melody market set to become modern, model market: Bakhtawari

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):Secretary General of UBG (FPCCI), Zafar Bakhtawari, stated that Melody Market in Islamabad is set to become a modern and model market, which will not only boost business activities but also positively impact the city’s economy.
The development of Melody Market and the provision of modern facilities will be greatly supported by the business community of Islamabad and the market’s traders,said a press release issued here.
He expressed these views during a visit to the market on the invitation of Melody Market President, Azhar Iqbal.
Zafar Bakhtawari further said that Islamabad and Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, are sister cities, and considering this relationship, the Azerbaijani government is playing a significant role in the upgradation of Melody Market.
The uplift work of the market is ongoing with Azerbaijan’s support. However, it is also the responsibility of traders to improve the internal infrastructure of their shops and modernize the shopping culture to provide better facilities for customers and increase foot traffic in the market.
He mentioned that the development work of Melody Market is expected to be completed by April 2025, and a grand inauguration ceremony will be held in this regard.
He also expressed special gratitude to CDA Chairman, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, whose keen interest and efforts have accelerated the completion of development work, equipping an important market in the city with modern facilities.
On this occasion, Melody Market President, Azhar Iqbal, stated that they are fully cooperating with CDA to develop Melody Market along modern lines.
He welcomed the initiatives taken with Azerbaijan’s support for the improvement of the market and expressed gratitude to the CDA Chairman for his dedication to completing this project as soon as possible.
Azhar Iqbal also demanded that the Food Mall in Melody Market be upgraded, reorganized, and provided with more modern facilities.
He emphasized the need for designated parking areas and improvements in water supply, sewerage, and other basic infrastructure to provide maximum convenience for shoppers and traders.
On this occasion, ICCI Executive Committee members Rohail Anwar Butt, Malik Mohsin Khalid, Khalid Chaudhry, Babar Chaudhry, Nisar Mirza, Melody Market General Secretary Jamil Qureshi, and other distinguished personalities were also present.
They appreciated the market’s upgradation process and expressed hope for its timely completion.

Islamabad Police seize over 7,000 Kites, 6,000 Spools of string in crackdown

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):Islamabad Capital Police have intensified their crackdown on kite sellers and flyers, with the Industrial Area Police Station seizing over 7,000 kites and 6,000 spools of chemical-laced string in a major operation on Sunday.
A public relations officer told APP that officials arrested a suspect, Muaz Ahmed, and confiscated the illegal materials during the raid.
“Kite selling is a punishable offence, and strict action is being taken against those violating the law,” said SSP Operations Muhammad Shoaib Khan.
He said the legal action against kite sellers and flyers will continue to ensure public safety. SSP Shoaib reiterated the commitment to curbing this dangerous activity.

Minister inaugurated largest cricket ground in district Chiniot

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CHINIOT, Feb 23 (APP):Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh has inaugurated the largest cricket ground, while the charming tunes of the military band made the ceremony enchanting.
The largest cricket ground in the district was also inaugurated on the occasion of the Chiniot festival.
Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh inaugurated it by playing ball.
Deputy Commissioner Safiullah Gondal and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.
The Federal Minister appreciated the cooperation of ADCG Talha Saeed and the citizens in preparing the ground and termed it a valuable gift for the youth.
Speaking on the occasion, the minister said that I have been playing cricket for the school since 1961 in the ninth grade and I love cricket very much.
The ground of Islamia College Chiniot is also a gift from the Sheikh community to the people of Chiniot.
The cricket ground of Islamia College has been prepared with the cooperation of philanthropists.
The citizens have been provided with a very good ground for sports. The people have enjoyed a lot on the occasion of Jashn Chiniot by the Punjab government and the citizens have enjoyed themselves for three days and have participated in these open spaces, which has brought out new talent.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is organizing Jashn Baharan across the province. On this occasion, the Federal Minister announced a grant of one million rupees for the Islamia College Ground and said that he will also provide more funds for it.

Three injured as van plunges into canal

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LODHRAN, Feb 23 (APP):A commuters van plunged into a canal near here on Sunday, leaving three people injured.
According to Rescue officials, a commuters van was heading towards Kahror Pacca
from Lodhran when it plunged into a canal due to over speeding near Shah Da Dera
Kahror Pacca road. Fortunately, there was no water in the canal.
As a result, three people sustained minor injuries.
On information, Rescue teams rushed to the spot and started rescue operation.
The Rescue team provided first aid to the injured on the spot.