DERA GHAZI KHAN: February 22 –
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif meets local leaders and parliamentarians.
DERA GHAZI KHAN: February 22 –
Saif reiterates govt commitment to establish peace in Kurram
PESHAWAR, Feb 22 (APP):Adviser to the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Information and Public Relations, Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif on Saturday reiterated that the government was taking all necessary steps to establish permanent peace in the area.
In separate meetings with delegations from Kurram here, he urged both parties to play a key role in restoring peace and assured them that Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur was sincerely working towards a lasting solution to the century-old dispute.
The meetings focused on the security situation in the district, with both delegations expressing their concerns and urging strict action against miscreants, said a press release issued here.
They reaffirmed their commitment to fully implementing the peace agreement and assured complete cooperation with security forces and the government to restore peace.
The delegations emphasized that anti-social elements are enemies of Kurram’s peace and called on the government to take decisive action to eliminate them.
They highlighted that unrest in the region is disrupting education, trade, and other economic and social activities.
Saif advised both sides to distance themselves from miscreants and support the government in curbing their activities.
He warned that these elements were attempting to incite sectarian tensions but assured that the government would never allow them to succeed.
He stressed that such individuals were not just enemies of Kurram but of the entire state.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif meets local leaders and parliamentarians.
DERA GHAZI KHAN: February 22 – Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif meets local leaders and parliamentarians.
DERA GHAZI KHAN: February 22 – Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif meets local leaders and parliamentarians. APP/FHA
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif meets local leaders and parliamentarians.
DERA GHAZI KHAN: February 22 – Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif meets local leaders and parliamentarians. APP/FHA
DERA GHAZI KHAN: February 22 – Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif meets local leaders and parliamentarians. APP/FHA
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif meets local leaders and parliamentarians.
DERA GHAZI KHAN: February 22 – Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif meets local leaders and parliamentarians. APP/FHA
DERA GHAZI KHAN: February 22 – Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif meets local leaders and parliamentarians. APP/FHA
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif meets local leaders and parliamentarians.
DERA GHAZI KHAN: February 22 –
ADB, CDA discuss development of Islamabad Inter-City Bus Terminal
ISLAMABAD, Feb 22 (APP):A high-level delegation from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) met with Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) Muhammad Ali Randhawa to discuss key development projects, including the establishment of the Islamabad Inter-City Bus Terminal.
During the meeting, Chairman Randhawa was briefed on the completion of the preliminary feasibility report for the Islamabad Inter-City Bus Terminal project.
The proposed terminal is set to integrate with the city’s existing Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and electric bus services, aiming to enhance urban mobility and reduce traffic congestion in the federal capital.
Chairman Randhawa emphasized the need for ADB to develop a comprehensive financial model for the project, which will also include charging infrastructure to support electric buses.
He further highlighted the importance of ADB’s technical expertise in preparing the Islamabad Transport Master Plan, a long-term strategy to modernize the city’s transportation network.
In addition, the Chairman urged ADB to assist in securing carbon credits for environmentally sustainable initiatives, underscoring the CDA’s commitment to green urban development.
The meeting concluded with Chairman Randhawa reaffirming CDA’s dedication to collaborating with ADB on the construction and development of Islamabad, ensuring the city’s growth aligns with modern urban planning standards and environmental sustainability.
Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, Addressing the 3rd all Pakistan chambers conference at Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
FAISALABAD: February 22 –
APP11-220225
FAISALABAD: February 22 – Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, Addressing the 3rd all Pakistan chambers conference at Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry. APP/TWR/FHA
FAISALABAD: February 22 – Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, receiving the honorary shield from the president of FCCI during the 3rd all pakistan chambers conference at Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry. APP/TWR/FHA
FAISALABAD: February 22 – A group photo of local traders and business community with Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Mr. Muhammad Aurangzeb during his visit to Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FCCI). APP/TWR/FHA
Chairman South Asian Athletics Federation, Maj General (R) Akram Sahi along with Brig (R) Sultan Mehmood Satti briefing to the media about Athletics Cross Country Championship being held from 23rd February 2025 in F9 park at Pakistan Sports Complex Islamabad.
ISLAMABAD: February 22 –
Statutory training for Additional District and Sessions Judges concludes at judicial academy
PESHAWAR, Feb 22 (APP):The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Judicial Academy (KPJA) successfully concluded a two-week statutory training program for 35 Additional District and Sessions Judges/Izafi Zilla Qazis.
The closing ceremony was held at the KPJA in Peshawar, with Hon’ble Chief Justice of Peshawar High Court, Justice Syed Muhammad Attique Shah, as the chief guest.
The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including Asad Hameed Khan, Member Inspection Team Peshawar High Court, Jehanzeb Shinwari, Director General KPJA, Zia Ur Rahman, Dean Faculty, Mr. Aurangzeb Khan Khalil, Station Director Radio Meezan, Dr. Qazi Ataullah, Senior Director Research & Publication, and other academy officials.
In his address, Chief Justice Syed Muhammad Attique Shah congratulated the participants on completing the training and emphasized the critical role of Additional District and Sessions Judges in the district judiciary as courts of appeal and revision.
He praised the academy for organizing a cross-provincial visit to the Punjab Judicial Academy in Lahore for professional development.
Sharing his professional journey, the Chief Justice urged the judges to remain steadfast in their faith in Allah SWT while administering justice. He also highlighted the importance of addressing case delays, combating corruption, and utilizing Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) techniques for resolving disputes.
Earlier, Director General KPJA, Jehanzeb Shinwari, thanked the Chief Justice for gracing the occasion and congratulated him on his elevation as Chief Justice. He also commended the participants for successfully completing the training.
The ceremony concluded with the distribution of certificates to the participants.
DPO holds open court
SIALKOT, Feb 22 (APP):District Police Officer (DPO) Faisal Shahzad held an open court at the Hajipura police station.
According to a police spokesman, DPO Faisal Shahzad listened to public issues and complaints and issued orders for their redress. The DPO said that the purpose of the open court is to provide justice at the doorstep of citizens.
He said that the complaints of the public will be addressed on a priority basis. Sialkot police is busy day and night serving and protecting the public, he added.
PM to pay two day state visit to Azerbaijan
ISLAMABAD, Feb 22 (APP):At the invitation of President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif will pay a two-day state visit to the Republic of Azerbaijan from 24-25 February 2025.
This marks Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s second visit to Azerbaijan since assuming office in March 2024. He will be accompanied by a high-level delegation including Deputy Prime Minister/ Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and other key members of the cabinet, reflecting Pakistan’s strong commitment to deepening its engagement with Azerbaijan.
During the visit, the two sides will engage in wide-ranging discussions on areas of mutual interest in order to further strengthen bilateral cooperation particularly in energy, trade, defence, education and climate sectors. Several MoUs/agreements in multiple areas of cooperation are expected to be signed between the two sides during the visit.
Pakistan and Azerbaijan share a deep-rooted brotherly relationship built on mutual trust, understanding and a longstanding mutually beneficial cooperation. Azerbaijan remains one of Pakistan’s key economic and strategic partners, with strong collaboration across multiple sectors.
The Prime Minister is also expected to deliver a keynote speech during a Business Forum organized in collaboration with the Export and Investment Promotion Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan (AZPROMO). During the visit, the Prime Minister, along with the President of Azerbaijan, will also visit Fuzuli as part of a special visit to the liberated territories of Karabakh.
The Prime Minister’s visit underscores Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to further strengthening its ties with Azerbaijan, fostering greater economic collaboration and exploring new avenues of partnership for shared development.
Preserving mother languages ensures cultural autonomy, intellectual freedom: CM
LAHORE, Feb 22 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has said that a mother language is the most valuable symbol of a nation’s identity, culture, and heritage.
In her message on International Mother Language Day, the CM stated that preserving one’s native language ensures cultural autonomy and intellectual freedom. Highlighting its significance, she noted that the mother tongue is not just a means of communication but a vital bridge for passing down history, traditions, and civilization across generations. She stressed that languages play a crucial role in national unity and progress.
Reaffirming the Punjab government’s commitment to linguistic preservation, she announced that the Punjab Institute of Language, Art, and Culture has been further strengthened to promote and protect mother languages. She underscored that these languages are an integral part of identity, and their development remains a top priority.
CM Maryam Nawaz emphasized the need to connect the younger generation with their native languages to keep them rooted in their culture and history. She highlighted that various initiatives are underway to incorporate language development, research, and promotion into the educational curriculum.
The CM reiterated that the Punjab government will take every possible step to safeguard and promote mother languages, ensuring their rich legacy for future generations.
President for global cooperation to address challenges, ensure inclusive development
ISLAMABAD, Feb 22 (APP):President Asif Ali Zardari urged the need for global cooperation and partnerships to address challenges like climate change, poverty, and disinformation. He called for promoting collaboration among countries to ensure inclusive and sustainable development.
The President gave these remarks while speaking to the participants of the 5th International Workshop for Leadership & Stability organized by the National Defence University (NDU), who called on him, at Aiwan-e-Sadr on Saturday.
Currently, 64 foreign participants from friendly countries and 32 Pakistani participants from diverse sectors including business leaders, diplomats, government officials, representatives of think tanks, media, and young professionals are attending the workshop. NDU has been organizing the workshop for parliamentarians, senior policy makers, diplomats, consultants and senior executives from worldwide.
Addressing the participants, the President said that Pakistan was the gateway to landlocked Central Asian countries, who were welcome to benefit from Gwadar port to promote shared development and prosperity. Reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to regional connectivity and economic collaboration, he invited international partners to work together toward a secure and sustainable future. “A stable world is essential for shared progress,” he added. He said that the world faced a range of economic, environmental, security, disinformation and technological challenges, which required global cooperation to address them.
Highlighting the role of leadership, the President said that it was the responsibility of leaders to create opportunities for collaboration and work for the betterment of people and shared peace and prosperity. He said that leadership had the responsibility to unite people around a shared vision and motivate stakeholders to achieve sustainable development goals. He asked the participants to choose dialogue over division, cooperation over conflict, and hope over fear to create lasting change. He also encouraged participants to translate their insights from the workshop into real-world solutions.
The President congratulated the participants on completing the course and lauded NDU for organizing the workshop, stating that such initiatives played a crucial role in shaping perspectives on leadership, governance, and stability.
Earlier, the President was briefed about the aims and objectives of the workshop. It was informed that the workshop provided a platform to share Pakistan’s perspective on diverse global issues and promote dialogue with the world.
PM meets local, parliamentary leaders in DG Khan
DERA GHAZI KHAN, Feb 22 (APP):Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif Saturday met local and parliamentary leaders here and talked about the development matters of their constituencies and areas.
The local leaders paid tribute to the prime minister for the recent financial stability in the country.
They thanked the government for undertaking development work for the welfare and well being of people in their area.
The prime minister advised the participants of the meeting to play an active role for the welfare of the people.
He appreciated the people of Dera Ghazi Khan for holding a successful public meeting.
Federal Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal, Minister for Industries Rana Tanvir Hussain, Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar and Advisor to Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah attended the meeting.
Dubai hosts grand global launch of Burj Azizi, world’s second tallest tower
By Rehan Khan
DUBAI, Feb 22 (APP): Dubai has witnessed a spectacular global launch event for Burj Azizi, poised to be the world’s second tallest tower, at the Coca-Cola Arena.
The grand ceremony was attended by over 15,000 distinguished guests, including government officials, investors, business leaders, diplomats, media personnel, and influencers. The event was further elevated by a stunning performance from American singer Jennifer Lopez.
According to the UAE media reports, Burj Azizi will stand at an impressive height of 725 meters upon completion in 2028, making it the second tallest tower in the world. The 131-story skyscraper will offer a unique blend of residential, hospitality, retail, and entertainment spaces.
The luxury shopping mall inside the tower will house outlets of globally renowned brands. Spacious one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, along with a business center, cinema, restaurants, cafes, and a supermarket, will be part of the project, ensuring world-class facilities for residents and visitors alike.
The tower will also feature a prestigious seven-star hotel, offering an unparalleled experience in luxury hospitality. The hotel will boast specialty restaurants representing various international cuisines, including Arabic, Chinese, Persian, Indian, Turkish, French, and Russian, providing guests with an exquisite gastronomic journey.
Upon completion, Burj Azizi is set to break multiple records, including the highest observation deck on the 130th floor, the tallest hotel lobby on the 111th floor, the highest nightclub on the 126th floor, the tallest restaurant on the 122nd floor, and the highest hotel room on the 118th floor. Additionally, the tower will house a dedicated museum that will showcase the history and construction journey of this architectural marvel.
Expressing his delight at the launch, Mirwais Azizi, Founder and Chairman of Azizi Developments, stated, “It is truly a moment of pride to see a vision come to life after years of dedication and relentless efforts from experts worldwide.
Burj Azizi stands as a testament to Dubai’s engineering excellence and architectural innovation, marking a significant milestone in the city’s skyline.”
He extended his gratitude to the leadership of Dubai for their unwavering support and encouragement, specifically thanking His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, for his visionary leadership. “I am also deeply grateful to Dubai’s authorities for their steadfast cooperation in bringing this ambitious project to reality,” he added.
With its groundbreaking design and record-breaking features, Burj Azizi is set to redefine luxury and elegance, further cementing Dubai’s reputation as a global hub for architectural brilliance.
Gold up by Rs.1,000 per tola to Rs.308,000
ISLAMABAD, Feb 22 (APP): The price of 24 karat per tola gold increased by Rs.1,000 and was sold at Rs 308,000 on Saturday against its sale at Rs 307,000 on previous trading day, All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewelers Association reported.
The price of 10 grams of 24 karat gold also increased by Rs 857 to Rs 264,060 from Rs.263,203 whereas that of 10 gram 22 karat went up by Rs.785 to Rs 242,063 from Rs.241,278.
The prices of per tola silver decreased by Rs.50 to Rs,3,380 and that of ten gram went down by Rs.43 to Rs.2,897.
The price of gold in the international market increased by $6 to $2,936 from $.2,930 whereas the prices of silver in international market declined by $0.5 to $32.44, the Association reported.
PTCL brings Africa-1 submarine cable to Pakistan, boosting country’s digital future
ISLAMABAD, Feb 22 (APP):The ultra-high capacity, Africa-1 submarine cable has successfully made its landfall at Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited’s (PTCL) landing site at Sea View Beach, Karachi.
It marks a transformative step in enhancing Pakistan’s digital connectivity. This milestone follows Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited’s (PTCL) official agreement to join the Africa-1 cable system consortium, highlighting its mission to integrate Pakistan with key global digital hubs, and reinforce the national telecommunication infrastructure said a news release issued by PTCL.
This groundbreaking achievement reaffirms the vision of leveraging cutting-edge technologies to foster progress and connectivity across the regions served by the Africa-1 system.
The Africa-1 consortium comprises of leading telecommunications companies including Mobily (Saudi Arabia), e& (UAE), G42 (UAE), Telecom Egypt, Zain Oman International (ZOI), Algérie Télécom, TeleYemen and other global service providers.
The cable system spans 10,000 kilometres and employ state-of-the-art advanced technologies. The system will link Pakistan with strategic locations, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Sudan, Algeria, France, Kenya, and Djibouti. The cable will be terminated at Africa-1 Cable station in PTCL Exchange Misrishah, Phase-VI, DHA Karachi, further positioning Pakistan as a vital hub in the global digital network.
Sharing his thoughts, Syed Muhammad Shoaib, Group VP International Business at PTCL highlighted the strategic significance of this collaboration: “PTCL is proud to be a part of the Africa-1 cable system consortium”.
This partnership aligns seamlessly with Pakistan’s Digital Vision 2030 and our commitment to empowering the communities by bridging the digital divide.
By establishing strong, reliable connections to key international hubs, PTCL aims to provide faster, world-class internet services enabling innovation across sectors and strengthening Pakistan’s position in the global economy.
The Africa-1 cable system is slated for completion in the beginning of 2026.
Once operational, it will bolster PTCL’s capacity to deliver high-quality, reliable internet services that meet international standards, solidifying the company’s position as a preferred telecom operator in Pakistan and beyond.
Al-Bait Tour Operating company upholds legacy of pilgrim service with AI integration
PESHAWAR, Feb 22 (APP):The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Al-Bait Tour Operating Company, Muhammad Osama on Saturday expressed the company’s commitment to maintaining a century-old tradition of serving pilgrims while integrating modern technology for enhanced services.
In an exclusive interview, Osama revealed that although Al-Bait was formally established three years ago, his ancestors have been guiding and assisting pilgrims visiting the Two Holy Mosques for the past 43 years.
He emphasized that the company’s mission is to serve guests with excellence, and to achieve this, they are now leveraging artificial intelligence to enhance their services.
Al-Bait has established strong connections worldwide, particularly in Asia and South Asia, and operates with the highest levels of transparency.
Osama stressed that the company has set its own standards through hard work and dedication, ensuring that all partners and sub-tour operators adhere to the same principles of honesty and quality service.
He reaffirmed Al-Bait’s commitment to the ethical foundations laid by his ancestors and welcomed serious business partners, including those from Pakistan. However, he made it clear that there would be no compromise on quality and transparency, as trust, once lost, is difficult to regain.
With a vision of maintaining integrity and excellence, Al-Bait Tour Operating Company continues to expand its reach while upholding the values that have been the cornerstone of its service for nearly a century, he maintained.
Delegation of Civil Services Academy Lahore visits University of Sargodha
SARGODHA, Feb 22 (APP):A delegation from the Civil Services Academy Lahore visited the University of Sargodha and met with Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Qaiser Abbas. The delegation comprised 62 probationary officers from the Common Training Program along with two instructors.
The meeting was attended by Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Mian Ghulam Yasin, along with various university officials and heads of academic departments. Prof. Dr. Qaiser Abbas briefed the delegation on the ongoing educational, research, and developmental initiatives at the University of Sargodha, highlighting key projects under the Public-Private Partnership model. He elaborated significant steps taken to modernize academic and research activities, ensuring their alignment with contemporary needs.
The Vice Chancellor also shed light on major university projects, including the completion of the Solar Energy Project, the commercialization of Khush Aab Water, the establishment of modern cafeterias under BOT Model, and the Waheed Wain Incubation Center—an initiative aimed at introducing students’ business ideas to the market. Additionally, he discussed partnerships with various national and international institutions and the university’s increasing role in regional development through community service initiatives.
He emphasized that the university is not only imparting education but also instilling ethical values to nurture responsible citizens. Providing skill-based, high-quality education remains a top priority, he said.
During the session, delegation members engaged in discussions with the Vice Chancellor, asking various questions and appreciating the university’s progressive initiatives.
The delegation later visited key university facilities, including the Waheed Wain Incubation Center, gym, Wazir Agha Library, and newly established cafeterias, along with academic departments.