LAHORE: February 21 –
APP58-210225
LAHORE: February 21 – Chairman Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashood Ahmed Khan talking to the media persons during press conference at Aiwan-e-Iqbal. APP/MTF/ABB
Chairman Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashood Ahmed Khan talking to the media persons during press conference at Aiwan-e-Iqbal.
LAHORE: February 21 –
Pakistan to continue moral, diplomatic support to Palestinian brothers: Aleem Khan
ISLAMABAD, Feb 21 (APP):Federal Minister for Communications, Privatization, and Board of Investment, Abdul Aleem Khan, held a detailed meeting with Palestinian Transport Minister Tariq Hussaini Zarrab during the 4th Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety in Morocco.
During the meeting, Minister Aleem Khan conveyed Pakistan’s unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian people, emphasizing that the hearts of Pakistanis beat in unison with their Palestinian brothers and sisters, said a press release received here on Friday.
The minister reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to providing moral, diplomatic, and all kinds of support to Palestine, stating that the atrocities faced by Palestinians have deeply saddened every Pakistani citizen. “No matter how much we condemn these injustices, it will never be enough,” he added.
Expressing optimism, Khan voiced hope that the Palestinian struggle for self-determination would soon bear fruit, leading to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
Palestinian Transport Minister Tariq Hussaini Zarrab expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s steadfast support and cooperation. He lauded Federal Abdul Aleem Khan’s sentiments, expressing confidence that Allah Almighty will grant Palestine its long-awaited freedom.
During the closing session of the 4th Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety at Morocco, Bangladeshi Minister of Industry and Production Aadil-ur-Rahman Khan, Oman Deputy Minister Brigadier General Ali Al-Falahi and Maldives Minister of Transport M. Ameen separately held meetings with Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan and Pakistani delegation, in which they discussed inter-governmental cooperation, especially in the field of transport and communication.
The Fourth Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety held in Morocco was considered more beneficial, especially for developing countries.
Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan, while talking to foreign Ministers, said that Pakistan, a country of 240 million people, has the potential to further improve 40 percent of its communication infrastructure. We want mutual investment and cooperation from other countries in both business-to-business (B2B) and government-to-government (G2G) formats. Even in these circumstances, Pakistan’s Motorways and Highways are moving towards improvement compared to the past, he added.
Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan said that despite the increase in traffic flow, accidents are being reduced and revenue is being increased and policies are being implemented in line with modern requirements to make travel safer.
The Foreign Ministers and Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan welcomed the three-day conference in Morocco and expressed their wishes for success for each other and their expectation of returning with pleasant memories.
Inspector General of Police Balochistan, Moazzam Jah Ansari, along with other officers, participated in the funeral prayers of the personnels martyred in attack of Shaban area.
QUETTA: February 21 –
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QUETTA: February 21 – Inspector General of Police Balochistan, Moazzam Jah Ansari, along with other officers, pay tribute to the personnels martyred in attack of Shaban area. APP/MNN/ABB/FHA
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif chairs a meeting on three year plan regarding professional training of youth and their employability.
ISLAMABAD: February 21-
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ISLAMABAD: February 21- Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif chairs a meeting on three year plan regarding professional training of youth and their employability. APP/ABB
DIG Security reviews progress on development projects
ISLAMABAD, Feb 21 (APP):Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Headquarters/Security, Syed Ali Raza, reviewed the ongoing development projects within the security division on Friday. DIG was accompanied by senior police officers and relevant staff during the visit.
A public relations officer told APP that, on this occasion, DIG Security directed administrators to expedite the construction work and ensure all projects meet international standards.
DIG Raza stated that the completion of these projects would enhance the operational capabilities of Islamabad Police, enabling officers to perform their policing and office duties more effectively.
He further emphasized that equipping Islamabad Police with modern infrastructure and state-of-the-art equipment remains a top priority.
KP cabinet approves paid Internship for 650 BS Nursing Graduates
PESHAWAR, Feb 21 (APP):The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Cabinet has approved a one-year paid internship program for 650 BS Nursing graduates under the Provincial Health Services Academy (PHSA).
These graduates will receive a monthly stipend of Rs31,000 and will undergo training in teaching hospitals across the province.
In an official statement, Advisor to the Chief Minister on Health, Ihtesham Ali, highlighted that, until now, there was no paid internship arrangement for BS Nursing graduates.
He stated that after the launch of the BS program in PHSA-affiliated colleges, this issue emerged, prompting the Health Department to take urgent action and secure approval from the Cabinet.
“A month ago, I had assured the protesting students that a paid internship program would be arranged within a month. Today, we have fulfilled that commitment,” said Advisor Ihtesham Ali.
Additionally, the Cabinet has also approved the appointment of Chairman PEPOS board along with the reconstitution of the board.
SBP awards Digital Retail Bank license to Mashreq Bank for starting pilot operations
KARACHI, Feb 21 (APP):As part of its initiatives to drive digital transformation and enhance financial inclusion, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), Friday, awarded the first restricted license for pilot operations as a digital retail bank to Mashreq Bank Pakistan Limited (MBPL).
The Governor SBP, Jameel Ahmed awarded the license in a special meeting held here with the Board and senior management of MBPL while State Bank’s Deputy Governor and senior executives were also present, said a statement issued here.
The SBP, earlier this year, granted the first Digital Retail Bank (DRB) license for commercial operations to a microfinance bank and now another license was issued to the MBPL- a wholly owned subsidiary of Mashreq Bank PSC (UAE) which brings with it a rich history of innovation, customer-centricity, and agility in the banking sector.
Mashreq Bank’s extensive regional and global presence, including offices in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the U.S., provides it a strong foundation to emulate in Pakistan.
It is pertinent to mention that, SBP introduced a regulatory framework for licensing full-fledged digital banks in 2022, enabling both fintech startups and traditional banks to establish fully digital banking services. The framework offered two types of licenses: Digital Retail Bank (DRB) and Digital Full Bank (DFB), with operations conducted exclusively through digital channels.
To foster competition, SBP adopted a cohort-based approach, initially granting up to five licenses. The initiative attracted significant interest, with 20 applications submitted by major financial players.
After rigorous evaluation, SBP issued No-Objection Certificates (NOCs) to five institutions, namely; Easypaisa Bank Limited, Mashreq Bank Pakistan Limited (MBPL), Raqami Islamic Digital Bank Limited (RIDBL), HugoBank Limited, and KT Bank Limited.
The Governor SBP, at the occasion, urged MBPL to maintain high standards of excellence by leveraging cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing to offer seamless and personalized banking services.
He encouraged MBPL to contribute to the transformation of Pakistan’s banking landscape by adhering to rigorous regulatory standards while fostering competition and innovation within the sector.
He reiterated SBP’s commitment to support innovation and progress in the financial sector, and said that the introduction of a distinct licensing framework for digital banks is a strategic initiative to drive digital transformation and enhance financial inclusion. This framework has been designed to empower digital banks to meet evolving customer demands by offering convenient and accessible digital services.
He emphasized on the importance of building resilient digital infrastructures capable of withstanding cyber security challenges and added that as the financial world becomes more digital, safeguarding operations and customer data will be critical for ensuring trust and integrity in the financial system.
The digital banks are expected to play a crucial role in providing affordable financial services to under-served and unbanked populations. As digital banking evolves, SBP remains committed to ensuring that these banks prioritize technological innovation, seamless customer experiences, and strong regulatory compliance- key pillars for building a future-ready financial system in Pakistan, it concluded.
SECP invites public feedback on draft guidelines for Capital issue, ESOS registration
ISLAMABAD, Feb 21 (APP):The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has released four draft guidelines on Capital Issue, Employee Stock Option Schemes (ESOS), Stock Splits and the Submission of Applications for Registration and Renewal as an Intermediary.
All these guidelines have been developed to facilitate stakeholders and based upon frequent queries and issues raised by the stakeholders over time said a press release issued here on Friday.
Three guidelines aimed at supporting unlisted companies in three critical areas: Capital Issues, Employee Stock Option Schemes (ESOS), and Stock Splits.
These guidelines aim to promote corporate governance, enhance transparency and provide an overview of the legal framework to assist unlisted companies thrive in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.
The guidelines outline essential steps for issuing capital, offering employee stock options, and implementing stock splits, ensuring compliance with applicable regulatory frameworks.
By adopting these guidelines, unlisted companies will be better equipped to raise capital, reward and incentivize employees, and undertake capital restructuring, ultimately strengthening the corporate ecosystem.
Additionally, SECP has placed draft Guidelines for the Submission of Applications for Registration and Renewal as an Intermediary on its website for public consultation.
These guidelines provide clarity and structure for intermediaries seeking registration or renewal, further supporting regulatory transparency.
The SECP emphasizes that these guidelines are intended to supplement existing regulatory frameworks and provide procedural clarity without overriding any legal obligations.
To ensure the guidelines are practical, comprehensive, and aligned with stakeholder needs, SECP has opened a public consultation process. Stakeholders are encouraged to review the draft guidelines, available on the SECP website at link https://www.secp.gov.pk/laws/draft-for-discussion/draft-rules-regulations/ and submit their feedback until March 10, 2025 at email address provided in draft guidelines. Afterward, SECP will incorporate stakeholder feedback and finalize the guidelines.
SECP also plans to conduct webinars for key stakeholders in first week of March.
This session will facilitate a better understanding of the guidelines and support their effective implementation.
COMSTECH,ICESCO to hold Joint Conference of Education Ministers
ISLAMABAD, Feb 21 (APP):COMSTECH (The OIC Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation) and ICESCO (Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) have agreed to hold a joint conference of ministers of education to explore new dimensions in education, with a special focus on STEM education.
The initiative aligns with the vision of Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Science, Technology, and Federal Education, Dr Maqbool Siddiqui, who emphasizes the role of science and technology in shaping the future of education.
The conference will also focus on supporting Palestine in rebuilding its infrastructure and human capacity, ensuring access to quality education and scientific development.
This was discussed and agreed upon during a high-level meeting in Rabat, Morocco, between Coordinator General of COMSTECH, Prof Dr Muhammad Iqbal Choudhary, and Director General of ICESCO, Dr Salim M AlMalik. Both leaders also agreed to collaborate in the health sector, particularly on neglected tropical diseases, with a focus on supporting the least-developed African countries.
In addition to educational and health-care initiatives, it was also discussed to jointly launch the Science in Africa Program and work together on various scholarship programs to empower students and researchers across the region.
This collaboration marks a significant step in promoting scientific innovation, education, and health-care in OIC member states, reflecting a shared commitment to sustainable development and global progress.
CJP stresses judicial reforms as national agenda with bipartisan support
ISLAMABAD, Feb 21 (APP):Chief Justice of Pakistan Mr Justice Yahya Afridi has said that judicial reforms should become a minimum common national agenda with a bipartisan support for their effectiveness.
The Chief Justice stated this in a meeting with a delegation of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) including Leader of the Opposition in National Assembly Omar Ayub Khan, Leader of the Opposition in the Senate Shibli Faraz, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Barrister Ali Zafar, Barrister Salman Akram Raja, Sardar Muhammad Latif Khosa and Dr Babar Awan.
The Chief Justice apprised the delegates of the planned meeting of the National Judicial Policy-Making Committee (NJPMC). The CJ said the Law and Justice Commission had received input from different Bars of the country, besides feedback from citizens and district judiciary.
The input of the Registrars of the High Courts and provincial judicial academies is expected soon, he said. The PTI leaders gave suggestions for judicial reforms, improved criminal justice system and civil dispensation.
Registrar Supreme Court of Pakistan Muhammad Salim Khan and Secretary Law and Justice Commission of Pakistan, Tanzeela Sabahat were present.
ISSI hosts lecture on “Southeast Asia/ASEAN between the U.S. and China”
ISLAMABAD, Feb 21 (APP):The China Pakistan Study Centre (CPSC) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) hosted Dr. Thitinan Pongsudhirak, Director Institute of Security and International Studies, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand, as part of its Distinguished Lecture Series.
Dr. Pongsudhirak deliberated on the topic of “Southeast Asia/ASEAN between the U.S. and China: Dynamics and Prospects.” The event was attended by former federal ministers, senior diplomats, practitioners, academicians and members of civil society, said a press release.
In his welcome remarks, DG ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood highlighted Dr. Thitinan’s intellectual and academic contributions to strategic thought in Thailand and ASEAN region and his role in influencing the research and policy discourse.
On Pakistan-Thailand relations, he noted that these have evolved over decades and embraced myriad sectors such as trade, investment, education, science and technology, culture, and tourism. Both countries are also bound together by civilizational linkage tracing back to the ancient Buddhist Gandhara heritage of Pakistan.
In the past, Pakistan and Thailand worked together in SEATO. Today, Pakistan counts Thailand among steadfast supporters of Pakistan’s elevated partnership with ASEAN.
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood said it is important to understand perspective on contemporary Southeast Asia and ASEAN from Thailand.
He noted that while in previous decades ASEAN’s growth trajectory had benefited from stable major-power relations, the region was now facing strong headwinds owing to sharpening contestation between the U.S. and China. It remained to be seen how ASEAN would navigate this complex and treacherous geopolitical landscape. He said that there was no better qualified scholar than Dr. Thitinan to speak on the subject with real knowledge and insight.
Dr. Thitinan Pongsudhirak, during his lecture, emphasized that the world is in transition. This has been even more pronounced since the inauguration of the second term of President Donald Trump in the United States.
He noted that Donald Trump’s policy features two prominent themes: nativism and economic nationalism. This means that the United States shall not be interventionist any more, however, the country shall be increasingly protectionist and adopt policies that put greater onus on U.S. allies.
Regarding China, Dr. Pongsudhirak noted that the country is on a trajectory of “manifest resurgence” due to its historical role in the world and its ongoing geostrategic projects like the Belt and Road Initiative. The so-called “new Cold War” is merely a continuity of the Cold War with the difference being economic altercation, he noted. The pressing question is how long a geoeconomic conflict can last until it transforms into confrontation and hostility.
Regarding ASEAN, he noted that the accentuating major-power competition had led to the organization losing its centrality. The group has been divided on a number of issues including democratization in Myanmar, conflict in Ukraine, and situation in Gaza. These developments shall lead to resurgence of Southeast Asia as a region that is not denoted merely by cooperation among ASEAN members. For Southeast Asia and ASEAN the US-China relationship has been most consequential in the recent years.
Earlier during his welcome remarks, Dr. Talat Shabbir, Director CPSC, highlighted that ASEAN and the Southeast Asian region is navigating a complex yet promising era in the international order. ASEAN nations seek to maintain strategic autonomy while fostering constructive engagement with all major powers including the United States and China. In this backdrop, understanding implications of relations between these two countries for the rest of the world is crucial.
Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman BOG ISSI, during his closing remarks noted that the older world order is coming to an end while a new order is not yet born. The present world is in a period of transition facing great disruption.
He noted that there is an increasing need to enhance the role of middle powers and reform the UN-led system of international laws and practices for a more stable international order.
A vendor arranging flowers to attract the customers at his roadside setup.
LARKANA: February 21 –
Riaz Hussain Pirzada chairs meeting on upcoming digital portal for members
ISLAMABAD, Feb 21 (APP):Federal Minister for Housing and Works Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada on Friday chaired a special meeting to review the key features and objectives of a digital portal set to be launched next month for members.
According to a news release, the digitalization initiative aims to enhance transparency, improve service delivery, and ensure financial sustainability by automating processes.
The portal will offer multiple features, including swift operations, user convenience, and easy access to essential information.
It will include a comprehensive database, an online payment option via 1Link, an SMS alert service, a user dashboard for tracking ongoing projects, financial and transaction history, cost escalation details, a complaint resolution cell, and ownership and liability information all integrated into a single platform.
At the start of the meeting, the minister was given a detailed briefing on the portal, which has been in development for over a year.
He commended the dedicated efforts of the entire team involved in its creation, describing it as a significant step toward e-governance, one of the top priorities of the current government.
Expressing full confidence in the Federal Government Employees Housing Authority (FGEHA) team, he said that he does not believe in unnecessary interference in administrative affairs.
However, he underscored the need for strict discipline and adherence to the chain of command across all departments under the ministry.
The minister reiterated that FGEHA is a staff welfare, not-for-profit organization that must remain service-oriented.
He urged the organization to uphold maximum transparency and implement a merit-based system with upright administration.
Referring to the stalled projects of FGEHA, Pirzada empathetically acknowledged the concerns of members who have been waiting for years to secure their own homes after investing their hard-earned money.
“Thousands of employees, both serving and retired, have been waiting for a long time. Their wait must come to an end now,” he added.
He also stressed the need to establish a 24/7 complaint redressal system, with a particular focus on developing a fast and user-friendly mobile application to enhance service efficiency.
Chairman Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan adressing to the Future Synergy Tech and Entrepreneurship Summit 2025 , at GC women University.
SIALKOT: February 21 –
SIALKOT: February 21 – A group Photograph of Chairman Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan and Vice Chancellor GC Women University Sialkot, Prof. Dr. Shazia Bashir, with Faculty during the Future Synergy Tech and Entrepreneurship Summit 2025. APP/MUT/ABB/FHA
A young vendor roasts corn on his handcart to attract customers near Ravi Road.
LAHORE: February 21 –
Laborers are busy repairing the Hyderabad to Mirpur Khas road.
HYDERABAD: February 21 –
Vendors displaying the melons to attract the customers on the footpath at Latifabad.
HYDERABAD: February 21 –
A disabled lady vendor selling edible items to a customer at Qasim Bagh Road.
MULTAN: February 21 –
Acting Senate Chairman meets delegations, discusses media freedom
ISLAMABAD, Feb 21 (APP):Acting Chairman Senate, Syedaal Khan, held meetings with various delegations including senior journalists from Balochistan and faculty members from the University of Gloucestershire, UK.
The discussions focused on key topics such as the role of youth in national development, media freedom, and the promotion of international educational cooperation, said a news release.
During the meeting with senior journalists from Balochistan, Syedaal Khan underscored the importance of a free and responsible press.
He highlighted the media’s critical role in informing the public and strengthening democratic values, stating, “The media is the fourth pillar of the state, playing a vital role in keeping citizens informed and reinforcing democratic stability.”
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to press freedom and assured full cooperation in fostering a conducive environment for journalism. Addressing the challenges faced by media professionals, he stressed that journalism should be based on truth and responsibility to ensure accurate information reaches the public.
Discussing Balochistan’s development, Syedaal Khan said that the province is rich in natural resources and serves as a gateway for trade and investment in Central Asia.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to improving the economic situation and uplifting underdeveloped areas of Balochistan. “The day is not far when Balochistan’s backward regions will be on the path to progress. Effective utilization of its vast mineral and natural resources will soon establish it as an economic hub,” he remarked.
Later, Syedaal Khan met with Professor Adeela Shafi and Regional Manager Wajid Ali from the University of Gloucestershire at Parliament House. Their discussion revolved around educational cooperation, parliamentary systems, and the welfare of the Muslim community in the UK.
Professor Shafi highlighted various welfare and educational initiatives supporting Muslim students in the UK, emphasizing the university’s role in providing academic opportunities and fostering social development.
She stressed the need to enhance collaboration between Pakistani and British educational institutions. Regional Manager Wajid Ali briefed the acting Senate chairman on initiatives aimed at the progress of the Muslim community and expanding educational opportunities for Pakistani students in the UK.
IESSI to establish Staff Welfare Fund for ICT Employees
ISLAMABAD, Feb 21 (APP):The 17th meeting of the Governing Body of the ICT Employees Social Security Institution (IESSI) on Friday decided to establish a Staff Welfare Fund for employees, including death grants, marriage grants and benefits for disabled individuals for the families of employees who passed away during their service.
The meeting chaired by the Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa approved amendments to the Social Security Act.
Chief Commissioner Randhawa, directed that transaction advisors be hired for joint ventures for various projects. The meeting also decided to approve the Hajj policy, considering the agenda for workers. Under this policy, workers who have been employed for over seven years will be eligible to apply.
Furthermore, the meeting decided to include the city’s top and high-quality hospitals on the panel for the treatment of employees and their families. The hospitals included on the panel are PAF, Fauji Foundation, Nescom, KRL and Punjab Security Hospital.
Randhawa also directed the Member Finance to review the contract rates and discounts to all hospitals. Later, the meeting approved the hiring of staff for the recently constructed Social Security Medical Center in Humak Model Town.
The meeting was attended by members of the Governing Body, including ICT administration, Commissioner Social Security and other senior officials.