VEON delegation meets finance minister, discusses Pakistan’s Digital transformation

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ISLAMABAD, Jan 23 (APP):Federal Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari on Thursday informed the National Assembly(NA) that the process of solarization of twenty-seven thousand tube wells had been started in Balochistan while over three thousand tube wells have so far been solarized.

Replying to supplementary questions during the Question Hour of the 12th session of the NA, he said that the performance of Sukkur Electric Supply Company(SEPCO)management was poor and the company had to face Rs 16 billion additional loss due to the mismanagement of the SEPCO administration during the last five months of the previous year.

Leghari suggested that the revamping of SEPCO was the only solution to address the issue of uninterrupted supply of electricity to concerned areas which would be carried out with the consultation of coalition government partners and stakeholders.

Pakistan advances labour standards under GSP+ through ILES project completion; says Salik

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ISLAMABAD, Jan 23 (APP):Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (MOPHRD), delivered an inspiring address at the Closing Ceremony of the International Labour and Environmental Standards Application in Pakistan’s SMEs Project (ILES).

The event marked the conclusion of a groundbreaking initiative aimed at fortifying Pakistan’s adherence to international labour and environmental standards, said a press release issued here on Thursday.

In the presence of distinguished guests, including Ambassador of the European Union to Pakistan Madam Riina Kolke, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam, Director of the ILO Office for Pakistan Mr. Geir Tonstol, the minister lauded the collaborative efforts that led to the project’s resounding success.

The ILES project has not only strengthened the capacity of tripartite stakeholders to promote and enforce labour rights but also directly benefited hundreds of enterprises, institutions, and organizations across the nation. This initiative accelerated Pakistan’s ability to meet international obligations, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and trade agreements with the European Union, he said.

The federal minister expressed profound gratitude to the European Union for its generous funding and to the International Labour Organization (ILO) and WWF-Pakistan for their unwavering guidance. He also commended the dedication of provincial labour departments, worker and employer representatives, and other key contributors to the project’s achievements.

Reflecting on the eight-year journey under the GSP+ framework, the minister emphasized the critical role of sustainable practices in economic development. The ILES project has demonstrated that respect for labour and environmental rights is not just a moral imperative but also a cornerstone for sustainable and inclusive economic progress, he expressed.

Looking to the future, Salik Hussain reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building on the momentum of the ILES project. Key initiatives announced include accelerating the ratification, reporting, and implementation of international labour standards; fulfilling commitments to ratify key conventions, including the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) conventions and the Convention on Violence and Harassment at Work (C190), by 2025; and strengthening support for provincial labour departments to enhance worker wellbeing and rights.

The federal minister highlighted the enduring impact of the ILES project in fostering a collaborative community dedicated to safeguarding labour and environmental standards. While we bid farewell to this remarkable initiative, its legacy will live on through platforms like the Provincial Tripartite Consultation Committees (PTCCs), Federal Tripartite Consultation Committees (FTCCs), and other mechanisms for advancing social dialogue and addressing critical labour issues.

The event concluded with the minister’s extending of heartfelt thanks to the EU, ILO, WWF-Pakistan and all stakeholders for their steadfast commitment to Pakistan’s developmental goals. Together, we have laid the groundwork for a brighter, more equitable future.

Education, commerce key drivers of economic growth: Jam Kamal

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NNPS Desk

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ISLAMABAD, Jan 23 (APP): Federal Minster for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan on Thursday said I want to highlight the vital connection between education and commerce as key drivers of economic growth and national prosperity.

In a message on World Education Day, he said that education empowers individuals with the skills, knowledge, and creativity needed to navigate and excel in today’s rapidly evolving global trade environment. It is the foundation for innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable progress.

He said, “As a nation we are committed to strengthening the synergy between education and industry, ensuring our youth are prepared to seize opportunities in the expanding global market.”

Jam Kamal said that by investing in education, particularly in business, trade, and technology, we can cultivate a skilled workforce capable of transforming Pakistan into a competitive and thriving economic hub.

On this day, let us reaffirm our dedication to advancing education and fostering a culture of learning, innovation, and collaboration. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future for Pakistan and its people.”

Governor Kundi highlights urgency of restoring peace in KP

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PESHAWAR, Jan 23 (APP):Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Thursday said that at present, the law and order situation in our province is concerning, restoring peace is our top priority, and to achieve this, we all must work together.

He said this during a meeting with a delegation of the Pakistan Peace Council for Human Rights and Religious Harmony at the Governor House.

The delegation was led by Provincial Chairman Saleem Gul Dolatzai, with Vice Chairman Malik Noshad Khan, Zahir Khan Tanoli, Malik Muhammad Javed, and other district and tehsil officers from across the province attended the meeting.

The delegation briefed the Governor about the objectives and goals of the Pakistan Peace Council, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to promoting peace, eradicating hatred, and working towards the social and economic development of communities, irrespective of race and ethnicity.

The delegation also highlighted the Council’s efforts to address public issues and offered full support for resolving the ongoing issue in Kurram.

Governor Faisal Karim Kundi assured the delegation that the Governor House remains open to all citizens of the province and praised the efforts of the Pakistan Peace Council in fostering peace and public welfare.

The Governor also expressed his appreciation for the Council’s work in promoting peace and public well-being across the province.

Meanwhile, a delegation of political representatives from Khyber District, including local and district officials and activists from various political parties, met with Governor Faisal Karim Kundi.

The delegation raised several issues faced by the people of Khyber District, including the security situation, the persistent electricity shortages, the need for development projects, the abolition of taxes, and compensation for victims of military operations. The delegation also highlighted other key public concerns affecting the district.

The delegation, led by Hazrat Wali, included local tribal leaders and party members from Khyber District. In a traditional gesture of respect, the tribal leaders presented the Governor with a ceremonial turban.

Governor Faisal Karim Kundi acknowledged the sacrifices made by the people of the merged tribal districts and emphasized his commitment to addressing their concerns.

He said, “We fully recognize the sacrifices of the people in the merged districts. For sustainable peace in these areas, it is essential to promote educational and health-focused activities.”

Kundi further emphasized that it is crucial to bring the merged districts on par with other districts of the province in terms of development.

He assured the delegation that efforts would be made to accelerate the completion of development projects in Khyber District and all merged areas.

“The youth of the tribal areas should take the lead in showcasing the positive image of their regions to the world,” Governor Kundi added.

Amjad Saeed assumes charge of member IRSA Punjab

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ISLAMABAD, Jan 23 (APP):Amjad Saeed has assumed the charge of the post of member Indus River System Authority (IRSA) Punjab for a period of three years with effect from January 23.

In pursuance of the Ministry of Water Resource’s notification F.NO 5 (03)/2013-Admn-II dated 22nd January, 2025 and in accordance with Chapter-II, Section 4(4) of IRSA Act No.XXII of 1992, Amjad Saeed assumed the charge, said a notification issued here on Thursday.

Minister seeks Swedish & EU Green Fund technical and financial assistance for conversion of existing fossil fuels vehicles

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ISLAMABAD, Jan 23 (APP):Federal Minister for Power Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari has invited Sweden Green Fund to assist Pakistan’s small vehicles conversion into electric technology by providing technical and financial assistance to help support Pakistan’s recent move of record reduction in tariff for EV changing stations.

The minister put the proposal in a meeting with Swedish Ambassador in Pakistan HE Ms Alexandra Berg Von Linde, who called on him here on Thursday, said a press release.

Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari while elaborating about the proposal for conversion of existing fossil fuel vehicles specially motorcycles, said that currently there are over 30 million motorcycles in Pakistan. The people in that income group are very good in retiring loans, he added. He said that Swedish and EU Green fund can consider providing interest free loans for the purpose through Pakistani Banks which have a very robust system in place.

Explaining the current energy mix and importance of renewable energy the Federal Minister informed that last year it remained 55% of overall Power Generation in Pakistan. He said that Pakistan is fully committed to promoting renewable energy in Pakistan and in this regard Power Division is carefully chalking out policies to enable affordable and sustainable electricity for the consumers.

The Minister noted that Pakistan is currently reviewing its Indicative Generation Capacity Expansion Plan (IGCEP) to ensure the integration of energy into the national grid on a least-cost basis, optimizing the country’s energy resources for maximum economic impact.

The Swedish Ambassador, informed that “75 years of diplomatic relations were celebrated between Pakistan and Sweden last year. This reflects the strength and depth of our bilateral ties.”

The Ambassador highlighted that Swedish companies operating in Pakistan are keen on securing a reliable green energy supply and emphasized Sweden’s readiness to share expertise and technological , support to Pakistan in this regard. Textile sector of Pakistan being one of primary exporter to EU, is being focused to make is globally competitive in terms of renewable and sustainable energy, the Ambassador further informed.

She further explained Sweden’s leadership in renewable energy, stating that 70 percent of Sweden’s energy is produced from renewable resources, showcasing how economic development and green energy can coexist seamlessly.

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah speaks at the 4th Research & Technology Showcase 2025, organised by the Sindh Higher Education Commission (Sindh HEC) at Expo Center

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APP62-230125 KARACHI: January 23 – Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah speaks at the 4th Research & Technology Showcase 2025, organised by the Sindh Higher Education Commission (Sindh HEC) at Expo Center. APP/ABB

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah aims a laser gun at a balloon during his visit to a stall at the 4th Research & Technology Showcase 2025, organised by the Sindh Higher Education Commission (Sindh HEC) at Expo Center

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APP63-230125 KARACHI: January 23 – Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah aims a laser gun at a balloon during his visit to a stall at the 4th Research & Technology Showcase 2025, organised by the Sindh Higher Education Commission (Sindh HEC) at Expo Center. APP/ABB

Sindh Governor, Kamran Khan Tessori presenting Gold Medal to UAE Consul General Bakhit Atiq Rumithi for his valuable services at Governor House

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APP60-230125 KARACHI: January 23 – Sindh Governor, Kamran Khan Tessori presenting Gold Medal to UAE Consul General Bakhit Atiq Rumithi for his valuable services at Governor House. APP/AMH/MAF/TZD/ABB

Minister directed inquiry on theft of fences, SoPs on new interchanges in on week

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ISLAMABAD, Jan 23 (APP):Federal Minister for Communications, Privatization and Board of Investment Abdul Aleem Khan has directed that an inquiry should be conducted into the matter of when and where safety fences on Motorways across the country were broken or stolen and a report be submitted within a week after determining those responsible for this.

He further said that theft or damage to protective fences along Motorways will be intolerable in future and the concerned authorities will be held responsible for it, said a press release issued here on Thursday.

While chairing a briefing session of the National Highway Authority, Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan said that the obstacles in the construction of the Islamabad Motorway from Kharian should be removed and it should be made 6 lanes instead of 4 so that the future requirement of the citizens can also be kept in view. He said that there can be no compromise on the safety and security standards on Motorways and in this regard the department of NHA will have to make a permanent and coherent policy to implement.

He also directed to complete the repair work on all the Motorways of the country at a fast pace. Abdul Aleem Khan has called for SOPs within a week for establishing new interchanges from the Motorways and directed that the NHA should make a uniform policy for all and put it on the website.

The minister while declaring the N-25 Highway from Quetta in Balochistan to Karachi as the top priority said that this project is very important for the country and therefore it must be completed as soon as possible.

In this high-level meeting of the National Highway Authority, the Federal Secretary for Communications and the Chairman of the National Highway Authority briefed the Federal Minister for Communications about the pace of ongoing projects in various provinces and the work completed so far while various policy issues including providing access to Islamabad Airport from the M-1 Motorway were also on the agenda.

Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan was also briefed about the priority projects of the National Highway Authority and budget allocation for various projects and final approval was taken from him on important issues.

DIG Islamabad holds open court to address citizen grievances

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ISLAMABAD, Jan 23 (APP):Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Syed Ali Raza held a Khulli Katcheri (open court) at his office, taking immediate steps to address public grievances and ensuring the resolution of complaints.

A public relation officer told that during the Khulli Katcheri, DIG Islamabad emphasized that citizens can also register their complaints through the “IGP Complaint Cell 1715.”

He said that Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, has instructed all senior police officers to organize open courts across the district. In line with these directives, all zonal SPs are conducting open courts in their respective zones to ensure citizens’ concerns are heard and resolved.

DIG added that the Islamabad Police are dedicated to reaching out to the public and resolving their issues effectively.

“Every citizen of Islamabad is encouraged to openly share their grievances at these forums,” he stated, reiterating the police’s resolve to address citizens’ problems at their doorstep through this public engagement campaign.

ICT Police committed to ensuring traders’ security: DIG Raza

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ISLAMABAD, Jan 23 (APP):Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Police Syed Ali Raza held a meeting on Thursday with a delegation from the Traders’ Association to address their security concerns, emphasizing the police’s commitment to ensuring the safety of traders and commercial areas.

A public relation officer told APP that the delegation highlighted issues related to security and parking in business hubs. DIG Raza assured the delegation that Islamabad Police is taking robust measures to safeguard traders.

DIG said that zonal SPs have been directed to meet with local traders and resolve their issues on a priority basis. DIG Raza also urged traders to facilitate citizens by ensuring proper lighting, parking arrangements, and installation of security cameras in markets. He further stressed the importance of collaboration between market guards and patrolling officers while discouraging professional beggars and their facilitators.

The Traders’ Association commended the longstanding relationship between the business community and Islamabad Police, noting that mutual cooperation has significantly contributed to reducing crime in various areas of the city.

Association presented several suggestions to improve security, which DIG Raza welcomed. He instructed zonal SPs to prioritize addressing traders’ concerns to enable a secure and peaceful environment for businesses to thrive.

Nadeem appointed as PIDE VC for five-year term

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ISLAMABAD, Jan 23 (APP):The government on Thursday appointed Dr Nadeem Javaid, a distinguished economist and academic, as the Vice Chancellor of the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE) for a five-year term.

“This appointment has been approved by the President of Pakistan, who serves as the Patron of PIDE, under Section 8(1) of the PIDE Act, 2010. Dr Javaid will serve in this role for a period of five years, under the maximum SPPS-I scale,” according to a news release by the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives (MPD&SI).

In line with the Establishment Division’s notification, the MPD&SI has issued directives to facilitate the formal appointment process, including the submission of a medical fitness report and charge assumption report.

Dr. Nadeem Javaid brings a wealth of experience in policy planning and development. His leadership at PIDE is expected to further the institute’s contributions to evidence-based policymaking and economic development in Pakistan.

Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Shaikh meets Hutchison Ports MD Andy Tsoi to discuss a US$1 billion investment in Pakistan’s port infrastructure

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APP46-230125 ISLAMABAD: January 23 - Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Shaikh meets Hutchison Ports MD Andy Tsoi to discuss a US$1 billion investment in Pakistan’s port infrastructure. APP/MAF/TZD/ABB

Director General Food Authority, Asim Javed is distributing certificates among the female students at a training ceremony organized by the Food Authority Department on the importance of nutrition for girls at Kinnaird College

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APP29-230125 LAHORE: January 23 - Director General Food Authority, Asim Javed is distributing certificates among the female students at a training ceremony organized by the Food Authority Department on the importance of nutrition for girls at Kinnaird College. APP/AMI/MAF/TZD/ABB

A family viewing jewelry at the Damas Jewelry Exhibition, at (SOM), Living Dreams Marquee, Sialkot Cantt

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APP32-230125 SIALKOT: January 23 - A family viewing jewelry at the Damas Jewelry Exhibition, at (SOM), Living Dreams Marquee, Sialkot Cantt. APP/MUT/MAF/TZD/ABB

Parliamentary Secretary Saba Sadiq attends the Inception meeting of the project “Together for Tolerance: Strengthening Minority Rights and Inclusion ” organized by PCHR at Hotel Best Western

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APP36-230125 ISLAMABAD: January 23 - Parliamentary Secretary Saba Sadiq attends the Inception meeting of the project "Together for Tolerance: Strengthening Minority Rights and Inclusion " organized by PCHR at Hotel Best Western. APP/MAF/TZD/ABB

Carrots are being washed away in a pond to sell it in vegetable and fruit market

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APP33-230125 BAHAWALPUR: January 23 - Carrots are being washed away in a pond to sell it in vegetable and fruit market. APP/HBR/MAF/TZD/ABB

Federal Govt opening schools in remote areas: Khawaja Asif

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