PR. No. 86
PRESS RELEASE
Delivery of Humanitarian Goods (Worth RMB 80 Million) from the People’s Republic of China for Flood Affected Areas
Islamabad 7th September, 2010.The signing ceremony for handing over certificate regarding delivery of humanitarian goods worth RMB 80 million (US$ 12 million) was held in Economic Affairs Division between the Government of Pakistan and the People’s Republic of China. The delivery of the goods will be completed through 9 special cargo flights. Two cargo flights carrying tents have landed in Islamabad on 4th and 7th September, 2010.
Towards rescue and relief efforts for flood affected areas, previously, China has donated goods worth RMB 50 million (US$ 8 million) comprising blankets, Water Filtration Equipment and Medicine, Electric Generators, tents and food items etc. to Pakistan.
In total, China has donated humanitarian goods worth RMB 130 million (about US$ 20 million).
Pakistan greatly values Chinese cooperation in the hour of need.
PR. No. 87
PRESS RELEASE
GOVERNMENT IS MOBILIZING MAXIMUM RESOURCES FOR REHABILITATION OF SOCIO-ECO SYSTEM IN FLOOD AFFECTED AREAS RELIEF ACTIVITIES FROM TRADERS AND INDUSTRIALISTS ARE ADMIRABLE PROMOTION OF CDM PROJECT IS NEED OF TIME FOR HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT: HAMEED ULLAH JAN AFRIDI Islamabad, September 07, 2010Federal Minister for Environment Hameed Ullah Jan Afridi has said that huge resources are required to revive our economic system, reconstruction of affected areas and rehabilitation of victims due to heavy flood in different parts of Pakistan. He said that our Industrialists can get attractive foreign exchange through carbon credits while establishing Industrial Units under Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) program. He added that such sort of projects can be helpful to maintain environmental stability and promote earning resources. He expressed these views while talking to a group of Traders and Industrialist here today.
Director General Javaid Ali Khan and CDM Expert Syed Amjad were also present on this occasion. Environment Minister said that our economy has badly effected due to present disastrous flood situation in the country however, present government is utilizing all possible resources to face this national disaster. While appreciating the relief activities from Traders Community, he said that whole nation has practically expressed their noble gesture at this difficult time. He also highlighted the role of Overseas Pakistanis and International Community who are continuously providing relief for affected Pakistani nation.
Hameed Ullah Jan Afridi during the talk, said that CDM Program is being introduced on priority basis throughout the country. Pakistani Traders and Industrialists are being aware of the importance of CDM Program. likewise through this program Traders and Industrialists would be encouraged for establishing Industrial Units, Carbon Credits may be earned and emission of environment friendly gases may be promoted. He mentioned that most of the counties are earning foreign exchange through CDM and availing this opportunity for economic growth. Environment Minister said that CDM projects are under way in Pakistan. He urged the Traders and Industrialists to come forward to face environmental challenges by establishing CDM Units and earn maximum Carbon Credits.
Traders and Industrialists expressed their keen interest in CDM Project. They also expressed their will to invest in this Project. They also lauded the role of Ministry of Environment for promoting this most important CDM Project. They expressed all possible assistance for promotion this Project of national interest.
PR. No. 88
PRESS RELEASE
Pakistan welcomes more Chinese flood relief assistance
Islamabad, September 7, 2010
Pakistan today thanked the Chinese Government for enhancing fresh flood relief assistance to Pakistan. Masood Khan, Pakistan’s Ambassador to China, in a meeting with Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Hu Zhengyue conveyed the gratitude of Pakistan Government to the Chinese Government and the people, says a press release received here today.“China’s assistance to Pakistan has been timely, substantial and unconditional” Masood Khan said, adding that the Chinese assistance was targeted with precision with the most urgent needs of flood affectees like tents, generators, water-purifiers, medicines, food items and clean drinking water.
Assistant Foreign Minister, Hu Zhingyue said the focus of the Chinese assistance has been on providing immediate rescue and relief as well as on epidemic prevention. In due course, he said, China would give maximum assistance to Pakistan for reconstruction in the affected areas.
China has so far committed US $ 50 million to Pakistan as flood relief aid.
PR. No. 89
PRESS RELEASE
Agriculture sector the worst hit by the mega floods. Australia must help and provide
heavy agricultural equipments and hybrid seeds. Nazar M. Gondal
Islamabad September 7, 2010.Federal minister for food & agriculture, Nazar M. Gondal said that the worst hit agriculture sector of Pakistan needs the immediate international support and assistance to normalize the lives of millions of people in the country.
He was talking to Mr. Tim George, the Australians High Commissioner in Pakistan.
“We need immediate response from the world community as the Rabbi crops sowing season is about to start. The Damage & Needs Assessment (DNA) will take some time while the canola sowing will take place this month. We then have to go for sunflower and wheat sowing. Australian private companies must donate hybrid canola and sunflower seeds and secure the potential local markets for future business. We also need bulldozers and other agricultural machinery to reclaim the land badly damaged by the floods”, added the minister.
Mr. Gondal said that the government and people of Pakistan are grateful for the help provided by Australia in the flood affected area. He urged that the bilateral trade must be increased and the Australian business people must be encouraged to invest in Pakistan. He said that Pakistan can learn a lot from the modern agricultural practices of Australia.
H.E Mr. Tim George said that Australia has given an aid of $ 35 million for the flood affected areas apart from running health care centers at different places. He said that the cooperation between the two countries has increased over a couple of years. “We are seriously considering offering assistance in the areas where we specialize. I would pass on the recommendations given by you and our help would be forthcoming”, added the visiting guest.
Mr. Gondal showed solidarity with the High Commissioner for the recent floods in Australia and offered any help required. Mr. Tim George thanked the minister for the generous offer and display of concern.
The meeting was attended by secretary, additional secretary Minfa, D.G PODB & NAPHIS and other senior officials of the ministry.
PR. No. 90
PRESS RELEASE
Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting arranged
water filtration plant for Rajanpur
Islamabad: September 7, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has lauded the individual philanthropists and other private sector organizations for their contribution in the flood relief activities and has called upon them to extend their helping hand to the government in the coming phases of reconstruction and rehabilitation.
In a meeting with Minister of State for Information, Syed Sumsam Ali Bokahri, who called on him at PM’s House here t his afternoon, the Prime Minister said that the flood affected people need special attention of the government to overcome their difficulties. He stressed for preparing a publicity campaign to create awareness among philanthropists within and outside country to come forward for their assistance of the flood affectees. He said that the role of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is significant in this regard.
Syed Sumsam Hussain Bukhari informed the Prime Minister that he had arranged a water purification plant to be installed at Rajanpur which would supply one lac liters of clean drinking water daily for the flood affected people. He further informed that the plant has been donated by Chairman SKB, Mr. Kamal Nasir Khan. He also apprised the Prime Minister of various steps taken by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting as well as its attached departments for publicity of the needs of the flood affectees both inside and outside the country.
PR. No. 91
PRESS RELEASE
COAS calls on the Prime Minister
Islamabad: September 7, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani appreciated the role played by the officers and Jawans of the armed forces particularly the Army in the rescue and relief operations in the flood hit areas. He especially lauded the timely response of the Army aviation in rescuing the stranded people in these areas.
He was talking to Chief of the Army Staff, General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, who called on him at PM’s House here this afternoon.
The Prime Minister said that the Armed forces have an important role to play in the upcoming phases of reconstruction and rehabilitation in the flood hit areas.
The Army Chief briefed the Prime Minister about the relief activities being carried out by the army. He also apprised the Prime Minister about the overall security situation of the country.
PR. No. 92
PRESS RELEASE
Javed Jabbar meets the Prime Minister
Islamabad: Sept 07, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has reiterated the commitment of the Government to forge unity and cohesion between all provinces, organizations, groups and citizens at this critical time to effectively meet the formidable challenges posed by of the natural calamity.
The Prime Minister expressed these views while talking to Mr. Javed Jabbar, former Minister and Senator who called on him at the Prime Minister’s House, Islamabad today.
The Prime Minister referred to the consensus achieved in the CCI meeting held on 6th September on vital aspects of inter-provincial coordination and cooperation with the Federal Government. He said this was an excellent indicator of the constructive spirit which the government and all concerned demonstrated. The National Oversight Disaster Management Council (NODMC), he said, would ensure transparency and accountability in the utilization of funds.
Referring to the role of international NGOs as the channel through which about 80% of funds from overseas donors are to be spent in Pakistan in different phases of the calamity, he agreed with the suggestion given by Mr. Javed Jabbar that the Government has the right to have access to all information in advance about how these funds are to be spent. He said this will ensure that funds are used in line with the Government’s strategic plans, prepared as per specific needs. He also said that there should be a reasonable proportion between the expenditure directly benefitting the affectees and the expenditure on administrative expenses.
Appreciating the role of national NGOs, both volunteers and staff, in providing emergency rescue services, supplies and support to the millions of affectees throughout the country, the Prime Minister emphasized the need to improve governance at the local levels and to strengthen co-ordination. Such prior coordination at both the District and the Provincial headquarters would reduce waste, duplication and mis-match between acute, urgent needs and materials actually supplied for relief.
The Prime Minister also appreciated the contribution of the relief effort by NGOs with which Mr. Javed Jabbar is associated on a voluntary basis. The Prime Minister welcomed the suggestion by Mr Javed Jabbar to convene a meeting of leading national NGOs in all four provinces and the Pakistan-based representatives of national NGOs to brief him about the present status of relief activities by them, give suggestions and proposals to the Government and supplement plans to support the Government’s strategy on a mid-term and long term-basis.
PR. No. 93
PRESS RELEASE
REGIONAL DIRECTOR WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION CALLS ON HEALTH MINISTER
Islamabad, the 7th September, 2010Dr. Hussain A. Gezairy Regional Director WHO accompanied by Dr. Guido Saba -inelli and Dr. Farah Shadoul Officer Incharge / Medical Officer WHO, called on the Federal Minister for Health Makhdoom Shahabuddin here today. The Federal Secretary Health Khushnood Akhtar Lashari and Director General Health Dr. Rashid Jooma were also present on the occasion.
The Regional Director remained with the Minister for some time and discussed matters pertaining to medical relief to flood affected people of Pakistan .
The Minister welcomed the Regional Director WHO and thanked him for personal interest in undertaking visits to various flood affected areas in Pakistan .
Dr. Hussain A. Gezairy informed the Minister that WHO will provide and arrange bednets for the internaly displaced people to prevent the outbreak of Malaria. He also informed the Minister that WHO will provide ambulances and vans for working in the flood affected areas. He told the Minister that WHO has provided essential medicine, malaria kits and diarreah / cholera treatment and said that WHO will stand by the side of the Pakistani people in this hours of trial. He appreciated the establishment of health emergency response center at PIMS by Government of Pakistan and said that it has proven very effective and beneficial at these hours of need.
The Minister for Health thanked the WHO for providing timely help to the flood affected people of Pakistan and said that the magnitute of the disaster was so large and very difficult to manage. But with the help of friendly countries, Donor Agencies, WHO, Business Community, and Civil Society, the Government has been able to manage the affairs and prevent the outbreak of epidemics in flood affected areas. The Minister also acknowledges the efforts of Government officials working in the emergency situation.
PR. No. 94
Press Release
Islamabad 7th September, 2010The Government of Bangladesh has announced US$ 2 million relief assistance for the flood victims of Pakistan. US$ 1 million would be spent on the visit of about 38 doctors and paramedics, who have left Dhaka for Karachi today to take up their assignment in Thatta and Hyderabad. They were seen off at the airport by Mr. Mijarul Quayes, Foreign Secretary of Bangladesh and HE Mr. Ashraf Qureshi, High Commissioner of Pakistan to Bangladesh. Remaining US$ 1 million are being spent on the procurement of medicines, food supplies, blankets, tents and other relief items. Pakistan International Airline has already lifted about 11 tonns of medicines from Bangladesh as it is partner to the Government of Bangladesh in airlifting the relief goods, says a press release received here today.
PR. No. 95
PRESS RELEASE
Kulyaat-e-Ghalib Launched in Tehran
Islamabad September 7, 2010An impressive ceremony was held at Pakistan House, Tehran (Embassy Residence) to launch a book titled “Kulyaat-e-Ghalib” edited and compiled by Dr. Taqi Abidi, a well known scholar based in Toronto, Canada, says a press received here today.
Speaking on the occasion, Pakistan Ambassador to Iran, M.B. Abbasi paid tributes to the scholarly work of Dr. Abidi and said Kulyaat-e-Ghalib, published in Persian language, would open new vistas of fostering and enriching cultural links between Pakistan and Iran.
Referring to the contributions made by the sub-continent poets particularly Mirza Ghalib and Allama Iqbal in bringing the two Persian and Urdu speaking nations closer, the Ambassador expressed the hope that Dr. Abidi’s literary work would also leave its impact in this connection.
In introducing his own book, Dr. Abidi traced the history and impact of Persian language in the sub-continent and said it also produced several Persian poets of international standing. He said his book would open a new dimension in introducing poet Ghalib to the Iranian society.
Iran’s Ambassador to Pakistan Mashaallah Shakari read out a Persian poem of Mirza Ghalib and reiterated the need for forceful projection of literary works of poets and writers from the sub-continent in Iran.
A large number of Iranian writers, poets and intellectuals, members of the Pakistani community, diplomatic corps and representatives from print and electronic media were present at the book launching ceremony.
PR. No. 96
PRESS RELEASE
UN Under Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs
calls on the Prime Minister
Spends first day of duty in Pakistan
7th September 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has said that his government highly appreciates the valuable contributions made by the Office of Coordinator of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) in providing timely and effective relief assistance in the wake of unprecedented floods in Pakistan. He added that he was grateful to the UN Under Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs who had opted to spend the very first day of her appointment in Pakistan to have a first hand assessment of the damages caused and assistance required by the flood affectees. This firsthand knowledge, he added, would surely constitute an important input for the revised UN appeal to be launched in New York on September 17th for Pakistan’s flood affectees.
He was talking to Baroness Valene Amos, newly appointed UN Under Secretary General for Humanitarian Affairs and Energy Relief Coordinator who called on him this afternoon at the Prime Minister’s House, Islamabad.
The Prime Minister while apprising Baroness Amos of the details of the wreckage caused by the natural calamity all over Pakistan informed her that his government had fully streamlined the relief efforts through the focal point of NDMA. The government, he added, had constituted a National Oversight Disaster Management Council with consensus to assure complete transparency and optimum utilization of all the relief assistance received from within Pakistan and from abroad.
The Prime Minister hoped that the United Nations and particularly OCHA being UN’s arm are responsible for bringing together humanitarian actors to ensure coherent response to the flood in Pakistan. He expressed confidence that the United Nations would mobilize and
coordinate requisite international assistance to mitigate the immediate rehabilitation and long term reconstruction phases in Pakistan’s flood affected areas. He assured Baroness Valene Amos of his government’s every possible support as well as access to the UN Humanitarian officials and staff to expand their outreach to the far flung areas affected by floods.
The Prime Minister also issued instructions to NDMA that the Regional Coordinator of Humanitarian Assistance Office in Islamabad should be provided logistic air support for transportation of the tents, food supplies and medicines to the far flung areas.
Baroness Valene Amos expressed her satisfaction over the strong partnership between the Office of the Coordinator for Humanitarian Assistance (OCHA) and the Government of Pakistan and thanked the Prime Minister for the promised help to OCHA personnel and UN Humanitarian Staff by way of security and their access to the concerned relevant areas.
Baroness Valene Amos stated that the next appeal to be launched by the United Nation through her office in New York in the third week of September will be based on the input of her current visit to Pakistan as well as the initial damage need assessment report which was likely to be launched by the World Bank and ADB on 15th of September. She also hoped that the strength of UNDP and other UN agencies offices in Pakistan would be strengthened to make these offices more effective in the flood relief efforts.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Malik Ahad Khan, Special Assistant to Prime Minister Begum Shahnaz Wazir Ali, Secretary Foreign Affairs, Mr. Salman Bashir and Secretary Economic Affairs Division, Mr. Sibtain Fazl-e-Halim were also present in the meeting.
PR. No. 97
PRESS RELEASE
Minister for Food and Agriculture meets the Prime Minister. Presents cheques for PM’s
Flood relief Fund.
7th September 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has urged for coherent strategy of distribution of relief goods which match with the needs of the flood affectees. Food items, he said, have been provided in sufficient quantity in the relief camps, requiring shift in focus on shelter (tents) and vaccination to prevent outbreak of diseases.
The Prime Minister was talking to Mr. Nazar Muhammad Gondal, Minister for Food & Agriculture who called on him at Prime Minister’s House this morning and presented two cheques amounting to Rs 40 million and Rs 252,000 respectively for Prime Minister’s Flood Relief Fund.
The Prime Minister asked the Minister to facilitate the farmers whose agriculture lands have been devastated in the floods. He further said that the Federal Government in coordination with the provincial governments will provide free seeds and fertilizers to the small farmers.
The Prime Minister stressed upon the need for implementation of the decisions taken by Council of Common Interest CCI in letter and spirit to make the process of disbursement of the funds transparent.
Mr. Nazar Gondal apprised the Prime Minister of the rough estimates of the devastation of agriculture sector and also discussed with him the salient features of the comprehensive plans to compensate the small farm land owners.
He also apprised the Prime Minister of various relief activities in flood hit areas and the distribution of food items to various relief camps by Ministry of Food and Agriculture.
PR. No. 98
Press Release
Minister for Petroleum meets the Prime Minister
Islamabad 07 September 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has urged upon the need to ensure the availability of petroleum products in various parts of the country specially the flood hit areas. The relief activities should not be hampered due to shortage of the fuel, added the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister was talking to Syed Naveed Qamar Minister for Petroleum and Natural Resources, who called on him at Prime Minister’s House this evening.
The Prime Minister reiterated the commitment of the Government to provide relief to the flood affectees at all costs. He appreciated the role of Ministry of Petroleum in maintaining the regular supply of fuel in spite of the fact that some of the oil refineries and purifying units were submerged in flood water.
Syed Naveed Qamar apprised the Prime Minister of various foreign Investors who are committed to take part in rehabilitation and reconstruction phase. He also apprised him of details of various relief activities in his province.
R No.99
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad 7th September 2010The Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has directed Federal Law Secretary to withdraw all facilities provided to the Prosecutor General, Mr. Irfan Qadir and implement explicit orders of the Supreme Court in letter and spirit. He directed the Law Secretary that in compliance with the Apex Court orders, Irfan Qadir should cease to hold the office forthwith.
Moreover, observing the stipulated period of 30 days as per National Accountability Bureau rules, it has been decided to appoint new Chairman NAB soon after Eid-ul-Fitr.
Earlier the previous Chairman NAB, Mr. Naveed Ehsan was removed on orders of the Supreme Court. Respecting the orders of the Supreme Court, the Prime Minister has also removed the Prosecutor General Mr. Danishwar Malik and the Deputy Prosecutor General Mr. Baseer Qureshi in the recent past. Moreover, the Government did not go into appeal against the Supreme Court decision regarding promotion of 53 grade 22 officers on the direction of the Prime Minister.
PR. No. 100
PRESS RELEASE
UN ASSISTANT SECRETARY GENERAL CALLS ON MS. SHAHNAZ WAZIR ALI
Islamabad, 7th September 2010UN Assistant Secretary General and UNDP Regional Director, Mr. Ajay Chhibber called on Ms. Shahnaz Wazir Ali, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Social Sector here on Tuesday, September 07, 2010.
Ms. Shahnaz Wazir Ali apprised Mr. Chhibber of the devastation caused by the recent floods in Pakistan and told him that the damage caused by the flood especially in Sindh Province is much more than it was initially thought. She said that government’s first and foremost priority is to provide food, shelter and to control the spread of malaria, diarrhea and other diseases caused by the standing waters and to provide basic health care facilities to the victims. The phase of rehabilitation of the displaced people back to their homes and rebuilding of infrastructure, especially educational and healthcare, will be the next step.
She further stressed that providing education to 6.5 million children of the displaced families. She discussed the need for alternative school and informed the Assistant Secretary General that in several of the affected districts, camp schools have been setup and asked the UN to focus on rehabilitation of educational and health infrastructure in particular.
UN Assistant Secretary General said that all the UN organizations in Pakistan are working together to assess the magnitude of the damage done by the floods. He said that UN has 14 to 16 specialists working on data collection. After completion of the detailed damage assessment report, rehabilitation efforts in collaboration with Government of Pakistan shall be carried out. Mr. Jay Chhibber observed that International response was slow compared to the magnitude and intensity of the calamity and urged that more internationally recognized personalities be involved to invoke more aid from around the world.
Ms. Shahnaz Wazir Ali appreciated the efforts of the UN and that of the international community at large for extending their help and support at this moment of need.
PR. No. 101
PRESS RELEASE
WORLD FOOD PROGRAM DEPUTY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND HIS TEAM
CALLS ON MS. SHAHNAZ WAZIR ALI
Islamabad, 7th September 2010World Food Program Deputy Executive Director Mr. Amir Abdulla along with Mr. Wolf Gang Herbinger, Country Director and other members of WFP office called on Ms. Shahnaz Wazir Ali, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Social Sector here on Tuesday, September 07, 2010.
Ms Shahnaz Wazir Ali appreciated the WFP contribution towards the relief and rehabilitation efforts in the flood affected areas throughout Pakistan and observed that WFP was one of the leading organizations that started early relief operation and provided food to the displaced people immediately.
While briefing her on relief and rehabilitation activities, Mr. Amir Abdulla said that WFP launched its emergency response on 01 August, with almost three million people reached in the month of August in 38 districts with 34,000 metric tons of food. “WFP is also operating as the lead of the logistic and emergency telecommunication clusters which is providing supports services to humanitarian hubs in Islamabad, Peshawar, Sukkur and Multan”, he added.
He told the Special Assistant to Prime Minister that since the WFP logistic clusters started its flood response more then 10,000 matric ton of life-saving relief as been airlifted to otherwise inaccessible areas, including emergency medical supplies, wheat flour, high energy biscuits, oil and ready to eat supplementary food. He maintained that to prevent nutrition deterioration amongst children ready to use supplementary food is being provided and more than one million children have been reached to date with food assistance.
While discussing WFP Pakistan Flood Response Strategy he briefed that it is a three stage strategy. At first stage relief operation will be completed till December 2010, second stage will be of early recovery till July 2011 while final stage of Recovery, Peace and Social stability will last till December 2012.
Ms. Shahnaz Wazir Ali while talking to the WFP representatives said that an integrated and concerted approach is needed to cope with the disaster of such a magnitude and intensity. She urged that all the agencies involved in relief and rehabilitation efforts including government, UNO organizations, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the NGOs should proceed in an integrated and connected manner so that maximum results can be achieved with the limited resources at hands. She highlighted that the Council of Common Interest (CCI) meeting on Monday, September 06, reached a consensus among all the parties on the settlement plan. She also urged the WFP representative to continue their support to ensure food security which is related to food production, sfood prices and distribution.
PR. No. 102
PRESS RELEASE
SUMSAM DONATED WATER FILTRATION PLANT TO THE PEOPLE OF RAJANPUR
Islamabad, 7th September 2010Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting,. Syed Sumsam Ali Shah Bokhari, donated a water filtration plant during his meeting with the Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani here in Islamabad today.
On the orders of the Prime Minister, the water filtration plant, with a capacity to clean one hundred thousand liters of water on daily basis, will be installed at Rajanpur shortly.
The Prime Minister expressed the hope that the philanthropic gesture on the part of the Minister of State will benefit the people of the area in these dire times. The devastation caused by floods may aggravate in the form of disease outbreak if provision of safe drinking water was not ensured to the flood-affectees, the prime Minister said.
The Minister of State apprised the Prime Minister about the latest flood situation and also discussed the measures that need to be taken to deal with this stupendous task. The Minister of State also brought into the notice of the prime Minister all the efforts made by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to take on board media personnel, civil society and NGOs regarding relief and rehabilitation work.
The Prime Minister, during the course of the meeting, underlined the importance of national unity at this critical juncture in nation’s history. He urged upon all societal segments to forget mutual bickering and work for the relief and rehabilitation of the affected people.
The Prime Minister asked the Minister of State to communicate his message to the public at large that they should celebrate Eid with simplicity and must not forget their brethren who are afflicted in the worst floods in nation’s memory.
PR. No. 103
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad, 7th September 2010The Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has directed Federal Law Secretary to withdraw all facilities provided to the Prosecutor General, Mr. Irfan Qadir and implement explicit orders of the Supreme Court in letter and spirit. He directed the Law Secretary that in compliance with the Apex Court orders, Irfan Qadir should cease to hold the office forthwith.
Moreover, observing the stipulated period of 30 days as per National Accountability Bureau rules, it has been decided to appoint new Chairman NAB soon after Eid-ul-Fitr.
Earlier the previous Chairman NAB, Mr. Naveed Ehsan was removed on orders of the Supreme Court. Respecting the orders of the Supreme Court, the Prime Minister has also removed the Prosecutor General Mr. Danishwar Malik and the Deputy Prosecutor General Mr. Baseer Qureshi in the recent past. Moreover, the Government did not go into appeal against the Supreme Court decision regarding promotion of 53 grade 22 officers on the direction of the Prime Minister.
PR. No. 104
PRESS RELEASE
APNS DELEGATION MEETS THE PRIME MINISTER
OFFER FREE SPACE FOR GOVERNMENT ADVERTISEMENTS RELATED TO FLOOD AFFECTEES
Islamabad, 7th September 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani said that the process of disbursement of Rs. 20,000/- cash grant will start soon (before Eid) but take 40 days to complete in order to cover such a large number of affected families spread in far flung areas of all the provinces. The purpose of this grant, he added, is to help the families make a beginning towards normal life.
The Prime Minister was talking to a delegation of All Pakistan Newspapers’ Society led by its Secretary General Mr. Sarmad Ali, which met him here at the Prime Minister’s House this afternoon. The other members of the delegation were Mr. Mehtab Abbasi, Mr. Umar Shami, Mr. Munir Jilani and Dr. Tanvir A. Tahir.
The Prime Minister informed the delegation that an amount of Rs. 10 billion has already been pooled by the Federal and all the Provincial governments for disbursement of cash grant and more would be added to it soon. As regards transparency, the Prime Minister mentioned that very soon all the information about receipt of funds and goods along with expenditure and disbursement will be available on the special website being launched in the next few days.
While highlighting the significance of the National Oversight Disaster Management Council (NODMC), the Prime Minister said the objective is to ensure transparency and optimum utilization of funds so that the benefit reaches the flood affectees. The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the support and assistance both local and foreign will increase once the Damage Need Assessment is completed by the 19th October.
The APNS delegation appreciated the efforts of the government in coordinating the relief efforts which they mentioned has helped to ease the difficulties of the affectees to quite an extent. The APNS announced to give free space to government advertisements for flood affectees or related to relief and rehabilitation of the flood affected families. The Prime Minister appreciated their gesture.
At the end of the meeting, the APNS delegation apprised the Prime Minister of some of their problems of the newspaper industry. The Prime Minister referred the matters to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting for resolution at the earliest.
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST OR TELECAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF 8TH SEPTEMBER, 2010
PR. No. 105
PRESS RELEASE
PRIME MINISTER SYED YUSUF RAZA GILANI’s MESSAGE ON THE INTERNATIONAL LITERACY DAY.
Islamabad, 7th September 2010International Literacy Day is an occasion to review the progress towards hundred percent literacy goal and to affirm the centrality of literacy for sustainable human development.
Literacy equips people to improve their livelihoods, and participate effectively in community decision-making. Above all, it enables individuals to realize their rights as citizens and human beings. International Literacy Day puts spotlight on the role of literacy and its importance for human development and citizenship. It also provides an opportunity to focus attention on the World’s literacy needs and mobilize governments and international partners to do more to meet this challenge.
Pakistan is signatory to the Dakar Declaration of 2003 and we are committed to enhance literacy rate to85 percent by2015. To achieve this goal, Government of Pakistan is committed to address major causes of illiteracy like budgetary constraints and is resolved to universalize primary education. The year 2010 has been declared as the “Literacy Year” with a focused resolve to accelerate the pace of efforts to achieve the set targets. Hence along with further increase in the education budget in the coming year, it has been decided to extend the “National Literacy Year” to next year carrying forward the activities planned to enhance the literacy rate in the country as our nation is facing the worst ever natural disaster. One fifth of Pakistan’s total geographical area has been inundated, flood water had washed away standing crops worth billion of dollars, destroyed infrastructure and paralyzed our economic activity. Consequently, Education along with other sector will be adversely affected.
The Federal Government will make every effort to promote literacy and non-formal basic education. In the flood affected areas, adults will be imparted knowledge regarding life skills and the children who are out school will be provided with transitional educational facilities to ensure continuation of their education till complete reconstruction of schools.
I urge the international community, donor organizations and Pakistani philanthropists to extend a helping hand in combating illiteracy.
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST OR TELECAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF 8TH SEPTEMBER, 2010
PR. No. 106
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad, 7th September 2010President Asif Ali Zardari accompanied by Chairman PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Bakhtwar Bhutto Zardari today visited flood affected areas in Sindh and Balochistan flying over Jacobabad, Dera Allah Yar, Jafarabad before landing in Dera Murad Jamali where they visited flood relief camps, commiserated with the victims, paid visit to an emergency hospital set up by Turkish government for flood victims, attended briefing by provincial government and announced additional relief measures for flood victims. The President was also joined in his visit to Balochistan by Governor Zulfikar Magsi who had flown in Jacobabad from Quetta for the purpose.
The President was received at Dera Murad Jamali helipad by CM Balochistan, Ministers Sadiq Umrani and Maulana Wase and dy chairman Senate Jan Jamali and senior civil and military officers.
Spokesperson to President Farhatullah Babar said that the President declared Jafarabad as model district for the redevelopment and reconstruction efforts to serve as role model for implementing technology based solutions to flood issues in a planned and transparent manner with structures for monitoring and accountability. At the briefing session in Dera Murad Jamali which was also attended by former Prime Minister Zafrullah Jamali the President announced a grant of 50 million rupees for relief operations in Jafarabad and Naseerabad districts in addition to the 50 million provided by the government for relief goods from utility stores through the PDMA. The President also announced another 30 million to be diverted from the development funds of the 14 provincial MPs in the province and urged other MPs also to follow suit.
Farhatullah Babar quoted the President as saying that on average 30-40 tons of relief goods are transported every day from Quetta by the federal government adding that if need be the federal supplies will be augmented further.
Bilawal Bhutto and Bakhtwar Bhutto Zardari also separately visited camps and hospital, commiserated with the victims and assured the affectees that the entire nation was with them in their hour of distress.
The briefing was informed ten hells and 16 boats were continuously operating in the area that looked like a huge lake. So far nearly 25,000 people have been rescued and moved to safer places by the federal govt boats and helicopters which had also provided over 25,000 tents and 20,000 blankets.
The President paid tributes to the people of neighboring districts of Naseerabad, Sibi ,Bolan and Quetta for accommodating the IDPs moving from Jafarabad district as well as Sindh province. President Zardari during visit to the Turkish Emergency hospital talked with the Turkish medics and thanked Turkey and international community for their generous assistance. The President particularly mentioned the medical establishments provided by Turkey, Oman and another one from Germany was on way for Osta Muhammad.
The President said that the flood devastation was too huge for any government to handle single-handedly and called upon every citizen, every NGO and every institution to join hands. Together we can transform the catastrophe into a great opportunity to rebuild a better and new Pakistan, he said.
Living nations, like living individuals, bounce back in times of adversity like a phoenix from the ashes, Farhatullah Babar quoted the President as saying.Later the President visited Garhi Khuda Bakhsh and offered fateha at the mazar of Bhuttos before returning to Sukkur. The President will be shortly leaving Sukkur for Karachi.
PR. No. 107
PRESS RELEASE
PM HAS APPROVED THE APPOINTMENT OF MR. KAMRAN LASHARI AS CHIEF SECRETARY SINDH
Islamabad, 7th September 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has approved the appointment of Mr. Kamran Lashari as Chief Secretary, Government of Sindh with immediate effect.
Mr. Kamran Lashari was serving as Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Resources.
PR. No. 108
PRESS RELEASE
PRIME MINISTER CONDEMNS KOHAT BLAST
Islamabad, 7th September 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has strongly condemned the bomb blast in Kohat and termed it as the most heinous crime against innocent civilians on the sacred day of 27th Ramadan. He said that these terrorists have no respect for the peaceful religion of Islam nor any sense of humanity.
The Prime Minister said while the Nation is passing through difficult times due to devastating floods, these coward criminals have mercilessly killed innocent Muslims when they were breaking their fast in their homes.
The Prime Minister said such cowardly acts could not deter the determination of the Nation to eliminate the menace of terrorism from the fabric of the society. The perpetrators and their accomplices will not go unpunished.
The Prime Minister expressed his condolences and sympathies with the victims and their families, and instructed the concerned authorities to look after the injured in best possible manner.
PR. No. 109
PRESS RELEASE
SINO PAK COOPERATION FOR REHABILITATION OF FLOOD AFFECTEES AND
POVERTY ALLEVIATION WOULD BE A WELCOME DEVELOPMENT, SAYS MS. FARZANA RAJA
THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE BISP BRIEFED CHINESE AMBASSADOR ABOUT PRO POOR
INITIATIVES AND OF RELIEF EFFORTS
Islamabad, 7th September 2010Federal Minister and Chairperson Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Ms. Farzana Raja has said that joint relief efforts of China and Government of Pakistan for the relief and rehabilitation would be a highly welcome step. She said that the poor segments of the society have been worst hit by the recent devastating floods in Pakistan. There was a dire need to redress their problems on immediate basis. Therefore, she said, BISP stepped in quickly and released Rs.10 billion to provide these highly vulnerable segments of the society with immediate relief throughout Pakistan.
Ms. Farzana Raja said while talking to Liu Jian, Ambassador of the Republic of China in Pakistan, who visited BISP Secretariat on Tuesday. She gave away a detailed briefing to Mr. Liu in regard with the working of BISP and its pro poor initiatives. She elaborated that besides monthly income support programme, BISP has evolve a comprehensive strategy to eradicate poverty from the country including steps like Waseela-e-Haq and Waseela-e-Rozgar, which are aiming to enable poor and hapless segments of the society in achieving self sustained livlihood and economic freedom.
Mr. Liu, on the occasion, appreciated the efforts made by BISP for poverty alleviation from the country. He said that China wants to provide all out help for flood affectees in Pakistan. He said that 3,000 ton relief goods have already been provided to Pakistan. He handed over a list of relief items collected by Chinese women for the Pakistani flood affectees to Ms. Farzana. These goods would reach Pakistan on September 13 and would be handed over to BISP for distribution among affectees. He expressed his hope that Pakistan and China may join hands for the uplift of the poor segments of the society in Pakistan.
PR. No. 110
PRESS RELEASE
SAADAT PARTY SHOWS SOLIDARITY WITH PAKISTAN
Islamabad, 7th September 2010Chairman Saadat Party Prof. Dr. Numan Kurtulmuş today visited Pakistan Embassy in Ankara and conveyed sympathies and condolences of his party for the flood affectees of Pakistan, says a press release received from Ankara here today.
“To show solidarity with the people of our brotherly country Pakistan, Saadat Party has cancelled this year’s Iftar party,” said Prof. Dr. Nauman. He presented a cheque of TL 25,800. This amount was earlier earmarked for the Iftar dinner.
Pakistan’s Ambassador to Turkey, H.E. Mr. Tariq Azizuddin briefed the delegation of Saadat Party on the present status of floods. He informed that over 20 million people have been affected by the devastating floods and 1,752 people have died. The floods have destroyed 4,458,680 acres of cropped area, he added.
PR. No. 111
PRESS RELEASE
PAKISTANI RELIGIOUS STUDENTS IN QOM DONATE US$5,000/- FOR FLOOD VICTIMS
Islamabad, 7th September 2010A three member delegation from Qom Seminary called on Pakistan Ambassador M.B. Abbasi today. The delegation included Syed Salman Naqvi, founder and head of board of trustees, Madrasa Imam Ali, Dedar Hussain Soomro, representative of Pakistani religious students and Ali Alizadeh, representative of Dr. Aarafi, Chancellor, International Al-Mustafa University, Qom, says a press release received from Tehran here today.
Expressing deep sympathies with the flood affected Muslim brothers and sisters in Pakistan, Salman Naqvi presented US$5,000/- to Ambassador Abbasi saying that it has been donated by the Pakistani religious students in Qom.
Ambassador Abbasi thanked for the donation and appreciated the sentiments of the Qom based Pakistani religious students for their brothers and sisters affected by flood in Pakistan.
Mr. Ali Alizadeh conveyed Dr. Aarafi’s message of sympathy and said a committee had been set up at Al-Mustafa University to collect donations for the flood affected people in the brotherly Muslim country of Pakistan. He said Dr. Aarafi was planning to visit Pakistan at the head of delegation to have meeting with Pakistani Ullama. He extended an invitation to Ambassador Abbasi to visit Al-Mustafa University in Qom.
Ambassador Abbasi assured him of Embassy’s cooperation and assistance and said necessary coordination would be made for Dr. Aarafi’s visit. The Ambassador praised efforts by the Qom Seminary and Iranian Ullama to encourage Iranian people to help their Pakistani brothers and sisters affected by the flood in Pakistan.
