PR.NO. 127
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad August 11, 2010
Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Canada Mr. Akbar Zeb has said that more than 15 million people have been affected by floods in Pakistan and the enormity of the disaster requires a well coordinated and concerted effort by the Government of Pakistan, the world community and international organizations to deal effectively with the ongoing crisis. The High Commissioner was talking to CBC News here today. Mr. Akbar Zeb said these were the worst floods in the history of Pakistan. The government had employrd all the resources at its disposal for the rescue and relief of the flood affected areas. Also a comprehensive policy was being prepared for the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the flood-affected areas. However , given the magnitude of the tragedy its was not possible to reach each and every individual affected by the floods. That is why the Prime Minister had launched an appeal for international assistance. He added that this was a major humanitarian catastrophe which was still unfolding particularly since the Monsoons season was far from over. An amount in the range of $5 billion would be required for relief , rescue as well as reconstruction. He said the Pakistan government hoped that the international community would rise to the occasion and assist Pakistan as it deals with this calamitous situation, says a press release received here today.
PR.NO. 128
PRESS RELEASE
PAKISTANI STUDENTS IN MALAYSIA CELEBRATED INDEPENDENCE DAY IN A BIG WAY
Islamabad August 11, 2010A large number of Pakistani students at Asia Pacific University College of Technology & Innovation, Malaysia celebrated 63rd Independence Day of Pakistan with great fun fare and enthusiasm, says a press release received here today.
The celebrations which were held in the University premises in Kuala Lumpur, yesterday (11.08.2010) were also attended by the Management of the University, officers of the High Commission and large number of students representing more than 70 countries.
The participants which also included a large number of foreign students of the University College appreciated the students for putting up a great show and highlighting the importance of Independence Day and introducing Pakistani culture to the University. The University has more than 70 nationalities in its student community.
Pakistani students also donated Rs.100,000/= for the Prime Minister’s Flood Relief Fund 2010 out of their pocket money. They have also setup booth for collection of donations for the Prime Minister’s Flood Relief Fund.
Pakistani students both male and female sang patriotic songs, depicted rich cultural heritage of Pakistan by fashion show wherein traditional dresses representing the four provinces of Pakistan were shown and highlighted the importance of Independence Day through their speeches.
The event greatly helped in introducing soft image of Pakistan to more than 7000 student boarding in the University.
The Independence Day will be celebrated by the Pakistan High Commission in Malaysia on 14th August, 2010 at the Pakistan High Commission. The student celebrated the event earlier due to approaching Ramadan Mubarak
PR.NO. 129
PRESS RELEASE
PAKISTAN INITIAL FLOODS EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLAN
Islamabad August 11, 2010Under-Secretary-General of the Office for the Coordination of Humanitrain Affairs, Mr. John Holmes and Pakistan Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Abdullah Hussain Haroon will launch the Pakistan Initial Floods Emergency Response Plan at the UN Headquarters, New York at 10.00 am on Wednesday, August 11, 2010. All Permanent and Observer Missions are invited for the event. Mr. Martin Mogwanja, UN Humanitarian Coordinator in Pakistan will also be linking in via videoconference to brief the audiance on the latest humanitarian response on the ground. Following the launch of Pakistan Intial Floods Emergency Response Plan, Mr. John Holms and Mr. Abdullah Hussain Haroon will have a media stakeout at 11:15 am. Both the event will be telecast live by the UN TV, says a press release received here today.
Kindly visit www.un.org/webcast/ and tune to channel 3 for watch and for the live cut.
The programs are:
(10:00am New York Time): (7.00 pm Pakistan Time)
Special Event: Launch of the initial flood emergency humanitarian response plan for Pakistan.
(11:15am New York Time): (8:15pm Pakistan Time):Media Stakeout: Mr. John Holmes, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, and H.E. Mr. Abdullah Hussain Haroon, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations, will speak to correspondents following the launch of the initial flood emergency humanitarian response plan for Pakistan.
PR.NO. 130
PRESS RELEASE
TURKISH AMBASSADOR TO PAKISTAN PRESENTS CHEQUE TO PM
Islamabad: August 11, 2010Mr M Babur Hizlan, Ambassador of Turkey to Pakistan, called on the Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani this morning in the Prime Minister’s Secretariat to hand over a cheque of US $ 5 million from the Turkish Government for Prime Minister’s Flood Relief Fund.
The Ambassador informed the Prime Minister that in addition to this cash grant and the plane load of 3.5 metric tons of relief goods already sent to Pakistan on August 04, his government would be sending three other planes carrying relief assistance to Pakistan on August 11,13 and 17. He added that as promised by Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, over the phone to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on August 04, Turkey will wholeheartedly participate in the reconstruction phase of flood affected areas, once the water recedes.
The Prime Minister conveyed the gratitude of his government and people of Pakistan for the generous support of brotherly government and people of Turkey in these trying times and noted that Turkey was amongst those few countries which had taken the lead in sending immediate assistance directly to the Government of Pakistan for its urgent and optimum utilization for providing relief to the flood affectees. The Prime Minister underlined the immediate requirement for more tents as a large number of evacuated people were still living out in the open and need to have shelter on immediate basis. He hoped that the next installment of relief goods from Turkey would include substantial quantity of tents for the flood victims.
The Prime Minister asked the Turkish Ambassador to convey his personal thanks to Prime Minister Erdogan and his government for standing by Pakistan in this hour of trial
PR.NO. 131
PRESS RELEASE
USC SETS UP COMPLAINT CELL DURING RAMDAN
Islamabad, August 11, 2010.Keeping in view the directive issued by Federal Minister for Finance, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Sheikh, during the meeting of the Cabinet Committee on the prices of daily use items at Utility Stores, held yesterday, the Utility Stores Corporation has set up the following telephone numbers for the Complaint Cell where any citizen can lodge complaint against any ire-regularity in utility stores during the holy month of Ramadan.
i. 051-0800-05590 (Toll free)
ii. 051-9262920
In addition, the USC has also set up the Complaint Cell at its headquarters during the Holy Month of Ramadan. The duty roster of the Complaint Cell is as follows:
DAYS
TIMING
0800-1600 HRS
1600-0000 HRS
0000-0800 HRS
MONDAY
Ali Ahsan Dar
&
Raja Waqas
Yasir Afraz
&
Syed Tahir Madani
Mailk Danish Saleem &
Mr. Saquib Mehmood
TUESDAY
-do-
-do-
-do-
WEDNESDAY
-do-
-do-
-do-
THURSDAY
-do-
Mailk Danish Saleem
&
Mr. Saquib Mehmood
Yasir Afraz
&
Syed Tahir Madani
FRIDAY
-do-
-do-
-do-
SATURDAY
-do-
-do-
-do-
SUNDAY
-do-
Yasir Afraz
&
Syed Tahir Madani
Mailk Danish Saleem
&
Mr. Saquib Mehmood
PR.NO. 132
PRESS RELEASE
On the directives of Makhdoom Amin Fahim, State Life Insurance Corporation of Pakistan (SLIC) has handed over a Cheque of 2 million rupees for Prime Minister’s Relief Fund
Islamabad August 11, 2010On the directives of Makhdoom Amin Fahim, federal minister for commerce and senior leader Pakistan Peoples Party, the state life insurance corporation of Pakistan (SLIC) has handed over a Cheque of 2 million rupees to the ministry of commerce to be deposited in the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund for flood affectees. Makhdoom Amin Fahim has directed all the attached departments of his ministry to raise funds for the relief activities of flood victims. The minister himself is present in the affected areas of Sindh and monitoring the relief operations there. During his visits of the camps, the federal minister expressed that the current flashflood was of an incomparable magnitude and had affected millions of people. Mass mobilization is needed at this hour, he added. Makhdoom Amin Fahim directed the volunteers of Sarwari Jaamat to remain alongside with the local administration and join the relief activities. Commerce minister has also contacted the well-off business community of the country to give donations to the relief camps.
PR.NO. 133
PRESS RELEASE
Chinese Capital Medical University students press for degree’s recognition
Islamabad; August 11, 2010A delegation of Pakistani students studying at Capital Medical University in Beijing called on Ambassador Masood Khan to request recognition of their degrees by Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), says a press release received here today.
Dr. Khayam Masood, who is University’s Programme Director for Overseas Students, led the delegation.
The students said Capital Medical University in Beijing is one of the best academic institutions in China. Non-recognition of the degree in Pakistan deprives them of the opportunity to obtain license and practice in Pakistan when they return after graduation from China.
Ambassador Khan said Capital Medical University’s dossier for recognition is being processed in Pakistan by Ministry of Health and PMDC.
The Government of Pakistan, the Ambassador said, is keen to promote Pakistan-China educational ties, particularly in the field of teaching medicine. The Government attaches importance to the future of Capital Medical University’s students.
Capital Medical University is one of the most prestigious universities of China. It holds number one position among the thirty universities allowed by the Chinese government to teach medicine in English.
Affiliated with the top hospitals of China, the University specializes in research in the field of Neuro-science. Capital Medical University also has affiliations and partnerships with the universities of 30 countries including the US, Australia, UK, Norway and Japan.
Dr. Khayam Masood and the students accompanying him said that while seven universities were given recognition last year, Capital Medical University was left out where more than one hundred Pakistani students are studying.
Ambassador Masood Khan assured the students that their concerns would be receive most serious consideration in Islamabad.
PR.NO. 134
PRESS RELEASE
Sinohydro thanks Pakistan for rescue of stranded Chinese workers
Beijing; August 11, 2010Mr. Liu Qitao, President of Sinohydro Group Ltd., has written a letter of thanks to the President of Pakistan, Mr. Asif Ali Zardari for the rescue and evacuation of 265 Chinese nationals working for Sinohydro Group, during the recent floods,says a press release received here today.
Mr. Liu wrote that Pakistan Government and the Army were under huge pressure to rescue stranded local people. In spite of this, they managed to provide timely rescue, shelter and food to their staff working at Duber Khwar Hydro Power Project in the flood region.
“This … demonstrated again that the Pakistan-China relationship is higher than the mountains and deeper than the oceans”, Sinohydro President said.
Sinohydro President reassured the Government of Pakistan that his Corporation will participate fully in the post-disaster re-construction in the affected areas.
Sinohydro is a leading Chinese company in infrastructure construction and hydro power sector.
PR.NO. 135
PRESS RELEASE
DONORS ON GOING ASSISTANCE FOR FLOOD AFFECTED AREAS
Islamabad, August 11, 2010.Dr. Abdul Hafeez Sheikh, Minister for Finance, Revenue, Economic Affairs, Statistics and Planning and Development met with the Ambassadors/Head of Mission/Representatives of Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, European Union, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom and United States of America here today. During the meeting the Minister discussed economic situation of the country in the wake of the recent floods, which have caused enormous loss of life and property.
The Minister outlined the devastation caused by the floods and briefed about the measures taken by the Government of Pakistan for relief and rehabilitation of the flood affectees in the context of short term relief and medium to long term reconstruction and rehabilitation plans. Need for immediate action to raise resources locally and through foreign donors was discussed in detail in view of the existing constraints. The Minister reassured that the assitance received from donors would be expended in a fair and transparent manner.
Minister appreciated the support already extended by the donors countries and urged other for helping pakistan in the hour of need. At the end, Minister thanked the participants for their support.
PR.NO. 136
PRESS RELEASE
Chairman BOI meets PM
Islamabad: 11 August 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has reiterated the resolve of the government to provide all possible relief to the flood affected people. He further added, it is the joint responsibility of all of us to help our brethren in this difficult time.
While appreciating the response of the people to his appeal for donating generously in Prime Minister’s flood relief fund, the Prime Minister said that all the funds being collected for the relief activity will be distributed judiciously among the flood-hit areas.
The Prime Minister was talking to Mr. Saleem H. Mandviwala, Chairman Board of Investment who called on him at the Prime Minister’s Secretariat this morning.
The Prime Minister said he is personally monitoring all the rescue and relief activities. He assured that despite large scale of damage, the government would provide food, medication and shelter to the flood affectees..
Mr. Mandviwala apprised the Prime Minister of the funds being raised by the private sector for the relief activities. They also deliberated the ways and means to generate more funds from the existing resources.
PR.NO. 137
PRESS RELEASE
MINISTER FOR RELIGIOUS AFFAIRS MEETS PM
Islamabad, August 11, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has urged all political parties to come forward for the relief of flood affectees. He stressed upon the need of joint efforts instead of the political wrangling to mitigate flood victims’ sufferings.
The Prime Minister was talking to Mr. Hamid Saeed Kazmi, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs who called on him at Prime Minister’s Secretariat this morning.
The Prime Minister asked the Minister for Religious Affairs to visit his constituency and monitor the distribution of relief goods to the affectees. He further asked him to ensure the equitable distribution of the relief goods irrespective of the political affiliation as all victims are citizens of Pakistan.
The Prime Minister apprised the Minister that he has ordered 100 trucks of relief goods for each affected districts of Muzaffargah, Rajanpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Bhakkar and Layyah. He also informed him that he has already instructed Fauji Foundation to arrange mobile medial units to control the outbreak of epidemics in the flood affected districts.
The Minister apprised the Prime Minister of the flood damage in his constituency and also told him about the relief activities being carried out for flood affectees.
PR. NO. 138
PRESS RELEASE
USAID DELEGATION CALLS ON SHEHNAZ WAZIR ALI
Islamabad, August 11, 2010A four-member USAID delegation headed by Ms. Robin, Raphael called on Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Social Sector Ms. Shehnaz Wazir Ali at the Prime Minister’s Secretariat here today and expressed grief and sorrow over the loss of lives and properties caused by the flood in Pakistan.
Ms. Robin Raphael assured the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister that the USAID Mission in Pakistan would extend all possible assistance to overcome the miseries of the flood affected people in their hours of trial.
The Special Assistant to the Prime Minister said that the government is making all out efforts to provide rescue and relief of the people affected by the devastated flood which engulfed vast areas of the country resulting in damaging of properties. She called upon the international community to come forward and join the Pakistan government’s efforts to mitigate the sufferings of the flood affectees.
She expressed gratitude to the USAID Mission in Pakistan for extending cooperation in the development of socio-economic sector and hoped that it would intensify its efforts in this regard.
During the meeting, the USAID delegation briefed the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister about the on-going socio-economic uplift programme being funded by the USAID.
PR.NO. 139
ECONOMIC TEAM MEETS PRIME MINISTER
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: August 11, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani said that the flood disaster has posed a huge challenge for the country for which the whole Nation has to rise to the occasion. The contribution towards helping the flood affected population has to be beyond any political and social divide.
The Prime Minister expressed these views while talking to the financial team led by the Finance Minister Dr Abdul Hafeez Sheikh which met him at the Prime Minister’s Secretariat to discuss the financial situation vis-a-vis the needs of the flood affected areas.
The enormity of the damages, the Prime Minister said, could only be met through a joint strategy of the federal and provincial governments ensuring maximum help to the flood affectees. Keeping in view the Budgetary limitations, he stressed that fiscal discipline and austerity be strictly followed by the Federal and Provincial governments in the wake of economic pressure that has arisen because of flood relief works.
The Prime Minister directed the financial team to prepare an efficient and transparent system for disbursement of funds that are being collected under the Prime Minister’s Flood Relief Fund to the concerned organizations and the provincial governments. The system should ensure visible utilization of funds, he added, so that the benefit reaches the affected people.
The Prime Minister also directed that the Economic Affairs Division should coordinate with the foreign donors for the assistance being made both in kind and cash and accordingly, a criteria be worked out for the disbursement and utilization of the assistance.
Earlier, the Minister for Finance apprised the Prime Minister of the Budgetary position and the economic pressure arisen out of flood situation. He mentioned that the Budget might have to be reprioritized because of damages caused by heavy rains and floods.
The meeting was attended by Chairman BOI Mr. Saleem Mandviwala, Deputy Chairman Planning Commission Dr. Nadeem-ul-Haque and Secretary Finance Mr Salman Siddique.
PR.NO. 140
PRESS RELEASE
THERE IS DIRE NEED FOR LEGISLATION ON ACID AND BURN CRIMES------YASMEEN REHMAN
Islamabad the 11th August, 2010“It is necessary to specifically criminalize acid and burn related violence by providing tougher and stricter penalties”, says Advisor to the Prime Minister on Women Development Mrs. Yasmeen Rehman while chairing a meeting here today in the Ministry of Women Development to review a Bill on Acid Control and Burn Crime Prevention.
The meeting was attended by all stakeholders including members of Acid survivors Foundation (ASF) ; Dr. Fouzia Saeed, National Commission on Status of Women; Fehmida Iqbal, UNIFEM and Secretary, MoWD.
The Advisor expressed that the Bill will soon be presented in the Parliament after finally being reviewed by MoWD and NCSW and the purpose of the bill is to control the import, production, transportation, boarding, sale and use of acid to prevent the misuse of acid as a corrosive substance and to provide legal support to acid and burn victims.
All crimes under this Act will be cognizable, non-compoundable and non-bailable, she said.
It was also discussed in the meeting that National Acid Control Council will be established to implement the Act in every province. Moreover, the emphasis was laid upon the fact that there is a dire need to make the provincial Acid Control Committees much more effective so as to ensure prevention of sale of acids in their relevant areas of jurisdiction.
Yasmeen Rehman revealed that there are many provisions in the Pakistan Penal Code which may address this crime to some extent but the enormity of the consequences faced by the victims requires much more severe penalties than presently available in the law. Moreover, since acid is so readily available across the counter in medical and other stores, acid attacks become a relatively cheap and effective way of committing acts of violence against women. (SNA)
PR.NO. 141
MEETING THE UKRAINIAN BUSINESS DELEGATION PAKISTAN OFFERS HUGE POTENTIAL FOR AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY ESPECIALLY IN THE WAKE OF DEVASTATING FLOODS’ DAMAGES IN THE SHAPE LAND EROSION. UKRAINE MUST MANUFACTURE PRICE AND FUEL EFFICIENT TRACTORS TO CAPTURE THE LOCAL MARKET. NAZAR M. GONDAL
Islamabad August 11, 2010.Federal minister for food & Agriculture, Nazar M. Gondal has said that efficient agricultural machinery would be required to reclaim the land lost due to the catastrophic floods that badly damaged the agriculture sector of the country.
The federal minister was holding a meeting with the Ukrainian business delegation led by Volodymyr Ponomarenko, the first ambassador of Ukraine to Pakistan.
“Pakistan offers a wide scope for farm machinery. We have huge quantity of barren land to be made cultivable, especially in the province of Baluchistan. Joint ventures in tractor manufacturing would benefit us mutually. Your company must start from introducing your tractors in the local market so that you get recognition if your tractors prove to be cost and fuel effective”, said the minister to the visiting delegates.
Mr. Gondal asked the company’s representatives that the needs of the local farmers must be kept in mind before manufacturing tractors and other farm machinery. He said that Pakistan is an ideal market for foreign investment as the government does not levy any import duty on the import of agriculture machinery. “The recent floods have eroded thousands of acres of agricultural land across the country and it is the best time to demonstrate your machinery in Pakistan”, added the minister.
Earlier the delegation’s head briefed the minister on the performance of the company and interest to invest in Pakistan. He said that they are expert in producing equipments for agriculture and road construction. “We would initially export a few hundred tractors for a practical test and trail purposes. We can then move on to explore opportunities for joint ventures with local manufactures/assemblers that would make the technology transfer possible”, said Mr. Volodymyr Ponomarenko.
The minister assured the delegates of all the possible assistance and cooperation on the part of the ministry. He said that the company’s fate would definitely be decided by its effectiveness, particularly fuel consumption.
The meeting was also attended by senior officials of the ministry and Mr. M. Amin Gaziani, the representative of Tabani Group of Company
PR.NO. 142
PRESS RELEASE
MAULANA FAZAL-UR-REHMAN, AMIR JUI HAS RANGS UP THE PM
Islamabad: August 11, 2010Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman, Amir of JUI (F) rang up Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani today and apprised him of the flood situation in the Dera Ismail Khan and Tank areas.
The Prime Minister informed him that he is personally monitoring the flood situation throughout the country and has been getting feed back from all the areas. He appreciated the concern of Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman for the flood affectees and assured that the government would do every thing possible to help the affected population.
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED /BROADCAST/TELECAST BEFORE THE SIGHTING OF MOON OF RAMZAN-UL-MUBARAK 1431 A.H/2010 A.D
PR.NO. 143
PRESS RELEASE
MESSAGE OF THE PRIME MINISTER SYED YOUSUF RAZA GILANI ON THE OCCASION OF THE BEGINNING OF THE HOLY MONTH OF RAMAZAN 1431 A.H. / 2010 A.D.
Islamabad: August 11, 2010We should be thankful to Allah that He has once again provided us an opportunity to benefit from his blessings in the month of Ramzan. I congratulate and greet from the core of my heart all Pakistanis on the arrival of the sacred and auspicious month of Ramzan.
Ramazan is that blessed month in which the Holy Quran was revealed upon the Holy Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h), which is guidance to the humanity. It was in the month of Ramazan that fasting was turned obligatory for Muslims. During each day and night of this month, divine blessings are showered. The Holy Quran enjoins us to fast during this month so that we can purify our hearts and lead a pious life. The message and essence of Ramazan is the concept of patience and sacrifice. After having been disciplined by fasting, a man if persists in his extremist attitudes would mean that his worship was in vain.
At the moment, our country has been engulfed by the evil of terrorism. Certain elements and groups are engaged in fanning the regional and sectarian divide. We need to guard against their nefarious designs. Islam integrates us into brotherhood, and the same message needs to be disseminated to the public.
Due to intense recent floods, several regions have been severely affected. We should not be unmindful of the fact that our brothers and sisters are faced with immense difficulties. I strongly believe that, Pakistani nation would stand by their brethrens in these challenging times. As said by Father of the Nation, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, “That a Muslim never gives up in adverse circumstances”. Insha-Allah, the entire Pakistani nation with the strength of faith, perseverance and dedication would overcome these challenges. I hope that, the people of Pakistan will strengthen unity and discipline in their ranks. I am sure that the people of Pakistan while exhibiting values of sacrifice, accommodation and patriotism would keep supreme national goals and interests over their personal and political interests. I urge you, that in addition to praying to Almighty Allah for your personal attainments and prosperity, you should keep praying for the stability and prosperity of the country.
I pray that, may Almighty Allah bestow us with forbearance to fast during this month and help us to live in accordance with true Islamic injunctions. I also pray that may Almighty Allah realize our pleas and accept our worships. May Allah protect us.
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED /BROADCAST/TELECAST BEFORE THE SIGHTING OF MOON OF RAMZAN-UL-MUBARAK 1431 A.H/2010 A.D.
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED /BROADCAST OR TELECAST BEFORE THE SIGHTING OF MOON OF RAMZAN-UL-MUBARAK 1431 A.H/2010 A.D.
PR.NO. 144
PRESS RELEASE
MESSAGE FROM MR. ASIF ALI ZARDARI PRESIDENT OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN (ON THE EVE OF RAMAZAN UL MUBARAK 1431 A.H/2010 A.D.)
Islamabad: August 11,2010I wish to felicitate the Muslims throughout the world in general and the Muslim brothers and sisters in Pakistan in particular on the advent of the holy month of Ramadan.
The month of Ramadan is a month of fasting and blessing, which enjoins upon the Muslims to devote themselves to observe fasting and refrain from all evil deeds. It also enjoins upon the Muslims to remember their less fortunate brethren and step forward to help them in alleviating their miseries.
On this occasion I urge the countrymen to make full use of the holy month in seeking forgiveness for their sins and in submitting to the will of Allah and also to help generously the people who have been devastated by floods and acts of militancy.
I also pray for peace all over the world and especially within the Muslim World. I pray that Allah will bless us and free our world from terrorism and help build an understanding between peoples of different religions, races and cultures so that our children can live in a world of harmony.
Those of our people who have been hard hit by recent floods I want to assure them that the government will not abandon them and will do whatever it takes to rehabilitate them.
Let us on this auspicious occasion also pledge to work for peace, harmony and for promotion of the brotherhood of whole of mankind.
May the blessings of Ramadan remain with all of you for the whole year.
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED /BROADCAST OR TELECAST BEFORE THE SIGHTING OF MOON OF RAMZAN-UL-MUBARAK 1431 A.H/2010.A.D.
PR.NO. 145
PRESS RELEASE
PAKISTAN ATTACHES GREAT IMPORTANCE TO ITS RELATIONS WITH AFGHANISTAN – FAROOQ H. NAEK CHAIRMAN SENATE
Islamabad, August 11, 2010Strong bond of friendship exist between Pakistan and Afghanistan and the people of two countries. In the last two years since the democratic government has come to power significant progress has been made to strengthen bilateral relationship and Pakistan is committed to further strengthen relations with Afghanistan. Pakistan-Afghanistan relationship is unique due to common culture, history and religion. Both the Countries share common challenges, common aspirations and indeed a common future. We should take over bilateral cooperation into new era of partnership.
This was stated by the Chairman Senate, Mr. Farooq H.Naek while talking to visiting head of Hizb-e-Wahdat and head of Religious, Cultural and Educational committee of National Assembly of Afghanistan, Ustad Mohammad Mohaqiq who called on him at the Parliament House this afternoon.
The Chairman said terrorism is a common threat and challenge being faced by Pakistan and Afghanistan. Pakistan is against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. We are biggest victims of terrorism; we lost our great leader Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto at the hands of terrorists. We have lost thousands of innocent civilians and valiant personnel of the armed forces. Terrorism has badly affected our economy and day to day lives, he added.
The Chairman further said ”peace, security and stability in Afghanistan has vital link with peace and tranquility in Pakistan”, an independent, peaceful and stable Afghanistan is in the interest of Pakistan, region and the world. Pakistan is committed to make all sincere efforts for ensuring long-term stability and development in Afghanistan.
The Chairman called upon the Government of Afghanistan to share experiences and join hands with Pakistan to eliminate terrorism not in Pakistan and Afghanistan but also the entire world to bring in era of peace, security and stability.
The Chairman said Pakistan is true friend of Afghanistan and said we want to have good and lasting relations with all people of Afghanistan without any distinction of ethnic orgin. He also assured him that Pakistan do not have any favorites in Afghanistan.
The Chairman informed Pakistan continues to host some three million Afghan refugees and sustainable process for return and rehabilitation of these refugees can foster economic growth inside Afghanistan. He said we should jointly approach the international community to facilitate the return of Afghan refugees to their homes so that they could contribute to the economic development of their country.
The Chairman apprised the delegation about the devastation caused by he floods in Pakistan. He thanked the Afghanistan government and its people for the help and assistance provided by them for the flood effected people in Pakistan.
Ustad Mohammad Mohaqiq while reciprocating the gesture said they are too pleased to visit brotherly country Pakistan. He observed that bilateral brotherly relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan would be strengthened further as a result of these high level visits. He also expressed the confidence that both the countries would overcome their difficulties and move forward on road to progress and prosperity.
On the occasion, he on behalf of his government and people of Afghanistan expressed deep sadness at the tragic loss and suffering that Pakistan has been experiencing as a result of ongoing devastating floods. He offered his heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their precious lives and deep sympathy to all those who have been affected. He assured his and his government full support for the people and Government of Pakistan in meeting the challenge.
The meeting was also attended by Deputy Chairman Senate, Mir Jan Mohammad Khan Jamali, Senators Muhamamd Saleh Shah and Mrs. Nilofar Bakhtiar and Pakistan Ambassador to Afghanistan.
PR.NO. 146
PRESS RELEASE
HAFEEZ SHEIKH CHAIRS THE MEETING ON BUSINESS PLAN FOR PEPCO
Islamabad, August 11, 2010.Federal Minister for Finance, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Sheikh held a meeting with the representatives from PEPCO here today.
The meeing was held to discuss and review the Business Plan for PEPCO 2010-2011.
The representatives from PEPCO briefed the Minister about the various initiatives which will be undertaken in the new Business Plan. It included efficiency measures, reduction in line losses, additional allocation for industrial consumers amd reduction in distribution margin.
PR.NO. 147
PRESS RELEASE
CENTRAL ZAKAT COUNCIL APPROVES OVER RS.4 BILLION FROM CENTRAL ZAKAT FUND FOR ASSISTANCE TO THE FLOOD AFFECTEES IN THE COUNTRY
Islamabad, August 11, 2010.A special meeting of the Central Zakat Council was held today in the Seminar Hall of the Council of Islamic Ideology to consider providing financial assistance out of Zakat Fund for the affectees of floods which have caused tremendous damages all over the country. The meeting was chaired by Mr. Khalid Idrees, Administrator General Zakat/Secretary Zakat and Ushr and was attended by Provincial Zakat Administrators, non official members of the Council and officials from Ministries of Finance, Health and Education. In the meeting the Provincial Secretaries gave briefing on the losses and damages caused by the flood due to torrential rains in their respective provinces. After considerable deliberation the Council approved an amount of Rs.4.05 billion to be disbursed among the provinces, FATA and Gilgit-Baltistan to provide relief to the Mustahiq families affected by the floods. While approving this amount the Council laid down that the amount of financial assistance per Mustahiq family would range from Rs.5000/- to Rs.10,000/-. The funds would be distributed by the Provinces through the concerned Zakat administrative set ups in the provinces, Gilgit-Baltistan and FATA in a transparent manner to ensure that the assistance reaches the Mustahiq families.
PR.NO. 148
PRESS RELEASE
MINISTER INAUGURATES BALLOT OF HAJJ 2010
Islamabad, August 11, 2010.Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Syed Hamid Saeed Kazmi has inaugurated computerized balloting of 68,800 intending pilgrims out of total 86,000 applicants for performing Hajj under the government scheme here today as per the schedule announced in the Hajj policy for the year 2010.
Addressing a press conference on the occasion, the Minister informed that the successful candidates would have to submit their original International Machine Readable Passports with their respective bank branches within four days after the date of balloting. This year, 79,647 Hujjaj would perform the religious obligation under the regular scheme. The applicants who remained unsuccessful in the ballot during last two years
consecutively have been selected without draw, he added.
The Minister said that the intending pilgrims for Hajj- 2009 who could not proceed due to negligence of some Hajj Group Organizers have also been selected without draw this year.
The Minister said one-month pre Hajj flight operation would start from 10th October in which Pakistan International Airlines and Saudi Airlines would participate to airlift
pilgrims to Saudi Arabia. He said, each pilgrim would be allowed free baggage up to 32Kg and hand carry not exceeding 7Kg. Excess baggage, if any, would be charged from passenger at the rate of 15 Saudi Riyals per Kg, he informed, adding each Haji would be allowed a 10-litter Aabe-Zam-Zam bottle on their return back to country.
After inauguration of the draw, the Ministry has placed the results of draw on its official website www.hajjinfo.org, while the intending pilgrims can also check their names
through mobile phone by simply writing HS(Space)First six digits of application form number and sending on 2121.
To a question, the minister said the intending pilgrims who are unable to proceed on the holy journey due to floods, must inform the ministry immediately so that their deposited amounts could be paid back at the earliest. He said a waiting list of Hujjaj has also been arranged to accommodate them, if some successful candidates belonging to flood affected areas of the country withdraw from the Hajj due to devastation caused by monsoon rains.
PR.NO. 149
PRESS RELEASE
PRIME MINISTER MEETING WITH MINISTER FOR INFORMATION
Islamabad, August 11, 2010.Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has said that relief activities are the top priority of the government and all government agencies of the are taking active part in providing relief to all affectees. He thanked the international community for sending aid to assist Pakistan in this hour of trial.
The Prime Minister was talking Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Mr. Qamar Zaman Kaira who called on him at PM’s Sectt: here this afternoon.
The Prime Minister asked the Minister that media should be provided with timely and accurate information regarding the flood and the relief activities. He said that in the wake of the approaching Ramadhan, ensuring the availability of relief goods and food is of paramount importance.
The Prime Minister said that once the flood water recedes then the accurate damage assessment would be done through the involvement of World Band and Asian Development Bank. He said that the next focus of the government in the coming days would be on the rehabilitation of flood affectees. Although the losses are huge but the government along with the international community would able to handle it, he added.
Mr. Qamar Zaman Kaira briefed the Prime Minister on the daily media briefing arranged in coordination with other government agencies to disseminate information to the public through media regarding rainfall and flood situation in the country.
PR.NO. 150
PRESS RELEASE
SENATE BODY DISCUSSES PRIVILLEGES MOTIONS
Islamabad, 11th August, 2010The Senate Committee on Rules of Procedures & Privileges met at the Parliament House this evening under the Chairmanship of Senator Syed Tahir Hussain Mashhadi to consider the Privilege Motions moved by Senator Dr. Muhammad Ismail Buledi on the alleged non-responsive attitude of Commandant, Frontier Corps, after unauthorized arrest of his security guard and driver by F.C. in District Turbat on 31st March, 2010. It also discussed the Privilege Motion moved by Senator Ilyas Ahmed Bilour on the discourteous attitude of Deputy Superintendent Railways, Peshawar and the Privilege Motion moved by Senator Muhammad Ali Durrani on the non-initiating of seven development schemes submitted by him in January, 2008 to the Prime Minister’s Secretariat aby the executing agencies.
The Chairman, Committee informed the participants that two meetings have already been held on the privilege motion moved by Senator Dr. Ismail Buledi. The Committee took strong exception to the absence of IG, FC and Commandant Makran Scouts who were invited to attend the meeting and observed that the Parliament is supreme and the Committees are the extensions of the Parliament. The Committee termed the absence of responsible officers as a deliberate attempt to show disrespect to the Parliament and took it as a direct violation of the orders of the Parliament.
The Committee showed its serious dissatisfaction over the letter regarding involvement of senior officials of FC in flood relief operation and observed that the senior officials do not directly involve in flood relief activities and they could have easily attend the meeting. The Committee discussed the privilege motion at some length and resolved that a final chance should be given to the IG, FC, Commissioner, Makran, and DCO, DPO Turbat to attend the next meeting which will be convened after the month of Ramadan and deferred further consideration of the privilege motion till the next meeting.
While discussing the privilege motion of Senator Ilyas Bilour, the Divisional Superintendents Railway, Peshawar, submitted his unconditional apology before the Committee and said that he would personally go to the mover and submit his apology.
The Committee appreciated the unconditional apology submitted by the Divisional Superintendent Railways and in view of the desire of the mover who did not want to pursue the privilege motion disposed of the same as withdrawn. The Committee appreciated the presence of the participants of the meeting especially Mr. Ghalib-ud-Din, Special Secretary to the Prime Minister as he has attended the meeting despite of his busy schedule. The Committee discussed the development schemes of the mover in detail and passed directions regarding completion of work in this regard. Regarding construction of Road From Bun Bazaar to Bun Forest Rest House Tehsil Murree in District Rawalpindi the Committee granted one week time to complete the work and submit report to this Secretariat. The Committee directed the Chief Secretary, Punjab to issue necessary directives to the District Government Rawalpindi in this regard. Further that the Chief Secretary would hold an inquiry as to why delay of two years has occurred inspite of Prime Minister’s Directive in the release of funds.
The Committee further directed the Chief Secretary Punjab that after transfer of funds the schemes may be completed within two months and report should be submitted to this Committee.
The Committee took strong exception to the absence of DCO, BAhawalpur and resolved that he should be summoned for next meeting which will be held after the month of Ramadan. The Committee further directed the Chief Secretary to take explanation from him why he has violated the directions given by the this Committee as he was responsible for delay in the work as funds were released to him in 2007. The Committee further ordered for a high level inquiry to find out why the schemes of the mover have not been completed within time and within the stipulated funds, responsibility should be fixed on some one in this regard, how the additional funds for the schemes will be arranged and how the work will be completed.
The Committee directed the DCO Bahwalpur to complete the scheme as sanctioned within a period of three months and report should be submitted to this Committee in this regard. The Committee also directed for an inquiry regarding absence of the DCO, Lahore. The Committee observed that even the directives issued by the Committee as well as by the Prime Minister Secretariat have not been complied with in letter and spirit by the provincial government and observed that after detailed inquiry responsibility should be fixed and responsible should be taken to task.
The meeting was attended, among others, by Senators Dr. Muhammad Ismail Buledi, Salahuddin Dogar, Muhammad Ali Durrani, and senior officials of the Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Government of Balochistan and Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development, Punjab.
PR.NO. 151
PRESS RELEASE
EFFECTIVE STRATEGY EVOLVED TO MEET GLOBAL CHALLENGES OF ENVIRONMENTAL
DEGRADATION IN COP-16: AFRIDI
Islamabad, 11th August, 2010Federal Minister for Environment Hameed Ullah Jan Afridi has said that effective and comprehensive strategy would be evolved to meet the global challenges of environmental degradation and climate change in CoP-16 to be held at Cancun, Mexico from November 29th to December 10th 2010.
He stated this while presiding a meeting of Core Group held in Islamabad on Wednesday. The meeting was attended by Secretary Environment Muhammad Javed Khan, Additional Secretary Kamran Ali Qureshi, Director General Environment Javed Ali Khan, Advisor Science and Technology Planning Commission Dr. Ishfaq Ahmed, DG, Metrological Department Qamar Zaman Chaudhry, Executive Director GCISC Dr. Arshad Khan, Director Foreign Affairs Farukh Iqbal Khan, Chief Environment Planning Commission Dr. Aurangzaib Khan, Country Head IUCN Mehmood Akhtar Cheema, Chief Executive Lead Pakistan, Ali Tauqeer Sheikh, Senior Joint Secretary Ministry of Food and Agriculture Miss Nuzhat Fatima and other experts.
Various proposals regarding improvement of environment, minimizing climate change effects, hazardous partials and omissions discussed in the meeting and specialists gave their expert opinion on different environmental issues to be deliberated in Cop-16. The Minister asked members of core group to present their draft of recommendations so that it could be properly analyzed and efforts could be made to achieve the targets of international conference on environment.
Hameed Ullah Jan Afridi said that Pakistan is confronting a numerous disasters due the adverse effects of climate change and we are facing heavy losses of lives and properties with current flash floods in Pakistan. He stressed the need for make effective plan of action by identifying suitable measures to save the country from future environment threats. He said it is duty of every citizen to contribute for the cause of environment and keep the country free from environmental pollution.
The performance and future planning of Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) projects also came under discussion and the Minister Environment stated that all the Chambers of Commerce and Industries would be kept on board to initiate CDM projects to get carbon credits and making practical efforts for environmental improvements in the country. Director General Environment gave detailed briefing about the agenda items of CoP-16 and highlighted various core issues to be discussed during fourth-coming mega international event.
PR. NO. 152
PRESS RELEASE
DONATION OF US$2 MILLION FOR FLOOD VICTIMS BY MOROCCO
Islamabad, 11th August, 2010In response to a briefing given by Ambassador Rizwan ul Haq Mahmood to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs about flood situation in Pakistan and the colossal damage caused to the life and property, His Majesty King Mohammed VI, King of the Kingdom of Morocco has announced a donation of US$2 million (two million dollars) for the flood victims in Pakistan, says a press release received from Embassy of Pakistan, Rabat, Morocco here today.
King Mohammed VI’s donation includes one million dollars in cash and medicines worth one million dollars required for flood affectees which will be sent by a special aircraft within 24 hours to Islamabad. The Ambassador, on behalf of the Government and the people of Pakistan thanked His Majesty for his valuable donation which will be remembered as an act of solidarity with the people of Pakistan.
PR. NO. 153
PRESS RELEASE
UN AGENCIES CALL FOR $460 MILLION TO ASSIST PAKISTANI FLOOD VICTIMS
Islamabad, 11th August, 2010United Nations aid agencies and their partners today requested almost $460 million to help Pakistan assist millions of people affected by floods that have cut a swathe through the country, killing hundreds of people and destroying homes, farmland and major infrastructure, says a press release received from Pakistan Mission to the United Nations here today.
“We have a huge task in front of us to deliver all that is required as soon as possible,” said John Holmes, UN Emergency Relief Coordinator, at the launch of the humanitarian response plan at UN Headquarters in New York.
“The death toll has so far been relatively low compared to other major natural disasters, but the numbers affected are extraordinarily high. If we don’t act fast enough, many more people could die of diseases and food shortages,” added Mr. Holmes, who is also the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs.
Pakistan estimates that more than 14 million people have now been affected by the emergency, with various degrees of severity.
Shelter is an urgent priority and $105 million of the $459.7 million sought is required to provide tents or plastic sheeting, as well as basic household goods, for an initial target of more than 2 million people, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
“We are working round the clock to get these items manufactured and delivered,” said Martin Mogwanja, Humanitarian Coordinator for Pakistan. “I can confidently say that the response could not be any faster.”
More than 65,000 tents have already been delivered, covering at least 450,000 people, along with plastic sheets for an estimated 60,000 people.
Up to 6 million people across the country are in need of food aid which is estimated to cost $150 million, while $5.7 million will be needed to ensure the survival of livestock. The UN World Food Programme (WFP) and its partners have so far delivered more than 4,350 tons of food to at least 370,000 people, including in the remote Swat Valley, which had been cut off from assistance until last week.
Clean water will be provided to approximately 6 million people to prevent the risk of waterborne diseases from emerging. Some $110 million is required to fund efforts to provide water to those affected by the floods. More than 1 million others have already received clean water thanks to the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and its partners.
About $56 million will be required for emergency health care, covering potentially up to 14 million people, while $14 million is needed to ensure proper nutrition for children under the age of five, and for pregnant or lactating women.
Different types of medication have already been delivered for the prevention and treatment of several diseases.
“The response of the international community has so far been encouraging,” said Mr. Holmes. “It is essential that this continues,” he said.
So far, donors have committed or contributed $47 million to the response activities of the UN and its partners, and a further $99.5 million has been pledged. At least $300 million is, however, still urgently needed.
The funds requested under the initial floods emergency response plan will be revised within 30 days to reflect assessed needs as the situation evolves. It includes strategies for assisting people with early recovery.
Over the course of July and early August, monsoon rainfall caused the worst floods in living memory in Pakistan. Flash floods and river valley floods have devastated large parts of the country causing an estimated 1,200 deaths. At least 288,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province, the worst affected region, intense rains during the last week of July and in early August were compounded by the swelling of major rivers due to rainwater surging down from highland areas.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department reported that within one week in late July, KPK received 9,000 millimetres of rainfall – 10 times as much as the province normally receives in the course of an entire year. Balochistan, Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan, also experienced extreme weather, resulting in widespread loss and damage.
By early August, flood waters breached the river bank in at least eight districts of Punjab, inundating homes and destroying crops and livestock. At least eight million people in Punjab have been affected by the disaster. Flooding has spread to the southern province of Sindh.
In light of the devastation caused by the floods and the ongoing threat to lives and livelihoods, the Government, through its National Disaster Management Authority, requested UN agencies and the wider humanitarian community prepare an initial floods emergency response plan.
Considering the scale of the area hit by the floods, the number of people in need of assistance is expected to rise as assessments continue and access improves. The combined population of the affected districts is around 43 million, out of Pakistan’s total estimated population of 168 million.
Response efforts have been hampered by limited access to areas with destroyed infrastructure. Insecurity in some of the affected areas – especially parts of KPK – remains unpredictable.
UN agencies, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) are planning to assist vulnerable flood-affected people in up to seven different geographical areas – Balochistan, Punjab, the Federally Administered Tribal Area, Gilgit Baltistan, KPK, Pakistan-administered Kashmir and Sindh.
PR. NO. 154
PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT ZARDARI GREETS MUSLIMS ON THE EVE OF RAMADAN
URGES PEOPLE TO HELP THEIR FLOOD RAVAGED BRETHREN
Islamabad, 11th August, 2010PPP Co-Chairman President Asif Ali Zardari has greeted the Muslims on the advent of Ramadan on Thursday August 12 and urged them to seek forgiveness of their sins and the blessings of Allah in this Holy month. He also called upon the people to step forward in this arms giving month and help in the relief and rehabilitation of grief stricken and people whose lives have been devastated by recent floods.
Following is the text of his message.
“I wish to felicitate the Muslims throughout the world in general and the Muslim brothers and sisters in Pakistan in particular on the advent of the holy month of Ramadan.
“The month of Ramadan is a month of fasting and blessing, which enjoins upon the Muslims to devote themselves to observe fasting and refrain from all evil deeds. It also enjoins upon the Muslims to remember their less fortunate brethren and step forward to help them in alleviating their miseries.
“On this occasion I urge the countrymen to make full use of the holy month in seeking forgiveness for their sins and in submitting to the will of Allah and also to help generously the people who have been devastated by floods and acts of militancy.
“I also pray for peace all over the world and especially within the Muslim World. I pray that God will bless us and free our world from terrorism and help build an understanding between peoples of different religions, races and cultures so that our children can live in a world of harmony.
“Those of our people who have been hard hit by recent floods I want to assure them that the government will not abandon them and will do whatever it takes to rehabilitate them.
“Let us on this auspicious occasion also pledge to work for peace, harmony and for promotion of the brotherhood of whole of mankind.
“May the blessings of Ramadan remain with all of you for the whole year”.
PR. NO. 155
PRESS RELEASE
MINISTER FOR SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY PRESENTS A CHEQUE TO PRIME MINISTER
Islamabad, 11th August, 2010Mr. Azam Swati, Federal Minister for Science & Technology presented a cheque of Rs 1 million to Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani at the Prime Minister’s Secretariat here today as a personal contribution for the flood effected people.
The Prime Minister thanked the Federal Minister for Science & Technology for his personal contribution and said that it would go a long way in mitigating the sufferings of the flood victims.
