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PR.NO.111. Federal Minister for Environment Mr. Hameed Ullah Jan Afridi has called upon the scientific community, representatives of civil society and regulators to take the responsibility of safeguarding agricultural resources and human health by adopting new “Genetically Modified Organisms”. Addressing a seminar on “Genetically modified Organisms (GMOs)- Applications and Implications” organized by Environmental Protection Agency in a local hotel here today, the minister said that “Genetically Modified Organisms” has attained utmost importance due to increasing demand of food products world over. He said that such seminars are essential for awareness raising and educating the masses about the importance of engineered food and non food items and highlight the need for environmental protection. He said that Bio-technology, its dynamics and rapidly evolving scientific research, has created need for GM applications in our lifelines including agriculture, health, industry and environment. He said modern techniques of biotechnology is being utilized to stabilize and enhance crops yield, improve the standard of livelihood of poor population, provide nutrient enriched and better quality food and reduce negative environmental impacts. He said our institutions like National Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Centre for Excellence in Molecular Biology and National Institute of Agriculture and Biology can play a vital role in research and developments of GM Technology and promoting its responsible use. The Minister called upon National Bio-Safety Centre of Pak-EPA to closely work with these institutions and particularly with the ministry of Food, Agriculture and Livestock to build their regulatory capacity for enforcing Bio-safety Regulations. Speaking on the occasion, Federal Secretary for Environment Mr. Ejaz Ahmed Qureshi informed the audience that Ministry of Environment has set up a National Bio-safety Centre at Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency to implement and execute the Pakistan Bio-safety Rules and National Bio-safety Guidelines. He also informed that more than 35 research and academic institutions are working in our country in the field of Biotechnology which is very encouraging sign. These institutes, he said, need to be encouraged for research and development in GM technology under adequate Bio-safety conditions. He said the world community is conscious of the risks of “Genetically Modified Organisms” and their products. He said the United Nations had introduced Cartagena Protocol on the Bio-safety under the umbrella of Convention on Biodiversity which is an effective tool to create a regime of Bio-safety among countries involved in “Genetically Modified Organisms” trading. He said Pakistan is a signatory to the Cartagena Protocol on the Bio-safety and is in the process of its ratification. We need technically sound institutes in the country to regulate GM products once the protocol is ratified, he added. DKK/AZC
PR.NO.112. The National Assembly Speaker Dr. Fahmida Mirza has expressed grief and sorrow over the loss of precious human lives and property caused by devastating earthquake in southwest China. In her message to the Chairman People National People’s Congress of China, the Speaker said that she was deeply shocked to hear the news of the earthquake, which caused loss of lives and property in China. She said that the people of Pakistan stand with their Chinese friends in this hour trail and distress and they equally share their grief. In her message the Speaker expressed the confidences that the people of China will overcome this adversity. “Our sympathies and prayer are with bereaved families and the victims of this natural disaster,” the message said. **AZC**
PR.No.113. Federal Minister for Defence, Chaudhary Ahmad Mukhtar, has said that the Government would continue its plans to modernize its Armed Forces and strengthen their capabilities so as so to effectively overcome the internal and external challenges. He stated this at a meeting with the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, who called on him today at Ministry of Defence. The Minister said that it was the policy of the present Government to maintain minimum credible deterrence which was essential for safeguarding the national frontiers. The COAS informed the Minister about the requirements, future development plans and operational preparedness of the Armed Forces of the country. The Minister told the COAS that the Government was well-aware of the requirements of the Armed Forces and would take all necessary steps to fulfill their needs and strengthen their defence capabilities. The Minister appreciated the steps taken by the COAS for the welfare of the soldiers. He stated that the Government would provide all necessary resources for the welfare of the soldiers as initiated by COAS after declaring year 2008 “as year of the soldier”. **AM/AZC**
PR.No.114. Pakistan and Sudan have agreed to increase cooperation in the divergent fields particularly in the area of defence. This was agreed at a meeting between Federal Minister for Defence, Chaudary Ahmad Mukhtar, and the visiting Chief of Naval Staff of Sudan, Vice Admiral Al Zain Hamad Ballah Hussain, who called on the Minister here today. Both sides discussed matters of bilateral importance and underlined the need for robust defence cooperation. The Minister told the visiting dignitary that Pakistan and Sudan enjoyed cordial and close relations in various fields which needed to be further reinvigorated for the mutual benefits of the two sides. The Chief of Naval Staff of Sudan said that his country was very keen to expand ties with Pakistan in all fields as the two countries had commonality of perceptions on regional and international issues as well as support each other’s on different fora. Both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in the areas of training and exchange of delegations at political and military levels. The meeting also emphasized the need for promoting military to military cooperation between the two sides. The Chief of the Naval Staff of Sudan said that his country was appreciative of Pakistan’s valuable contribution to promoting and safeguarding the cause of Islamic Ummah at various regional and International fora. He also greeted the Minister on assumption the charge as Minister for Defence. The Minister expressed the hope that the visit of Vice Admiral Al Zain Hamad Ballah Hussain would further cement bilateral ties between the two brotherly countries. **AM/AZC**
PR.NO.115. Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that the government would take steps for empowering the elected representatives of the people of tribal areas for better coordination of the implementation of development programmes which are being undertaken there including the foreign funded projects. The Prime Minister said this while talking to a group of FATA MNAs led by Mr. Hameed ullah Jan Afridi, Minister for Environment, which called on him at the PM’s House this afternoon. The Prime Minister said that the government is taking steps for the provision of improved health and education facilities to the people of tribal areas. He said soon a high-level meeting would be called for reviewing the status of development projects in FATA agencies. The Prime Minister said the government wants to improve the standard of living of the people of tribal areas by creating increased employment and income generation opportunities. The Prime Minister said that issues of tribal areas, including the FCR, would be resolved in consultation with all stakeholders including the elected representatives of FATA. The delegation apprised the Prime Minister of various issues relating to FATA and congratulated him on enjoying the unanimous confidence of the National Assembly. The Prime Minister said that the government regards this mandate as people’s confidence in the democratic policies of the coalition parties. The MNAs also told the Prime Minister that people are appreciative of Prime Minister’s decision of releasing detained Baloch leader, Nawab Akhtar Mengal. **AZC**
PR.No.116. Mr. Muhammad Anwar Khan on assumption of the additional charge of the post of Director General, Pakistan Sports Board took a detailed briefing on the implementation of National Sports Policy here today, as he is also Chairman of Task Force for its implementation. Mr. Muhammad Anwar Khan is an officer of Secretarial Group and has been serving in different Ministries, Division in various important positions for the last 31 years. He has also held diplomatic assignments in UN Kosovo in 2000-2001. He did his Masters in Administration & Development degree from Western University of Michigan and received extensive training from within the country and abroad. **TP/AZC**
PR.No.117. The Ministers of the Federal Cabinet belonging to the PML (N) submitted their resignations to the Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani here at the Prime Minister’s House this afternoon. The PML (N) Ministers’ delegation was led by the Senior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ahmed. The Prime Minister politely refused to accept the resignations and said that the decision to accept or otherwise will be decided after the arrival of Co-Chairman of PPP Mr. Asif Ali Zardari in Pakistan. Ch. Nisar Ahmed apprised the Prime Minister that PML(N) will continue to support the government in the national interest and to strengthen the cause of democracy. The Prime Minister appreciated the gesture of PML (N) to remain part of coalition for sake of democracy, and to help solve the problems of the people. **AZC** PR.No.118. Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani talked to PML (N) Quaid Mian Mohammad Nawaz Sharif over the phone after his meeting with the Cabinet ministers belonging to PML (N) who had tendered their resignations. Mian Mohammad Nawaz Sharif assured the Prime Minister of his party’s continued support and cooperation to the government for the strengthening of democratic institutions in the country. He said the decision of resignation from Cabinet was painful for him. **AZC**
PR.NO.119. Federal Minister for Narcotics Control and Women Development, Nazar Muhammad Gondal has said that stringent measures would be taken to curb drug trafficking and eliminate the menace of drug addiction. He expressed these views while presiding over a meeting held here today to discuss measures to eliminate drug trafficking in the country. The Minister said that the government would extend all possible assistance to Anti Narcotics force in order to equip with latest technology and skills to make the country free from drug abuse. He said that promotion of healthy activities would not only save our younger generation from drug addiction but also add new dimension in their capabilities to face the future challenges in a befitting manner. He said that the government would launch masses drug abuse awareness program through print and electronic media throughout the country which could play an effective role to purge the civil society from drug menace. Director General, Anti Narcotics Force, Major General, Khalid Jaffery briefed the meeting about the steps to further improve the capabilities of the force enabling them to control the direct trafficking. He said that different healthy activities were being arranged for the younger generation to celebrate the international drug day next month which will include paintings, bodybuilding, competition, walk, National Youth Conference and Women Football Match.
PR.No.120. Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has expressed deep sorrow and grief over the reported deaths of six persons who lost their lives in the unfortunate accident on Motorway. He also expressed his condolence to the Governor of Punjab over the death of his brother-in law and sister in the tragic accident. The Prime Minister issued instructions to the Motorway Police and other concerned departments to inquire into the cause of the accident and ensure that such accidents do not occur again. He also asked the authorities to take care of the injured. The Prime Minister prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed souls in peace and give courage to the bereaved families to bear the irreparable loss **AZC**
PR.No.121. Chairman Senate, Mr. Mohammedmian Soomro and Deputy Chairman Senate, Mr. Jan Mohammad Khan Jamali have condoled with Governor Punjab, Lt. Gen ® Khalid Maqbool over the sad demise of his sister and brother-in-law in a tragic road accident on motorway near Sheikhupura this afternoon. In their separate condolence messages, the Chairman Senate and Deputy Chairman offered their heartfelt condolences to Governor Punjab and prayed that Allah Almighty may rest the departed souls in eternal peace and grant fortitude to the members of the bereaved family to bear the irreparable losses with equanimity. **SM/AZC**
PR.No.122. In exercise of the powers conferred by rule 15(1)(g) read with serial No. 1A of Schedule V-A to the Rules of Business, 1973, the Prime Minister has been pleased to grant the status of Federal Minister to Mr. Salman Faruqui, Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission with effect from 7th May, 2008, says a notification issued by Cabinet Secretariat ,Cabinet Division here to day. ZK/nr
PR.No.123. Syed Naveed Qamar Federal Minister for Privatisation, Investment, Ports, Shipping, Industries & Production has expressed his deep grief and sorrow over the tragic death of the sister and brother-in-law of Mr. Khalid Maqbool, Governor Punjab, who died in a road accident near Sheikhupura Motorway Interchange this morning. He prayed to the Almighty Allah to shower His blessings over all those departed souls who met with this unfortunate accident and give courage and fortitude to the members of the bereaved families to bear the irreparable loss with patience and equanimity. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of those who were injured in this sad incident. ZK/nr
PR.NO.124. RAWALPINDI MAY, 13, 2008 Federal Minister for
Defence Ch. Ahmad Mukhtar has expressed his deep sorrow and grief over the
tragic accident on Motorway in which several valuable lives were lost
including the sister and brother in law of Government Punjab, Lt. Gen. (Retd.)
Khalid Maqbool. AM/nr PR.No.125. The country to have comprehensive National Health Policy after consultation with all stake holders. The government will increase health expenditure from the present 0.6 percent to 4 percent of GDP over the next few years to provide health facilities at the doorsteps of the people. Ms Sherry Rehman, Minister for Information and Broadcasting and Health, said this while chairing the first Health Policy Task Force meeting at the Ministry Of Health, Islamabad. The Minister invited and welcomed suggestions and inputs from the stake holders and general public in this regard. Speaking to the members of the Task Force, the Federal Minister of Health said that setting up of the Task Force was her government's first priority. "It is a response to the most shocking reality faced by our government, i.e. the absence of comprehensive health policy to guide the country's health sector. It is most disturbing that the Ministry of Health is running a number of vertical programmes, but there is no basic framework to guide and set a direction for the broad areas of the nation's health management issues." Elaborating the objectives of the Task Force, the Federal Minister said: "This task force has been delegated to employ its expertise to formulate a comprehensive and well planned health policy. It would follow an integrated approach that delivers through the provinces and districts while supporting and enhancing their activities. The aim of the policy is to strengthen the existing systems and creating linkages between preventive and curative referrals. We are determined to initiate a meaningful process of providing quality health care to all, and this Task Force will devise ways to ensure we deliver on people's health." Spelling out the Terms of Reference of the Health Policy Task Force, the Minister of Health informed that it would cover the situation analysis of the existing health system in the country and carry out an analytical review of the existing health strategies/programmes. A draft National Health Policy would be prepared that would focus on a National Health Service System, Medical Education, Health Research in Pakistan, Health Care Financing, Regulating the Health Sector, National Drugs Policy and Monitoring and Evaluation of the Health Policy. The Task Force would prepare short and medium term action plans, the minister informed. "The entire edifice of this health policy will depend on its implementation. We would put in place a monitoring system. Goals will be set with timelines so that we can review our progress. The implementation aspect was missing from all previous policies. There is no point in formulating policies if the implementation side is not taken care of," said Ms Rehman The Minister constituted five working groups namely National Health Service and Governance, Health Financing, Hospital Management, Medical Education and Human Resource, and Pharmaceutical Group. These groups were advised to submit their First Reports within a stipulated time. These reports will then be compiled together with the input from the public and stakeholders and incorporated into the proposed National Health Policy. EW/wh
PR.No.126. Doctor Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly have expressed deep sorrow and grief over the deaths of six persons who lost their lives in the unfortunate accident on Motorway. They also expressed their condolence to the Governor of Punjab Lt General (Ret) Khalid Maqbool over the death of his brother-in law and sister in the tragic accident. The Speaker and Deputy Speaker prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed souls in peace and give courage to the bereaved families to bear the irreparable loss. They also prayed the speedy recovery of the injured. MT/wh
PR.No.127. Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has strongly condemned the bomb blasts in Jaipur, India in which several human lives have been lost. Pakistan, he said, condemns all acts of terrorism and reaffirms its firm commitment to fight this scourge together with the international community. DSG/ank
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