PR. No. 164.
PRESS RELEASE
Chief of Naval Staff meets Political Commissar of Shanghai Garrison Command
Islamabad ; September 15, 2010Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Noman Bashir met Political Commissar of Shanghai Garrison Command, Maj. General Zhu Zhenping at the State Guest House here today, says a press release received from Shahgnai.
The meeting discussed matters relating to military cooperation between Pakistan and China, with particular reference to Navy.
Admiral Noman Bashir told Maj. General Zhenping that the people of Pakistan are grateful to China for its timely relief assistance for the flood affected people and apprised him of the current flood situation in Pakistan.
Maj General Zhu Zhennping reiterated the commitment of the Chinese government towards providing full support to the country during the floods as well as in meeting the requirements of Pakistan Navy.
PR. No. 165.
PRESS RELEASE
Pakistan is Diverse Country With Rich Natural Resources
Comprehensive Strategy Should be Adopted to Preserve and Manage Our Forests
For Combating Environmental Issues……Afridi
Islamabad, September 15, 2010Federal Minster for Environment Hameed Ullah Jan Afridi has said that Pakistan is diverse country with rich natural resources; however these resources are under a heavy pressure due to several socio-economic factors. He also said that Pakistan being signatory to the UNFCC has committed itself to global commitments regarding climate change. He further said that Pakistan is utilizing its all possible resources to conserve and manage our natural resources and face the challenges of global warming and climate change. Environment Minister expressed these views while addressing as chief guest in a training workshop on Natural Resource Management (NRM) and Climate Change Mitigation, Adaptation and Reducing Emissions due to deforestation and forest Degradation (REDD), organized by Ministry of Environment in collaboration with inter-cooperation funded by Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) here today.
Hameed Ullah Jan Afridi while addressing said that reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD) is an effort to create a financial value for the carbon stored in forests, offering incentives for developing countries to reduce emissions from forested lands and invest in low-carbon paths to sustainable development. He said that REDD goes beyond deforestation and forest degradation and includes the role of conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks. We should make full use of this opportunity for conserving our meager forest resource. He underlined that Ministry is grateful to Swiss Development Cooperation (SDC) and Inter-cooperation for their generous support and technical cooperation. They have supported in building capacity of government officers, both from federal and provincial governments, on Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) and REDD, he added. While emphasizing, Minister said that capacity building in these subjects is not a one time issue. It should be a continuous process. He highlighted the importance of this workshop and said that this training session will be a success and the Swiss support will go a long way in conserving natural resources of Pakistan.
Environment Minister told the audience of the workshop that the Ministry is seriously pursuing CDM and REDD agenda in the country. He further told that Pakistan is full of potentials and have talented people who can find ways to exploit these potentials using opportunities provided by United Nations Framework Convention of Climate Change (UNFCC). The Minister laid emphasized for community involvement for creating awareness so that we may be able to face the existing challenges of environmental degradation and land erosion and deforestation. Federal Minister highlighted that most of our forests are owned by communities, therefore, REDD should be translated in Pakistan keeping in view local livelihood needs. People need to have alternatives for their survival and a workable opportunity which does not clash with their day to day needs, will be easy to promote at community level, Minister said. He urged participants to keep focus on their respective areas and act as a future resource so that aims and targets of the agenda may be achieved.
Earlier, Country Director Swiss Cooperation, Mr. Andress Huber, Co-head, environment Climate Change Group Inter-Cooperation Miss Carmenza Robledo and I.G forest, Ministry of Environment Syed Mehmood Nasir deliberated upon the importance and economical as well as environmental benefits of CDM and REDD.
PR. No. 166.
PRESS RELEASE
Dr.Talib Lashari appointed as Advisor (Health), Planning Commission of Pakistan
Islamabad 15th September, 2010An expert on health policy Dr. Talib Lashari has been appointed as Advisor (Health) at the Planning Commission of Pakistan/Planning & Development Division, Government of Pakistan. The summary regarding the appointment has been approved by the Prime Minister of Pakistan and notification has been issued.
Dr. Talib Lashari has done his Masters in Health Policy & Management from Aga Khan University and since then has been working in the areas of health polity, health systems strengthening and health sector reforms. He was also appointed by the Prime Minister as Member. National Steering Committee of Peoples Primary Healthcare initiative (PPHI) during 2008.
Dr. Lashari has contributed by authoring a book and few publications on critical aspects of health system including health policy, healthcare financing equity in health, integration of PHC services etc. he has reviewed National Health Policy 2001, conducted assessment of National Health Programme in terms of their oversight mechanisms. He has also contributed in development of new National Health Polity 2009.
Dr. Lashari has assumed charge of his new assignment.
PR. No. 167.
PRESS RELEASE
GOVERNOR PUNJAB CALLS ON THE PRESIDENT
Islamabad, 15 September 2010:
Governor Punjab Mr. Salman Taseer called on President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr today.
Matters relating to the flood situation and law and order came under discussion during the meeting.
PR. No. 168.
PRESS RELEASE
COMPUTER BASED PROGRAMME TO BE LAUNCHED IN TRAINING INSTITUTES OF LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES
Islamabad, 15 September 2010:During a meeting between UNODC and Secretary Narcotics Control Division it was decided that e-learning programme would be launched in ANF Academy and other training institutes of law enforcement agencies. Mr. John Hannel Irvin who is working as the Global Director of the UNODC global e-learning project informed that UNODC will launch this programme.
Secretary Narcotics Control Tariq Khosa welcomed Mr. John Irvin and told him to formulate computer based curriculum of e-learning according to Pakistan’s needs for training institutions particularly ANF Academy, FIA Academy and National Police Academy. Computer based training would enhance the performance of these institutions.
It was informed that ANF academy will start functioning later this year and would be designed to be a centre of excellence and its first model course would start in couple of months. All SAARC countries have already requested for training of their officers in ANF Academy. Mr. Jeremy Douglas, Representative UNODC based in Islamabad informed that Pakistan specific UN Programme for Rule of Law, Criminal Justice and Healthcare has already been initiated with active partnership and oversight by the Government of Pakistan.
PR. No. 169.
Press Release
USA-PAK GRANT AGREEMENT SIGNING CEREMONY
USA GRANT FOR LPG TRANSPORT FUEL CONVERSION PROJECT
Islamabad, September 15, 2010A Grant Agreement Signing Ceremony was held in the Ministry of Environment between Government of the United States of America, acting through the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) and National Energy Conservation Centre, Ministry of Environment for “Liquefied Petroleum Gas Transport Fuel Conversion Project” in Pakistan here today.
Ceremony was held in the presence of Hameed Ullah Jan Afridi, Federal Minister for Environment, Muhammad Javed Malik, Secretary Environment, Dr. Sarwar Saqib, Chief ENERCON, Commercial Counselor of US Mission Mr.John Simmons and concerned officers and officials of the Ministry of Environment, Economic Affairs Division, USTDA and U.S. Embassy. The grant agreement was executed and signed by Mr. Stephen C. Engelken, Deputy Chief of Mission and Mr. Faridullah Khan, Managing Director (ENERCON) on behalf of the Governments of USA and Pakistan, respectively.
At the time of serious energy crisis prevailing in Pakistan, Government of the United States of America has agreed to provide a grant of US$ 0.482 million to ENERCON, the National Energy Conservation Centre under the Ministry of Environment for the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Transport Fuel Conversion (LPG-TFC) project.
Mr. Stephen C. Engelken, Deputy Chief of Mission in the ceremony expressed the commitment of the Government of USA for cooperation and collaboration with the Government of Pakistan in all fields of economy especially in trade and development. He explained that ENERCON will utilize the grant funds, on behalf of the Government of Pakistan to implement a project on LPG Transport Fuel Conversion in the country, which is expected to be completed by December 2011. It was further elaborated that a detailed and comprehensive feasibility study under this project will produce useful information and data with necessary analysis required to consider adopting liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) as a fuel source for land transportation operations in Pakistan. Supply and demand forecast and assessments, including supply from Persian Gulf, among other sources, shall also be carried out. The technical and operational specifications required to adopting LPG
as a transportation fuel, including any infrastructure requirements, as well as the economic, financial and legal considerations will be worked out for the implementation of the project.
The Federal Minister for Environment, Mr. Hameed Ullah Jan Afridi, while addressing at the occasion highlighted that under the LPG-TFC project, the operational requirements to convert Karachi, Hyderabad, Multan, Lahore, Faisalabad, Peshawar and Islamabad/Rawalpindi bus fleets to LPG will also be assessed in detail. A comprehensive analysis will be carried out demonstrating the viability of LPG as an alternative fuel to CNG and diesel and operational requirements needed to adopt LPG fuelled bus operations in these cities. He explained that based on detailed economic and financial analysis, the role of private capital and investment for implementation of the project will be determined to supply a bus fleet with LPG equipment on a commercial versus financial lease basis. He further added that the options shall be discussed with representatives of the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and at least one other international financial institution that has made significant investments in Pakistan, before formulating final recommendations.
The Secretary Environment, Mr. Muhammad Javed Malik pointed out that a preliminary review of the Project’s anticipated impact on the environment shall be conducted, with reference to all pertinent national, provincial and/or local requirements. The review shall identify potential negative and positive impacts, discuss the extent to which they can be mitigated, and develop plans for an environmental impact assessment as may be required under the rules and regulations in force in Pakistan, as and when the Project moves forward to the implementation stage. Moreover, necessary legal and institutional framework changes, as well as barriers to operation and remedies including regulatory requirements to minimize risk for potential investors shall be worked out and analyzed
It was brought out by Mr. Faridullah Khan, Managing Director ENERCON that the developmental impacts related to Project implementation with focus on key factors such as infrastructure, human capacity building, technology transfer/productivity improvement, and market-oriented reform, will also be clearly spelled out, which are intended to provide the decision makers and stakeholders with a broader view of the Project’s potential effects on Pakistan.
The goodwill gesture of the Government of USA in extending the grant funds for the LPG-TFC Project was appreciated by the Minister which is seen as need of the hour especially in the days when the country is facing severe energy shortages and opportunities for alternative fuels need to be explored with the objectives of not only the energy efficiency & conservation but also from the environment perspective.
PR. No. 170.
Press Release
Islamabad: September 15, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has directed to prepare a comprehensive National rehabilitation and reconstruction plan ensuring judicious distribution among the provinces and transparent disbursement of funds to the affectees. He said that the plan would be discussed in the Council of Common Interest to achieve national consensus.
The Prime Minister while chairing a high level meeting to review flood situation in the country said that a uniform assessment policy would be worked out in consultation with the provinces for disbursement of the remaining amount of relief package.
The Prime Minister said that the first phase of flood relief operation is close to completion and disbursement of relief assistance is in progress while second phase of rehabilitation will soon be launched in all the flood affected areas. He directed all the concerned ministries and institutions to evolve a well coordinated plan ensuring transparency. He urged for concerted efforts to sensitize the international community and create better awareness about the plight of millions of flood victims as well as to mobilize support for the immediately required assistance for rehabilitation and reconstruction phase.
The Prime Minister said that the government is determined to use every possible resource at its disposal to help the affected families but given the volume and magnitude of catastrophe is constrained to seek international help to cope with the enormity of this challenge. He appreciated the International community’s cooperation in rescue and relief efforts. He expressed confidence that keeping in view the colossal losses at the hands of ravaging floods, the world community and financial organizations would consider provision of additional resources for rehabilitation and reconstruction.
The Prime Minister said that the government has taken a number of steps to raise its own resources to meet the needs of the floods affected population. These measures, he added, include reprioritizing the budget, freezing expenditure on last year level, diverting some of the development funds, increasing tax base and austerity in all the government departments.
The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Minister for Finance Dr. Abdul Hafeed Shaikh, Minister of State for Finance and Economic Affairs Division Mrs. Hina Rabbani Khar, Deputy Chairman Planning Commission Mr. Nadeem-ul-Haq, Secretary Finance, Secretary Foreign Affairs, Secretary Economic Affairs Division, Secretary Planning, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, Chairman NDMA and other senior officials of the concerned ministries.
PR. No. 171.
Press Release
SNGPL-OGDCL COMPLETES QADIRPUR GAS FIELD COMPRESSOR PROJECT-WEEK LONG GAS LOADSHEDDING NOTIFICATION WITHDRAWN- Syed Naveed Qamar
Islamabad, September 15, 2010The engineers of Sui Northern Gas Pipeline Limited (SNGPL) and Oil & Gas Development Corporation Limited (OGDCL) through the hard work have reconnected all gas wells, except wells in the Sindh River, after the completion of the installation of ongoing new compressor project initiated for the last one-year and annual maintenance at Qadirpur Gas Field compressor. Syed Naveed Qamar Federal Minister for Petroleum & Natural Resources informed the media representatives here today.
Syed Naveed Qamar announced that with this development and in view of the progress made, the notification for gas load shedding for the industry and the CNG stations have been withdrawn with immediate effect, which would add 250 mmcfd gas supply and by tomorrow Thursday the supply would reach to 350 mmcfd while at the end of the current week the production would be at its full swing.
He lauded the untiring efforts of the officials of SNGPL and OGDCL who were extra vigilant at ZAMZAMA field and monitoring the worst situation being developed at Mancher lake due to the recent floods and taking necessary measures to avert any bad situation.
The Petroleum Minister indicated that efforts were being made to maintain the regular supply of gas to CNG and other industrial sector and to eliminate the gas load shedding. There was no change in the gas pipeline project while a four countries two-days Gas Pipeline Steering Committee conference was being held at Ashkabad, Turkmenistan from September 20, 2010 to discuss the matter pertaining to supply of natural gas from newly discovered Usman Gas Field, which was being participated by the Petroleum and Natural Resources Minister’s of Pakistan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan and India.
Replying to a question pertaining to PSO’s circular debt, Syed Naveed Qamar confirmed that this issue has become grave for the whole energy sector particularly due to financial pressure resulted after the floods, however, efforts were underway to improve the situation.
PR. No. 172.
PRESS RELEASE
SENATE BODY CONSIDERS PRIVILEGE MOTIONS
Islamabad, 15th September, 2010The Senate Committee on Rules of Procedures & Privileges met at the Parliament House this morning under the Chairmanship of Senator Syed Tahir Hussain Mashhadi and considered Privilege Motion moved by Senator Abdul Haseeb Khan on the misbehavior of an employee of PIA namely Mr. Arshad Mahmood at Islamabad Airport. It also discussed the Privilege Motion moved by Senator Muhammad Zahid Khan on the wrong reply given to Question No. 44 by the Minister of Defence in Senate Sitting held on 7th April, 2010.
The Chairman apprised members and other participants about the background of the unfortunate incident and observed that PIA authorities should direct its staff to be courteous with MPs and the other passengers. Mr. Arshad Mahmood was heard by the Committee in which he tendered his apology. The Committee accepted his apology and disposed off the matter.
Senator Zahid Khan said that he asked question No. 44 from the Minster for Defence regarding the list of passengers, who traveled in business class in PIA flight from Hithero Airport (London) to Islamabad on the night of 21st November, 2009. The Minister replied that 32 passengers traveled in business class in that flight. That information is totally incorrect as he himself was traveling in that flight. He counted the passengers traveling in business class of that flight. The number of passengers traveling in business class in that flight was 35. The PIA employees themselves upgraded the class of the passengers and get money from them. The Minister has provided the wrong information to the House due to which his privilege as well as the privilege of this august House has been breached.
In his Reply MD PIA told that total 32 revenue confirmed passengers traveled in Business class on PK 786 on 21st November, 2009. In addition, there were two other passengers in Business class of one was upgraded by the competent authority under the rules and one PIA staff was traveling as supernumerary Crew. The reply given by the Minister was not wrong as all this record is available on computer.
The Committee showed his dissatisfaction on this reply and said that in your record you are replying that total 34 persons were traveling in the Business class but there were 35 persons so, PIA should clarify that who was the one person more and who granted him the Business class and asked if there is any authority to the staff which can change the class.
In his reply MD, PIA described that only he had the authority to change the class and he should verify that who was the passenger No. 35 because they have all the record. The Committee directed to make an inquiry about the persons involve in this matter and take notice why the staff himself changed the class, to avoid such kind of matter in future and report to this Committee by 15th October, 2010. Senator Muhammad Zahid Khan also asked MD, PIA to start flights from New York to Islamabad because the passengers of New York are demanding for that flight.
In his reply MD, PIA said that due to shortage of aircrafts PIA could not start this but in future they will start flight on this Sector.
The meeting was attended, among others, by Senators Salahuddin Dogar, Abbas Khan, Prof. Sajid Mir, Muhammad Zahid Khan and senior officials of the Ministry of Defence, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs.
PR. No. 173.
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad, 15th September, 2010In a 115th meeting of the Board of Governors of Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF) held today under the chairmanship of Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis, Dr. Farooq Sattar, it was decided to constitute an Advisory Council for the improvement of academic and administrative affairs of OPF educational institutions across the country.
The Advisory Council will be comprised of honorary members who would oversee OPF educational institutions and suggest ways and means to improve quality of education being imparted in OPF educational institutions.
The BoG meeting while reviewing progress report regarding development work going on in OPF Valley Zone-V, Islamabad directed to complete the development work in the scheme expeditiously and gave the timeline to handover 300 plots in the scheme to the allottees in coming October and next 400 plots in coming December.
The board approved the allocation of Rs 10.00 million from OPF welfare activities for provision of relief goods to the flood affectees. The participants of the meeting were informed that this money is being used to provide food, clothes and other items to 500 flood affected families housed in the tents established by OPF in Southern Punjab and Sindh.
Earlier, the 29th Annual General Meeting of OPF gave approval of OPF financial accounts for the Financial Year 200-08.
PR. No. 174.
PRESS RELEASE
PAKISTAN AND UNHCR AGREE ON UTILIZATION OF OPTIMUM RESOURCES IN IMPLEMENTING REPATRIATION STRATEGY OF AFGHAN REFUGEES
Islamabad, 15th September, 2010Federal Minister for SAFRON Najamuddin Khan held a meeting with UN High Commissioner of UNHCR Mr. Ontonio Guterres here today.
It was reiterated that Government of Pakistan and UNHCR will effectively implement the government’s strategy in repatriation of Afghan refugees.
Federal Minister appreciated the positive role played by UNHCR in providing relief to the flood affected areas in Pakistan.
The UN High Commissioner reassured the Minister that UNHCR will fully support Pakistan in rehabilitation and reconstruction of flood affected areas.
He acknowledged Pakistan’s hospitality and generosity for hosting Afghan Refugees for last three decades.
Federal Minister said told that Government of Pakistan and UNHCR will utilize optimum resources in implementing repatriation strategy. Both the parties also highlighted the importance of development inside Afghanistan for a sustainable actions.
PR. No. 175.
PRESS RELEASE
MESSAGE FROM PRESIDENT ASIF ALI ZARDARI ON INTERNATIONAL DEMOCRACY DAY
Islamabad, 15th September, 2010Following is the text of message from President Asif Ali Zardari on the occasion of International Democracy Day :-
“I am pleased to learn that the International Day of Democracy is being observed throughout the world today under the auspices of the United Nations to assess the state of democracy around the world and to reinforce commitment to democratic ideals.”
On this occasion while I compliment all democracies of the world I also wish to reiterate our firm resolve to further strengthen democracy in Pakistan.”
“The people of Pakistan are resolute in safeguarding their democratic rights and reject the anti democracy elements that derail the democratic process.”
“The ethos of the people of Pakistan is democratic. Early this year their chosen representatives unanimously adopted changes in the Constitution to restore its pristine democratic credentials. I am confident the elected Parliament in keeping with democratic traditions ensure that the democratic Constitution is not subverted by any one.”
“Our people may have endured spells of dictatorship due to coercion but they have neither accepted nor accorded legitimacy to dictatorship.”
“They have not accepted any adventurer sabotaging the democratic process. That is why all Bonaparte and undemocratic adventurers in Pakistan finally ended up as footnotes in history.”
“The greatest threat to democracy is from the extremists and militants who want to foist their political agenda on the people by bullet rather than ballot and also from intolerance to dissent and disagreement.”
“Our people have offered great sacrifices for democracy. Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and many others have laid down their lives for the cause. But democracy has yet to gain strength. For democracy to gain strength, we need to work in a spirit of harmony and reconciliation.”
“It is hoped that the observance of the International Democracy Day will lend strength to the pro-democracy forces throughout the world and discourage potential dictators from curbing the aspirations of the People through political adventurism.”
PR. No. 176.
PRESS RELEASE
LIBERAL INCENTIVES ON OFFER IN DOWNSTREAM, REFINING PETROLEUM SECTOR. NEWER DISCOVERIES HAVE RATCHETED UP DEMAND FOR MORE REFINING: NAVEED QAMAR
Islamabad, 15th September, 2010The Federal Minister for Petroleum and Natural Resources Syed Naveed Qamar met with a delegation of Samsung Engineering Company Ltd. Korea led by Sung Chiyong, Vice President and Yaqoob Tabani, Chairman Tabani Energy private Ltd here today. The delegation called on him this morning to discuss prospects in the oil and gas sector particularly in refining and the downstream oil sector.
The Minister while giving an overview of the downstream petroleum sector, said that there were excellent opportunities available under the present petroleum policy to investors that could be of benefit to engineering companies interested to work along with them. He said that Pakistan possessed a huge market for refining of petroleum products and even a potential for their export. In addition to domestic crude production, newer discoveries had ratcheted up demand for more refining. He said that a large number of petroleum products were being imported and therefore accelerating indigenous refining would decelerate dependence on imports for the same purpose. He said that the atmosphere for investment was conducive and there was a liberal and attractive incentive package on offer. Elaborating on the incentives, he said the refineries could be set up according to investor choice and economics. Crude could be imported from their source of choice. Refineries could set up their own marketing network and there was an excellent scope for marketing of petroleum products, especially diesel, furnace oil, motor gasoline, petrol, jet fuel etc. Besides, those products could be exported to China and the Central Asian Republics through sea and land routes. He said on top of that, there existed special incentive offer for setting up a refinery in the coastal belt of Gwadar and coastal areas of Balochistan including a 20 year tax holiday.
Chung thanked the Minister for meeting him on a short notice and said that he planned to visit various oil refineries in the country while on his visit to Pakistan. The meeting was also attended by Director General Oil, Mr. Sabir Hussain.
PR. No. 177.
PRESS RELEASE
PRIME MINISTER CONDOLES THE DEATH OF DR. SHAMA KHALID
Islamabad, 15th September, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has expressed deep grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Governor Gilgit-Baltistan Dr. Shama Khalid who died today.
The Prime Minister in his message of condolence to her family paid rich tribute to Dr. Shama Khalid for her social and political services especially in the field of women health and for betterment of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. He particularly mentioned her contributions as First Governor of the Gilgit-Baltistan for uplift of the area. He declared the death of Dr. Shama Khalid as an irreparable loss not only for the family but also for the whole country.
The Prime Minister while conveying his heartfelt condolences to the members of bereaved family prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed soul in peace and shower countless blessings on her. He also prayed to Almighty Allah for grant of courage to the members of the family to bear this irremediable loss with equanimity.
PR. No. 178.
PRESS RELEASE
NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDOLE THE DEATH OF DR. SHAMA KHALID
Islamabad, 15th September, 2010Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly have expressed their profound condolence on the sad demise of Dr. Shama Khalid, Governor Gilgit-Baltistan. They termed it a great loss for the government and people of Gilgit-Baltistan.
In their condolence messages to her family, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker said that Dr. Shama Khalid’s untimely death had created a vacuum in the political arena of Gilgit-Baltistan. They said that she was a philanthropist, an able administrator and a kind hearted human being who worked for the marginalized segments and women in Gilgit-Baltistan during her life especially during her tenure as Governor. They said that she was beckon of light for the women of Gilgit-Baltistan.
The Speaker and Deputy Speaker prayed to Allah Almighty to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and fortitude to the bereaved family to bear the irreparable loss with equanimity.
PR. No. 179.
PRESS RELEASE
ENVIRONMENT MINISTER CONDOLES OVER DEATH OF GOVERNOR GILGIT-BALTISTAN
Islamabad, 15th September, 2010Federal Minister for Environment Hameed Ullah Jan Afridi expressed profound grief and sorrow over the death of Governor Gilgit-Baltistan Dr. Shama Khalid here today
Environment Minister in his condolence message sympathized with the bereaved families and prayed to Almighty Allah to shower His blessings on the departed soul and grant courage and fortitude to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss with patience and equanimity.
PR. No. 180.
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad, 15th September, 2010The Iranian nation will display its solidarity with the flood-hit Pakistani people on Thursday (September 16) by extending humanitarian aids to their neighboring country. Supervisor of the Imam Khameini Relief Foundation Hossein Anvari declared the next Thursday as the day of solidarity with the flood-stricken people of Pakistan, says a press release received from the Embassy of Pakistan, Tehran, Iran, here today.
This is while the Leader of Islamic Revolution Ayatooah Seyyed Ali Khamenei urged all Muslims, particularly the Iranian nation, to donate whatever they can to help the flood-stricken Pakistani nation. Iran was among the first countries to dispatch relief supplies to Pakistan and has announced its readiness to help reconstruct Pakistan’s flood-ravaged regions.
PR. No. 181.
PRESS RELEASE
NATIONAL ASSEMBLY TO MEET ON SEPTEMBER 20
Islamabad, September 15, 2010In exercise of the powers conferred by clause (1) of Article 54 of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the President has summoned the National Assembly to meet in the Parliament House, Islamabad on Monday, the 20th September, at 05.00.p.m.
PR. No. 182.
PRESS RELEASE
MIAN SHAHBAS SHARIF REQUESTS PM TO DISTRIBUTE RELIEF ALONG WITH HIM
Islamabad, 15th September, 2010The Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has said that the Government will continue pursuing the policy of political reconciliation and take along the entire political leadership in all matters of national importance.
The Prime Minister was talking to the Chief Minister Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif today morning at the Lahore Airport who came for farewell. He said government would take the calamity-hit people of the flood affected areas out of this quagmire with the help of political leadership and support of the entire nation.
Mian Shahbaz Sharif requested the Prime Minister to distribute Rs. 20,000 relief assistance to the flood affectees alongwith him at a convenient time and place. He said the Prime Minister’s visit to flood-ravaged areas all over the country to celebrate Eid with the displaced people shows his concern and care for the flood victims.
Both the leaders discussed current political situation as well as flood relief operation being undertaken in connection with the rehabilitation of the affected people in various parts of the country. The premier’s recent visits to the flood- ravaged areas of the country also came under discussion, while the Chief Minister updated him on the current situation in flood-hit areas in Punjab.
The Chairman Public Accounts Committee (PAC) Syed Abdul Qadir Gilani was also present during the meeting.
PR. No. 183.
PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT’S MEETING WITH THE AFGHAN PRESIDENT
Islamabad, September 15, 2010President Asif Ali Zardari has said that strengthening and expanding multifaceted cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan, on one hand, and among the regional countries, on the other, was a key to the regional stability, security and economic development.
During his meeting with President of the Islamic republic of Afghanistan Mr. Hamid Karzai at Aiwan-e-Sadr Wednesday evening, President Zardari said that the bilateral relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan had reached new levels. However, he said, there was a need to strengthen bilateral institutional arrangements for the promotion of durable and mutually beneficial cooperation in diverse fields including security, development, trade, economic and investment linkages, infrastructure and energy connectivity and people to people exchanges.
The one-on-one meeting with President Hamid Karzai was followed by a delegation-level meeting to discuss the issues of mutual concerns and explore the possibilities of further enhancing and strengthening the existing cooperation between the two countries.
Those who were present during the delegation level meeting included among others Dr. Zalmai Rasssoul, Minister for Foreign Affairs, General Abdul Rahim Wardak, Minister for Defence, Dr. Rangeen Dadfar Wardak, National Security Advisor, Dr. Hazrat Omar Zakulwal, Minister for Finance, Dr. Anwar-ul-Haq Ahadi, Minister for Commerce, Mr. Asadullah Khalid Minister of Border and Tribal Affairs, Mr. Majnoon Gulab, Charge d’affaires, besides other senior Afghan officials.
The Pak side included Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Defence Minister Ch. Ahmed Mukhtar, Commerce Minister Makhdoom Amin Fahim, Interior Minister Senator A. Rehman Malik, Minister for Food & Agriculture Mr. Nazar Muhammad Gondal, Finance Minister Mr. Hafeez Shiekh, Information Minister Mr. Qamar Zaman Kaira, Mr. M. Salman Faruqui, Secretary General to the President, Foreign Secretary Mr. Salman Bashir, Pak Ambassador in Kabul Mr. Muhammad Sadiq Khan and other senior officials besides Ms. Farahnaz Ispahani and the Spokesperson to the President Mr. Farhatullah Babar.
Briefing the media, Spokesperson to the President Mr. Farhatullah Babar said that the President thanked his Afghan counterpart for the valuable assistance to rescue and relief efforts for the flood victims. The President especially mentioned and appreciated assistance in cash, provision of helicopters by the Afghan government, medicines, the services of the medical teams and the Afghan businessmen who made valuable contributions in this regard. He said that Afghan gesture of helping the people in need indicates the strong bonds that exist between the people of the two countries.
Mr. Babar said that while discussing situation in Afghanistan, the President highlighted the fact that a stable, peaceful and economically sound Afghanistan was in Pakistan’s own interests. The President appreciated the efforts and the progress made under President Karzai’s leadership towards stabilising Afghanistan. He said that Pakistan supports the roadmap as articulated in the Kabul Conference. He said that we believe that military operations alone can not restore and guarantee peace and stability and the international community should follow a holistic approach combining military, political and developmental tracks.
The President said that a viable reconciliation was vital for durable and long-term peace in Afghanistan and Pakistan was supportive of an Afghan-led and inclusive political reconciliation process. He appreciated the efforts of President Karzai towards peace efforts and bringing opposition groups in the political mainstream.
Discussing regional security situation, President Zardari underlined the need for the two countries to work more closely and for concerted and coordinated efforts since the two countries were faced with the common challenges emanating from terrorism and extremism. In this regard, the President also suggested initiation of a bilateral security dialogue to build closer.
PR. No. 184.
PRESS RELEASE
PAKISTANI COTTON FABRICS ON EXHIBITION IN PARIS
Islamabad, September 15, 2010Pakistani cotton fabrics are on exhibition in Paris at Texworld exhibition. The exhibition is held twice a year; in September and in February. The 28th edition of the fair is being held from September 14-16, 2010 at Parc d’Expositions du Bourget. Around 879 exhibitors are participating in the fair from countries all over the world including China, Thailand, India, Indonesia, Turkey and Bangladesh, says a press release received from Embassy of Pakistan, Paris here today.
There is a substantial presence of Pakistani manufacturers/ exporters of denim/ cotton fabrics in this event. This year also there is a national pavilion under the aegis of TDAP. 10 companies are exhibiting in the Pakistan pavilion. 22 other Pakistani companies are also exhibiting their fabrics mostly denim and cotton fabrics for clothing. Total 33 Pakistani companies are participating in the show including Nishat Mills, Kohinoor, Saphire, Master, Soorti, Artistic, Siddique sons and Rajwani etc.
Commercial Section coordinated before and during the fair with the fair organisers to ensure effective participation of Pakistani exhibitors. The response of French and other buyers was overwhelming. The quality of Pakistani fabrics was appreciated by the visitors.
PR. No. 185.
PRESS RELEASE
PAKISTANI LEATHER PRODUCTS ON EXHIBITION IN PARIS
Islamabad, September 15, 2010Pakistani leather products are on exhibition in Paris these days. This is bi annual feature of an International Fair which specializes in fashion and trends of leather products in Europe. The fair will continue till September 16, 2010. This is the 21st edition of the exhibition. The event was launched in the year 2001 meant for professionals of the leather products field says a press release received from Embassy of Pakistan, Paris here today.
The products on exhibition in this fair include 66% finished leather, 11% textile/ synthetics, 9% fur, 7% components-chemicals, 4% leather garments and 3% other products. More than 300 exhibitors from around 26 countries are participating.
Thirteen Pakistani exhibitors, which are members of PTA, are participating in the fair. It has been sponsored by TDAP.
The Commercial Section of the embassy of Pakistan inn Paris is providing necessary support to the PTA for participation in the fair. This includes reservation of space, construction of stands, transmission of funds, facilitation of exhibitors, provision of staff and recovery of TVA.
The exhibitors were found satisfied with the response of the buyers. This, mainly, is a fair for skin and leather accessories. Pakistani exhibitors are displaying leather garments, as well. The exhibitors have indicated their interest in continuing to participate in this exhibition.
PR. No. 186.
PRESS RELEASE
SAFRON MINISTER CONDOLES DEATH OF GOVERNOR GILGIT-BILTISTAN
Islamabad, September 15, 2010Federal Minister for States and Frontier Regions Mr. Najamuddin Khan has expressed grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Governor Gilgit-Biltistan province, Dr. Shama Khalid.
In his message the Minister conveyed his heartfelt condolences and sincere sympathies to the members of bereaved family.
The Minister lauded the valuable services of Dr. Shama Khalid as first Governor of Gilgit-Baltistan province which would be long remembered.
He prayed for the eternal rest of the departed soul and courage for the bereaved family to bear this immense loss with equanimity.
PR. No. 187.
PRESS RELEASE
PRIME MINISTER CALLS ON PRESIDENT
Islamabad, September 15, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusaf Raza Gillani called on President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr today.
Matters related to flood situation and the progress about distribution of Watan cards to the flood affectees that enable them get the relief money were discussed during the meeting.
The President also apprised the Prime Minister about his observations of the flood affected areas in Sindh and Balochistan.
PR. No. 188.
PRESS RELEASE
PRIME MINISTER SYED YUSUF RAZA GILANI’S MESSAGE
ON INTERNATIONAL DEMOCRACY DAY 15 SEPTEMBER 2010
Islamabad, September 15, 2010We are observing the International Democracy Day with a resolve to strengthen democracy and promote democratic ideals in Pakistan. The people of Pakistan are resolute in their commitment to safeguard their democratic rights.
Pakistan’s future lies with democracy. Pakistan is facing gigantic challenges and democracy is the only system which offers solutions to overcome these intractable problems. A democratic system tends to find solution to the complex problems by evolving consensus and accommodating all stakeholders. It establishes unity within the broad and diverse viewpoints.
Pakistan came into being through a political and democratic process. Our forefathers achieved Pakistan through democratic struggle and rendered numerous sacrifices for the establishment of a democratic country. We are proud of the fact that our freedom struggle was fought along constitutional lines. The founder of Pakistan Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah said in his broadcast talk to the people of the United States of America in February 1948 said, …”I am sure that it (constitution) will be of a democratic type, embodying the essential principles of Islam. … Islam and its idealism have taught us democracy.”
The people of Pakistan and their political leaders have rendered great sacrifices for restoration democracy as envisaged by our founding fathers. Sacrifices of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and many others have led to the establishment of an elected Parliament. This year, both the Houses of parliament through unanimous vote have restored democracy in the country by adopting the historic 18th Constitutional Amendment. Now, the sovereign Parliament and our institutions will never allow any dictator to sabotage democracy in the country.
For democracy to gain strength, political harmony and reconciliation is a prerequisite. We need to inculcate the spirit of dialogue and accommodation in our society. Fundamentalism and extremism are serious threat to our democratic culture. Our people are committed to eliminate terror from the fabric of our society and completely banish terror. The democratic Government is taking effective measures to restore peace in every nook and corner of the country.
On this occasion, all the democratic forces should make a pledge to make Pakistan a truly democratic country by promoting democratic values in our society.
