PR. NO.231
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: August 18, 2010President of Pakistan, Mr. Asif Ali Zardari arrived in the Russian town of Sochi early Wednesday morning to participate in the four nation summit of Pakistan Afghanistan Tajikistan and Russia later today.
He was received at Sochi airport by Mayor of Sochi, Pak Ambassador Khalid Khattak, Foreign Secy Salman Bashir and other senior officers. The Pres will also hold bilateral meetings with Presidents of Afghanistan, Tajikistan and Russia before returning to Islamabad later today.
Defence Minister Ch Ahmed Mukhtar is also accompanying President, says a press release received here today from Sochi, Russia.
**SAK/Ahmad**
PR. NO.232
PRESS RELEASE
Top Indonesian health magazines pledge support for flood affectees
Islamabad: August 18, 2010Top health magazines in Indonesia, “Chic” and “Prevention”, belonging to Kompas/Gramedia publication group have pledged support for the flood affectees in Pakistan saying it was a calamity which was unprecedented in size and scale. The magazines in coordination with prominent production company, Amasiwa Productions and kitchenware manufacturers, Tupperware organized a special Iftar dinner with the Ambassador of Pakistan, Sanaullah here Saturday expressing deep sympathy for the flood affectees, says a press release received here today from Jakarta, Indonesia.
Clips about the flood devastation in Pakistan, were screened on the occasion before a select audience of businesswomen, socialites and other dignitaries.
Ambassador Sanaullah on the occasion briefed the invitees about the flood situation in Pakistan, saying that the destruction caused by torrential rains was unprecedented and in damage more grave than tsunami. Over 1400 people had so far lost their lives, millions were made homeless, standing crops destroyed and livestock lost in the torrents. He said that the exact estimate of the overall damage could only be ascertained after the waters had receded but till then hectic relief efforts were required to alleviate the miseries being faced by the affectees. He praised the gesture of the Indonesian government to send humanitarian aid to Pakistan. He however added that humanitarian organizations, charities and other social organizations from Indonesia should also come forward and help their Pakistani brethren in need.
The briefing session on Pakistan’s flood situation was followed by a “Pakistani cuisine” show where Ambassador Sanaullah prepared special Pakistani dishes for the invitees. He appreciated the efforts of the Amasiwa Productions and Tupperware for creating awareness among the Indonesian friends about the severity of floods in Pakistan. Both the health magazines on this occasion assured that their management would make donations for the flood victims and added they would also urge other important organizations to contribute for this noble cause.
**SJ/Ahmad**
PR. NO.233
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: August 18, 2010The Ambassador of Pakistan Umar Khan Alisherzai has expressed gratitude and thanks on behalf of the President, the Prime Minister and the people of Pakistan for the public fund raising campaign launched by the Custodian of the two Holly Mosques King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz and the generous contribution of 300 million Saudi Riyals to boost the public fund raising campaign. With this the total donation collected on behalf of the Saudi people so far comes to 400 million Saudi Riyals, said the Ambassador, says a press release received here today from Jeddah.
The Ambassador said that the Custodian of the two Holly Mosques has always played a fatherly role on such occasions whenever Pakistan was hit by any natural calamity or other problems. The Ambassador said that this generous donation led by the Custodian of the two Holly Mosques King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz, the Crown Prince HRH Sultan Bin Abdul Aziz and the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Interior HRH Prince Naif Bin Abdul Aziz, the members of Saudi Royal family, Sheikhs and other dignitaries and Saudi brothers and sisters will go a long way in alleviating the sufferings of the flood affected people of Pakistan. The Ambassador said that this gesture of kindness and sympathy on the part of the Saudi leadership and Saudi people will always be remembered by the people of Pakistan. We pray for the long life, health and happiness of the Custodian of the two Holly Mosques King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz, Crown Prince Sultan Bin Abdul Aziz and the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Interior HRH Prince Naif Bin Abdul Aziz and for the brotherly people of Saudi Arabia, said the Ambassador. We also appreciate the hectic efforts of the Saudi Ambassador in Islamabad for helping the flood affected people in Pakistan, he added.
**MT/Ahmad**
PR. NO.234
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: August 18, 2010Ghani Group of Companies has presented a cheque of Rs. 3 million to Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani for the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund for the Flood affectees.
**PMMO/Ahmad**
PR. NO.235
PRESS RELEASE
Pakistan enjoys warm and cordial relations with ROK – Naek
Islamabad: August 18, 2010Pakistan enjoys very warm and cordial relations with Republic of Korea, which will be strengthened further in the days to come.This was stated by the Acting President, Mr. Farooq H. Naek while talking to the out-going Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Shin Un, who called on him at the Parliament House this afternoon.
During the meeting, Acting President appraised the envoy about the devastation caused by the floods in Pakistan and called upon the International community to graciously donate and help the flood affected people of Pakistan. Mr. Naek also thanked the Government of Republic of Korea for providing emergency relief assistance in the wake of tragic floods in Pakistan (Assistant worth US$ 500,000 provided by Government of Korea and US$ 47,000/- provided by Korean Red Cross).
The Ambassador expressed deep sadness at the tragic loss and suffering that Pakistan has been experiencing as a result of ongoing floods. He offered his heartfelt condolences to those who have lost their lives and deep sympathy to those who have been affected.
The Acting President underscore the need of promoting parliamentary exchanges between Pakistan and Republic of Korea to their mutual advantage. He also suggested that business community of both the countries should explore the full potential of the trade and economic cooperation between Pakistan and Republic of Korea.
On the occasion, the Acting President also extended an invitation to the speaker of the National Assembly of Republic of Korea to visit Pakistan.
While, thanking the Acting President, Government and people of Pakistan for warm hospitality and unstinting cooperation extended to him during his diplomatic tenure in Pakistan, the Envoy said his stay in Pakistan was very rewarding and memorable. The out-going Ambassador highly appreciated the wisdom and role of the honorable Acting President in handling effectively the sensitive issues in the Senate.
The Acting President appreciated the services rendered by the outgoing Envoy in further strengthening the relations between Pakistan and Republic of Korea. He wished him success in his future diplomatic assignments.
**RAQ/Ahmad**
PR. NO.236
PRESS RELEASE
ECP CONDUCTS WORKSHOP ON ELECTORAL SYSTEMS
Islamabad: August 18, 2010The Election Commission of Pakistan conducted a workshop on comparative electoral systems for the senior staff of the ECP. The workshop was chaired by the Hon’ble Chief Election Commissioner of Pakistan, Justice ® Hamid Ali Mirza.
Besides Secretary, Election Commission of Pakistan, Mr. Ishtiak Ahmad Khan the workshop was attended by, among others, all the Joint Secretaries and all the four Provincial Election Commissioners of the ECP.
The workshop drew on the recent debate regarding an upcoming referendum in the United Kingdom between the First-Past-The-Post system as being practiced in Pakistan, India & U.K. and Alternative Vote, and discussed the factors involved in designing the best possible representative system. Electoral systems including Proportional Representation and Mixed Systems were analyzed in a comparative international context. Particular attention was given to explore how representation of women and minorities can be secured under different systems.
While no change to the current electoral system of Pakistan is imminent, the ECP is committed to stay informed about global developments and to the conduct of capacity building of its staff.
Participating in the conference were representatives from FAFEN and PILDAT, invited by the ECP to strengthen the exchange of views and opinions with civil society.
Presenting at the workshop was the internationally acclaimed authority on electoral systems Dr. Andrew Reynolds from the University of North Carolina. The workshop was facilitated by IFES/USAID.
PR. NO.237
PRESS RELEASE
German Donors Response to Appeals for
Aid for Flood Victims picks up
Islamabad : August 18, 2010.“German public response to the Pakistani relief efforts has begun to increase and in recent days, we have seen a huge growth in donations” says a press release received here today.
This was stated by the German Red Cross (DPK) spokeswoman, svenja Koch here today. She said that the German Red Cross collected roughly one million euros (US$ 1.3 million) in donations. A cargo plane to Islamabad filled with tons of relief material, including tents, mosquito nets, blankets and tools has been dispatched yesterday, she added.
“We cannot abandon the people in Pakistan ”, said Clemens Graf Von Waldburg-Zeil, General Secretary of the German Red Cross (DRK), in Berlin .
UNICEF Germany has also reported private donations of around one million euros toward the disaster relief efforts.
German aid agencies have been sending food and medicine to the flood-ravaged region, and recruiting nurses, midwives and doctors to help treat victims suffering from various flood-related diseases, including lung infections and cholera.
GTZ, the German technical aid organization, has also begun reconstruction of destroyed homes and drinking wells in different flood affected areas in Pakistan .
Human plus and Wings of Help, two German aid organizations have sent relief cargo of 3.7 tones by PIA flight from Frankfurt which includes clothing, biscuits, water purifying tablets, and medicines. Human plus has planned to send 20 tones of relief cargo for the flood affected people in Pakistan in the coming days.
Pak-German Council for Culture and Democracy, Berlin in collaboration with the Aktion Deutschland Hilft e.V. has launched a campaign of mobile phone messaging to raise funds for the flood victims. A message of ‘Pak’ sent to the dedicated number diverts Euro 5 towards the funds for floods affected people of Pakistan . The President of the Council Mr. Shahid Riaz expressed his optimism to raise Euro 50000 in the next few days.
PR. NO.238
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad : August 18, 2010.
Pakistan and Tajikistan Wednesday agreed to fast track implementation of the CASA-1000 mega project for importing power from Tajikistan and work together for building a trade and energy corridor through central Asia. They also agreed to explore joint ventures in energy, pharmaceutical, textiles and manufacturing sectors, .The agreement o this effect came about during bilateral meeting between President Zardari and Tajikistan’s President Emomali Rahmon in Sochi today. The meeting was also attended by Defence Minister Ch. Ahmad Mukhtar, Foreign Secretary Salman Bahir, Special Secretary Mr. Haroon Shaukat, and Ambassador Khalid Khattak.
The President said that a speedy implementation of the recently concluded trade and transit agreement between the two countries would open avenues for cooperation with other counties in the region also. The President also called for conclusion of a preferential trade agreement to further promote trade between the two countries which was presently very low being 6.5 million dollars per year only. To step up trade President Zardari offered his Tajikistan counterpart, Pakistan’s readiness to meet the cement needs of Tajikistan.
The two sides also decided to revitalize the joint economic commission and explore a trilateral trade agreement with Afghanistan. They also decided to pursue with Afghanistan, the road project linking Pakistan to Tajikistan and beyond. The proposed road will pass through Durra Pass and the Wakhan Strip in Afghanistan. Pakistan has already completed feasibility of the portion of the road on its side.
The Tajik President said that the World Bank was optimistic about the CASA-1000 project and said that Tajikistan will step up work on it.
President Emomali Rahmon expressed sympathies and condolence over the deaths and destruction caused by floods in Pakistan and called upon the international community to help Pakistan overcome the devastating effects of the floods.
President Zardari also invited Tajik President to visit Pakistan which the latter accepted.
PR. NO.239
PRESS RELEASE
RUSSIAN-PAKISTAN INTER-GOVERNMENTAL COMMISSION
Islamabad : August 18, 2010.
Pakistan and Russia to be agreed to convene the inaugural session Russia-Pakistan Inter-Governmental Commission next month in Islamabad to further streamline economic cooperation between the two countries.The agreement came about during bilateral meeting between President Asif Ali Zardari and President Medvedev an hour before the Quadrilateral Summit on cooperation in regional security and the economic development in the Russian city of Sochi today.
Briefing the newsmen about the meeting Spokesperson to the President Farhatullah Babar said that President Medvedev also expressed willingness to participate in the Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline project, renovation and expansion of the Pakistan Steel Mills, upgradation of the railway tracks and projects in the energy sector. The Russian President also offered help in the education sector by increasing the number of Pakistani students in Russian academic institutions, he said.
President Zardari said that Pakistan saw Russia’s power as a factor of stability and peace in the region and the world and called for closer ties between the two countries to strengthen regional and world peace and security. The President also invited Russian investments in energy, mining and infrastructure sectors. Pakistan is also willing to award exploration concessions to Russian companies, the President said.
President Zardari said that in addition to economic cooperation, Pakistan was also keen to increase security cooperation within mutually agreed parameters.
President Medvedev responded by saying that as a first step Pakistani bank branches will be opened in Russia and Russian bank branches in Pakistan to step up trade and commerce between the two countries. He also expressed sympathies and condolences over the deaths and destruction caused by floods in Pakistan. The Russian President also called upon the international community to assist Pakistan in this hour of distress and calamity and particularly urged immediate provision of tents and medicines to the floods victims for their immediate relief.
About terrorism, the Russian President said that it had become an international issues and required global efforts to fight it. He also expressed satisfaction over the evolving relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan.
PR. NO.240
PRESS RELEASE
SPEECH OF THE PRESIDENT
PRESIDENT ZARDARI FOR GREATER REGIONAL COOPERATION TO TACKLECHALLENGES OF SECURITY, DEVELOPMENT—
Islamabad : August 18, 2010.President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday called for greater cooperation among regional countries including Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan and Russia to effectively tackle the complex challenges of security and development, faced by the region.
“Terrorism, extremism, drug trafficking, organized crime, need to be seen in terms of their root causes. They thrive on ignorance, deprivation and poverty. Our countries need greater cooperation to effectively tackle them”, the President stressed while speaking at Second Quadrilateral Summit held here.
He said the problem of security is deeply rooted in lack of development, adding, “it cannot be treated in isolation. Our meeting should therefore focus both on security and development.”
The quadrilateral summit, hosted by Russian President Dmitry Medvedev was also attended besides President Zardari by Afghan President Hamid Karzai and Tajik President Emomali Rahmon.
President Zardari said Pakistan attaches great importance to cooperation among our four countries for the development of economic and commercial relations as well as energy and infrastructure connectivity.
In this respect, President Zardari proposed formation of a collective business forum with participation of the private sector to promote trade; collective trade and transit regime; commissioning a study on enhancing connectivity by developing road and rail links; and establishing banking and financial sector cooperation, including opening of bank branches.
He also proposed special visa facilitation regime for businessmen; joint ventures for reconstruction and development in Afghanistan in accordance with Afghan priorities; cooperation in the energy sector including fast tracking CASA-1000; mutual educational exchange programs; cooperation in combating drug menace and organized crime; and greater use of SCO umbrella for cooperation in security and development.
About Afghanistan, President Zardari it is a neighbour, friend and a brother, adding, Pakistan has a keen interest in early restoration of stability and peace in Afghanistan.
He said, stability in Afghanistan is vital for regional and global peace, adding, Pakistan extends its full support to President Hamid Karzai in addressing complex challenges facing Afghanistan.
“We fully support the Kabul Process. Afghanistan needs continued engagement of the international community for ensuring stability and promoting development”, he added.
President Zardari said Pakistan welcomes the process of reintegration and reconciliation initiated by the Afghan Government, adding, such political process has to be comprehensive, inclusive, Afghan-led and Afghan Government.
“Military solution alone will not succeed. It must be fully backed by political and development tracks”, he added.
The President said all neighboring and regional countries must respect the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity and non-interference in internal affairs.
“It is a matter of deep satisfaction that our democratic government has transformed Pakistan’s relations with Afghanistan. We are ready to take this relationship to new heights”, he added.
The President said Pakistan shares the objectives of strengthening security, stability and development in the region, adding, “the menace of illicit drug trafficking and abuse has gravely affected the whole region as drug money is fuelling terrorism and organized crime”.
President Zardari said Pakistan recognizes Russia’s key role in promoting peace, stability and development in Afghanistan and our extended neighborhood.
“We are meeting in Sochi at a sobering and tragic moment. Our region is once again struck by unprecedented natural disasters”, he said with reference to the worst ever devastation caused by the floods in Pakistan.
The President said, the floods have resulted in a humanitarian nightmare and Pakistan needs generous help and assistance of the international community to overcome the challenges of relief and reconstruction.
He also mentioned the unprecedented forest fires in Russia and said, “we are also saddened by huge losses,”. He also urged the need for collective efforts and measures to be better prepared for such natural calamities.
PR. NO.241
PRESS RELEASE
JOINT STATEMENT AT SECOND QUADRILATERAL SUMMIT AT SOCHI—EXPRESSES
SOLIDARITY WITH PAKISTAN OVER FLOODS
Islamabad : August 18, 2010.The Presidents participating in Second Quadrilateral Summit held in Sochi (Russia) have called upon international community to come forward and assist Pakistan in overcoming devastation caused by recent floods. They expressed their solidarity and sympathy with the Government and the people of Pakistan over the colossal loss of precious lives and property caused by unprecedented floods in Pakistan.
Briefing newsmen on recent floods in Pakistan at Sochi (Russia) Spokesperson to the President Farhatullah Babar said that 71 districts throughout the country had been hit by floods Nearly 1400 people have been killed, Over 720,000 housed destroyed and over 20 million people adversely affected.
He said that UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon recently visited Pakistan and he himself has witnessed the extent of damages to life, property, cattle head infrastructure and admitted that the devastations caused by these deadly floods are much more devastating which Pakistan ever witnessed.
The Spokesperson further said that we look forward to continued support of the UN and international community in overcoming the devastations caused by these floods.
Following is text of joint statement issued by the Presidents of Afghanistan, Pakistan, the Russian Federation and Tajikistan.
JOINT STATEMENT BY THE PRESIDENTS OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF AFGHANISTAN, THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN, THE RUSSIAN FEDERATIN AND THE REPUBLIC OF TAJIKISTAN
“President of the Islamic republic of Afghanistan Hamid Karzai, President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari, President of the Russian Federation Dmity Medvedev and President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali rahmon, having assembled at their second quadrilateral meeting in Sochi on August 18, 2010, held detailed discussion about the state and prospects of development of the regional cooperation,
“Underscoring the need for the consistent implementation of the agreements reached during their first meeting in Dushanbe on July 30, 2010.”
“Recognizing the particular significance of expanding and strengthening multifaceted cooperation between Afghanistan, Pakistan, Russia and Tajikistan as an essential component of regional stability and economic development,”
“Welcoming the conclusion of the Afghanistan-Pakistan Trade and transit Agreement and looking forward to its successful implementation,”
“Expressing concern over the persistent terrorist threat in the region, as well as illegal drugs production and trafficking of such a scope that gives grounds to qualify this illegal activity as a threat to international peace and stability,”
“1. Welcome and support the launch of the Kabul process and the holding of the High-level International Conference on Afghanistan, which took place in Kabul on July 20, 2010. In this regard, they supported the priority programs developed within the five clusters of security, governance, economic and infrastructure development, agriculture and rural development, human resource development and supported the outcomes of the National Consultative peace Jirga as a milestone in the peace and reconciliation process in Afghanistan.”
“2. Stress the importance of regional cooperation in facilitating the stabilization of the situation in the region including through regional cooperation opportunities available within existing international and regional bodies, including the SCO, in areas such as anti terrorism and counter-narcotics, and call for increased harnessing of the potential of the SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure for these purposes.”
“3. Consider it one of their priorities to combat drug threat in an integrated manner throughout the entire chain of illegal drugs production and trafficking – ranging from promoting alternative livelihood and agriculture development to eradication, as well as countering the supply of precursors and taking steps to reduce drugs consumption, and instruct heads of anti-drug agencies of their countries to convene as soon as possible a meeting for a substantive examination of relevant issues.”
“4. Underline the importance of the anti-drug preventive operation “Channel” conducted under the aegis of the CSTO, advocate increasing the number of states participating in the operation as observers.”
“5. Express readiness to continue active participation in implementing the provisions of the Plan of Action of the SCO Member States and the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan on combating terrorism, illicit drug trafficking and organized crime, adopted at the Special Conference on Afghanistan held under the aegis of the SCO in Moscow on March 27, 2009.”
“6. Confirm their intention to actively participate in the activities on combating money laundering and financing of terrorism, especially to eliminate financial channels, connected with illicit trafficking of drug substances and their precursors.”
“7. Declare their determination to actively counteract illicit trafficking of weapons, munitions, explosives and other types of transboundary organized crime.”
“8. Express interest in further enhancing regional economic cooperation in trade, economy, investment areas and improving investment environment in the countries of the region and establishing direct ties between the business circles.”
“9. Support the intention of business circles of Russia, Pakistan and Tajikistan together with the government and business community of Afghanistan to participate in restoring and reconstructing the facilities which have a key importance for the Afghan economy in areas such as transport, energy, natural resources management and urban development and emphasize the need for identifying concrete priority projects in the aforementioned areas including the Salang tunnel, oil and gas facilities in the north of the country nitric fertilizer plant and thermal power station in Mazar-i-Sharif, Kabul house-building plant and Nangarhar irrigation facility.”
“10. Advocate implementing joint projects in energy and transport infrastructure development in the region, such as the CASA-1000 project aiming to establish a system to transmit electric energy from Tajikistan to Afghanistan and Pakistan, and support the participation of the Russian federation in this project.”
“11. Express hope that international financial and economic institutions would actively assist in implementing regional economic projects aiming to rebuild the Afghan economy and improve stability in the country and the region as a whole.”
“12. The Presidents of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, the Russian Federation and the Republic of Tajikistan express their solidarity and sympathy with the Government and the people of Pakistan over the colossal loss of precious lives and property caused by unprecedented floods in Pakistan, and appeal to the international community to provide urgent assistance to Pakistan to overcome the effects of this terrible natural calamity.”
“13. Decided to hold the next meeting of the Presidents of the Islamic republic of Afghanistan, the Islamic republic of Pakistan, the Russian Federation and the Republic of Tajikistan in the city of Dushanbe. The concrete date of the meeting will be defined through the diplomatic channels.”
PR. NO.242
PRESS RELEASE
UK SECRETARY OF STATE FOR INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT MEETS THE PRIME MINISTER
Islamabad: August 18, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani called upon the International Community to lend support to Pakistan’s efforts in meeting the challenge arisen out of unprecedented torrential rains and floods. Pakistan’s foremost requirements to cope with relief efforts, he mentioned, are tents, food stuff, water purification plants, stoves and medicines to ward off any epidemic.
Prime Minister was talking to Mr. Andrew Mitchal, British Secretary of State for International Development and Barroness Saeeda Warsi, Chairperson of the British Conservative Party who alongwith their delegation called on the Prime Minister this afternoon.
The Prime Minister impressed upon the international community that in view of the gravity of the situation, it should not delay the much needed support any further. While dilating on the devastation caused by floods, the Prime Minister said that in terms of damages and losses, the present catastrophe surpasses the devastation caused by the earthquake in Azad Jammu & Kashmir and Haiti and the Asian Tsunami. The damage caused to the physical infrastructure, he said is further restricting relief efforts to reach out to the people stranded in far flung areas, hence there is urgent need that some of the major bridges be constructed on priority basis.
Prime Minister urged upon Britain to play pro-active role for mobilizing assistance for Pakistan and pleading Pakistan’s case for greater market access through GS plus facilities in the EU.
Prime Minister appreciated the fact that Britain despite its decision to cut down its international assistance Budget had decided to continue providing assistance to Pakistan on higher level. This he added is reflective of importance that Britain attaches to the development needs of Pakistan.
The British Secretary of State Andrew Mitchal and Chairperson of Conservative Party Barroness Saeeda Warsi expressed condolences and sympathies on behalf of the government and people of UK over the loss of life, property and the devastation caused by the floods in Pakistan. They also saluted the resilience of the people of Pakistan who have shown courage to face this huge challenge. They assured the Prime Minister of all possible support to Pakistan from their country. They agreed with the Prime Minister that no government can cope with such a situation at its own.
Mr. Andrew Mitchal said that International Community should come forward and provide much needed assistance to Pakistan on immediate basis. He said that he was leaving for New York after having visited and observed the colossal damage caused by floods in Pakistan and would apprise the participants of the Conference called by UN Secretary General in New York tomorrow. He hoped that tomorrow’s meeting will change the international perspective and the required assistance would start pouring into Pakistan in the desired quantity. He assured the Prime Minister that British would focus on providing the much required items and will steadfastly support Pakistan during the rehabilitation and reconstruction phase as well.
PR. NO.243
PRESS RELEASE
CHAIRMAN NTC PRESENTS A CHEQUE OF RS. 50 MILLION TO PRIME MINISTER
Islamabad: August 18, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has emphasized upon all the organizations to play their due role honestly, timely and effectively for the rehabilitation of the flood affectees. The sufferings of the flood affected people, he added, can be mitigated through better coordination among various organizations of the state machinery.
The Prime Minister was talking to Chairman NTC Brig ® Mirza Babar Aziz Baig who called on him at Prime Minister’s House to present a cheque of Rs 50 million for Prime Minister’s Relief Fund.
The Prime Minister urged upon the Chairman NTC to ensure the restoration of Telecommunication Infrastructure in flood hit areas as early as possible in order to strengthen the rehabilitation activities.
Chairman NTC apprised the Prime Minister of the working of his organization and also informed him about the various strategies made by NTC to face the challenge of rehabilitation of Telecom Infrastructure in flood affected areas.
PR. NO.244
PRESS RELEASE
MINISTER FOR INTERIOR PRESENTS A CHEQUE TO PRIME MINISTER
Islamabad: August 18, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has said that the damage and destruction caused by the unprecedented floods is enormous and beyond the capacity of Federal and Provincial Governments. However, with joint efforts, commitment and strong will, the sufferings of the people of flood affected areas can be minimized. He said that the government is trying its level best to reduce the hardships of people and all available resources are being utilized in this regard.
The Prime Minister was talking to Minister for Interior Mr. Rehman Malik who alongwith Chairman NADRA called on him at the Prime Minister’s House here today to present a cheque of Rs 100 million for the Prime Minister’s Flood Relief Fund contributed by the NADRA officials.
The Prime Minister lauded the contribution by the NADRA officials and said that it would help intensify the government’s efforts for the relief and rehabilitation of the flood affected population.
PR. NO.245
PRESS RELEASE
PAK COMMUNITY IN KUWAIT PLEDGES RS. 7 MILLION FOR FLOOD AFFECTEES
Islamabad: August 18, 2010The Ambassador of Pakistan to Kuwait Mr. Iftekhar Aziz has called upon the 150,000 expatriates living in Kuwait to come forward and support the flood relief efforts in Pakistan. He said this during his meetings with various representatives of the community. The Ambassador said that Pakistan was passing through one of its most grave challenges and asked the Pakistan community to contribute generously to the Prime Minister’s Flood Relief Fund. As an initial response, the community representatives pledged financial assistance worth KD 23,000 (approximately Rs. 7 million), says a press release received from Embassy of Pakistan, Kuwait here today.
The Ambassador urged the community members to make immediate contacts with individuals and organizations in order to spread the message as far as possible. He also briefed them about the flood situation and the kind of items immediately required for the displaced population. The Ambassador said the floods had pushed Pakistan back by decades by causing unprecedented damage to life, property and state infrastructure. He appreciated community’s role in the past in assisting their brothers in times of need, especially during the 2005 earthquake, and urged them to once again come forward and extend their utmost support to the flood victims.
The Ambassador also informed that Pakistan Embassy in Kuwait was opening a separate flood relief bank account to facilitate the potential donors and organizations in Kuwait. He said that cash donations could also be deposited at the Embassy.
PR. NO.246
PRESS RELEASE
PRESIDENT RETURNS TO ISLAMABAD
Islamabad: August 18, 2010President Asif Ali Zardari returned to Islamabad after a few hours visit to the Russian city of Sochi during which he participated in the quadlateral summit of Afghanistan, Pakistan, Tajekistan and Russian Federation on regional peace, security and economic development and also held separate bilateral meetings with the Hamid Karzai President of Afghanistan, President Emomali Rahmon of Tajekistan and President Dmitry Medvedev of the Russian Federation.
The President was accompanied with Defence Minister Chaudhry Ahmad Mukhtar, Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir, Special Secretary Shaukat Haroon, Ambassador Khalid Khattak and Spokesperson Farhatullah Babar.
The joint declaration isued at the end of the four state summit reaffirmed the countries’ determination to counteract illicit trafficking of weapons, drugs, money laundering, terror financing and transboundary organized crimes and vowed to implement joint projects in energy and transport infrastructure development. The four countries also launched an international appeal to provide urgent assistance to the flood victims in Pakistan.
Briefing newsmen about the visit Spokesperson to the Presidnet Farthatullah Babar said that the bilateral meeting with Russian President Medvedev resulted in an agreement to hold the inaugural session Russia-Pakistan Inter-Governmental Commission next month in Islamabad to bolster economic cooperation. The bilateral also produced a willingness by the Russian Federation to participate in the Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline project, renovation and expansion of the Pakistan Steel Mills, up-gradation of the railway tracks and some projects in the energy sector besides offer to increase the number of Pakistani students in Russian academic institutions.
President Zardari offered exploration concessions to Russian companies to help Pakistan overcome the energy shortage adding also that it was also keen to bolster security cooperation within mutually agreed parameters with the Russian federation. The two sides also agreed to open their respective bank branches in each others country, Farhatullah Babar said.
The Russian President also called upon the international community to immediately provide tents and medicines to the flood victims for their immediate relief.
During meeting with President Karzai of Afganistan President Zardari welcomed the conclusion recently of the Afghan Transit Trade Agreement. He called upon early completion of necessary formalities in both the countries to operationalise the agreement which he said was necessary for the economic well being of the two countries. Economic development holds the key to winning the war against militancy that thrived on poverty, deprivation and lack of economic opportunities Farhatullah Babar quoted the President as saying.
President Zardari reiterated non-interference in Afghanistan’s internal affairs and appreciated President Karzai’s decision to adopt reconciliation as a central pillar of its peace strategy. President Karzai accepted the invitation to visit Pakistan which will take place sometime soon after Ramzdan. The Pakistan government will also consider giving scholarships to Afghan students for study in the professional colleges in Pakistan, the spokesperson said.
In bilaeral meeting with the Tajikistan President the two leaders decided to fast track implementation of the CASA-1000 mega project for importing power from Tajikistan and to work together for building a trade and energy corridor through Central Asia besides setting up joint ventures in energy, pharmaceutical, textiles and manufacturing sectors.
The two sides also decided to revitalize the Joint Economic Commission and explore a trilateral trade agreement with Afghanistan. They also decided to pursue with Afghanistan, the road project linking Pakistan to Tajikistan and beyond. The proposed road will pass through Durra Pass and the Wakhan Strip in Afghanistan. Pakistan has already completed feasibility of the portion of the road on its side, Farhatullah Babar said.
Tomorrow on Thursday the President will accompany Senator John Kerry on a visit to the flood affected areas.
PR. NO.247
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: August 18, 2010
President Asif Ali Zardari today had three separate bilateral meetings with the Heads of State of Afghanistan, Tajikistan and Russia before the Quadrilateral summit on regional peace and stability in the Russian city of Sochi.
Briefing the newsmen about the bilateral meetings Spokesperson to the President said that in his bilateral meeting with the Afghan President, President Zardari said that he was pleased that negotiations for the Afghan Transit Trade Agreement had concluded and agreement had been reached on all outstanding issues. He expressed the hope that necessary formalities in both the countries will soon be completed to put the agreement in operation that will “bring Afghanistan and Pakistan closer together and result in improving economies of the two countries.”
President Zardari said that the goal of peace and security in Afghanistan cannot be achieved through use of military force alone and a political approach together with economic development was vital for achieving it. Agreements like the Afghan Transit Trade were therefore necessary for the economic betterment of both the countries and for fighting militancy that thrived on poverty, deprivation and lack of economic opportunities he said.
President Zardari said that Pakistan and abiding interest in a stable, peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan and it believed in the neutrality and non-interference in Afghanistan’s internal affairs. He said that Pakistan welcomed the outcome of Afghan Conference and the Afghan Government’s commitment to adopt reconciliation as a centre pillar of its peace building policy. He appreciated the Afghan peace Jirga in June last as a good beginning in the reconciliation process. The President also thanked the Afghan President for a support to the victims of flood in Pakistan.President Hamid Karzai said that Afghanistan was very keen to have the best affiliations with Pakistan. He said that both countries needed to recognize that close and strong ties between them were in the interest of both their peoples and for peace and stability in the region. President Karzai accepted the invitation to visit Pakistan and said he will visit Paksitan sometime soon after Ramzdan. The Afghan President also called for scholarships for Afghan students to study in the professional colleges in Pakistan. President Zardari said that the Government will examine the proposal and assist the Afghan students.
PR. NO.248
PRESS RELEASE
CLARIFICATION
Islamabad: August 18, 2010
A Spokesperson of the Democratic Government has categorically rejected reports carried in a section of the media on “fake relief camp” allegedly set up by the local administration at D.I. Khan on the occasion of Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani’s visit on August 17, 2010.
The Spokesperson said that the relief camp was set up a day before the PM’s visit as a makeshift arrangement as soon as the waters receded from the area, and in due course the people stranded at their villages were able to reach the relief camp.The makeshift relief camps are set up on hourly and daily basis at different locations depending upon the requirement of the particular area, the Spokesperson said, adding that keeping in view the enormity of the challenge to meet constantly changing relief requirements of flood affectees and given the limited resources available, temporary relief camps are also being established on need basis, besides central relief camps.
The D.I. Khan camp referred to in some news reports was one of the makeshift arrangements set up on emergency basis to provide immediate relief items to the people of the area before they could be shifted to better equipped facilities.
The Spokesperson said that the D.I. Khan area situated on the bank of River Indus underwent colossal damages due to inundation of vast area in the flood waters. A huge chunk of the local population has been dislocated and being shifted to safer areas into relief camps, which are being established on the arrival of new waves of displaced people from the affected areas. The setting up of camps is done by the local authorities on need basis and the same are shifted to other places as and when required.
This is an ongoing process and the Prime Minister visited one such camp, which was established to accommodate locals who had lost all their homes, as was visible in the rubble lying behind the camp.The Spokesperson said that the people living in these camps keep visiting their villages they have left submerged in water to look after their houses and property. Mostly children and women of the families live in camps while their male members shuttle between camps and their villages.
When the Prime Minister visited the camp, all the male members of the families living in that camp were present to apprise the Prime Minister of their plight. They left for their villages after the visit of the Prime Minister leaving behind their families in the camp.
The Spokesperson requested the media to appreciate the enormity of the challenge and verify facts and information before reporting a story.
He reminded that during a crises situation of mammoth proportions, in the initial phase at least a fixed pattern of setting up relief camps is not possible as the emergency situation demands prompt and flexible solutions to provide immediate relief to the people affected by floods.
