PR. No. 269
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: September 21, 2010The Foreign Minister, Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi met Foreign Minister of Turkey, Mr. Ahmet Davutoglu on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, says a press release received here today from New York.
Foreign Minister Mahkdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi thanked his counterpart for substantive relief assistance provided by the people and Government of Turkey to flood affected people in Pakistan. He particularly commended private donations from Turkey that reflected strong fraternal and spiritual bonds between the people of the two countries.
The Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said that the people of Turkey, like always solidly stand in solidarity with their Pakistan brothers and sisters at this difficult moment. He assured continued support and solidarity of Turkey with Pakistan during relief and assistance phase as well. He said Turkey would actively participate in the Friends of Democratic Pakistan (FoDP) meeting in Brussels next month. He also offered assistance in capacity building particularly in the field of agriculture, technical education and vocational training.
Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said that Prime Minister Racep Tayyip Erdogan would undertake a visit to Pakistan soon as an expression of solidarity with the flood-affected people.
**MJI/Ahmad**
PR. No. 270
PRESS RELEASE
Pakistan’s Export to Malaysia Recorded 81% Increase in First Half of 2010
Islamabad: September 21, 2010Pakistan’s exports to Malaysia recorded a healthy increase of 81% with exports of RM 352 million in the first six months of this year compared to RM 194 million in the corresponding period of 2009 with rice and onion being the biggest contributors.
According to the latest data obtained from Malaysian Trade Development Authority (MARTRADE), the rice made up more than half of the total exports with an export of RM 188 million compared to RM 46 million of last year registered a robust growth of 307%.
Data further revealed that onion with an export of RM 12 million registered robust growth compared to exports of RM 0.17 million in the corresponding period of last year. In the same period, Maize with an export of RM 6 million compare to the RM 3.7 million recorded a robust growth of 61%, cotton yarn with an export of RM 20.2 million compared to RM 10.5 million registered an increase of 92.2 % and bed linen with an export of 1.4 million compared to 0.68 million recorded an increase of 105%.
The Malaysian export to Pakistan also registered a robust growth of 13.57% with total exports of RM 3.22 billion compared to RM 2.84 billion of first six months of last year.
Palm oil with an export of RM 2.41 billion compared RM 1.97 billion with growth of 22.59%, natural rubber with an export of RM 31.8 million compared to RM 15.95 million with an increase of 99.33% remained the first and second largest contributors.
Automatic data processing machines with an export of RM 35.2 million compare to 21.46 million with an increase of 64.08%, part and accessories with an export of RM 38.28 million compare to RM 24.62 million with an increase of 56.28% were amongst the leading exports.
However, Pakistan exports of fish, potatoes, woven fabric synthetic staple fibre, electric appliance of line telephony to Malaysia registered decline of 54.67%, 11.23%, 40.15% and 59.90% respectively.
On the other and Malaysian exports of insecticides and synthetic filament yarn registered a decline of 35.72% and 35.02% respectively.
While commenting upon the data, the High Commissioner for Pakistan in Malaysia, Mr. Masood Khalid said that although the robust growth in the bilateral trade reflects the ever growing business and trade ties between the two countries due to FTA signed between the two countries in November, 2007, the decline in exports of fish, potatoes, woven fabric synthetic staple fibre, electric appliance of line telephony was a source of concern.
He urged the Malaysian importer to consider importing non traditional items, such as cutlery, surgical instruments, gems and jewelry, sports goods, light engineering goods, marble products computer software products, fruits and fruit products, vegetables and meat and meat based products which are known the world over due to their high quality and price competitiveness..
He also urged the Pakistan exporters to improve the efficiency of their supply chain, quality of their products and make proactive efforts to forge partnership arrangements with Malaysian importers to make a permanent place in growing Malaysian market, says a press release received here today from Malaysia.
**QB/Ahmad**
PR. No. 271
PRESS RELEASE
Flood should strengthen our resolve to rebuild the education sector better: (Ms. Shahnaz Wazir Ali).
Islamabad: September 21, 2010While addressing the opening ceremony of Pakistan Education Task Force‘s two days workshop in Best western Hotel, here in Islamabad on Monday 20 September, she highlighted the catastrophic magnitude of the damage caused by the floods and especially that education sector is very badly hit. Approximately 6 to 7 million children’s education is suffering due to dislocation of families who are living in camps or other make shift arrangements. She also said that UNICEF, NCHD and various NGOs had started tent schools for the flood affected children, but a much larger effort is needed.
We have to rebuild not only the physical infrastructure but to think beyond that and to focus our attention on establishing an efficient educational system in line with the demands of the 21st century. Old and chronically inefficient educational system is inefficient is no longer acceptable as it lacks in capacity to respond to the needs of our country. In view of the pressure on our budgets she emphasized the importance of ensuring efficiency of expenditure in every rupee spent.
She urged the participant of the workshop from various provinces and regions to use the expertise of the Pakistan Education Taskforce (PETF) and facilitate their departments in implementing the National Education Policy (NEP).
The two days workshop is organized by Pakistan Education Task Force (PETF). Mr. Michaels Barber co-chairperson PETF along with his consultants has come from UK to conduct this workshop.
**MM/Ahmad**
PR. No. 272
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: September 21, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has said that the human catastrophe caused by devastating floods is so huge that it requires substantial contribution from the international community. Around 20 million people have been marooned who are spread over the whole of Pakistan, he said, thus requiring hectic efforts to reach out to all the affectees. No single nation, he added can overcome the problem so huge and gigantic, as we are facing today in Pakistan.
The Prime Minister was talking to Sheikh Ahmed Abdullah Essa Al-Mannai, Chairman Al-Mannai Group of Companies of Qatar who called on him at the Prime Minister’s House here today.Lauding the spirit and sense of devotion displayed by different segments of society, the Prime Minister said that the response is encouraging and it would help restore the confidence of the flood affected people, during the forthcoming phases of rehabilitation and reconstruction.
Further, the Prime Minister suggested to the Chairman Al-Mannai Group that they should adopt reconstruction of one focal village in each province which could serve as a model for others. It should serve as a model village for future rehabilitation and reconstruction phases in all the four provinces in Pakistan, he added.
Mr. Ahmed Abdullah Essa Al-Mannai while expressing sympathy for the devastation caused by the floods said that Pakistan is their second home and as brothers in faith, they would extend all possible support.
**PMMO/Ahmad**
PR. No. 273
PRESS RELEASE
Secretary General Boao Forum donates 50,000 yuan for the flood affectees
Islamabad: September 21, 2010Secretary General, Boao Forum for Asia (BFA), Mr. Zhou Wenzhong presented a cheque of RMB 50,000 (US$ 7500 approx.) for Pakistan’s flood affectees, to Ambassador Mr. Masood Khan at the Pakistan Embassy here this afternoon, says a press release received here today from China.
Speaking on the occasion Masood Khan said that Pakistan and China are good partners, exemplary neighbors, and trusted friends. He said the aid given by China to Pakistan at this crucial moment has been timely, substantial and unconditional.
He particularly thanked the Chinese government for sending helicopters to Pakistan for helping in the relief work. These four helicopters would be flying today from China’s Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region to Pakistan carrying relief goods as well as medicines.
Mr. Zhou Wenzhong, who has also served as China’s Ambassador to United States and Australia, and later as Vice Minister, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed his deep condolences to those who lost their lives and property in the disaster in Pakistan.
Established in 2001, the BFA is a forum for government, business and academic leaders in Asia and other continents to share opinions on pressing issues in the region and the world. It is committed to promoting regional economic integration and brining Asian countries closer to their development goals.
**DG/Ahmad**
PR. No. 274
PRESS RELEASE
OVER 3,600 TONS OF AID DONATED BY IRANIANS
FOR FLOOD VICTIMS IN PAKISTAN
Islamabad: September 21, 2010Tehran will soon dispatch over 3,600 tons of humanitarian aid donated by Iranians for flood victims in Pakistan, Iran’s Red Crescent Society announced on Tuesday. The relief aid is part of the donations gathered on the Pakistan Solidarity Day marked across the country last week, head of the society Abolhassan Faqih told reporters. He said the consignments will be shipped to Pakistan via air, ground and sea. “Some of the aid will be sent by 200 trucks via the land border with Pakistan through Zahedan in the coming days,” the official said, adding the Iranian Army and the Islamic Republic Guards Corps (IRGC) will help with the air shipments, says a press release received here today from Iran.
**MMHJ/Ahmad**
PR. No. 275
PRESS RELEASE
Journalists’ Delegation meets the Prime Minister
Islamabad: September 21, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani called upon the media and the journalists to continue playing their due role to highlight the problems of the flood affected areas so that appropriate measures could be taken to mitigate the sufferings of the flood affectees. He appreciated the in depth coverage given by print and electronic media to the devastation caused by floods is different parts of the country which helped in sensitizing the people throughout country as well as Pakistani community living abroad.
The Prime Minister was talking to a representative delegation of journalists from Islamabad and Rawalpindi which met him in his Chamber at the Parliament House here this afternoon.
The role of the media, the Prime Minister said, would be equally significant during the upcoming phases of rehabilitation and reconstruction of flood affected areas.
The delegation of journalists which included the office bearers of National Press Club and the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists apprised the Prime Minister of the problems of the journalists’ community. They informed that around five hundred journalists have been affected in the flood affected areas, requiring urgent assistance so that they can perform their professional duties.
The Prime Minister assured the delegation that all the genuine problems and demands of the working journalists would be met at the earliest. He asked the Minister for Information and Broadcasting to take appropriate steps in the same regard.
The Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Mr. Qamar Zaman Kaira was also present in the meeting.
**PMMO/Ahmad**
PR. No. 276
PRESS RELEASE
Parliamentarians meet the Prime Minister
Islamabad: September 21, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has impressed upon the elected members to regularly visit their respective constituencies particularly in the flood ravaged areas to redress the problems of the affected people. The upcoming phases of rehabilitation and reconstruction, he said would require hectic efforts and constant monitoring by the elected representatives.
The PM expressed the views while talking to a group of MNAs who met him in his chamber at Parliament House this afternoon.
MNAs lauded the Prime Minister for his comments expressing support to the visit of Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman chairman Kashmir Committee to USA. The upcoming visit of Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman, they said, will effectively present the principal stance of Government of Pakistan on the Kashmir Issue.
The Prime Minister said that Maulana Fazal-ur-Rehman was unanimously elected chairman of the Kashmir Committee and both the houses of Parliament had unanimously passed the Kashmir resolution condemning the human rights violation in Indian occupied Jammu & Kashmir, so he was going abroad with full mandate.
The parliamentarians apprised the PM of the on going relief activities in their respective constituencies and also discussed the steps taken for the commencement of next phase of rehabilitation and reconstruction.
Senior Minister Punjab Raja Riaz, Maulana Fazal ur Rehman, Minister for Health, Makhdoom Shahabuddin, Minister for Religious Affairs Hamid Saeed Kazmi, Minister of State for Interior, Mr. Tasneem Ahmad Qureshi, Ms. Fauzia Wahab, Ms.Asma Arbab Alamgir, Mr. Khurram Jehangir Watto, Ms. Qudsia Arshad, Ms. Shaheen Ashfaq, Mr. Ghous Baksh Mehr, Sheikh Aftab, Dewan Aashiq Bokhari, Mr. Nadeem Afzal Chan were also present in the meeting.
**PMMO/Ahmad**
PR. No. 277
PRESS RELEASE
Nick Clegg For Enhancing Assistance for Pakistan to Cope with Flood Disaster
Islamabad: September 21, 2010The Deputy Prime Minister of the U.K Mr. Nick Clegg has said that Pakistan was suffering more than any other country due to violence and terrorism, and the suffering has been further enhanced by devastation caused by recent floods. Mr. Clegg was speaking at a reception hosted by Pakistan High Commissioner Mr. Wajid Shamsul Hasan on the occasion of Annual Conference of Liberal Democrats in Liverpool , yesterday.
The Deputy Prime Minister said that after visiting Pakistan he has been able to observe for himself the magnitude of devastation and has absorbed gravity of situation caused by flood disaster. He added that since the process of devastations caused by floods was slow it took time for the people to absorb the full scale of catastrophe but as the people continued to watch flood situation on media the response for donation s improved and as a result Disaster Emergency Committee (DEC) has been able to raise substantial donations (54 million pounds). He further said that he was informed by the DEC that never ever in their history, the response increased in second week of appeal, whereas in the case of Pakistan it did. Mr. Clegg said that the level of support from British Government and public are great testament to enduring relations of Pakistan and the UK .
Appreciating the contribution of Pakistani community, Mr. Clegg said that he considered Pakistani community as vital and important component of British society while supporting more representation of Pakistani community in Lib-Dem party.
High Commissioner for Pakistan to UK , Mr. Wajid Shamsul Hasan in his address said “We are particularly indebted to Deputy Prime Minister Rt.Hon. Nick Clegg for his profound and visible support for the relief of flood victims in Pakistan . In fact his concern for the lacklustre response during the initial days of the flood had an immediate impact in the United Kingdom to stimulate the fund raising campaign. Subsequent to Mr. Clegg’s intervention, there as surge in the contribution by the British public.”
Mr. Hasan said that UK has championed Pakistan ’s cause in the EU summit for grant of market access in the EU markets as some sort of consensus has been agreed in last week’s meeting and Pakistan will have Preferential Trade Access. This would enable the government of Pakistan to offset some of the losses caused due to war against extremism and devastating floods. While it would also fulfil Pakistan ’s cherished goal of “trade not aid”.
The High Commissioner further said that the Liberal Democratic Party has always enjoyed a special place amongst the people and Government of Pakistan for their upright stance on issues of international importance, especially the issue of Jammu and Kashmir .
He further added that the presence of Pakistani origin councillors and prospective candidates in the LibDem Annual Conference is reflective of the Pakistani Diaspora’s active participation in the British political life.
The event was attended by large number of British MPs, Councillors and Mr. Qasim Afzal of Liberal Democratic Party conducted the proceedings of the occasion.
**SSR/Ahmad**
PR. No. 278
PRESS RELEASE
Curriculum Against Drugs to be Improved by Education Sector
Islamabad: September 21, 2010The Ministry of Narcotics Control in collaboration with Federal as well as Provincial Education Departments will develop a curriculum against drugs for inclusion in textbooks at school, college and University levels.
During a meeting between Ministry of Narcotics Control and Federal and Provincial Ministries/Departments of Education it was decided that anti-drug messages and content against drug menace would be incorporated in text books for schools, colleges, and universities. The services of educationists would be obtained to design this curriculum which proves to be quite effective and shapes behaviour of youth. It was also suggested that educational institutes should be declared as smoking free zones. Representatives from Higher Education Commission and Planning Commission also participated in this meeting. All the participants from various departments appreciated efforts of Ministry of Narcotics Control and agreed to extend their cooperation at all levels.
Secretary Narcotics Control Division Tariq Khosa and DG Anti Narcotics Force Maj.General Syed Shakeel Hussain emphasized the role of teachers who should be role models in society and could play vital role against drug menace. They emphasized that it is high time that we worked together for improvement of our country and uproot this evil from our society.
Ministry of Narcotics Control would also hold meetings with other implementation partners of Anti-Narcotics Policy which include Ministries of Interior, Health ,Foreign Affairs, Religious Affairs ,Labour ,Sports, Social Welfare etc. All Provincial Governments are also being consulted for implementation of new anti Narcotics Policy in order to make a difference.
**MI/Ahmad**
PR. No. 279
PRESS RELEASE
PHA to launch 5 & 7 marlas housing scheme in rural areas: kakar
Islamabad: September 21, 2010Federal Minister for Housing & Works Rahmatullah Kakar has said that PHA would launch 5 & 7 marlas housing scheme in the rural areas which would provide shelter to the people in a healthy environment.
He expressed these views while presiding over a high level meeting to review progress on PHA housing projects here today.
The Minister said that the government is committed to upgrade the living standard of rural population and striving for achieving the desired goal. He said that housing schemes in the rural areas would generate socio-economic activity and bring rapid progress and prosperity of the people.
The Minister said that a meeting of the experts and architects would be convened shortly to examine the reducing cost of the flats in the I-16 sector as demanded by the low income group. He said that affordable cost of the flats would be determined. It may be added that 2000 flats for low income group were to be constructed by PHA on 16 acres land acquired from CDA in I-16 sector.
The Minister said that PHA would start working on D-12 housing project as soon as possession was handed over by CDA. He said that construction of flats in a large number would overcome the shelter problem of low income group of Islamabad.
MD PHA, Muhammad Ali Afridi gave a detailed briefing on the housing projects being carried out by his organization. He told that construction of flats in G-10/2 has been completed and possession would be given to the allottees shortly.
The Minister commended the efforts of the PHA for working round the clock to accomplish the gigantic task of providing shelter to the people.
The meeting also reviewed the administrative and financial matters of the PHA.
Secretary Housing & Works, Raja Muhammad Abbas and senior officials of PHA also attended the meeting.
**MN/Ahmad**
PR. No. 280
PRESS RELEASE
Federal Ministers and MD HBFC present cheques to the
Prime Minister for the Flood Relief Fund
Islamabad: September 21, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani said that the reconstruction and rehabilitation phase would start soon as the flood water has started receding. This enormous task he said needed concerted efforts on the part of entire nation as the restoration work was beyond the capacity of the government alone.
The Prime Minister reiterated the resolve of the government to complete the task of rehabilitation within the shortest possible time. He urged the nation to contribute generously so as to help mitigate the suffering humanity.
The Prime Minister Lauded the spirits of all segments of society in helping their brethren in flood hit areas. He asked the ministers and others who presented cheques for Prime Minister’s flood relief fund to focus on the provision of tents, medicines and clean drinking water in the flood hit areas. He also asked them to personally monitor all the relief activities as well as the disbursement of first installment of Rs.20,000 among the flood affectees.Those who presented the cheques for Prime Minister’s flood relief fund included Mr. Azhar A. Jaffery Managing Director, House Building Finance Corporation Rs.100 Million, Mr. Israr Ullah Zehri, Minister for Postal Services Rs.300,000 and Rana M. Farooq Saeed Khan Minister for Textile Industry Rs.250,000.
**PMMO/Ahmad**
PR. No. 281
PRESS RELEASE
Post Eid ul Fitre event at Medan, Indonesia,
60,000 USD for Pakistan’s flood affectees pledged
Islamabad: September 21, 2010An amount of USD 60,000 was pledged for the flood affected people in Pakistan at a ceremony on Saturday at Medan, the third largest city of Indonesia and capital of North Sumatra province.
The evening ceremony which marked post Eid ul Fitre celebrations in typical Indonesian welcome dance and music style, was organized by the Honorary Consul General of Pakistan in Medan, Mr. Musa Ichwan Shah along with his father, H. Anif Shah, a known social and business elite of Medan as well as Indonesia. More than 150 special invitees on the occasion included diplomats, high ranking officials of the provincial government, the Regency, police, members of the humanitarian and business community and Chairman Pakistani Community of North Sumatra, Haji Muhammad Deen. A large number of decedents of the first generation immigrants from the sub-continent also participated in the evening function. Ambassador Sanaullah was invited as Chief Guest to inform the participants about the floods situation in Pakistan.
Honorary Consul General, Mr. Musa Ichwan Shah briefly recalled the traditional friendship between the two countries and assistance they had exchanged in their hours of need. He said it was a great honour to arrange this fund raising event for the Pakistani brethren who were badly affected by the floods. The representative of the provincial Governor expressed support for Pakistan and appealed to the Indonesian people for generous donations for relief and rescue operations for flood victims.
The Mission arranged screening of a 20-minute documentary depicting heart wrenching scenes evoking sentiments of sympathy for flood victims in Pakistan. The Ambassador presented statistics involving number of deaths, displaced persons and the destroyed infrastructure. In his address, he dwelt on the continued human sufferings of the vulnerable section of Pakistan’s populace. While appreciating the government’s efforts, generous assistance of the NGOs, friendly foreign countries including Indonesia, the Ambassador highlighted the circumstances under which 22 million people including 3.1 million women and children left their houses without any cash, clothing, food or utensils. Highlighting the plight of flood victims, the Ambassador said that the scale of the tragedy was so massive that no state in the word could cope with it alone. The damage to Pakistan would take years to undo, he said.
The ambassador said that the government was faced with the enormous challenge to redress the pain of the people and rebuild their livelihood. He asked the women present in the gathering to think of mothers who could not feed the infants, provide food to children, medicine to the wailing sick and shelter to their grown up daughters. He mentioned that after the unprecedented deluge, conditions in certain regions had worsened with no access to basic needs including shelter in devastated villages, seeds for new crops and drinking water.
The Ambassador said the natural disasters were not new to the Pakistani people. They would overcome their difficulties. They expect their brothers and sisters in Indonesia to pray for their welfare and share their compassion to offset the fury of floods. He expressed thanks on behalf of people of Pakistan to People of Indonesia for their generous donation.
It may be mentioned here that the Indonesian government, socialites and humanitarian organizations have already made contributions and pledges of over four million USD for the flood affected in Pakistan. A number of Indonesian teams under the “Indonesia Cares for Pakistan” programme launched by Baznas, the National Zakat Agency in Ramadan, are undertaking relief activities in the flood affected areas. They have particularly focused on providing medical aid and food items to the affectees. The Indonesian government’s 3.3 million USD assistance package in kind and cash has contributed well in easing the difficulties of the people stricken by floods. Adding to that the Medan fund raising event has fetched over USD 60,000 in cash and pledges which augurs well for the Pakistan Mission’s continued efforts to seek assistance for flood victims.
**SJ/Ahmad**
PR. No. 282
PRESS RELEASE
Beware of Imposters/Fraudsters, Ministry Cautions
Islamabad: September 21, 2010The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Resources has received several complaints from businessmen, industrialists, members of chamber of commerce and industry, etc that certain swindlers, unscrupulous and fraudulent elements of the society are attempting to loot, defraud and deceive the public by posing themselves as the Minister for Petroleum and Natural Resources, asking on phone for hefty donations on his behalf in the name of flood victims.
Despite repeated attempts to apprehend these elusive criminals, who have been doing this before in a similar manner, they have resurfaced with yet another pretext to loot and defraud. While efforts are on to nab the culprits, the general public is therefore cautioned to beware of their designs.
**AK/Ahmad**
PR. No. 283
PRESS RELEASE
FATA Delegation meets the Prime Minister
Islamabad: September 21, 2010Federal Government is fully committed to develop FATA area, provide basic amenities to the people living there and to bring them at parwith other parts of Pakistan. This was stated by Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani while talking to a delegation of MNAs from FATA led by Haji Munir Khan Orakzai, MNA at the Parliament House here today.
The Prime Minister stated that the people of FATA are brave and valiant and they have withstood the scourge of terrorism with unmatched courage and perseverance.
The Prime Minister said that he has already directed the authorities to provide compensation to the people who have died or injured during the recent flood in FATA. The Prime Minister assured them that the funds for FATA in the Public Sector Development Programme will be timely released. The Prime Minister also agreed to consider the
induction of some people from FATA in the National Oversight Disaster Management Council (NODMC).Earlier Haji Munir Orakzai apprised the Prime Minister about the problems of the people of FATA. He assured the Prime Minister of complete support and said their support was beyond the vagaries of the time and they would stand with the Government through thick and thin.
The meeting was attended by Mr. Hameedullah Jan Afridi, Minister for Environment, Mr. Noon-ul-Haq Qadri, Minister for Zakat & Ushr, Senator Abdul Razak, Minister of State for Postal Services, Mr. Bilal Rehman, Mr. Jawad Hussain, Engineer Shaukatullah, Mr. Muhammad Kamran Khan and Mr. Zafar Beg Betanni, MNAs. Chief Whip and Minister for Labour and Manpower Syed Khursheed Shah was also present in the meeting.
**PMMO/Ahmad**
PR. No. 284
PRESS RELEASE
damages and needs assessment (floods 2010)
Islamabad: September 21, 2010Immediately on the occurrence of floods, Minister for Finance, Planning and Economic Affairs, asked the Deputy Chairman Planning Commission to undertake the strategic role of coordinating and overseeing the flood Damages and Needs Assessment (DNA) efforts being carried out by the international donors in collaboration with the Provincial Governments and relevant organizations. DNA for fourteen sectors has been planned by a joint team of ADB & World Bank and is being carried out in close coordination with Federal Government agencies and provincial Governments. Its focus is on medium to long term reconstruction requirements and early recovery needs.
The Data Collection is through (i) Multi-sector field assessment,(ii) Desk Review,(iii) Aerial reconnaissance, (iv) Visit by Sector Specialists,(v) Satellite Imagery Interpretation and (vi) Interview with Stakeholders. The target for submission of final Report is 15th October, 2010.
Planning Commission held several strategic level meetings with international funding organizations, provincial governments and relevant stakeholders to streamline the DNA implementation process. Deputy Chairman Planning Commission has presided over a meeting held on 16th August 2010. After due deliberations, a committee called “Damages and Needs Assessment Committee” has been constituted to coordinate the assessments of damages and needs by the international agencies in collaboration with provincial/state governments and administrative areas. The committee is headed by Lt. Gen. ® Shahid Niaz, Member, Implementation and Monitoring further consisting representatives dof (i) Finance Division, (ii) Economic Affairs Division, (iii) Cabinet Division, (iv) All provinces, AJK (v) National Disaster Management Authority, (vi) NADRA and (vii) SUPARCO. International Funding Organizations and federal agencies are invited as observers on needs basis.
The third meeting of the Damage Need and Assessment Committee has been held today the 21st September, 2010. Lt. Gen. Shahid Niaz, Member, Implementation and Monitoring, Planning Commission of Pakistan has chaired the meeting. The meeting has further been attended by Government representatives from provinces, states and regions. The representative of NADRA, NHA, Railways, NDMA, Ministry of Information Technology along with the representatives of World Bank and ADB have also participated.
The progress regarding damage and need assessment in the flood affected areas has been discussed. The participants have also discussed in detail the reconstruction strategy in the flood affected areas. There has been an agreement among the participants that uniform polices will be followed in all parts of the country in reconstruction process. The official procedures in the process of reconstruction have been discussed. The participants have agreed to follow fast track procedures in this regard. The World Bank and ADB representatives have also agreed to follow the fast track procedures to accelerate the reconstruction process.
After discussing all kinds of issues involved in this regard, following decisions have been taken:-
i. The software/arrangement presented during the meeting may be followed by all stakeholders to furnish information expeditiously.
ii. The Government will take policy decision on calamity affected areas in the context of damages caused due to floods and rains.
iii. Satellite imageries provided by SUPARCO showing cumulative extent of flooding will be provided to provinces for assistance.
iv. Standardized data base management system to be developed in Planning and Development division for on line data management in future.
v. The “Damages and Needs Assessment” will be completed by 25th September, 2010 positively.
PR. No. 285
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: September 21, 2010Federal Minister for Commerce Makhdoom Amin Fahim has felicitated Qazi Asad Abid, the Editor in Chief of Ibrat Group of Newspapers, on becoming Chairman of Trust of Voluntary Organization (TVO). The trust was established in 1992 and Begum Nusrat Bhutto was a first chairperson.
PR. No. 286
PRESS RELEASE
HINA RABBANI KHAR HEADS THE PAKISAN DELEGATION IN
PAKISTAN-RUSSIA INTER-GOVERNMENTAL COMMISSION
Islamabad: September 21, 2010The Minister of State for Economic Affairs, Hina Rabbani Khar, remarked about great economic potential for cooperation between Pakistan and Russia beneficial for both the countries. She said this while heading the Pakistan delegation here today in the first meeting of the Pakistan-Russia Inter-governmental Commission on Trade and Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation. The Minister for Tourism, Sport and Youth Policy, Vitaly Mutko, was heading the Russian side, says a press release received from Embassy of Pakistan, Moscow here today.
During the meeting, Hina Rabbani Khar highlighted a wide variety of issues relating to the fields for mutual cooperation especially Oil and Gas sector, Steel Mills, Joint ventures in Railways and Automobile Sectors, Manufacturing of Fertilizers, Construction of Hydel-Power Projects in Pakistan, Cultural Exchanges and Education.
The possibilities of boosting up trade and business relations between the two countries by establishing Pak-Russia Business Council, opening of warehouses in both the countries, and easing of restrictions on visas for Russian and Pakistani businessmen were also thoroughly discussed in this first ever meeting of the Pakistan-Russia Inter-governmental Commission which has been established in the light of decisions of bilateral meeting between President Zardari and President Medvedev at the Sochi summit in August this year.
Hina Rabbani Khar also remarked that Pakistan expects to benefit from the long Russian experience in the exploration of oil and gas, construction, communication, Metallurgy and other technical fields. She especially mentioned the building of Steel Mills of Pakistan with Russian cooperation as a success story which could be emulated in other fields also.
Both sides agreed to explore the opportunities of investment in different fields to increase the quantum of business between the private sectors of both the countries. The necessity to increase cooperation in the banking sector by opening up the branches of the banks in the other country was also discussed.
Ms. Khar firmly believed that this first meeting would go a long way in bringing about closer economic cooperation between the two countries.
She also emphasized the need to build a very efficient follow up framework for speedy implementation of the decisions of the Inter-Governmental Commission.
The ways and means of Russia’s participation in reconstruction of the economy and infrastructure of Pakistan after the recent devastating floods were also discussed during the meeting.
Hina Rabbani Khar also remarked that the Russian Federation was one of the first countries to come forward for assistance in relief and rescue work in the wake of the worst floods in the history of Pakistan and thanked the Russian government and people for sending plane loads of food items and medicines for flood victims and providing helicopters for rescue operations.
Secretary Commerce, Zafar Mahmood also participated in the meeting.
PR. No. 287
PRESS RELEASE
PRIME MINISTER SYED YUSUF RAZA GILANI’S MESSAGE ON WORLD PEACE DAY
Islamabad: September 21, 2010World Peace Day being observed around the world today reminds us of varying nature of challenges and threats posed to the global peace. The day serves as a clarion call for us to identify the factors that threaten peace and evolve strategies for countering them. The major threat comes from the non-state actors who are bent on dictating international agenda by employing various methods.
Given the magnitude of the challenge, it must be our earnest effort to close our ranks and put up a united front against the forces of conservatism and extremism. Peace is the essential message of every divine religion. We cannot and should not allow the non-state actors to hijack our religious beliefs. Likewise, the approach of blaming individual acts of terror on religions should also be renounced in the interest of global peace. One effective way of strengthening peace is to promote interfaith dialogue and harmony. This also calls for increased cultural interaction among societies. The effective counterweight of hollow notion of ‘clash of civilization’ is the ‘dialogue among civilizations’.
The cause of peaceful coexistence can be served better by emphasizing commonalities and shared values among our respective societies. Respect for dissent and diversity holds the key to peaceful coexistence. At a collective level, the world can ensure peace and foil conspiracies by abiding by the United Nations’ charter, which provides for collective well being and welfare of humanity.
We are under obligation to leave a better, prosperous and peaceful world for our succeeding generations. Let us resolve on this auspicious day to promote peace at both individual and collective levels by fostering positive attitudes.
PR. No. 288
PRESS RELEASE
CHAIRMAN PAKISTAN-EUROPEAN PARLIAMENTARY
GROUP OF EU CALLS ON THE PRIME MINISTER
Islamabad: September 21st, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has welcomed European Union Council’s decision to grant Pakistan enhanced access to its member countries markets by seeking a Pakistan specific WTO waiver. He stated that he was certain that instead of affecting EU’s domestic industry and jobs, the proposed market access will only help Pakistan regain its potential share of the European markets from some of its competitors and thus assist Government of Pakistan in reviving country’s economy. Prime Minister expressed his earnest hope that the European Parliament will lend its full support to EU Council’s decision.
Prime Minister was talking to Mr. Sajjad Karim, Member of European Parliament (MEP) and Chairman of Pakistan European Parliamentary Friendship Group, who called on him in his Chamber at the National Assembly Secretariat this afternoon.
Prime Minister conveyed through the MEP, his Government’s gratitude on the solidarity and support shown by the European Parliament through its endorsement of the call for long term EU approach to help Pakistan in overcoming its economic challenges which have been accentuated by the massive devastation caused by floods. He also appreciated Mr. Sajjad Karim’s personal proactive role in promoting the cause of Pakistan in the European Parliament and urged him to continue his efforts through his Friendship Group as well as through the Conservative Delegation in the European Parliament, for provision of immediate and long term assistance to Pakistan.
Prime Minister while apprising him of the human and material losses sustained by the country in the recent unprecedented natural calamity, stated that he had constituted a thirteen member National Oversight Disaster Management Council (NODMC) with consensus of all the four provincial as well as of AJK and Gilgit and Baltistan Governments through the forum of Council of Common Interests. The Council he added would ensure transparency, accountability and optimal judicious utilization of the foreign assistance for flood victims of Pakistan. He said the NODMC comprising dignitaries with impeccable integrity has been fully empowered to check every aspect of collection, distribution and use of the assistance.
The Prime Minister said that despite its present economic difficulties, Pakistan remains committed to fight the menace of terror in the interest of peace and security of world at large and to undertake the structural economic reforms including broadening of tax base, reprioritizing the budget expenditure and fulfillment of its pledges made to the International Financial Institutions.
Mr. Sajjad Karim while conveying the best wishes of the leadership and people of European Union to the Prime Minister and people of Pakistan assured the Prime Minister of European Union’s complete support in these trying times for Pakistan. He agreed with the Prime Minister on the imperative need for providing market access to Pakistan in order to help it revive its economy. He promised to facilitate it through the European Parliament.
Mr. Sajjad Karim underlined the importance of parliamentary exchanges between Pakistan and the EU for creating better understanding of each other’s situation and perspectives. He expressed the hope that these links would be further strengthened in the future. He undertook to endeavour for expansion of ties between the legislators of the two sides through his forum of Friends of Pakistan Group in the European Parliament.
PR. No. 289
PRESS RELEASE
LIBYAN GOVERNMENT HANDS OVER 450 TONS OF FOOD ITEMS TO NDMA
Islamabad, 21 Sept 2010.As a gesture of goodwill and sharing in this hour of need, the Government of brotherly country of Libya provided 450 tons of food items including rice, pulses, milk and clean bottled drinking water. The Libyan Ambassador to Pakistan HE Ibrahim Al-Abid Mukhtar handed over the consignment to Member Administration & Finance, NDMA, Mr. Ahmed Kamal in a brief ceremony at Rawat.
Speaking on the occasion, HE Ibrahim Al-Abid Mukhtar lauded the unflinching commitment of NDMA with the fast track and timely provision of relief and rescue activities to the multitude of populace affected by the unprecedented floods. He assured Mr. Ahmed Kamal of the continued support of his country in dealing with the aftermath of this calamity. He said that the Government and people of Libya will always stand by their Pakistani brothers.
Mr. Ahmed Kamal thanked the Government and people of Libya for showing compassion for their Pakistani brothers and expressed hope that this support will continue until the hardships of the flood affectees are alleviated. He said that the NDMA is incessantly working to mitigate the sufferings of the affectees and this mission will continue until the last victim is rehabilitated.
PR. No. 290
PRESS RELEASE
UN SECRETARY GENERAL CALLS FOR ASSISTANCE TO PAKISTAN IN THE AFTERMATH OF FLOODS
Islamabad, 21st September, 2010The Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi, held a meeting today with the UN Secretary-General, Mr. Ban Ki-moon, at the UN Headquarters, New York. The Foreign Minister and the Secretary-General exchanged views on relief, rehabilitation and development endeavours for the people affected by unprecedented floods in Pakistan, says a press release received from Pakistan Mission to the United Nations, New York, here today.
The Secretary-General recalled the successful High-level Ministerial meeting held in New York on 19 September 2010, which evinced support from all around the world. This includes foreign governments, the UN country team, NGOs, civil society. He recognized the important role played by the Government of Pakistan. Mr. Ban appreciated the valuable contribution of National Disaster Management Authority and military and civilian authorities in this context. The UN, NGOs, civil society and the Government of Pakistan should continue to work as one team for this humanitarian purpose, the Secretary General remarked.
Foreign Minister Qureshi expressed profound gratitude on behalf of people and Government of Pakistan for the Secretary-General’s tremendous support and leadership provided in this humanitarian crisis. He thanked the Secretary-General for personally visiting Pakistan in August, holding of special event on 19 August, launching of the UN Revised Response Plan on 17 September and organizing the High-level Ministerial Meeting on 19 September 2010. He agreed with the Secretary-General that the UN, civil Society and Government of Pakistan should work together for providing relief assistance to the people affected by floods. The challenge was huge but the objective was to make the whole exercise a great success.
The Foreign Minister recalled that the Government of Pakistan has established a National Oversight Disaster Management Council comprising 15 members of very high caliber and sound integrity to oversee the relief, rehabilitation and development efforts. Besides, a website of the Government of Pakistan has been created which has all necessary information regarding receipt and utilization of funds received from all sources and spent.
The Foreign Minister was accompanied by Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the UN, Ambassador Abdullah Hussain Haroon.
PR. No. 291
PRESS RELEASE
MESSAGE OF PRESIDENT ASIF ALI ZARDARI ON WORLD PEACE DAY
Islamabad September 21, 2010Following is the text of message from President Asif Ali Zardari on World Peace Day:-
“World Peace Day today is a reminder for world community to support UN efforts for world peace. The success of UN peacekeeping depends on the political will and support of the Member States. The success of durable global peace is in the international community’s collective interest.”“Pakistan has been a partner in this collective endeavor since the early 1960s. It has rendered innumerable services for world peace. Its peacekeepers have laid down their lives in promoting global peace in various UN Missions across the world.”
“Pakistan is a peace-loving nation and we are willing to go an extra mile to resolve all our issues through dialogue. We sincerely hope that the solutions we achieve are just, principled and long lasting.”
“We are confronted with formidable challenges in form of militancy and extremist mind set. The militants and their supporters want to derail the peace process. They also want to impose their own political agenda on the people through use of force. We will not let that happen.”
“A great challenge to peace and stability comes from intolerance to opposing views. Whether it is militancy, extremism or sectarianism its roots lie in intolerance. One effective response to this challenge lies in democracy that believes in unity in diversity and in tolerance towards dissent. Another effective response lies in promoting interfaith harmony.
“Only Democracy can deliver in realizing the aspirations of our people for peace, progress and prosperity. The fate of one billion people of South Asia also hangs in the balance. It is the people, and the people alone, who can decide about the future of South Asia.”
“We must understand that an enduring peace demands that South Asia move forward with the support and blessings of the true representatives of the people.”
.”On this day we must reiterate our commitment to global peace and understand that democracy is the only sure way to deliver peace and stability and dispel the dark clouds that have cast a shadow on our region.”
PR. No. 292
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad September 21, 2010The interfaith initiative of Pakistan aims at forging tolerance and respect for people of all religions at the grass roots level and under this initiative interfaith committees have been set up comprising of Muslims and non Muslim members in equal numbers with a view to promote religious tolerance among people as well monitor the incidences of violence and send recommendations to the Federal Government so that policies and practices could be improved on the basis of recommendations. In addition to this a number of other measures are also being taken for integration of minorities in the economic and social mainstream. This was stated by Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Minorities Mr. Shehbaz Bhatti while addressing a conference organized by the Christian Muslim Forum (CMF) at the St. George the Martyr Church, says a press release received from London here today.
The Minister further informed that the present government with its commitment to revive the vision of founding fathers of the country , which was one of tolerance and integration has taken several measures to address the issues pertaining to minorities. H e informed that 5% quota has now been reserved for the minorities in the civil services , similarly through the 18th amendment four seats for the minorities have been reserved in the upper house of parliament the Senate. He further informed that the sub- committee of Parliamentary Standing Committees on Minorities is in the process of reviewing discriminatory laws and to prevent misuse of this law against minorities.
Emphasizing the need of international help and support to cope with the devastation caused by recent floods the Minister also launched appeal for flood victims at the Christian Muslim forum saying that all the religions preach humanity and emphasize help to human beings in suffering. He said that it was the duty of believers in interfaith harmony to come forward and help flood victims in Pakistan.
Co - Chairman of Christian in Muslim Forum Dr. Musharraf Hussain who recently visited Pakistan with Archbishop of Canterbury said that he observed that Minorities in Pakistan were confident and well integrated in the mainstream . Conference was chaired by The RT, RVD Dr. Richard Cheetham and other speakers included Mr. Julian Bond , Director Christan Muslim Forum, Dr. Musharraf Hussain Co Chairperson of CMF , and Ms. Anjum Anwar Dialogue Development Officer at the Blackburn Cathedral.
PR. No. 293
PRESS RELEASE
U.S. AMBASSADOR CALLS ON PRESIDENT
Islamabad September 21, 2010U.S. Ambassador in Pakistan Ms. Anne W. Patterson called on President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr today.
Matters regarding rehabilitation of flood victims, reconstruction of flood damaged infrastructure and Pak- US bilateral relations were discussed during the meeting.
PR. No. 294
PRESS RELEASE
PM TAKES VERY SERIOUS NOTICE OF THE PETROLEUM SHORTAGE
Islamabad September 21, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has taken very serious notice of the petrol shortage in some parts of Punjab and Balochistan and directed the Petroleum Ministry to take immediate steps to normalize the situation within 24 hours.
The Prime Minister expressed his annoyance over the hardships which the people are facing due to the prevailing situation and asked the concerned authorities to submit report as to why the problem has not been resolved despite clear instructions from the government.
