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PR No. 274
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: 24th March, 2010An impressive flag hoisting ceremony was held at the Consulate General of Pakistan, Los Angeles yesterday. The programme started with recitation of the Holy Quran. Dr. Muhammad Khalid Ejaz, Acting Consul General hoisted the flag. A representative group of Pakistani community joined the Acting Consul General and staff of the Consulate to sing the national anthem. The messages of the President and the Prime Minister were also read by the Acting Consul General, says a press release received here from Los Angeles today.
In his brief remarks, Dr.Muhammad Khalid Ejaz felicitated the Pakistani-American community living in the West coast on the auspicious occasion of National Day of Pakistan. He urged the community to contribute in building Pakistan and making it a truly modern, dynamic, and democratic Islamic Welfare State.
The consulate was beautifully decorated with balloons, posters, pictures, flags and colourful banners. The guests were served with specially prepared cake, traditional Pakistani samosas, Jeelabi, Kabab Paratha and tea etc.
The ceremony ended with prayers for prosperity and welfare of Pakistan.
The photographers and movie of the ceremony are available for publication/relay at the following address.
www.pakconsulatela,org(picture gallery)
PR No. 275
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: 24th March, 2010The Embassy of Pakistan, Beijing held it’s National Day Reception at the China World Hotel on 23 March 2010. The Chief Guest on the occasion was Madam Fu Ying, Vice Foreign Minister of the People’s Republic of China, says a press release received here today from Beijing.
In his welcoming remarks, Ambassador of Pakistan, Masood Khan said that the past year had been extremely good for Pakistan-China strategic partnership, bilateral trade, Chinese investment in Pakistan, and people to people contacts. He said that Pakistan was thankful to the leadership and people of China for their strong and consistent support and that the people of Pakistan love and revere the people of China and the people of China had much warmth and affection for the people of Pakistan.
An investiture ceremony was also held during the reception in which Ambassador Masood Khan, on behalf of the President of Pakistan, presented civil awards to two distinguished Chinese nationals for their meritorious services to strengthening Pakistan-China relations.
The award of Hilal-Pakistan was presented to General Liang Guanglie, Minister of National Defence of the People’s Republic of China for the promotion of Pakistan, China relations. The award was received on the behalf by General Jia Xiaoming of the Chinese Ministry of Defence.
The award of Sitara-i-Quaid-i-Azam was presented to the renowned Chinese educationist and scholar, Professor Li Xiguangs of Tsinghua University for his role in promoting the bonds of friendship between Pakistan and China, Professor Li Xiguang recently led a Chinese experts’ delegation to Moenjodaro in Pakistan.
The reception was attended by around 800 people from all walks of life. They included Chinese government leaders and officials, corporate heads, students from various universities in Beijing media persons and representatives from leading think-tanks as well as a large number of Beijing-based ambassadors and diplomats.
PR No. 276
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: 24th March, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has appreciated OIC’s support to the people of Jammu & Kashmir for the realization of their right of self-determination in accordance with the relevant UN resolutions. He welcomed the appointment of Ambassador Abdullah Al-Aleem as OIC Secretary General’s Special Representative on Jammu & Kashmir. Prime Minister said that Pakistan looks forward to the proposed visit of the Special Representative to Pakistan and the region to gain first hand knowledge of the atrocities being committed against Kashmiris in Indian held Jammu & Kashmir and for highlighting their cause in the international forum.
He was talking to Prof. Dr. Ekmeleddin Ihsanoglu, Secretary General of the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) who called on him at the PM’s House here this morning.
The Prime Minister assured the OIC Secretary General of his government’s full support in OIC’s campaign to project the correct image of Islam in the western world and addressing the misconceived notions of Islam-phobia. He urged greater coordination with more strenuous efforts by the Muslim world to dispel the misperceptions about the Islamic faith and society in the rest of the world. The Prime Minister also reiterated his government’s complete support for the Palestinian people’s right of self determination and establishment of an independent Palestinian State with Al-Quds Sharif as its capital. He welcomed the OIC proposal that the member countries should involve themselves in the socio-development projects in the Palestinian territories to practically show the solidarity with their Palestinian brethren. The Prime Minister said that Pakistan would whole heartedly participate in such projects.
The OIC Secretary General expressed his profound gratitude on conferment of Hilal-e-Pakistan award on him, the first to OIC Secretary General, and termed it as a great honour for him and his organization. He apprised the Prime Minister of OIC’s initiative to the formation of a Committee comprising Afghanistan’s neighbours and important Muslim countries to help the Afghan people in the reconciliation and reintegration process. It was agreed that Pakistan will seriously lend its support to that initiative once the contours of the policy of reconciliation of Afghan Government takes a clear shape.
The Secretary General also apprised the Prime Minister of OIC’s campaign through media, think tanks and lecture circuit to portray the correct image of Islam and to ward off the plans by certain states to impose restrictions on the mosques and other religious rights of Muslim communities.
The Prime Minister pledged his government’s complete assistance to OIC in this campaign and through passage of binding resolutions in Human Rights Council and other relevant international organizations. It was also agreed that Pakistan and OIC will intensify their cooperation through their coordinated efforts in addressing every political, economic and cultural issue of the Muslim Ummah.
**PMMO/Ahmad**
PR No. 277
PRESS RELEASE
Pakistan & Czech Republic sign MoU to boost
Defence Cooperation.
Rawalpindi: 24th March, 2010Pakistan and Czech Republic signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to increase military and defence cooperation between the two countries. Federal Minister for Defence Production, Mr. Abdul Qayyum Khan Jatoi, and the visiting Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister of Czech Republic, Mr. Martin Bartak, put signatures on MoU on behalf of their respective countries in Ministry of Defence today. The MoU envisages to increasing cooperation in the area of Military training, exchanges of Military delegation and collaboration in the field of defence production.
Earlier, the defence delegation led by the Defence Minister of Czech Republic, Mr. Martin Bartak, called on Federal Minister for Defence Production, Mr. Abdul Qayyum Khan Jatoi, and exchanged views on matters pertaining to enhancement of defence cooperation. The meeting emphasized the need to promote broad spectrum bilateral cooperation covering all aspects including defence, trade and economy. The Meeting acknowledged the fact that both countries had greater potential in the field of defence production which needed to be explored for the mutual benefits of the two sides. The Minister also highlighted the contribution made by Pakistan against the war on terror. He informed the delegation that Pakistan was committed to contain and uproot terrorism. He said that the fighting against terror had drained Pakistan’s economy and the International community was required to assist Pakistan in its efforts to combat and eliminate terrorism.
While appreciating the counter-terrorism measures taken by Pakistan, the Defence Minister of Czech Republic said that Pakistan had been playing a key role against the war on terror and the international community needed to assist Pakistan in its endeavors against the war on terror. Mr. Martin Bartak said that his country was keen to promote closer partnership and meaningful defence cooperation with Pakistan. He expressed the hope that the MoU, signed between Pakistan and Czech Republic, would pave the way for strengthening and promoting closer defence cooperation between the two countries.
**AM/Ahmad**
PR No. 278
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: 24th March, 2010A delegation of World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB) led by its secretary General Mr. Phallop Thaiarry called on President Asif Ali Zardari at the Aiwan-e- Sadr Wednesday afternoon.
The President while talking to the delegation said that the government was keen to preserve and develop the ancient cultural heritage of Gandhara not only as a means to promote inter-faith harmony but also to promote tourism in the country. The existence of large number of Buddhist stupas and monasteries in Gandhara, which are very sacred for Buddhists are an important part of our historic culture, the President said and added that the government has always welcomed tourists and foreign visitors to these sacred religious sites in Pakistan.
The President appreciated the various steps proposed by the World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB) to promote Gandhara heritage of Pakistan including the establishment of Gandhara chair in one of the renowned universities, association of WFB with some of Pakistani institutions and the translation of literature on Gandhara in Thai Language.
The President while referring to the civilizational link between Pakistan and Thailand said that the two countries enjoy cordial relations and have worked together for peace and stability. He said that Pakistan attaches importance to further develop its relationship with Thailand in all fields, particularly in the areas of culture and people to people contacts.
The President said that the PPP government as per party manifesto was committed to protect rights and privileges of minorities as enshrined in the Constitution and bring them into the mainstream of national life.
He said that the government has taken vigorous steps for the protection of rights of minority community including allocation of 5% quota for minorities in government jobs, increasing the minorities Development fund by two fold, establishing skills development centers for members of minorities community, commemorating August 11 as Minority Day and the establishment of inter- faith Harmony Committees at the district level in the country.
The President said that a hot line had also been set up in the Minorities Affairs Ministry with extension to the Presidency for emergency calls from members of minority community against incidents of victimization and violence against them. This he said was a new initiative that will serve as deterrence against potential criminal elements against the minority members.
Secretary General, World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB), Mr. Phallop Thaiarry thanked the President for meeting the delegation and appreciated the various measures taken by the government of Pakistan to protect the rights of minority community and to preserve the rich cultural and religious heritage of Gandhara in Pakistan.
Those who attended the meeting among others include Mr. Shahbaz Bhatti, Minister for Minorities affairs, federal Secretaries of minorities, tourism and culture and other senior government officials.
**FU/Ahmad**
PR No. 279
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: 24th March, 2010Federal Minister for Minorities, Shahbaz Bhatti has taken note of self ambulation of Rashid Masih, resident of Adiala Road, Rawalpindi.
Federal Minister directed the concerned authorities for inquiry and to submit report within 24 hours.
He said that after investigation strict action will be taken against the responsible.
He extended the sympathy to the grieved family. Minister said this is a tragic and an unfortunate incident.
**JG/Ahmad**
PR No. 280
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: 24th March, 2010
Maj Gen (Retd) Muhammad Siddique Pakistan High Commissioner to Mauritius presented his credentials to the President of Republic of Mauritius HE Sir Anerood Jugnauth on 22 March 2010. The High Commissioner also called on the Prime Minister of Mauritius Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam and the two sides resolved to further enhance bilateral relations, with particular emphasis on trade, culture and investment cooperation.
**MA/Ahmad**
PR No. 281
PRESS RELEASE
CELEBRATION OF PAKISTAN DAY AT MAURITIUS
Islamabad: 24th March, 2010Pakistan Day was celebrated at Mauritius on 23rd March 2010 with traditional zeal and enthusiasm. There were two major events of the day. First, Flag Hoisting Ceremony was held at the High Commission, which was attended by large number of Pakistanis settled or doing business at Mauritius. High Commissioner Major General (Retd) Muhammad Siddique, hoisted the National Flag and interacted with the community, urging them to work towards building country’s image and helping to improve the trade relations between two countries. The Messages of the President and the Prime Minster were read out by the High Commissioner to the audience.
In the second event a reception was hosted at Sir Abdul Razack Mohamed Hall in Phoenix, which was very well attended. The guests included HE Sir Aneerood Jugnauth the President of Republic of Mauritius, the First Lady, The Prime Minister of Mauritius, ex President, number of Ministers, members of National Assembly and diplomatic corps. Besides prominent businessmen local as well as Pakistanis attended the function. After welcome remarks by the High Commissioner, national anthems of both countries were played by Police Band. A cake for commemorating the event was cut by the President, the Prime Minister and the High Commissioner.
Both events were widely covered in the print and electronic media.
**MA/Ahmad**
PR No. 282
PRESS RELEASE
Prime Minister congratulates the Cabinet on
completion of two years of Parliamentary government.
Islamabad: 24th March, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani congratulated the members of the Federal Cabinet on the completion of two years of the government while chairing 52nd meeting of the Cabinet at the Prime Minister’s Secretariat today. The Cabinet was informed that the first meeting of the present Cabinet was held on 31st March, 2008. So far, 51 meetings were held upto 28th of February, 2010. During the last 51 meetings of the Cabinet, 492 decisions were taken. It was appreciated that 428 decisions have been implemented which indicated that 87% of the decisions made by the Cabinet were implemented. However, 64 decisions were under different stages of implementation.
The Prime Minister said that before taking oath, he had taken the Parliament into confidence and spelt out the priority areas of the government on the basis of manifesto of the Party and consensus of the ruling coalition.
Prime Minister said that debate, consultation and consensus were the guiding principles of his government to take decisions at the regular Cabinet meetings which were conducted in a democratic manner and decisions were taken after exhaustive debate corresponding with the democratic values and culture. The Prime Minister said that decisions of the Cabinet reflect collective wisdom and the spirit of taking along diverse points of view in the interest of the nation.
The Prime Minister said that pace of achievement during the two years from the five year targets fixed by the government is encouraging. He said each Ministry would be evaluated on the basis of targets achieved during last two years. He asked all the Ministries to provide their input to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to project the performance of their Ministries during last two years. He also directed that the Ministries concerned should also highlight their performance at their own level.
Highlighting priority areas of the government, the Prime Minister said energy sector is top priority on the agenda of Pakistan-US strategic dialogue beginning today. The delegation led by Foreign Minister comprising political and military leadership demonstrates national approach on key issues.
The Prime Minister appreciated the efforts of the Parliamentary Committee for Constitutional Reforms for their hard work and devotion in finalizing the proposed amendments. The Committees had regularly met in last six months with over 70 meetings. The Prime Minister said the constitutional reforms once passed by the Parliament would be an historic achievement of all the political parties. The objective before all of us is to strengthen the institutions rather than individuals, the Prime Minister said and added, the reforms in the constitution would benefit our coming generations.
The Prime Minister emphasized upon the members of the Cabinet as well as Parliamentarians of the coalition to regularly attend the current session.
The Prime Minister said the National Policies of Security, Kashmir and Nuclear capability need to be finalized with unanimity since the whole nation is united on all of these policies. This would send a message of complete unity on issues of national interest.
While reviewing implementation status of the Cabinet decisions, it was decided that items of five Ministries would be taken up in each Cabinet meeting for review and decision. It was observed that most of the pending decisions relate to cooperation with other countries and response from these Committees is awaited. Similarly there were items which required consultations with stakeholders in different sectors as per direction of the Cabinet. Some of the items awaited inter-ministerial discussions and some are under submission to the Cabinet Committees.
The Cabinet accorded approval in principle to initiate negotiations for joining the Trans-Pacific Economic Partnership Agreement signed by New Zealand, Chile, Singapore and Brunei Dar-e-Salam for liberalization of trade in goods and trade facilitation measures.
While discussing the project for Procurement / Installation of Non-Intrusive Vehicle X-Ray Inspection System proposed by the Ministry of Interior, the Cabinet set up a Ministerial Committee under the chairmanship of Minister for Health to review the project and submit its recommendations to the Cabinet.
The Cabinet approved in principle the Draft Memorandum of Understanding between Pakistan and Iraq for defence training cooperation between the two countries.
The Cabinet approved loan agreement with Government of Japan for National Transmission lines and Grid Station Strengthening Project. The Government of Japan would grant loan of Japanese Yen 23.3 Billion (equivalent to US $ 257 Million).
The Cabinet approved the ratification of International Convention on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) and Convention against Torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment subject to the approval of the Cabinet Committee of the Ministries of Religious Affairs, Minorities Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Law and Justice, Economic Affairs Division and Human Rights.
The Cabinet approved in principle to enter into negotiations with Spain on an agreement on transfer of sentenced persons.
The Cabinet accorded ex-post facto approval in principle to start negotiations on an MoU with South Asia Cooperative Environment Programme (SACEP) on Regional Oil and Chemical Pollution Contingency Plan.
The Cabinet gave ex-post facto approval to the MoU between Alternative Energy Development Board (AEDB) and two Chinese solar energy companies.
The Cabinet approved the determination of upfront tariff for co-generation projects by sugar industry with the improvement of wordings by the Law ministry.
The Cabinet approved the bill to provide for the establishment of National University of Law and Social Sciences in Islamabad
Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) report 2002-2008 was presented to the Cabinet. A Cabinet Committee under the Minister for Law and Justice was set up to review the rules and working of the PPRA.
**PMMO/Ahmad**
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST OR TELECAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF 25th MARCH, 2010
PR No. 283
PRESS RELEASE
Message from Mr. Asif Ali Zardari
President Islamic Republic of Pakistan
(on Completion of the two year of the Democratic Government)
Islamabad 24 March, 2010The revival of democracy has completed two years today. On this occasion I wish to compliment the nation, the Parliament, democratic forces and the government.
Two years is not a long period of time. However, it goes to the credit of the democratic government to have made significant strides during this period in the service of people.
A number of achievements stand out as testimony to the strides taken by the democratic government. These include the 7th NFC Award, Aghaz- i -Haqooq –I-Balochistan, political reforms in Gilgit – Baltistan and FATA, reconstitution the Council of Common Interest, allocation of 120 billion rupees to Pakhtoonkhwah as net hydel profit, launching Benazir Income Support Programme to alleviate poverty, increasing gas development surcharge for Balochistan, taking the militancy head on and lately the progress made in reforming the Constitution.
While these achievements are commendable we are also mindful of the fact that much more needs to be done. On this occasion I wish to state that we have a future that promises dividends of peace, prosperity and development provided we stand firm on the course of democracy.
The spirit of participation, consultation and equal opportunity are the guiding principle for the formulation of government policy at strategic and implementation levels.
I commend the performance of the government, which is representing the broader political spectrum, for the achievements in a short span of two years. I am confident that the People’s government will keep up this momentum and by the end of its 5-years term, a stronger and prosperous Pakistan will emerge and it will be able to go to the court of the people with an impressive record of performance and achievements.
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST OR TELECAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF 25th MARCH, 2010
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST OR TELECAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF 25th MARCH, 2010
PR No. 284
MESSAGE BY PRIME MINISTER
SYED YUSUF RAZA GILANI on
“TWO YEARS OF DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT”
Islamabad 24th March, 2010By the grace of Allah Almighty on completion of two years service of the Nation, it is time to review the progress. The performance and functioning of the government clearly manifests as to how the struggle of people for democracy has ensured a clear direction. A review of two years in office by PPP-led coalition government helps in reaching the conclusion that gigantic political, economic and security challenges have amicably being addressed.
The special initiatives started during the two years which include Benazir Bhutto Income Support Program, Wasila-e-Haq Program, Green Tractor Scheme and Aghaz-e-Haqooq-e-Balochistan among others, have helped to mitigate economic difficulties of the helpless and poor. We can also justifiably take pride in our accomplishments in various sectors including Agriculture, Social Sector, Poverty Alleviation, Defence, Foreign Relations and the War Against Terrorism. These speak volumes for our earnest efforts and sincere pursuit to resolve the issues and strive for prosperity of the people.
Learning from constructive criticism, the government has taken definite steps to ensure good governance. The government is conscious of the high expectations which the people have placed in its functioning and is accordingly formulation a resolute course of action. It will indeed, take a little more time to leave behind the legacy of a decade long dictatorial rule and steer the country towards prosperity.
The hallmark of PPP-led coalition government, indeed, remains the policy of reconciliation and consensus in addressing internal and external issues. Humility, and not arrogance, understanding as against confrontation were the guiding principles for our government which promoted a culture of debate and dialogue in the Parliament. The government also demonstrated its commitment to ensure the supremacy of Parliament.
In the domain of foreign relations, our government pursued tangible steps to promote relations with our time-tested friends like China, Turkey and Saudi Arabia. Efforts against terrorism were pursued in close coordination with our coalition partners including the United States and United Kingdom. Bilateral relations with India were handled on the basis of mutual self-respect. We were able to project our position on issues such as Kashmir Dispute and Water Accord in a far more convincing manner before the international community for greater appreciation and support. Pakistan is today confident of the support of friends and allies in international community and has better credibility with all international organizations.
Pakistan is now marching ahead with greater respect of the international community and a more cogent support of its people to evolve a democratic culture supportive of collective wisdom and economically viable infrastructure for a prosperous and better Pakistan.
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST OR TELECAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF 25th MARCH, 2010
PR No. 285
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: 24th March, 2010President Asif Ali Zardari Wednesday urged for further enhancing the bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Czech Republic in all fields particularly in areas of commerce, trade, tourism and defence production.
This he said while talking to Mr. Martin BARTAK, Deputy Prime Minister and minister of defence of Czech Republic, who called on him at the Aiwan-e-Sadr.
Those who attended the meeting included Mr. Abdul Qayyum Khan Jatoi, Minister for defence production, Senator Syeda Sughra Imam, Spokesperson to the President former Senator Farhatullah Babar and other senior government officials. Ambassador of Czech Republic in Pakistan, Mr. Pavol SEPELAK was also present.
The President said that the signing of the MoU will provide a sound base for enhancing defence cooperation between the two countries. The President while talking to the Deputy Prime minister also sought Czech Republic’s support for Pakistan efforts for enhanced market access to Pakistani products in the European Union.
The President also informed the Deputy Prime minister about the fight against militancy and terrorism, problems of displaced people as a result of war against terror, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts in war affected areas and its huge impact on the country’s economy.
The President said that Pakistan has paid a heavy price in terms of both human and material losses in the fight against militancy. Our economy, trade, investment and tourism could not flourish as a result of continued fight against militancy during the last eight years, the President said and added that Pakistan looked forward to the international community to assist it in overcoming our difficulties. Pakistan needs trade and market access for its product in order to set its economy on the path of stability and prosperity, the President said.
The Deputy Prime minister of Czech Republic, Mr. Martin BARTAK appreciated the efforts of the Pakistan’s government in fight against militancy and assured full support of his government in its efforts to curb militancy from the region.
**FU/Ahmad**
PR No. 286
PRESS RELEASE
BISP, PPAF COLLABORATING TO BRING RELIEF TO PWDS: FARZANA RAJA
Islamabad: 24th March, 2010The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) and Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF) are working together to alleviate the sufferings of the physically disabled in the country, said Federal Minister/Chairperson BISP Farzana Raja on Wednesday.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of PPAF Earthquake Disability Project Farzana Raja praised PPAF’s efforts for persons with disabilities (PWDs). She said it is commendable that instead of giving financial aid or money, PPAF was providing PWDs with assistive devices, skill training and attendant-ship training. She said BISP and PPAF are partners in alleviating sufferings of the marginalized and disadvantaged people. PPAF has been chosen by BISP to assist it in implementation of its various programmes designed for the vulnerable and marginalized segments of the society.
Farzana Raja said BISP was conducting a nationwide Poverty Survey with the help of the World Bank and as an indicative of its commitment to the needs of special people BISP has incorporated special provisions for identification of families with special persons in this survey. She said the nationwide Poverty Survey will start in May and it will first be completed in Baluchistan by June 2010. In addition to this, she said, BISP was also working on improving healthcare access to its beneficiaries through introduction of Health Insurance with a Rs.25,000/year. Farzana Raja said the Health Insurance would be of special significance for the families having special needs. She said BISP is also devising a comprehensive skill development/vocational training plan, under which one member of beneficiary family will receive free technical training to enabling them to contribute to the family’s income. BISP would look for opportunities to incorporate PWDs into this programme, said Farzana Raja.
Deploring the hardships, neglect and abuse faced by PWDs in underdeveloped societies, Farzana Raja said BISP, PPAF and other organizations working for the poor and vulnerable must fight these abhorrent traditions and should ensure adequate care, protection and support for PWDs. BISP and PPAF will continue striving for a better future for PWDs through collaborative partnerships between non-government organizations and the community.
Farzana Raja said she was pleased to know that PPAF is undertaking interventions for income enhancement of poor persons with disabilities. She appreciated the launching of a special microfinance programme for PWDs. She expressed hope that both BISP and PPAF will go a long way together for achievement of noble common objectives.
SK/wh
PR No. 287
PRESS RELEASE
PAKISTAN DAY CELEBRATION
Islamabad: 24th March, 2010Pakistan Day was celebrated yesterday night with solemnity and fervor. A simple but impressive ceremony was held in Police Club, Cairo. Ambassador of Pakistan Madam Seema Naqvi received felicitations from participants and exchanged her views on the occasion.
It was attended by the diplomatic corps in Cairo, the Pakistani community and the Egyptian dignitaries representing various walks of life. Former Egyptian Ambassadors to Pakistan including Ambassador Ezzud Din Sharaf also attended the event.
Egyptian Gazette published coloured full back page, carrying messages of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the President, the Prime Minister and Ambassador of Pakistan. It also included the articles on Pakistan’s role in the maintenance of international peace and security and economic co-operation between Pakistan and Egypt.
Egyptian Radio and Television covered the event. Ambassador also gave interview to Nile TV and MENA-official News agency of Egypt. Moreover, prominent journalists from Al Ahram, Al Gamouria, Al Ahrar and Al-Akhbar also interviewed her. Ambassador also highlighted the significance of 23rd March, 1940 resolution and replied to multiple questions of Egyptian media.
MNK/wh
PR No. 288
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: 24th March, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has said that the masses have given mandate to their representatives to help in the formation of policies which could solve their problems.
He was talking to a delegation of Parliamentarians including Ministers who called on him at his Parliament House Chamber here this evening.
The Prime Minister said that by the effective supervision and monitoring of the people oriented projects the expectations of the people could fulfilled.
The Prime Minister said that the government is committed to preparing policies which are focused on the welfare of people so that ultimate benefit reaches the common man. Any delay, he said, could undermine the utility and cost of these projects.
The Parliamentarians included, Federal Minister for Labour and Manpower, Syed Khursheed Shah, Minister for Sports, Mr. Ijaz Ahmed Jakrani, Minister for SAFRON, MOS, Ports and Shipping, Mr. Nabeel Gabol, MOS Information, Syed Sumsan Ali Bukhari, MNAs, Ms. Palwasha Behram, Sardar Ahmed Ali Talpur, Mr. Khurram Jahangir Watto.PMMO/wh
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED/BROADCAST/TELECAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF 25TH MARCH, 2010
PR No. 289
PRESS RELEASE
PM GREETS HELLENIC REPUBLIC COUNTERPART ON INDEPENDENCE DAY
Islamabad: 24th March, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has sent a message of greetings to the Prime Minister of Hellenic Republic of Greece, Mr. George Papandreou on their independence day falling on March 25.
In his message, the Prime Minister said: “on behalf of the government and people of Pakistan, I wish to extend my sincere felicitations to the government and people of the Hellenic Republic, on the august occasion of the independence day of the Hellenic Republic.
It is heartening to see that our two countries enjoy warm and friendly relations characterized by shared perceptions on issues of mutual interest. We would like these relations to further strengthen in the years ahead.
I would like to express my best wishes for Your Excellency’s health and happiness and well-being.”
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED/BROADCAST/TELECAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF 25TH MARCH, 2010
PR No. 290
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: 24th March, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani, while appreciating Czech Republic’s important lead role as the rotating Chair of European Union in 2009 for arranging the first Pakistan-EU Summit, expressed the hope that the Czech Government would continue to support Pakistan’s case in the EU for institutionalization of Pakistan-EU Summit process, enhanced market access through GSP Plus facilities and for initiation of negotiations on FTA between Pakistan and the EU.
He was talking to Mr. Martin Bartak, Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Defence of the Czech Republic, who along with his delegation called on the Prime Minister this afternoon.
The Prime Minister expressed his satisfaction on signing of the MoU between the two countries, earlier in the day, on Defence Cooperation and hoped that it will open new vistas of cooperation in defence production, joint ventures in Defence and in training fields. The Prime Minister said that Pakistan could be interested in L-159 Trainer Jets being produced in the Czech Republic with the US collaboration and in upgradation of MI-17 helicopters at the Czech defence facilities.
The Prime Minister said it was gratifying to note that the bilateral trade between the two countries had tripled in three years’ period. That trend was reflective of the fact that a vast untapped potential still existed for further trade expansion. He called for concerted measures by both the sides for focusing on this area. He also identified power generation, particularly the solar and hydel power, mining, oil and gas exploration, education and science and technology sectors for future collaboration between the two countries.
Recalling his meetings with the former Czech Deputy Prime Minister in Beijing in 2008 and Czech President in Davos in January 2009, the Prime Minister proposed regular high level visits between the two countries including exchanges of parliamentary delegations for strengthening of the bilateral ties and imparting new impetus for cooperation in diversified areas.
The Czech Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Defence underlined the importance his country attaches to fostering ever stronger ties with Pakistan and termed Pakistan’s role as pivotal in the war against terror as well as in restoration of peace and stability in Afghanistan. He reiterated the view held by his President at the First Pakistan-EU Summit that trade was more important than aid for development of Czech Republic itself and assured the Prime Minister of his country’s consistent support in the EU for greater market access to Pakistani products.
The Czech Deputy Premier and Defence Minister conveyed the willingness of his Government to consider joint ventures and increased business in defence production and through sale of equipment including the L-159 Trainer Jets. He invited the Pakistani defence delegation as well as technical experts to visit Prague to have a first-hand experience of the Czech defence production and defence equipment overhaul facilities to take forward the proposals of collaboration in these fields in the future. He also agreed with the Prime Minister on the need for focusing on expansion of trade, and cooperation in economic, science & technology and research training by stating that Czech side was ready to assist Pakistan in these areas to the extent possible. The visit of experts in various fields to Prague could explore opportunities for expanding trade and economic cooperation.
PMCO/wh
PR No. 291
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: 24th March, 2010Pakistan Day reception was hosted by the Pakistan High Commission, Ottawa, at a local hotel yesterday. The event was attended by a sizeable number of people belonging to all walks of life. They included Speaker House of Commons, Mr. Peter Milliken, Speaker Senate Mr. Noel Kinsella, Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs Mr. Deepak Obhrai, parliamentarians, diplomats Canadian officials, members of leading think tanks, mediapersons, students, businessmen and members of the Pakistani-Canadian community.
Pakistani and continental food was served to the guests. The hall was decorated with Pakistani colors. Information material and handicrafts of Pakistan were displayed in the hall.
The guests recognized the pivotal role being played by Pakistan in curbing extremism and militancy and for promoting peace and stability in the region during informal discussions. During the reception the High Commissioner Mr. Akbar Zeb elaborated the efforts being made by Pakistan for consolidating democracy, promoting economic and social development, defeating the forces of extremism for a better future etc.
The guests enjoyed the food and took keen interest in the publicity material displayed on the occasion.
MA/wh