PR No.242 PRESS RELEASE Islamabad:  March 24, 2011 President Asif Ali Zardari today approved pay protection to the officers of Directorate General of Social Welfare. The matter was lingering for the last many years as nearly two hundred officers were demanding pay protection of their pay to safeguard their increment earned prior to their regular employment. Spokesperson said that these officers were engaged in adhoc basis in BPS 16 to BPS 19 during 1986-1990 for Directorate General of Special Education (DGSE). By November 2005, all the officers became regular through FPSC, but Section 17 of Civil Servants Act 1973 and relevant rules did not permit protection of pay of a contract employee on achieving regular appointment against same post. The President exercising his power under Section 23 of Civil Servants Act, 1973 today on a summary sent by the Prime Minister approved pay protection of these officers overriding the bar under Section 17 of the Civil Servants Act 1973 for pay protection. PR No. 243 PRESS RELEASE Islamabad:  March 24, 2011 We need to renew our pledge on this Day that we will unwaveringly strive to make Pakistan a peaceful, prosperous and democratic State. This was stated by Ambassador of Pakistan in UAE Mr. Jamil Ahmed Khan while addressing the gathering at a reception arranged by Embassy of Pakistan at Beach Rotana Hotel here in Abu Dhabi to mark the National Day of Pakistan, says a press release received here today from UAE. The Ambassador said that in spite of many trials and tribulations, our Nation has always emerged with renewed strength and confidence. He said that it is an auspicious occasion as on this day seventy one years ago the Muslims of the subcontinent formally committed through a Resolution to work for achieving a separate homeland for themselves and with the blessings of Allah Almighty and through the heroic struggle of our peers the Muslims of the subcontinent achieved their objective on August 14, 1947, within a short span of seven years. He paid glowing tributes to the Founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah and poet of the East, Allama Iqbal.  He said that Pakistan was created on the ground rules of religious freedom and indiscrimination for all its citizens and we have come a long way since our independence and are proud to be a progressive, democratic and forward looking Islamic country. The Ambassador emphasized that today under the leadership of President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, Pakistan stands tall among the comity of nations.  He said that Pakistan is a hub of foreign investment and our rich mineral resources, oil and gas potential, power and energy sector, agriculture, and massive potential in the field of housing are attracting multinational companies from all over the world. It is now time that the socio-politico-economic analysts look at Pakistan through our eyes, understand our environment, appreciate our culture, our traditions and history, he added. He said that the founding father of the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan had a special love for Pakistan and it is his proud privilege to mention here that His Highness President Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has followed the footsteps of his illustrious father, and has further strengthened the ties between our two countries. He said that Pakistan is confident that its relations with the UAE will continue to grow from strength to strength under the visionary leadership of President Asif Ali Zardari and His Highness President Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Later, National Day cake cutting ceremony was also held and Chief Guest Shaikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Ambassador of Pakistan Mr. Jamil Ahmed Khan jointly cut the cake in the presence of the large audience. The reception was also attended by Shaikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research along with a large number of diplomats, dignitaries, leading community members, prominent businessmen, journalists and a large number of Pakistani Community living in UAE. A separate reception was held at Hotel Radisson Blu in Dubai by the Consulate General of Pakistan Dubai. The reception was attended by Chief Guest Mr. Humaid Mohammad Obaid Al Qattami Education Minister, UAE, a large number of diplomats, dignitaries, leading community members, prominent businessmen,   journalists and a large number of Pakistani Community living in UAE. The Consul General while addressing the gathering welcomed the distinguished guest and said that we are gathered here today to mark the 71st Anniversary of the passing of this historic Resolution and congratulated the fellow countrymen on this very special and joyous occasion.  He said that 71 years ago on 23rd March 1940 in the historic city of Lahore, the Muslims of the Sub-Continent under the banner of All-India Muslim League, passed the historic Lahore Resolution at the Minto-Park calling for the creation of a separate home land for the Muslims of the sub-continent and seven years later, on 14th August 1947, under the able leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah, Pakistan emerged on the world map as the largest Muslim country in the world. The Consul General emphasized that Pakistan today is a vibrant and functioning democracy with an independent judiciary, a free media and a dynamic civil society. He said that the democratic process and our institutional capacity are gaining strength and we are confident that the political process will evolve in a vibrant manner.  Despite the prevailing global economic downturn and in the face of adverse internal and external challenges, our economy remains resilient, he added. He said that we have a large and talented work force and vast natural resources to be tapped. Our banking and financial institutions are based on solid foundations. He said that inspite of adverse internal and external challenges, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gillani have steered the country with remarkable ingenuity, political acumen and display of statesmanship.  He said that Pakistan’s international conduct is reflective of the ethos of our people who place a high premium on dignity and self respect and whole heartedly believe in the vision and promise of United Nations and International Society based on norms of peace and stability as enshrined in the UN Charter.  He said that Pakistan’s relations with the UAE, built on profound recognition of mutual benefits and understanding, are rooted in history and bonded together by common social values, traditions and faith. He said that late Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan laid the foundations for dynamic and robust relations between the two countries in the early 70s and that tradition was continued and strengthened by subsequent leaders on both sides and continues to this day. He said that the leadership of both the countries enjoys each other’s trust and confidence and there is a strong desire on the part of both the countries for further expanding political, trade and economic relations. The Consul General said that besides being the first country to accord diplomatic recognition and opening of resident diplomatic mission in Abu Dhabi, Pakistan played an important role in extending cooperation and setting up of nation building institutions in the field of health, education, banking, agriculture, aviation, defence and security in the UAE.  He said that over the years with substantial investment in banking, finance, telecommunication and real estate sectors and service industry, UAE has emerged as the single largest foreign investor in Pakistan and the second biggest trading partner.   He said that with more than 1.2 Million Pakistanis in the UAE and being the second biggest expatriate community in the country, many of whom consider UAE as their second home and for some their first, Pakistanis have contributed significantly towards the development of UAE with large number of doctors, engineers, bankers and finance managers employed in the government sector with an equally big numbers in business, transport and as laborers. He said that at the international level, the two countries have always extended their unflinching support and cooperation to each other and share commonality of views on many regional and international issues. He emphasized that Pakistan has always espoused the Muslim and Arab cause on every international forum. The UAE on its part has extended generous economic assistance to Pakistan in its hour of need and supported Pakistan’s point of view on regional areas of conflict for which we would always remain grateful.  Later, a cake cutting ceremony was also held and Chief Guest Mr. Humaid Mohammad Obaid Al QattamiEducation Minister, UAE and the Consul General Mr. Tariq Iqbal Soomro joint cut the National Day cake in the presence of large gathering. Children from a local school also presented regional dances from all four provinces of Pakistan. PR No. 244 PRESS RELEASE Saudi officials appreciates zero tolerance in drugs trafficking for Saudi Arabia Islamabad:  March 24, 2011 During a meeting between Federal Minister for Narcotics Control, Haji Khuda Bux Rajar and Drug Liaison Officer of Saudi Arabia, Lt. Col. Monahi Saad Alsabaue on Wednesday at Islamabad, it was informed that Pakistan has adopted zero tolerance policy to control drug trafficking to Saudi Arabia. It was also informed that ANF is carrying out strict checks on Kingdom of Saudi Arabia bound flight on all airports of Pakistan to avoid any untoward incidence. Federal Minister for Narcotics Control, Haji Khuda Bux Rajar told Saudi Drugs Liaison Officer that Pakistan launches Haj operation to control smuggling of drugs. For this purpose awareness campaigns are launched at Haji camps and strict scanning of luggage also takes place. During last Haj operation, Pakistan checked 139338 Hajis and arrested 17 persons from Peshawar and Islamabad Airports who has injected capsules filled with drugs particularly Heroin. Later through investigation, it was revealed that all those carriers of drugs were from district Shikhupura, Khoshab and Mianwali. He also offered Saudi officials that Ministry of Narcotics Control would provide training to Anti Narcotics Force of Saudi Arabia at newly built ANF academy that would start functioning next month. Saudi Drugs Liaison Officer, Lt. Col. Monahi Saad Alsabaue appreciated the services of Pakistan to control narco-drugs. He said DG, Narcotics Force of Saudi Arabia, General Usman Al Mahrij would soon visit Pakistan to pay gratitude on efforts of Pakistan. During a meeting, it was also informed that Pakistan seized 3000 capsules last year and 1000 capsules were seized in the current year.  At the end of meeting, Federal Minister for Narcotics Control, Haji KHuda Bux Rajar expressed resolve that “drug-free Pakistan remains the ultimate goal and while this may not be achieved in the short term, it is a goal we strive for in partnership with people of Pakistan, the region and the international community.”  PR No. 245 PRESS RELEASE National Day Celebrations of Pakistan at Jakarta Islamabad:  March 24, 2011 The best way to join in the commemoration of Pakistan’s national day would be to pledge for greater cooperation between the two countries in future, says a press release received here today from Jakarta. These views were expressed by the Indonesian Minister for Communication and Information Technology, Tifatul Sembiring while addressing Pakistan’s National Day ceremony here on Wednesday.  The Minister said Pakistan–Indonesia relations are historical and have been cordial since the very beginning. He spoke high of the support that both countries have extended each other at international fora on different issues. He said today’s world has undergone a tremendous change, multi-dimensional issues have surfaced and no country alone can address them. So we need each other’s support and continued cooperation to overcome problems, said Tifatul. The Minister went on to say that the people of Pakistan had made a significant contribution to realize peace in South Asian region and deserved admiration for that. Felicitating the Pakistani nation on the occasion, he said the  people on both sides had a lot to contribute for enhancement of ties between the two countries.  The Minister said he felt honoured to address the national day ceremony of Pakistan. Ambassador Sanaullah in his remarks said Indonesia-Pakistan relationship was story of a family. It had a memorable past and promise of a bright future. More than 238 Indonesians and 170 million Pakistanis stand together to take this relationship to new high, the Ambassador said. He said, Pakistan had always been and wished to remain a progressive and moderate country and was determined to defeat the forces advocating religious intolerance. He said it was always expected of Pakistan to do more in terms of the war on terror. Pakistanis were prepared to do more in their own way and at their own terms but needed support to overcome the problem of militancy. He categorically stated that Pakistan would never allow its territory to be used for launching acts of terror against any other country and expressed the hope that Pakistan would soon triumph over forces of darkness. He also mentioned that the country was today fortified by functional democracy, vibrant and independent media and judiciary. The visiting Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, General Khalid Shamim Wyne HI(M) also attended the reception and along with Ambassador Sanaullah and Minister for Communication of Indonesia, Tifatul Sembiring performed the cake cutting ceremony marking the national day celebrations. PR No. 246 PRESS RELEASE SMUGGLING of live animals across pak-iran and afghanistan borders Islamabad:  March 24, 2011 Federal Minister for Livestock and Dairy Development, Mir Israrullah Zehri has viewed with great concern the present ongoing smuggling of livestock animals outside Pakistan into two neighboring countries and has issued stern warning to the officials of the Ministry to remain watchful and keep vigilant eye on this most undesirable activity. He has issued instructions that any one found negligent of his duty in taking notice and reporting of smuggling on live animals shall be dealt with in an exemplary manner. He has also desired that the law enforcement agencies like Police, Customs, Frontier Constabulary, KPK, Frontier Corps Balochistan and Coast Guards should tighten their noose on the exit points to bring this anti state activity to a minimum. He also declared that any apprehended animals bring smuggled shall be auctioned forthwith with the help of the concerned agencies. On this direction a series of department check posts have been established on Torkham, Chaman and Turbat border points. He has hoped that under his supervision Livestock Ministry shall deliver the job and plug the holes to contain smuggling to serve the national cause efficiency, diligently, with a zeal of patriotism and devotion to duty. PR No. 247 PRESS RELEASE Reception / Cultural Night in Malaysia on Pakistan Day Islamabad:  March 24, 2011 Pakistan High Commission in Malaysia organized a,  “Grand Reception and Cultural Night”,  at a local hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, yesterday on 23rd March, 2011, to mark the 71st Anniversary of Pakistan Day, says a press release received here today from Malaysia. Malaysian Deputy Minister for Agriculture and Agro based Industry, Dato’ Wira Mohd Johari Baharumwas the guest of honor at the reception which was attended, in large number, by  high level Malaysian dignitaries, diplomatic Community, top businessmen, representative of Pakistani Community and media elites. The prominent personalities who graced the reception included Tan Sri Abu Zahar bin Dato’ Nika Ujang, President Dewan Negara (Senate) of Malaysia, Tan Sri Dato Sri’ Abdul Khalid Ibrahim, Chief Minister of Selangor, Datuk Seri Samy Vellu, Malaysia’s Special Envoy on Infrastructure for India and South Asia and General Dato Sri Zulkifeli bin Mohd Zin Chief of Army of Malaysia. The ceremony commenced with the playing of national anthems of both Pakistan and Malaysia. Later, the Malaysia Deputy Minister prayed for the progress, prosperity and economic well being of Pakistan. The High Commissioner for Pakistan in Malaysia, Mr. Masood Khalid reciprocated by praying for the health and wellbeing of the King of Malaysia and prosperity and progress of the people of Malaysia. Later, a huge cake was cut to mark the 71st Anniversary. Renowned Pakistani violinist, Ustad Raees Ali Khan, who has also been awarded with Pride of Performance by the government of Pakistan, especially came from Pakistan to Malaysia to participate in the Pakistan Day celebrations. He remained the centre of attraction and amused the guests with his excellent instrumental violin performances of  Pakistani, international and Malaysian songs. The artists belonging to Pakistani Community in Malaysia presented cultural performances including display of traditional dresses, folk songs and folk dances representing the four provinces of Pakistan. The audience also watched with  great interest a documentary on Pakistan which highlighted the progress made by Pakistan in all spheres of life and steps taken by the government for the welfare of the people of Pakistan. An exhibition of Pakistan textile products, carpets  and handicraft was also organized. The audience showed keen interest in the exhibits. The guests relished the exotic Pakistani food delicacies including biryani, roast lamb and Kebabs served on the occasion.   PR No. 248 PRESS RELEASE Islamabad:  March 24, 2011 Chilas, Diamer: Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs &Gilgit-Baltistan, Mian Manzoor Ahmad Wattoo visited on Thursday the site of Diamer Bhasha Dam. Federal Secretary for Kashmir Affairs &Gilgit-Baltistan, M Javed Malik, Chairman WAPDA, Shakil Durrani, Member GB Council Syed Afzal and Chief Secretary GB were also present on the occasion. The Minister examined the progress on spot of Diamer-Bhasha Dam. GB Political leaders and administration also met the minister. Wattoo told the gathering of political and administrative leadership of GB that Federal government is very serious in completing the Dam and the Project is of the national importance. He further said that PM formed a committee to resolve the compensation package issue of the affectees of Diamer-Bhasha Dam and the committee resolved the issue in a couple of meetings. The Federal Minister said that he came personally to see the progress on the Dam. He also said that Air Runway and Cadet College Chilas would be built by WAPDA. He said: “We have requested the Prime Minister, Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani for the ground breaking ceremony of Diamer-Bhasha Dam and he would come soon”. The minister examined the place of public gathering where PM would address the public. Mian Manzoor Ahmad Wattoo said that Diamer-Bhasha Dam would be completed in 6 years and cost of it would be 11 billion dollars. WAPDA is working around the clock for the construction of the Dam.  Furthermore, the Minister would review the progress on the dam each month in order to ensure the smooth progress. PR No. 249 PRESS RELEASE PRESIDENT’S MEETING WITH CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION Islamabad:  March 24, 2011 President Asif Ali Zardari has once again condemned the incident of deliberate burning of the Holy Quran by what he described as a mentally sick person in Florida and has stressed the need for the United Nations and civilized nations to work out special plans for promoting cultural and religious harmony to arrest the decline of rationality and sanity. During his meeting with a US congressional delegation led by Mr. Rob Wittman, Member House Armed Services Committee, at Aiwan-e-Sadr today, the President said that the tendency of intolerance and disharmony were crossing national boundaries and religious divides and its was imperative for the world to act before it was too late. Extremism is being manifested in various forms including violence, intolerance he said and added that disharmony was also increasing. He said that the values of tolerance and harmony were advocated by the civilized world and now that these values were generally receding it was important that UN took note of it and did something with the consensus of the nations.   The President said that the Government and the people of Pakistan strongly condemn the incident of desecration of the Holy Quran by a fanatic in Florida. The President termed the incident a serious set back towards the efforts intended to promote harmony. He said that he had asked the Parliament to pass a unanimous resolution against such ugly and abhorrent act in the next meeting and also the Foreign Office has been asked to register protest at all international forums. The President said that no religion can permit such fanaticism which in itself was a reflection of sick mind. The US delegation included Mr. Todd Young, Mr. Scot Rigell, Mr. David Loebsack, Mr. Mr. Larry Kissel and Professional Staff Members of House Armed Services Committee Ms. Michele Pearce and Paul Lewis. Mr. Cameron P. Munter, US Ambassador, was also present during the meeting. Pak side included Ch. Ahmed Mukhtar, Federal Minister for Defense, Senator A. Rehman Malik, Federal Minister for Interior, Mr. M. Salman Faruqui, Secretary General, Senator Syeda Sughra Imam, Foreign Secretary Mr. Salman Bashir, Secretary Defence Lt. Gen ® Syed Athar Ali and Spokesperson to the President Mr. Farhatullah Babar.   Briefing media Spokesperson to the President Mr. Farhatullah Babar said that matters relating to Pak-US bilateral relations, war against terrorism, drone attacks and energy requirements of Pakistan were also discussed during the meeting. The delegation appreciated the country’s struggle against militancy and assured US continued support in this regard to the people and the Government of Pakistan. Mr. Babar said that during discussion on war against terrorism, the President highlighting great sacrifices rendered by Pakistan in war against militancy and terrorism reiterated his call for early transfer of drone technology to Pakistan. He said that it was a time for the two countries to take stock of the existing situation and focus on addressing all issues that contribute towards creating misunderstandings and mistrust between the people of the two countries. The President said that there was an urgent need to review all such actions that are counter-productive in the ongoing war and create mistrust. He said that our people have been paying the heaviest price in the war against militancy both in terms of human as well as material losses. The only way to mitigate their sufferings and to meet the challenges of the militancy was to provide them, especially the affected people of worst hit areas, new vistas of opportunities including the economic opportunities. He said that he has been continuously pleading the case of the country before the international community for securing preferential trade and market access in order to put the hard-hit economy back on track, on one hand, and to improve socio-economic conditions in the conflict ridden areas. The President urged the visiting delegation to use their influence and assist Pakistan in getting enhanced market access for its products and also to expedite ROZ legislation.  The delegation thanked the President for meeting and reiterated US administration commitment to assist Pakistan in all possible manners to overcome challenges facing the country.    PR No. 250 PRESS RELEASE PRESIDENT CONFERS HILAL-I-PAKISTAN UPON MR. RONALD K. NOBEL Islamabad:  March 24, 2011 President Asif Ali Zardari today conferred Hilal-i-Pakistan upon Mr. Ronald K. Nobel, Secretary General Interpol, during a special investiture ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr. Senator A. Rehman Malik, Federal Minister for Interior, Mr. M. Salman Faruqui, Secretary General, Spokesperson to the President Mr. Farhatullah Babar were present during the ceremony besides other senior officials. The citation read on the occasion said that Mr. Nobel has rendered marked services and played a very positive role in projecting Pakistan’s viewpoint towards international policing issues. Furthermore, the honorable Supreme Court of Pakistan has appreciated the role of Interpol in bringing culprits to justice by harnessing international police cooperation and assistance. In recognition of his services with special reference to Pakistan, the President of Islamic Republic of Pakistan has been pleased to confer Hilal-i-Pakistan on Mr. Ronald K. Noble, it said. Later,  during their meeting the President appreciated tireless services of Mr. Ronald K. Nobel for promoting cooperation between Interpol and Pakistan law enforcing authorities. The President also appreciated the role of Interpol in dealing with the menace of drugs trafficking, human trafficking, criminal organizations, high-tech crimes, terrorism and fighting corruption. He congratulated Mr. Noble on assuming his 5 years term as Secretary General and hoped that his vision of making the agency a key player in the war against terrorism would be realized. Discussing war against terrorism, the President reiterated his call for putting a complete end to the drug trafficking and said that this was critical for durable peace, stability and socio-economic development of the region.  He said that the drugs were being used as a weapon for funding and equipping the militants and there was an urgent need for the international community to especially focus on putting an end to drug trafficking.  He said that an integrated approach including promoting alternative livelihood, agriculture development, eradication and reducing drugs consumption be adopted to check the menace.  PR No. 249 PRESS RELEASE PRESIDENT’S MEETING WITH CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION Islamabad:  March 24, 2011 President Asif Ali Zardari has once again condemned the incident of deliberate burning of the Holy Quran by what he described as a mentally sick person in Florida and has stressed the need for the United Nations and civilized nations to work out special plans for promoting cultural and religious harmony to arrest the decline of rationality and sanity. During his meeting with a US congressional delegation led by Mr. Rob Wittman, Member House Armed Services Committee, at Aiwan-e-Sadr today, the President said that the tendency of intolerance and disharmony were crossing national boundaries and religious divides and its was imperative for the world to act before it was too late. Extremism is being manifested in various forms including violence, intolerance he said and added that disharmony was also increasing. He said that the values of tolerance and harmony were advocated by the civilized world and now that these values were generally receding it was important that UN took note of it and did something with the consensus of the nations.   The President said that the Government and the people of Pakistan strongly condemn the incident of desecration of the Holy Quran by a fanatic in Florida. The President termed the incident a serious set back towards the efforts intended to promote harmony. He said that he had asked the Parliament to pass a unanimous resolution against such ugly and abhorrent act in the next meeting and also the Foreign Office has been asked to register protest at all international forums. The President said that no religion can permit such fanaticism which in itself was a reflection of sick mind. The US delegation included Mr. Todd Young, Mr. Scot Rigell, Mr. David Loebsack, Mr. Mr. Larry Kissel and Professional Staff Members of House Armed Services Committee Ms. Michele Pearce and Paul Lewis. Mr. Cameron P. Munter, US Ambassador, was also present during the meeting. Pak side included Ch. Ahmed Mukhtar, Federal Minister for Defense, Senator A. Rehman Malik, Federal Minister for Interior, Mr. M. Salman Faruqui, Secretary General, Senator Syeda Sughra Imam, Foreign Secretary Mr. Salman Bashir, Secretary Defence Lt. Gen ® Syed Athar Ali and Spokesperson to the President Mr. Farhatullah Babar.   Briefing media Spokesperson to the President Mr. Farhatullah Babar said that matters relating to Pak-US bilateral relations, war against terrorism, drone attacks and energy requirements of Pakistan were also discussed during the meeting. The delegation appreciated the country’s struggle against militancy and assured US continued support in this regard to the people and the Government of Pakistan. Mr. Babar said that during discussion on war against terrorism, the President highlighting great sacrifices rendered by Pakistan in war against militancy and terrorism reiterated his call for early transfer of drone technology to Pakistan. He said that it was a time for the two countries to take stock of the existing situation and focus on addressing all issues that contribute towards creating misunderstandings and mistrust between the people of the two countries. The President said that there was an urgent need to review all such actions that are counter-productive in the ongoing war and create mistrust. He said that our people have been paying the heaviest price in the war against militancy both in terms of human as well as material losses. The only way to mitigate their sufferings and to meet the challenges of the militancy was to provide them, especially the affected people of worst hit areas, new vistas of opportunities including the economic opportunities. He said that he has been continuously pleading the case of the country before the international community for securing preferential trade and market access in order to put the hard-hit economy back on track, on one hand, and to improve socio-economic conditions in the conflict ridden areas. The President urged the visiting delegation to use their influence and assist Pakistan in getting enhanced market access for its products and also to expedite ROZ legislation.  The delegation thanked the President for meeting and reiterated US administration commitment to assist Pakistan in all possible manners to overcome challenges facing the country.   PR No. 250 PRESS RELEASE PRESIDENT CONFERS HILAL-I-PAKISTAN UPON MR. RONALD K. NOBEL Islamabad:  March 24, 2011 President Asif Ali Zardari today conferred Hilal-i-Pakistan upon Mr. Ronald K. Nobel, Secretary General Interpol, during a special investiture ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr. Senator A. Rehman Malik, Federal Minister for Interior, Mr. M. Salman Faruqui, Secretary General, Spokesperson to the President Mr. Farhatullah Babar were present during the ceremony besides other senior officials. The citation read on the occasion said that Mr. Nobel has rendered marked services and played a very positive role in projecting Pakistan’s viewpoint towards international policing issues. Furthermore, the honorable Supreme Court of Pakistan has appreciated the role of Interpol in bringing culprits to justice by harnessing international police cooperation and assistance. In recognition of his services with special reference to Pakistan, the President of Islamic Republic of Pakistan has been pleased to confer Hilal-i-Pakistan on Mr. Ronald K. Noble, it said. Later,  during their meeting the President appreciated tireless services of Mr. Ronald K. Nobel for promoting cooperation between Interpol and Pakistan law enforcing authorities. The President also appreciated the role of Interpol in dealing with the menace of drugs trafficking, human trafficking, criminal organizations, high-tech crimes, terrorism and fighting corruption. He congratulated Mr. Noble on assuming his 5 years term as Secretary General and hoped that his vision of making the agency a key player in the war against terrorism would be realized. Discussing war against terrorism, the President reiterated his call for putting a complete end to the drug trafficking and said that this was critical for durable peace, stability and socio-economic development of the region.  He said that the drugs were being used as a weapon for funding and equipping the militants and there was an urgent need for the international community to especially focus on putting an end to drug trafficking.  He said that an integrated approach including promoting alternative livelihood, agriculture development, eradication and reducing drugs consumption be adopted to check the menace. PR No. 251 PRESS RELEASE ENGR. SHAUKAT ULLAH WANT CONTINUED SUPPORT OF GERMANY FOR RAHA PROGRAMME Islamabad:  March 24, 2011 Engr. Shaukat Ullah, Federal Minister for SAFRON and Sports called on the Ambassador of Federal Republic of Germany Dr. Michael Koch at his office. The minister thanked the Government of Germany for their generous contributions and support in the Refugees Affected and Hosting Area (RAHA) Programme through the Non Government Organizations GIZ and Kfw. Mr. Shaukat Ullah expressed the hope that the Government of Germany will continue their funding on humanitarian grounds in order to develop the Afghan refugees affected area and will include the whole of FATA and other areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhawa in this development initiative. He said that we can win the hearts and minds of the tribal people by tangible development in the area which would raise the standards of living of the locals. He added that being a Minister for Sports he would like to engage the youth of FATA in sports activities which would shield them from falling into the hands of extremist elements. Mr. Koch appreciated the efforts of Government of Pakistan in the peaceful repatriation of the Afghan refugees and expressed his hope that a better coordination between Pakistani and Afghan authorities would facilitate the refugees and would create conditions conducive for their return to their homeland. He added that the government of Germany is committed to the cause of peace in the region and would continue to provide every possible support to the people of FATA. PR No. 252 PRESS RELEASE FOOD PRICES COMPARABLE WITH WORLD MARKET Islamabad:  March 24, 2011 This refers to the news item that appeared in a cross section of press under the caption “Food prices in Pakistan too High”. A particular reference has been made about the higher wheat prices in Pakistan. Pakistan harvested two bumper wheat crops in 2009 and 2010 and has exported one million tons of wheat with plans to export up to 3 million tons. This is despite the fact that the international market is going through an unstable time in history. We have also exported rice to the tune of 1.678 million tons despite flood damage to the crop. The cereal supplies in the country are plenty and currently, the prices are comparable with the international market. The Food Departments are releasing wheat to flour mills at Rs 1000/- per 40 kg. The Government’s move against the unprecedented price hike of onion three months ago has kept the market stable at Rs. 40/kg. The overall price hike is not Pakistan specific. It is being experienced across the globe. We are expecting arrival of another mega wheat harvest in the next two months. The WFP Head Mr. Wolfgang Herbinger denied the comment on wheat price being attributed to him, in a letter received from Rome.  It appears that his conversation has been read out of context.        The Government is also endeavouring to help the needy through Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) by providing monthly financial assistance to over 4 million households through cash transfers.  It is not fair to imply the floods related food insecurity issues to the whole country. Even in flood affected areas wheat supplies remained satisfactory because country was having abundance of wheat stocks. Therefore, MINFA categorically deny the views given in the news item and made it clear that food security situation is stable in the country. For ensuring food security of vulnerable population Government is providing targeted subsidy under “Benazir Income Support Programme” in the shape of cash transfer to enhance poor households’ access to food. During last year Rs. 22 billion were provided to 3.5 million households under the programme. This year funding is enhanced to the tune of Rs.70 billion. Benazir Income Support Programme targets poor and vulnerable households and authorizes women for cash transfers of Rs.1000/- per month. This programme is complementing already existing safety net programmes like Baitul Mal scheme, Zakat, Usher schemes and provincial food initiatives. PR No. 253 PRESS RELEASE RECEPTION / CULTURAL NIGHT IN MALAYSIA ON PAKISTAN DAY Islamabad:  March 24, 2011 Pakistan High Commission in Malaysia organized a,  “Grand Reception and Cultural Night”,  at a local hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, yesterday on 23rd March, 2011, to mark the 71th Anniversary of Pakistan Day. Malaysian Deputy Minister for Agriculture and Agro based Industry, Dato’ Wira Mohd Johari Baharum was the guest of honor at the reception which was attended, in large number, by  high level Malaysian dignitaries, diplomatic Community, top businessmen, representative of Pakistani Community and media elites. The prominent personalities who graced the reception included Tan Sri Abu Zahar bin Dato’ Nika Ujang, President Dewan Negara (Senate) of Malaysia, Tan Sri Dato Sri’ Abdul Khalid Ibrahim, Chief Minister of Selangor, Datuk Seri Samy Vellu, Malaysia’s Special Envoy on Infrastructure for India and South Asia and General Dato Sri Zulkifeli bin Mohd Zin Chief of Army of Malaysia. The ceremony commenced with the playing of national anthems of both Pakistan and Malaysia. Later, the Malaysia Deputy Minister prayed for the progress, prosperity and economic well being of Pakistan. The High Commissioner for Pakistan in Malaysia, Mr. Masood Khalid reciprocated by praying for the health and wellbeing of the King of Malaysia and prosperity and progress of the people of Malaysia. Later, a huge cake was cut to mark the 71st Anniversary. Renowned Pakistani violinist, Ustad Raees Ali Khan, who has also been awarded with Pride of Performance by the government of Pakistan, especially came from Pakistan to Malaysia to participate in the Pakistan Day celebrations. He remained the centre of attraction and amused the guests with his excellent instrumental violin performances of Pakistani, international and Malaysian songs. The artists belonging to Pakistani Community in Malaysia presented cultural performances including display of traditional dresses, folk songs and folk dances representing the four provinces of Pakistan. The audience also watched with great interest a documentary on Pakistan which highlighted the progress made by Pakistan in all spheres of life and steps taken by the government for the welfare of the people of Pakistan. An exhibition of Pakistan textile products, carpets and handicraft was also organized. The audience showed keen interest in the exhibits. The guests relished the exotic Pakistani food delicacies including biryani, roast lamb and Kebabs served on the occasion.