NOT TO BE PUBLISHED TELECAST/BROADCAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF 27th SEPTEMBER,2010
PR. No. _350
Press release
PRIME MINISTER SYED YUSUF RAZA GIANI’S message on “world tourism day"
Islamabad, September 26, 2010.We are celebrating “World Tourism Day” at a time when the need for enhanced interaction and engagement among people and nations could not be greater. The day reminds us of huge vistas of opportunities for increasing people-to-people contacts and engaging with one another for building bridges. Tourism links people and helps build better understanding among nations and cultures. Sustainable tourism is also essential for the preservation and enhancement of the cultural and natural heritage of our country. Tourism is not only a source of income of people and countries. It is much more than just being an economic sector.
We are lucky that our great country, Pakistan, possesses what it takes be a great tourist attraction for the world community. We have rich culture and civilization that dates back to Indus Valley Civilization blended with rich Islamic heritage. The diversity of local languages, art and culture, regions, traditions, unique architecture coupled with our hard working and hospitable people presents a unique mix of tourism to the global tourism community. We posses all the four seasons and are blessed with exotic natural scenic locations as well as colorful and diverse cultures from Khyber to Karachi.
For last few years, our tourism industry has suffered on account of incidents of terrorism that resulted in the reduction of international tourists. However, let me assure them that is just a fleeting phenomenon and we stand committed to bringing our country back on the world tourism calculus as a great tourist destination, which it once was.
For all these reasons, my government has extended full support and attention to tourism. The country’s’ National Tourism Policy’ should be a broad mix of public-private partnership. The theme on this year’s World Tourism Day “Tourism and Blodiversity” is very apt and reminds us of our collective responsibility to protect our nature and to promote the real image of Pakistan in the comity of nations.
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED TELECAST/BROADCAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF 27th SEPTEMBER,2010
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED TELECAST/BROADCAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF 27th SEPTEMBER,2010
PR. No. _351
Message from Mr. Asif Ali Zardari
President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan
(On the occasion of World Tourism Day on 27th September, 2010)
Islamabad, September 26, 2010.On the eve of the World Tourism Day being observed today let us reiterate our resolve to promote tourism in the country on the one hand and to share its benefits with the world on the other. The theme of this year’s Tourism Day “Tourism and Biodiversity” is most appropriate. Tourism revenues resulting from the enjoyment of this biological diversity, often located in the world’s less developed regions, are a significant source of income and employment for local communities.
It is this relationship between tourism and biodiversity and the resulting positive impacts on local livelihoods, development and poverty alleviation that must set the tone for sustainable tourism development. A robust tourism industry is vital not only for healthy economic activity but also for building ties with other countries and people of the world. In Pakistan full potential of tourism could not been exploited. Many factors have contributed towards this retardation. The scourge of militancy and extremism almost destroyed this vital sector of national economy. The unprecedented floods recently has further hampered efforts to strengthen this vital sector of our national economy.
Events like the World Tourism Day offer us an opportunity to give a serious thought to promoting tourism in the country.
The government is conscious of the need and is taking steps for the promotion of tourism in the country. On this day I urge every one concerned to help promote tourism in the country. I also invite people of the world to visit Pakistan and enjoy the extent and diversity of its tourism wealth.
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED TELECAST/BROADCAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF 27th SEPTEMBER,2010
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED TELECAST/BROADCAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF 27th SEPTEMBER,2010
PR. No. _352
Press release
Message from Atta-ur-Rahman Federal Minister for Tourism
On the occasion of World Tourism
Day 27th September 2010
Islamabad, September 26, 2010.Tourism is the most dynamic sector of the world economy. As such, we need to fully exploit its growth potential in a sustainable way to the benefit of all citizens. Keeping in view the changing circumstances in our country, the situation calls for renewed and stronger partnerships amongst all tourism stakeholders to effectively promote and project the tourism potential of Pakistan. We are currently recovering from the biggest flood disaster hit our country ever. In this hour of need we hope that the local and international tourism community will also come together in support of Pakistan and it’s rich heritage in biodiversity, this being the theme of this year’s World Tourism Day. It is a fact that the diversity available in natural heritage is a major tourism attraction and while we are celebrating this diversity, we aim to place Pakistan once again on the map as one of the most attractive tourist destinations.
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED TELECAST/BROADCAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF 27th SEPTEMBER,2010
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED TELECAST/BROADCAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF 27th SEPTEMBER,2010
PR. No. 353
Press release
Message from mufti ajmal khan parliamentary secretary Tourism
On the occasion of World Tourism Day 27th September 2010
Islamabad, September 26, 2010.The worldwide economic recession, militancy and recent floods have badly affected the local tourism business and industry in Pakistan. In these hard times, we need to implement a positive outlook and not lose optimism. The negative and malicious propaganda has affected tourist arrivals to Pakistan. We have certain areas in Pakistan which have law and order problem but Pakistan is a big country and there are a lot of tourist places. Our religion teaches us to spread the message of peace and hospitality throughout the world and that is exactly what we intend to do by promoting tourism in Pakistan. This industry provides income for millions around the world and is also a major source of income for many people in Pakistan. Therefore, the tourism industry requires our complete focus and attention because it can also prove to be a major contributor to the national economy. Efforts are being made to formulate a new tourism policy which will help Pakistan’s market and allow the tourism industry to flourish and help grow the economy.
NOT TO BE PUBLISHED TELECAST/BROADCAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF 27th SEPTEMBER,2010
PR. No. 354
Press release
Karachi, Date:-26.09.2010The Chinese Government has sent 2000 Tents weighing 84 tons for the flood affectees of Pakistan by a special cargo plane which landed at Karachi Airport here on Sunday.
The relief goods were handed over to the representative of Provincial Disaster Management Authority, Sindh by Mr. Wang Qihui Commercial Consular, Chinese Consulate General Karachi.
According to the representative of the PDMA the relief goods would be dispatched in the flood affected districts of Sindh for distribution among the flood affectees.
PR No. 355
PRESS RELEASE
KAZMI CONDOLES DEATH OF MEHMOOD AHMAD GHAZI
Islamabad 26th September 2010Federal Minister for Religious Affairs, Syed Hamid Saeed Kazmi has expressed deep grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Mehmood Ahmad Ghazi, former Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Ex Judge of Federal Shariat Court who died today morning due to heart attack.
In a condolence message to the family of the deceased, he prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant courage to his family to bear this irreparable loss with fortitude.
The Minister paid glorious tributes to the deceased, adding that he would be remembered for his services rendered by him for the nation during his life in different capacity. He said that the nation has been deprived of a great scholar.
PR No. 356
PRESS RELEASE
Cultural evening marks UAE-Pakistan friendship
Islamabad: September 26, 2010.A cultural evening that paid rich tributes to the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and the UAE was inaugurated by Shaikh Mansour bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at the Atlantis, The Palm, in Dubai on Friday,says a press release received here today.
The evening, titled ‘The Art of Friendship 2010’, was focussed on building goodwill and friendship between both the countries through art, culture, fashion and literature.
“The event was aimed at encouraging creative dialogue between talented individuals from both the countries,” said Javed Malik, Pakistan’s ambassador at large from the Pakistan International Council who organised the function.
“Pakistan and the UAE are more than just friends – we have the same faith and social fabric,” he said while welcoming high profile guests including members of the royal families from Dubai and Sharjah. The guest of honour was Shaikh Hasher Al Maktoum and others included Shaikh Faisal bin Obaid Al Maktoum and Shaikha Hind Al Qasimi.
Malik appreciated the UAE’s role in aiding flood victims in Pakistan, saying, “This brotherhood has been demonstrated when Pakistan faced the calamity. The UAE’s Chinook helicopters were among the first to reach Pakistan with aid.”He also thanked the UAE Red Crescent for raising a million dirhams as aid for the flood ravaged country.
On the occasion, a book featuring 20 prominent Pakistanis in the UAE was also released. A coffee table book, the ‘Trendsetters’, published by Xponent Media contains a virtual Who’s Who of the pioneers among the thriving and influential Pakistani community in the UAE.
“The book is packed information that will change your views on the stereotype of an expatriate’s life in this country,” said Meraj Rizvi who has authored the book. Some of the names featured in the book include the late Noor Ali Rashid, Javed Malik and Haji Abdul Razzak Yakoob, Chairman of ARY Group of Companies among several others.
The Global Pakistani Awards was also launched on the occasion to fete distinguished UAE-based Pakistanis. Special appreciation awards were also given to Khaleej Times, HUM FM, GEO and Etihad Airways amongst others.
The event also included a display of traditional Emirati and Pakistani designers including Shaikha Hind Al Qasimi and N-Collection who presented an abaya collection as well as the celebrated Pakistani designer Hassan Sheharyar Yasin who presented his bridal wear collection.
An art exhibition featured paintings by Emirati artists, provided by the UAE art gallery, Tashkeel and Pakistani artists was also much appreciated. Pakistani pop star Fakhir made a special appearance.
PR No. 357
PRESS RELEASE
Plight of Pakistan flood victims in focus
Event aimed at building goodwill and friendship through art, culture, fashion and
iterature.
Islamabad: September 26, 2010.So much more aid is needed for the flood victims of Pakistan, as the help received so far is inadequate for the 20 million people affected by the natural disaster, Pakistan’s Ambassador-at-large Javed Malek said.
“The flood victims need continuous support for food, medicines and rehabilitation as they have lost everything in the biggest disaster in the history of Pakistan,” Malek said at ‘The Art of Friendship’ function in Dubai on Friday.
Malek said that the event’s main focus was to build goodwill and friendship between the UAE and Pakistan through art, culture, fashion and literature and to encourage creative dialogue between talented individuals from both countries.
Shaikh Mansour Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum officiated at the art exhibition by UAE and Pakistani artists, as part of the evening’s proceedings.
The function was attended by leading members of the Pakistani community, diplomats and Emiratis.
Malek paid tribute to the long-standing relationship between the UAE and Pakistan, and said he appreciated the ideal environment that had been created by the visionary leadership of the UAE.
This had enabled people from different communities to live, work and do business here and be part of the UAE’s progress, while at the same time achieving personal goals.
The event also featured a fashion show by Emirati and Pakistani designers, including Shaikha Hind Al Qasimi, and celebrated Pakistani designer Hassan Sheharyar Yasin.
A book entitled Trendsetters by Miraj Rivzi, featuring some 20 prominent Pakistanis living in the UAE, was also officially released at the event.
“This book not only documents the achievements of some of the UAE-based Pakistanis, but in many ways is also a glowing tribute to the people and leaders of the UAE for welcoming people from all nationalities, including from Pakistan to live, work and do business in this multicultural society,” Malek said.
The evening also provided an opportunity to raise money for flood victims in Pakistan.
Wajahat Hussain, global head of United Bank Limited, said that the company had launched a scheme to match donations given to buy water purifiers.
“The bank will [donate an] equal amount if some one donates for buying water purifiers,” Hussain said.
“[The] cost of one unit is just Dh110 and it can provide clean drinking water for a family of five for about three years,” he said.
He invited donors to contact any United Bank Limited branch regarding their donation.
Mohammad Al Zarouni, general manager of Dubai Red Crescent, outlined the charity’s key role in helping flood victims in Pakistan.
He gave a presentation on the night, which highlighted the destruction caused by the massive floods in Pakistan and aid provided by the UAE.
PR No. 358
PRESS RELEASE
REPORT ABOUT “CASH TO PAKISTAN MISSING” NOT CORRECT.
Islamabad, September 26, 2010A news item published in a section of the press on September 25, 2010 alleged that US$133 million cash to Pakistan missing as disclosed by Republican Senator Richard Lugar during the confirmation hearings of Mr. Cameron Munter, the US Ambassador designate to Pakistan.
Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, Minister of Finance took a stern notice of this news and called for an immediate explanation/ clarification of the matter. In pursuance of his direction, a meeting was convened by Secretary Economic Affairs Division on September 26, 2010, attended by Special Secretary Finance, Mr. Robert Wilson, Director, USAID (Pakistan) and the representatives of the Government of Khyber Pakhtun Khwa and NADRA.
After due deliberations, the matter was clarified and the following factual position emerged:-
The representative of USAID clarified in the meeting that the observations referred to in the news item were based on the report of Inspector General USAID and were meant for USAID internal controls and not for the Government of Pakistan. He added that as of date, there are no transparency issues in relation to the processes and distribution of US grant funds to the IDP and BISP beneficiaries.
The amount of US$ 133 Million given in the press report is not correct. The actual amount received by the Government of Pakistan is US$ 129 Million which includes US$ 44 Million for IDP’s and US$ 85 Million for BISP. Both these amounts were released by USAID during the year 2009-10 after carrying out due diligence on the disbursement processes by independent auditors appointed by USAID.
Representative of NADRA clarified that disbursement to IDP’s was carried out by utilizing state of the art technological means including automated finger print and facial recognition systems to authenticate the validity of the beneficiaries. A complete audit trail including photographs and finger prints along with the transaction details are available for audit as and when required. It was also stated by the representative of NADRA that a total number 419, 637 IDP families pertaining to Malakand and South Waziristan were identified during the screening process to whom Rs. 9. 87 Billion have already been disbursed through formal banking channels. The cash assistance of US $ 44 Million formed a part of this larger relief package.
Special Secretary Finance stated that the funds received from USAID for BISP amount to US$ 85 Million (Rs. 7 Billion) were released and disbursed among the beneficiaries. These funds were part of overall sum of Rs. 40 billion released and disbursed by the Government of Pakistan to BISP beneficiaries during the year 2009-10.
In the light of above clarification, the assertion ‘Cash to Pakistan missing’ is not correct. US side also indicated to issue a clarification to Pakistan Press on the issue to dispel the false impression.
PR No. 359
PRESS RELEASE
VERIFIED LIST OF NRO BENEFICIARIES IS STILL AWAITED
Islamabad: September 26, 2010The office of the Prime Minister has still not received authentic and verified list of the NRO beneficiaries from the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs. The list would be made public as soon as it is received by this office to avoid speculation of names. The verified list would subsequently be submitted before the honourable Supreme Court.
PR No. 360
PRESS RELEASE
Farzana Raja says People’s Government believes in Service and not shallow political point scoring
No tussle among insinuations, government would complete its term, press conference of the
Chairperson of the BISP and address to public gatherings Rs. 10 Billion has been allocated to flood victims,
70 % BISP’s registered families received 1st installment of Rs. 4, 000 each
Rajanpur: September 26, 2010Federal Minister and Chairperson Benazir Income Support Programme, Ms. Farzana Raja has said that the institutions in the country are working under their constitutionally defined mandate and there is no tussle between the government and judiciary. There is perfect harmony among the President, Prime Minister and the Parliament and the focus of the Government is on improving the lot of the poor and hapless segments of the society in Pakistan. The Government of Pakistan Peoples Party believes in service of the people instead of relying on shallow political slogans. Settling political scores over situation arise by flood is a mockery to millions of flood victims. The Government of the Pakistan People’s Party enjoys support of the masses; hence, disrespect to this mandate would be termed as an inappropriate behavior. Ms. Farzana Raja said this while addressing press conference here in D G Khan on Sunday. Mr. Samiullah Khan, President of PPP Punjab, Ms. Uzma Bokhari, MPA and MR. Shibli Shabkhez Ghauri were also present on the occasion.
Ms. Farzana Raja said that the people’s government would serve the country for five years and opposition political forces ought to wait for proper time while respecting the mandate of elected government. She said that the BISP is a non partisan based transparent programme and various prestigious international institutions have posed their full confidence of the working of the programme. Under the directions from President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani, she said, BISP has taken immediate steps to provide much needed relief to poor and hapless flood victims. Under the initiative, more than one million flood victim families registered with BISP are being provided with a relief comprising Rs. 12,000 per family. The first installment containing Rs. 4,000 has already been distributed among 70 % of these registered families and distribution of rest would be completed soon. Besides, she said, regular income support is continued as per schedules.
The Chairperson of the BISP said that Rs. 10 billion has been allocated for the flood victims and a sum of Rs. 4.25 Billion has already been dispatched for the purpose of disbursement. In regard with a query regarding Dr. Aafia, she said that the Government of Pakistan reserves the right to appeal against her sentence. In response to another query, Ms. Farzana Raja said that the recent statement of Mr. Abdul Qayyum Jatoi has nothing to do with the official policy of Pakistan People’s party and it should be considered as his personal opinion. In regard with poverties and suicides occurrences in the country, she said that overcoming these issues is prime priority of the people’s government.
Ms. Farzana Raja said that in order to redress a few grievances through Pakistan Post, Benazir Smart Card is being launched soon, which would be a foolproof system of delivery. Later, the Chairperson of the BISP distributed relief goods among the flood affectees, sent by Chinese Women Foundation. On the occasion, she said that BISP is striving hard to materialize the dream of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto of making Pakistan a welfare state and it’s truly a programme that could be ascribed as a martial plan to eradicate poverty from the country.
The Chairperson of the BISP, later, distributed cash relief among the victims at Jampur, district Rajanpur. While addressing to gathering on the occasion, she said that the government of Pakistan People’s Party does not believe in mere slogans and instead; service is its prime motto. She said that to register more families with BISP, poverty survey teams would be reaching at the door steps of the deserving families from October 5, 2010 and such families could be able to enroll themselves without any hassle or recommendation. She said that BISP aiming at financial sustainability of the poor segments of the society through its Waseela e Haq initiative. Hence, necessary training is also being imparted to the families, being selected for cash assistance of Rs. 3 lacs to initiate business. The poverty and unemployment are root-cause of terrorism, hence, the initiatives of the BISP would be instrumental to curb this menace from society, she concluded.
PR No. 361
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: September 26, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has expressed deep sorrow and grief over the sad demise of Mr. Afaaq Shahid, former MNA PPP.
The Prime Minister in his message to the bereaved family expressed his hearthfelt condolence over the death of Mr. Afaaq Shahid . He paid rich tribute to the political services of late Afaaq Shahid and declared his demise as an irripairable loss to not only the family but also to the party as well.
The Prime Minister prayed to Allah Almighty to shower His countless blessings on the departed soul and grant courage to the grieved family to bear this loss with courage and fortitude.
PR No. 362
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: September 26, 2010Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has expressed deep sorrow and grief over the sad demise of Federal Shariat Court Judge, Mr. Justice Mahmood Ghazi
In his message the Prime Minister expressed his heartfelt condolences over the death of Mr. Justice Mahmood Ghazi. He paid rich tribute to the legal and social services of late Justice Mahmood Ghazi and said that his demise is an irreiparible loss not only for his family but also for the whole nation.
The Prime Minister prayed to Allah Almighty to shower His countless blessings on the departed soul and grant courage to the grieved family to bear this loss with courage and fortitude.
PR No. 363
PRESS RELEASE
Islamabad: September 26, 2010Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting has strongly rebutted a news item being telecast on private news channels and falsely attributing a statement to the Prime Minister about the resignation of NRO beneficiaries including Minister for Interior Senator Rehman Malik. The Information Minister while putting the record straight said that the list of NRO beneficiaries was referred to the Law Division for necessary vetting as per law. The final decision will be made upon receiving the vetted list from Law Ministry.
PR No. 364
CLARIFICATIONWORDS ATTRIBUTED TO PRESIDENT FROM ANONYMOUS SOURCES DO NOT REFLECT HIS POLICIES
Islamabad: September 26, 2010
Commenting on media reports about the book "Obama' Wars" by Bob Wood word Spokesperson to President Farhatullah Babar has said that although the President has not read the book, he wants to make it clear that words attributed to the President from anonymous sources do not reflect in any way his policies or his views.
