Shehbaz Sharif nominated acting PML-N president

'Country can't progress until terrorism eliminated in Balochistan, KP'

Shehbaz Sharif nominated as acting party president of PML-N. Appointment was approved by senior party members. Shehbaz will remain acting president until May 28. LAHORE: In a meeting of the Central Working Committee of Muslim League-N held in Lahore, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has been nominated as acting party president of the committee. The … Read more

PM directs envoy to help Pakistani students in Kyrgyzstan

PM

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressing concerns over the situation of violence in Bishkek, directed Pakistan’s Ambassador in Kyrgyzstan Hassan Ali Zaigham to provide all necessary support to the Pakistani students.

The prime minister asked him to personally visit the hostels of Pakistani students and meet them.

The ambassador apprised the prime minister that Pakistani students were safe and those injured were being assisted by the embassy.

The prime minister advised him to remain in contact with the parents and provide them timely information, adding that immediate arrangements should be made for those injured Pakistani students who wanted to return to Pakistan.

The government would bear all the expenses in this regard, he said. The prime minister, expressing his concerns, further said that he was monitoring the situation himself and would not leave the students alone in this situation.

The Government of Pakistan was in contact with the Kyrgyz government, he added.

“Deeply concerned over the situation of Pakistani students in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. I have directed Pakistan’s Ambassador to provide all necessary help and assistance,” earlier, the prime minister wrote on his X timeline.

According to Pakistan’s Embassy in Bishkek, foreign students living in Bishkek including those from Pakistan, were subjected to violence by locals in the aftermath of their earlier brawl with Egyptian nationals a few days ago.

On the other hand,  Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said that the government had established contact with the Kyrgyz authorities to ensure the protection of Pakistani students in Bishkek, amidst the incidents of mob violence.

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PM Shehbaz invites Chinese firm to invest in mining sector

PM Shehbaz

ISLAMABAD: A delegation of Chinese firm MCC Tongsin Resources led by Chairman Wang Jaichen called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif here on Friday whom he invited to invest in Pakistan’s mining sector and manufacturing of export goods.

The prime minister assured the delegation that his government would extend all-out facilitation to the company from minerals exploration, and processing to the export of goods.

He instructed the relevant federal ministers and officers to continue consultation with the Chinese firm, taking the Balochistan chief minister, provincial departments and stakeholders onboard. The delegation members reposed trust in the prime minister’s leadership and expressed keen interest in enhancing their investment in Pakistan’s mining and minerals sectors.

The company delegation briefed Prime Minister Shehbaz about construction of a mineral park in Pakistan and their future investment plans. The prime minister welcomed the Chinese firm and highlighted the priority steps by his government to promote foreign investment in Pakistan.

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PM assures implementation of understanding with AJK

PM

MUZAFFARABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif calling the progress of Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir linked with each other, assured that his government, in collaboration with the AJK leadership, would ensure the implementation of mutual understanding and seek a permanent solution to the issues facing the Kashmiri people.

The prime minister, addressing the members of the AJK cabinet during his daylong visit here, instructed the formation of a committee to discuss issues like water charge, Neelum Jhelum and others for the benefit of the AJK people.

Referring to the recent movement run by the AJK people for their rights, Prime Minister Shehbaz said the people raised their voices for their genuine demands but amidst that some miscreants tried to create riots and cause killings.

He condoled the killing of a police official and some citizens during the movement and announced that his government would support their respective grieved families under the Shuhada Package.

He told the participants that Rs23 billion approved by his government had been released to the AJK government and assured that, after the completion of IMF team’s visit, the federal minister and secretary for power would consult with the AJK authorities to seek a permanent solution to the issues and prevent the recurrence of such incidents.

The prime minister asked his AJK counterpart Chaudhary Anwaar ul Haq to constitute a committee on his side for necessary consultation with the relevant Pakistani ministries and urged him to take personal ownership of the matter as he would do so in Pakistan.

He instructed the relevant authorities to immediately complete the construction of bridge of Mangla Phase-2 project. Regarding Neelum Jhelum, he said federal Secretary Water and Minister for Kashmir Affairs Amir Muqam would discuss the matter with the Kashmiri leadership to formulate short, medium and long-term solutions.

The prime minister appreciated President Asif Ali Zardari, Kashmir Affairs Minister Amir Muqam, AJK PM, Speaker of AJK Legislative Assembly, AJK Chief Secretary and IG Police for their constructive role and effective consultation to find an immediate solution to the people’s demands.

He said the package was approved in the meeting held on Monday in Islamabad and following that SBP was asked to release the fund, which had been complied.

He said the 250 people of Pakistan always supported Kashmiri people and raised their voices at international forums.

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PM Shehbaz arrives in AJK to meet leadership

PM Shehbaz

MUZAFFARABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday arrived here for a day-long visit to meet the political leadership and address the members of the AJK cabinet.

He will meet the AJK Prime Minister Chaudhary Anwaar ul Haq, who also received him at the helipad, on his arrival.

A meeting with the Hurriyat leaders of Jammu and Kashmir, and a briefing on the Neelum Jhelum Hydropower Project are also on the agenda of the prime minister’s visit.

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PM congratulates Pakistan Army, scientists over launch of Fatah-II

PM

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the Pakistan Army and scientists over the successful launch of Fatah-II Guided Rocket System.

The prime minister, calling the launch an outcome of untiring efforts by Pakistan Army and scientists, expressed the hope that Fatah-II would help further strengthen the defence of Pakistan.

He said the constant efforts by the Pakistan Army and scientists continued to making Pakistan’s defence impregnable.

On the other hand, Pakistan Army successfully conducted the training launch of Fatah-II Guided Rocket System, said the military’s media wing in a statement.

The rocket system, which has a range of 400 kilometres, is equipped with state-of-the-art navigation system, unique trajectory and manoeuvrable features. The missile is capable of “engaging targets with high precision and defeating any missile defence system”.

According to Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), today’s launch was aimed at perfecting the launch drills and procedures.

“Fatah-II is being inducted in Pakistan’s Artillery Divisions for stand-off, precision engagement of deep targets. The rocket system will significantly upgrade the reach and lethality of Pakistan Army’s conventional arsenal,” said the ISPR.

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Funeral prayers of Shaheed Major Babar Niazi offered in Zhob

Babar Niazi

RAWALPINDI: The funeral prayers of Shaheed Major Babar Niazi, martyred in an intelligence-based operation against terrorists, were offered in Zhob, Balochistan.

According to the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) , senior military and civil officers and representatives of public and civil administration participated in the funeral prayers. The martyr will be buried at his hometown with full military honour.

The ISPR further said the Armed Forces of Pakistan stand by the nation and are determined to thwart terrorist attempts to sabotage the peace and stability of the country.

These sacrifices of our brave sons strengthen our resolve to fight against terrorism and this war will continue till elimination of the scourge from the motherland.

Earlier, a Pakistan Army officer embraced martyrdom while three terrorists were eliminated during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) conducted by the security forces in general area Sambaza, Zhob District of Balochistan.

During the conduct of operation, the Army troops effectively engaged the terrorists location, as a result of which three terrorists were killed, an Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) news release said.

The martyred soldier was identified as Major Babar Khan (age: 33 years, resident of District Mianwali) who embraced martyrdom, having fought gallantly during intense exchange of fire while leading his troops from the front.

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PM announces to private all SOEs sans strategic ones

PM

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that the government would privatise all state-owned enterprises (SOEs), excluding the strategic ones, regardless of their profitability or financial losses.

The prime minister, chairing a high-level meeting to review the matters related to the Ministry of Privatisation and Privatisation Commission, directed all the federal ministries to carry out the necessary procedures and extend their cooperation with the Privatisation Commission for the purpose.

In the meeting, the privatisation ministry and the Privatisation Commission presented a roadmap for the Privatisation Programme 2024-29.

The prime minister said the government had nothing to do with running the businesses but was mandated to facilitate the investors. He viewed that the privatisation of SOEs would save the taxpayers’ money to help the government provide quality services to the people.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to a transparent process, the prime minister directed to live telecast the bidding and other procedures of the privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines and other entities.

During the briefing on the progress in the SOEs’ privatisation, the participants were told that the pre-qualification process for PIA privatisation would be completed by the end of this month.

The consultation for privatisation of Roosevelt Hotel was underway and the government-to-government transaction of the First Women Bank was in process with the United Arab Emirates.

It was told that the power distribution companies had been included in the 2024-29 Privatisation Program and the privatisation of loss-making SOEs would be prioritised.

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PM expresses govt desire to attract investment from UK

PM

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif expressed Pakistan’s desire to attract investment from the UK and other countries on Saturday, highlighting the country’s vast potential in diverse areas including agriculture, food security, information technology, tourism, and mining.

He was talking to British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott, who called on him at the PM House.

The meeting was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Chief Economist and Director of the Economic and Evaluation Directorate, Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office, London, Professor Adnan Khan.

The prime minister said, “Pakistan and the United Kingdom enjoy long-standing relations that are further strengthening with the passage of time.”

He also emphasized the government’s commitment to improving governance structures and introducing institutional reforms.

He learned that the government was taking measures at the micro and macroeconomic levels to recover the country’s economy.

Moreover, he said the digitization process of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) was in a final stage.

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PM directs authorities to develop trade policies to facilitate business

PM

ISLAMABAD:  Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday directed the authorities concerned to formulate the trade policies with a core objective of facilitating the business sector, calling for urgent measures to enhance the competitiveness of the country’s exports.

The prime minister, chairing a meeting on the trade sector, called for steps to promote exports of non-traditional goods and instructed for immediate payment of the certified duty drawback of the exporters.

Highlighting the significance of the private sector, he instructed to ensure consultation with them during the policy-making and implement the deletion policy to uplift the auto sector.

Prime Minister Shehbaz directed the relevant ministry to devise a comprehensive strategy to scrutinize the performance of trade and investment officers posted in Pakistan’s missions abroad, by rewarding the good performers and removing the incompetent ones.

The prime minister told the meeting that he would personally carry out the fortnightly review of the export sectors.

In the meeting, the prime minister was told that the discussion on the Free Trade Agreement between Pakistan and the Gulf states was in the final stage and transit trade agreements with Uzbekistan and Tajikistan had already been materialized.

It was told that during the recent Pak-Saudi Business Conference, around 450 business-to-business meetings were held and that the volume of e-commerce trade was witnessing a constant increase with the enlisting of over 3,000 firms on the Pakistan Trade Portal.

The meeting was also apprised of the strict monitoring of Afghan Transit Trade, double-digit premium growth of public sector insurance companies, finalising Gem Export Framework, and in-principle approval by Pakistan and Russia to operationalise the barter trade.

It was told that consultation with the stakeholders was in progress on Preferential Trade Agreements with Azerbaijan and Afghanistan, as well as on the New Strategic Trade Policy.

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9th May to be remembered as a ‘dark day’ in Pakistan’s history: President, PM

9th May

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that 9th May 2023, will always be remembered as a dark day in Pakistan’s history when a politically instigated mob ran amok across the country, damaging public property and military installations.

Condemning the violence, he said that the unfortunate incidents severely tarnished the country’s image, which only served the interests of Pakistan’s enemies.

The president, in his message, termed the mob attacks an attempt to challenge the writ of the state, undermine the rule of law and weaken the institutions.

He said that peaceful demonstrations and constructive criticism were the essence of democracy, emphasizing that Pakistan’s Constitution enshrined the fundamental rights of assembly and expression.

The president expressed pride in Pakistan’s Armed Forces and its institutions, which had been a vanguard in defending the nation against various threats.

President Zardari observed that Pakistan faced numerous challenges, and such irresponsible acts by political forces not only hindered the progress achieved as a nation but further exacerbated socio-economic challenges.

The president urged political parties, the Parliament, the media, and civil society to strengthen democracy by upholding the rule of law, and fostering a culture of tolerance, political dialogue and inclusivity.

On other hand, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated that there could absolutely be no soft-pedaling of what happened on May 9 and no absolution for those who orchestrated, supported, and assisted the attempt to damage the foundations of the nation.

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PM, Interior Minister strongly condemns killing of 7 people in Gwadar

PM

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi strongly condemned the killing of seven people in Gwadar.

According to media reports, unidentified gunmen shot dead seven labourers in an attack in Sarbandar area of Gwadar in Balochistan early Thursday.

The prime minister prayed to Allah Almighty for peace for the departed souls and sympathised with the bereaved families. “We share the grief of the victim families.

Such an attack is a cowardly act of anti-state elements,” he said and reiterated the resolve to eliminate terrorism from the country.

On the other hand, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi strongly condemned the terrorist incident in Gwardar.

Minister Naqvi expressed deep sorrow and grief over the killing of 7 people in the heinous incident.

He expressed his heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and said that government equally shares the grief of the bereaved families and standing with the grieving families in the hour of sorrow.

Beasts who play with the lives of innocent people do not deserve to be called human beings, said the minister in his message.

“We are committed to the complete elimination of the scourge of terrorism” Mohsin Naqvi said.

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Pakistan, WB agree to new partnership framework for reforms

Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the World Bank agreed to collaborate on a new, robust and ambitious Country Partnership Framework (CPF) to carry forward the country’s reform and development agenda.

The agreement was reached during a meeting between Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and a delegation led by Regional Vice President of the World Bank for South Asia Martin Raiser.

Welcoming Martin Raiser, Prime Minister Shehbaz lauded the contribution of the World Bank to the development of Pakistan.

The prime minister appreciated the support extended by the Bank for building the climate resilient infrastructure in the wake of 2022 floods in Pakistan.

He briefed the delegation on the reform agenda of the government including digitization of the entire tax system, power sector reforms, enhancing per acre yield in the agriculture sector, addressing the issue of child stunting, etc.

Appreciating Pakistan’s aggressive reforms agenda, Martin Raiser said the World Bank was ready to collaborate with the country in its journey of transformation of the economy aimed at sustainable development.

Both sides agreed to engage in a long-term, focused partnership under a new Country Partnership Framework with an annual review mechanism to assess progress and ensure that results are achieved.

The strategy will include flexibility for future course correction. The new partnership will have the ambition to achieve transformational impacts over a decade on a selective set of critical development priorities for Pakistan.

Likewise, the energy sector reforms, including increased participation of the private sector in transmission and distribution, and transition to green energy to make energy cheaper, cleaner and financially sustainable also came under discussion.

The two sides agreed that the process for preparation of the new Country Partnership Framework will consist of consultations with the federal and provincial governments as well as academia, parliamentarians, civil society, development partners and the private sector.

The World Bank will coordinate with stakeholders to discuss the partnership priorities duly aligned with the key development priorities and strategy of the Government of Pakistan.

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Pakistan desired to enhance its ties with Uzbekistan: PM

Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif reiterated that Pakistan was committed to working with Uzbekistan to speed up and complete all bilateral trade and connectivity projects.

The prime minister, in a meeting with Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan Bakhtiyor Saidov, who is currently on a two-day visit to Pakistan, reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to provide access to Uzbekistan to Pakistani Ports.

He also emphasized the importance of the Uzbekistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan Railway Project and Pakistan’s commitment to its early completion.

The two sides discussed enhanced cooperation between Pakistan and Uzbekistan in trade and economy, security and defense, connectivity and people-to-people contacts.

The importance of peace and development in Afghanistan for regional connectivity was also discussed. Congratulating the prime minister on his re-election, the Uzbek foreign minister also conveyed the invitation of Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev for Prime Minister Shehbaz to undertake an official visit to Uzbekistan at his earliest convenience.

The prime minister expressed his gratitude to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and said that he was looking forward to meeting him.

On the other hand,  Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar said that Pakistan desired to enhance its ties with Uzbekistan in multiple sectors including trade and commerce.

The bilateral relations were discussed in a meeting between Ishaq Dar and Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov, who is here on a two-day official visit.

On his arrival at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar received the guest, which followed their one-on-one meeting.

The deputy prime minister said that Pakistan and Uzbekistan enjoyed strong and friendly relations.

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PM Shehbaz directs establishment of Pakistan Skill  Company

PM Shehbaz

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the authorities concerned to immediately initiate the process of establishing the Pakistan Skill Company and Pakistan Skill Development Fund to unify the technical and vocational education countrywide and provide better employment to Pakistani workers abroad.

The prime minister, chairing a high-level meeting to review the matters of the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Manpower and National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC), decided to introduce reforms in the said organisations.

He instructed to further activate the NAVVTC to provide world-class technical and vocational training to the young workforce and also called for ensuring the globally renowned and international certifications in all technical fields.

The prime minister also emphasised the collaboration between the center and provinces to elevate the quality of Pakistan’s technical manpower and human resource development.

He called for establishing an integrated system of regulating the manpower equipped with the best and world-class professional technical skills.

Besides, in coordination with NADRA, NAVTTC and all the provincial institutions, a database of manpower in the country and abroad should be developed, he added. Stressing the need for implementing the technical and vocational training plans, the prime minister also directed to reform the license regime of the companies engaged in employment of Pakistani skilled and technical workforce abroad.

He said the individuals and companies should be identified those are found involved in defrauding the people and inflicting financial financial losses besides defaming Pakistan internationally.

Prime Minister Shehbaz also instructed to ensure meritocracy and transparency in the posting of community welfare attaches in the Pakistani missions abroad. He also directed to form a committee mandated to recommend measures for reforms in the vocational and technical training sectors as well as the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Manpower.

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Wheat import scandal: Committee summons ex-PM Kakar

Wheat

ISLAMABAD: A high level committee investigating the wheat import scandal has summoned the former Caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar and Caretaker Federal Finance Minister Shamshad Akhtar.

Sources said meeting of the investigation committee formed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was held in Islamabad, in which it was decided to summon former Caretaker Prime Minister Anwar ul Haq Kakar.

The secretary of the caretaker period, Food Security, Muhammad Mahmood has appeared before the inquiry committee and he has given a statement to the committee.

Sources said that the recently dismissed former Secretary Food Muhammad Asif has also recorded his statement before the investigation committee.

It should be noted that Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has directed Kamran Ali Afzal, the head of the committee investigating the wheat scandal, to submit the final report by Monday.

The Prime Minister has directed the head of the Wheat Scam Investigation Committee to formulate recommendations and clearly identify the responsible parties by presenting the available records and documents in their report.

On the other hand, PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif has also summoned Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday over the wheat scandal.

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President, PM felicitate nation as Pakistan launches first lunar satellite

satellite

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar felicitated the nation and the scientists as Pakistan launched it first lunar satellite ICUBE-Q.

In the separately issued statements, the president and prime minister paid tribute to the core committee of the Institute of Space Technology including its member Dr Khurram Khurshid, SUPARCO, China’s space body and the students who took part in the project.

“The successful launch of satellite mission will prove to be a milestone in Pakistan’s space program. The whole nation feels proud for this significant achievement in the space technology,” the president remarked. He also lauded cooperation between Pakistan and China in the field of space and said Pakistan yet have to achieve more milestones in the sector.

President Zardari expressed the hope that Pakistan’s space research institutes and scientists would bring more laurels to the country through their more hard work, dedication and planning.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the Pak-China friendship which was dubbed as higher than Himalayas, deeper than the oceans and sweeter than the honey had gone beyond the borders to reach the space. Terming the ICUBE-Q launch Pakistan’s first step in the space, he said just like the nuclear field, the country’s scientists, engineers and experts were proving their mettle in the space technology. The acceptance of Pakistan’s mission among eight countries was the recognition of the capabilities of Pakistan’s scientists and experts, he added.

“This is a historic milestone in the technological develoment. By this achievement, Pakistan has entered a new era of exploring the space for productive purposes,” the prime minister remarked. Prime Minister Shehbaz said that this achievement would help build Pakistan’s capacity in the satellite communications besides opening up new avenues for scientific research, economic development and national security. “Our sons of soil have proved that they have the capability، passion and expertise to explore the space.

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President, PM condole over deaths in Chilas bus accident

President

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari  and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed grief over the loss of precious lives in a bus accident that took place near Chilas.

According to media reports, at least 20 people were killed and many others sustained injuries when a passenger bus careened off the road, plunging into a ravine.

The president prayed for peace for the departed souls and strength for the bereaved families to bear the loss. He also prayed for the quick recovery of those injured in the accident.

Similarly, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed grief over the loss of lives in a bus accident that took place on the Karakoram Highway in the Yashokhal Das area of Chilas.

The prime minister prayed to Allah Almighty for peace for the departed souls and sympathised with the bereaved families. He also prayed for the quick recovery of those injured in the accident and directed the authorities concerned to provide them with the best possible medical treatment.

On the other hand,  Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan has expressed sorrow and grief over the death of 20 people in a traffic accident near Chilas Diamer district on Friday.

In his message, he expressed his heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the heirs of the deceased.
He directed the administration to provide the best treatment facilities to the injured, saying that legal action should be taken against the driver responsible for the accident.
He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured and eternal peace for the departed souls.
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LPG price reduced by Rs 11.88 per kg

LPG

ISLAMABAD: The government on Tuesday reduced the price of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) by Rs 11.88 per kg.

The new price of LPG per kg has been set at Rs 238.46, according to which a domestic cylinder of LPG has become cheaper by Rs 140.18.

The LPG price reduction notification has also been issued, the new price of LPG will be applicable from May 1. After the reduction in price, a domestic cylinder of LPG has been reduced by Rs 140. 18.

The new price of 11.8 kg domestic LPG cylinder has been fixed at 2813.85.

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PM departs for Pakistan as WEF meeting in KSA concludes

PM

RIYADH: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif departed here for the homeland after attending the Special Meeting of the World Economic Forum held on April 28-29. Senior Saudi government officials, Saudi Ambassador in Islamabad and Pakistan Ambassador in the Kingdom, and other diplomatic personnel saw off the prime minister at the Royal Airport of Riyadh. Besides addressing … Read more

PM meets Bill Gates; urges sustained efforts by partners for polio free Pakistan

PM

RIYADH: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met the founder and co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Bill Gates, wherein he called for a sustained effort by all the partners to reach the ultimate goal of a polio-free Pakistan.

In the meeting held on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF) Special Meeting here, the prime minister highlighted that Pakistan was working tirelessly to eradicate polio from the country.

Earlier, both leaders had featured in a WEF high-level panel discussion titled “Redefining the Global Health Agenda.” The prime minister thanked Bill Gates for sending him a warm congratulatory letter upon his re-election.

Bill Gates recalled the immunization and polio vaccine program in Punjab province under the leadership of Shehbaz Sharif as Chief Minister and emphasized replicating the same practice across the country to make the immunization program a success.

While fondly recalling their interactions during his previous tenure, the prime minister reaffirmed his commitment to continue working closely with Bill Gates to ensure a stronger partnership between Pakistan and the Gates Foundation.

He thanked the BMGF for its longstanding support for polio eradication in Pakistan. Bill Gates acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts and said polio eradication was vital to protect future generations from this crippling disease.

In addition to polio, Prime Minister Shehbaz and Bill Gates also discussed progress on ongoing activities between Pakistan and the Foundation in the areas of immunization, nutrition, and financial inclusion.

The prime minister said that the Gates Foundation was a trusted partner in Pakistan’s socio-economic development and sought collaboration in other areas including IT, STEM education and disaster management.

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Pakistan, KSA economic ties enter in new era: PM

Pakistan

RIYADH: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that the economic ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia had entered a new era as both countries were set to take concrete measures to boost the volume of bilateral trade in the coming days.

The prime minister, in a meeting with Saudi Minister of Commerce Dr. Majid bin Abdullah Al-Qasabi on the sidelines of the Special Meeting of World Economic Forum here, said the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) was playing an active role in promoting and facilitating the foreign investment in the country.

The Saudi minister told the prime minister that on the directives of Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, the Kingdom was prioritising trade and investment in Pakistan.

A delegation of Saudi businessmen, traders and investors would soon visit Pakistan, he added. Pak-Saudi economic ties enter a new era with trade-boosting steps ahead: PM The Saudi minister said that the targets were being set to take the bilateral ties to a new height within one or one-and-half years.

Prime Minister Shehbaz said that the Pakistani nationals had played a significant role in the progress and prosperity of Saudi Arabia.

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PM attends Special Dialogue, Gala Dinner hosted by Saudi Crown Prince

PM attends Special Dialogue, Gala Dinner hosted by Saudi Crown Prince

RIYADH: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif attended the Special Dialogue and Gala Dinner Sunday evening hosted by Saudi Crown Prince His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman during the ongoing Special Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Riyadh. During the event, the Prime Minister exchanged views with His Royal Highness the Crown Prince. He … Read more

PM Shehbaz Sharif arrives in KSA to attend WEF meeting

PM Shehbaz vows sustainable development as PML-N marks one year

RIYADH: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday arrived in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to participate in a special meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) on ‘Global Collaboration, Growth, and Energy for Development’, being held from April 28-29.

Deputy Governor of the Riyadh region Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Bin Abdul Aziz, Pakistan’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia and embassy staff received the prime minister and his delegation at the Riyadh Royal airport.

The prime minister was invited to attend the WEF meeting by Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and WEF Founder and Executive Chairman Professor Klaus Schwab.

“The Prime Minister will be accompanied by a high level delegation including Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb.

The Prime Minister and the Ministers will participate in WEF discussions on issues related to trade and investment measures, new investment frameworks, restructuring of supply chains, sustainable growth, and the energy landscape,” Foreign Office Spokesperson said in a press release.

The high level participation in the Forum will afford an important opportunity to present Pakistan’s priorities specifically in global health architecture, inclusive growth, revitalizing regional collaboration and the need for striking a balance between promoting growth and energy consumption.

On the margins of the main event, the prime minister and his delegation will hold bilateral meetings with world leaders, including the Saudi leadership, heads of international organizations, and other prominent figures participating in the event.

About 1,000 leaders from business, government, and academia will participate in the Special Meeting on Global Collaboration, Growth, and Energy for Development.

The meeting, April 28–29, will focus on new pathways to reinvigorate growth globally amid the challenges posed by an increasingly fragmented geopolitical and economic environment.

It will revolve around three themes: revitalizing global collaboration; a compact for inclusive growth; and catalyzing action on energy for development, it was added.

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12 FBR officers relieved from duties

FBR

ISLAMABAD: On the instructions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, 12 officers of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) were removed from their posts over their involvement in corruption and incompetency.

12 officers of Inland Revenue Service and Customs were made OSD after a thorough investigation on the instructions of the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister directed action against the corrupt and incompetent officers and also gave orders to dismiss the officers involved in corruption.

Minister of Information Atta Tarar, this is a historic step of the government, every year there were reports of leakage in FBR that so many billions were lost, that collection could not be done. He said the prime minister has removed many people from the post by taking a historic step.

He said that the Prime Minister used to talk about stopping tax leakage in every meeting and now the time has come for practical measures. He said corrupt and incompetent officers of FBR have been removed from their posts and action has been ordered against them.

On the other hand, a notification was issued to remove 12 senior officers of FBR from their posts. According to the notification, 12 officers of Grades 21 and 22 have been relieved of their posts, and their services have been transferred to the FBR Admin Pool.

The notification states that Grade 22 Officer and Member Customs Accounting Mukarram Jah Ansari, Member IR Policy Afaq Qureshi, and Member Customs Operation Dr Farid Iqbal Qureshi were sent to the admin pool.

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PM Shehbaz leaves for KSA to attend WEF special meeting

PM Shehbaz

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday departed to Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to participate in a special meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) on ‘Global Collaboration, Growth, and Energy for Development’, being held from April 28-29.

The prime minister was invited to attend the WEF meeting by Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and WEF Founder and Executive Chairman Professor Klaus Schwab.

“The Prime Minister will be accompanied by a high level delegation including Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb. The Prime Minister and the Ministers will participate in WEF discussions on issues related to trade and investment measures, new investment frameworks, restructuring of supply chains, sustainable growth, and the energy landscape,”.

The high level participation in the Forum will afford an important opportunity to present Pakistan’s priorities specifically in global health architecture, inclusive growth, revitalizing regional collaboration and the need for striking a balance between promoting growth and energy consumption.

On the margins of the main event, the prime minister and his delegation will hold bilateral meetings with world leaders, including the Saudi leadership, heads of international organizations, and other prominent figures participating in the event. About 1,000 leaders from business, government, and academia will participate in the Special Meeting on Global Collaboration, Growth, and Energy for Development.

The meeting, April 28–29, will focus on new pathways to reinvigorate growth globally amid the challenges posed by an increasingly fragmented geopolitical and economic environment. It will revolve around three themes: revitalizing global collaboration; a compact for inclusive growth; and catalyzing action on energy for development, it was added.

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PM to attend World Economic Forum meeting in KSA

PM

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday will travel to Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to participate in a two-day special meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) on ‘Global Collaboration, Growth and Energy for Development’.

The prime minister was invited to attend the WEF meeting by Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman  Al Saud and WEF Founder and Executive Chairman Professor Klaus Schwab.

The prime minister will be accompanied by the key members of the federal cabinet. During the meeting, the prime minister would spell out Pakistan’s perspective on health, financial technologies, information technology, comprehensive development, regional cooperation and an equitable and sustainable use of energy for the global progress.

On the sidelines of the WEF meeting, he is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with the global leaders, head of world bodies and other important personalities. About 1,000 leaders from business, government and academia will participate in the Special Meeting on Global Collaboration, Growth and Energy for Development.

The meeting, 28–29 April 2024, will focus on new pathways to reinvigorate growth globally amid the challenges posed by an increasingly fragmented geopolitical and economic environment. “Building on the inaugural Growth Summit, held in Geneva, Switzerland last year, the meeting, 28–29 April 2024 held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, will revolve around three themes: revitalizing global collaboration; a compact for inclusive growth; and catalysing action on energy for development,” it was added.

The event bridges the growing North-South divide, which has further widened on issues such as emerging economic policies, the energy transition and geopolitical shocks.

The statement further says that the meeting’s programme includes a variety of pressing global issues.

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Elements involved in corruption be held accountable: PM

PM

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that the elements involved in the deep-rooted menace of corruption and criminal negligence for denting the national economy would be held accountable.

Referring to the track and trace system agreement made in 2019, the prime minister said this system was nothing but a cruel joke to the nation as no improvement was seen in the sectors of tobacco, cement, sugar and fertilizer.

He said the agreement was totally a fraud as even no penalty clause was included in it. Chairing a meeting of the Cabinet at the PM House, he said that he had ordered to form an inquiry committee in this regard that will present its report within 72 hours.

As regards the macroeconomic indicators, the prime minister expressed satisfaction over the collective performance of both incumbent and the interim governments.

He said according to a recently published report on Pakistan economy, many indicators including IT export, remittances, capital market were showing positive results due to the prudent policies of the government.

However, he maintained that lot of work needed to be done. The government will perform ‘major surgical operation’ to get rid of the deep-rooted flaws in the country’s economy, he added.

PM Shehbaz Sharif informed that he completed the power sector review in four phases in which important decisions were taken to minimize power theft and line losses, and to reduce prices of the electricity.

Besides, he said the government had also decided in principle to divest the Distribution Companies (DISCOs). He said the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) had old and obsolete systems which needed to be replaced to increase the tax to GDP ratio.

He pointed out that the FBR had the potential to earn extra revenues worth hundreds of billions of rupees by implementing reforms in its system. “We have to take tough decision in larger interest of the country and we will fully monitor the implementation phase,” the prime minister remarked.

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