dr arif alvi – Page 2 – BOL News Staging

President denounces use of brutal force against Palestinians

November 1, 2023November 1, 2023 by Abid Khan

He said Pakistan was seriously concerned at Israeli aggression.
Alvi stressed international community should condemn aggression in Gaza.
He said Pakistan stood for total withdrawal of Israel from all occupied areas.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi has denounced the use of brutal force against innocent Palestinians, and called for the lifting of the siege and opening of a humanitarian corridor for Palestinians.

He said that Pakistan was seriously concerned at the incessant Israeli aggression against civilians, which had killed thousands of people including women, children, and elderly. He stressed that the international community should condemn the continued Israeli aggression in Gaza.

He stated that Pakistan stood for a total withdrawal of Israel from all occupied Arab territories, including Jerusalem, as well as the establishment of an independent homeland for Palestinians with Al-Quds Sharif as its capital.

The President gave these remarks during a presentation of diplomatic credentials ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr.

Talking to the envoys, the President said that Pakistan was closely monitoring the situation in Palestine and wanted the restoration of the inalienable rights of the people of Palestine. He highlighted that Pakistan had consistently supported the Palestine cause, and wanted a comprehensive resolution of all outstanding Arab-Israeli disputes to ensure lasting peace in the region.

Speaking to the envoys, the President said that Pakistan wanted to further intensify political, economic and cultural links with all friendly countries, besides increasing bilateral trade and investment relations.

He highlighted that Pakistan had established a Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), which provided a one window facility for investment in IT, Corporate Farming, Minerals and Energy sectors of Pakistan. He said that foreign investors should benefit of the investment friendly policies of Pakistan and invest in these sectors.

President also highlighted the gross human rights violations being committed by India in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

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Efforts underway to bring investment under joint-ventures: President

October 28, 2023 by Abid Khan

He said business community could make Pakistan economically strong.
President congratulated REAP for its journey from exports of $300m to $3b.
Governor Sindh Kamran Tessori said rice was second best export of country.

KARACHI: President Dr. Arif Alvi said that efforts were being made to bring foreign investment under joint-ventures to improve the economy of the country.

He said that improving the ease of doing business and timely decision-making played a vital role in putting the country on the path to economic stability.

While addressing the 15th Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP)’s Recognition Ceremony, also attended by the Sindh Governor Mohammed Kamran Khan Tessori, at a local hotel here, the President said that the business community could make Pakistan economically strong.

Alvi said that Pakistan had tremendous potential, which could be tapped by taking responsibility.

He congratulated REAP for its journey from the exports of $300 million to $3 billion.

The President asked REAP members to move towards joint-ventures and focus on value-added rice items.

He said that ‘Briyani Festival’ was a good idea and it was an example of value-addition. He also invited REAP to organize the festival at the President House. Alvi said that the Rice research insstitutions should be revived to further grab the international market. He, on the demand of REAP, said that market-oriented institutions should be jointly established by the gevernment and REAP.

The President said that women must be employed in companies to empower them financially and enable them to play their role in the economy of the country. He said that we had to impart education to our children to cope with the challenges being faced by the country.

Sindh’s Governor, Mohammed Kamran Khan Tessori, while addressing the ceremony said that rice was the second best export of the country and deplored that it had not been recoganized as an industry so far.

Talking about the Palestinians, he said that the world should raise its voice for the Palestinians and against Israeli brutalities.

REAP Chairman Chela Ram Kewlani addressing the ceremony said that REAP was the backbone of the country’s economy. He said that the Rice of Pakistan had become a brand at international level.

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President directs varsity to accommodate student who missed course due to COVID-19

October 27, 2023 by Abid Khan

He expressed displeasure university did not timely process her case.
Alvi said there was no reason for university to deviate from HEC’s policy.
He said Air University did not follow recommendations of HEC.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi has asked Air University to reconsider the case of granting one additional year to its female student for completing her degree as she was unable to complete the remaining courses of her BS degree due to suffering from COVID-19.

He expressed displeasure that the University did not timely process her case, despite the fact that Higher Education Commission (HEC)’s Policy and University Regulations provided for remedies to resolve such issues by granting extension.

He said that there was no reason for the University to deviate from HEC’s policy and recommendations, stating that instead of rectifying its maladministration, the University submitted a representation before the President without realizing its implications in respect of public exchequer and wastage of study timeline of its student. He advised the Air University to not let the female student’s devotion, hard work, and money go to waste and take measures to help and guide students, especially in the case of women.

President gave these directions while deciding upon a representation filed by Air University against the order of the Wafaqi Mohtasib directing it to place Ms Iqra Munir’s case before the University Functional Committee (UFC) and reconsider it for allowing her one more year to complete her BS degree.

As per details, Ms Iqra Munir (the complainant) had filed a complaint before the Wafaqi Mohtasib alleging that she was a student of Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Psychology Programme in one of the colleges affiliated with the Air University. According to her, due to Covid pandemic, she could not complete her degree in 2020. She approached the University to allow her for completion of her degree but she was advised to contact HEC for grant of an additional year to complete her studies.

Later, HEC advised that the competent authority of the University may reconsider her case for extension keeping in view her medical history and the provisions already available in HEC Policy and University Regulations. However, after a lapse of one year she was not given the extension. Feeling aggrieved, she approached the Wafaqi Mohtasib, who passed the order in her favour. The University then filed a representation before the President against the order of the Mohtasib.

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President Alvi calls for early detection of breast cancer

October 24, 2023 by Abid Khan

President claimed Pakistan had successfully handled polio disease.
He said now breast cancer awareness drive was being run very effectively.
He said 24% of country’s population was suffering from mental disease.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi called for disseminating the awareness message about breast cancer from door to door across the country for breast cancer of the disease and reducing the mortality rate.

He said Pakistan had successfully handled the polio disease and that experience also helped the government to successfully cope with COVID-19. Now the breast cancer awareness campaign was being run very effectively.

Addressing a breast caner awareness programme at the Aiwan-e-Sar, the president said awareness about other key health issues, including mental health, stunting, and women health should also be raised along with the breast cancer awareness campaign as it was very important to keep women healthy for a healthy nation.

Highlighting the importance of family system, President Alvi said that a woman was the key member of a family that must be kept healthy, financially empowered, and also safe from any kind of harassment in the society. He said empowering the women economically was linked to the overall economic growth of the country. He said 24% of the country’s population was suffering from mental disease that was due to a number of reasons, including diseases, and financial issues.

President Alvi also stressed the need to control population by increasing the access of the people to long term contraceptive products as it was key to development of the country both in terms of health and economy.

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President Alvi phones families of soldiers martyred in Zhob

October 20, 2023 by Abid Khan

He telephonically interacted with families of Major Syed Ali Raza.
President also telephoned family of Havaldar Abdul Sattar.
He prayed for elevation of ranks of martyrs in paradise.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi telephoned the family members of the soldiers martyred in different terrorist attacks in Zhob city of Balochistan recently.

The president telephonically interacted with the families of Major Syed Ali Raza Shah and Havaldar Nisar Ahmed, martyred in October 8, and conveyed his condolence.

The president recalled that his interaction with brave individuals like Major Syed Ali Raza Shah in the past was a matter of pride for him. The president also telephoned the family of Havaldar Abdul Sattar who was martyred in a terrorist attack in Zhob on September 28.

The president paid tribute to the martyrs who laid their lives for the country. President Alvi also lauded the services of the martyrs for the country and also paid tribute to their families.

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100,000 breast cancer cases diagnoses every year in Pakistan

October 19, 2023 by Abid Khan

He said 35,000 could not survive due to detection of disease at late stages.
President said diagnosis of breast cancer at stage 1 had higher survival rates.
He called for educating women on how to conduct monthly self-examinations.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi said more than 100,000 women in Pakistan were diagnosed with breast cancer every year, of which 35,000 could not survive due to detection of the disease at late stages. He said the diagnosis of breast cancer at stage 1 had higher survival rates compared to stages 3 and 4 of the disease.

In an interactive session with journalists of print and electronic media here at the Aiwan-e-Sadr, the president along with his wife Samina Alvi stressed breaking social taboos about breast cancer and the importance of the media’s role in sensitizing the general public.

He emphasized a preventive rather than curative approach as the government lacked ample resources to bear the unaffordable costs of medical treatment including the scanning and oncology procedures of breast cancer. He called for educating women on how to conduct monthly self-examinations to locate an abnormal nodule and not to hesitate to seek urgent medical help.

President Alvi recalled that last year, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority on his suggestion relayed 120 million call-waiting messages about breast cancer. He urged the journalists to join the cause of fighting breast cancer by highlighting the topic in their write-ups and television programmes.

He mentioned that he and Samina Alvi for the last five years had been raising consistent awareness campaigns on breast cancer from the platform of the Presidency. He stressed continuity in policies on health and education despite changes in governments to ensure a healthy and balanced society. He also emphasized focusing on health courses of short duration to produce a larger number of healthcare workers to cater to the needs of the population.

Begum Samina Alvi lauded the media for effectively highlighting the subject in their television programmes and newspapers. She said the campaign should not be restricted to the month of October and be continued throughout the year. She also urged sensitization of the male members of the family to enable them realize the sufferings attached to the disease and support women to get proper medical care.

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President condemns brutal Israeli airstrike on hospital in Gaza

October 18, 2023 by Abid Khan

He expressed his deep shock over tragic loss of innocent lives.
President expressed concern over grave war crimes by Israel.
He said international community must hold Israel accountable.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi has strongly condemned the brutal Israeli attack on Al-Ahly Al-Mamadany Hospital in Gaza that killed hundreds of people, including women and children.

The President expressed his deep shock over the tragic loss of innocent lives due to the reckless Israeli airstrike, saying that Israel had trampled all international and moral norms by attacking a hospital, where patients were seeking emergency treatment.

The President expressed concern over the grave war crimes being committed by Israel that was indiscriminately targeting civilian populations and health facilities.

He said that the international community must hold Israel accountable for its war crimes and take urgent measures to bring an immediate halt to the Israeli bombardment and the ongoing siege of Gaza.

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President urges universities to provide quality education to students

October 12, 2023 by Abid Khan

Addressing Convocation ceremony of Quaid-i-Azam University.
He urged HEC to support universities for designing courses.
He said over 24 million children were presently out of school.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi stressed the universities to provide quality education to the students as it was the foremost requirement for the development of the country.

He urged the education ministry and Higher Education Commission (HEC) to support universities in designing the courses and departments in accordance with demand of jobs in the market.

Addressing the Convocation ceremony of the Quaid-i-Azam University here, the president said Pakistan was passing difficult economic situation but hoped that the country would rise again soon by ensuring quality education, rule of law and justice. “Pakistan has full potential to develop and the sun of development and prosperity would rise in the country soon,” he remarked.

During the ceremony, the president gave away medals to the top position holders and conferred degrees to the successful students in various departments of the university. Referring to shortage of professionals especially in medical field in the country, the president said that the female professional should contribute in the society after completing their degree.

However, he stressed the need to provide them harassment free environment at work places so that they could work freely. The president said that over 24 million children were presently out of school. He said that the government would need almost 55000 more schools to educate these children but we should make all efforts to educate these children.

Comparing the regional statistics, the president highlighted that in India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, around 98% of the children were enrolled in schools. He said the mosques could be utilized for providing education besides use of latest technology, especially online education, to educate the children.

He asked the universities to start 2-year associate degree programmes for the students as the market was demanding skilled based professionals. He said that globally around 56% of the total cyber security professionals were working without 4-year degrees in the field.

Caretaker Minister for Federal Education Madad Ali Sindhi on the occasion said the government was promoting education at every level. He said he had directed to provide all basic facilities to the schools in Islamabad as without basic facilities, the quality of education could not be improved.

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President seeks Caretaker PM support for breast cancer awareness

October 11, 2023 by Abid Khan

He also sent letters to Caretaker CMs and Governors.
Alvi said October was dedicated every year to create awareness.
He said breast cancer caused 40,000 deaths in Pakistan each year.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi has written letters to Caretaker Prime Minister, Caretaker Ministers, Governors and Caretaker Chief Ministers seeking their cooperation over breast cancer awareness drive and wearing of pink ribbon during month of October.

The president also sent letters to President and Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, senators and Governor and Chief Minister of Gilgit Baltistan in this regard.

He said that month of October was dedicated every year to create awareness about the breast cancer. The president observed that their cooperation over public awareness would yield tangible results. With public awareness, they could play their parts in transforming a healthy and well aware society.

He said breast cancer in Pakistan caused about 40,000 deaths every year which was the highest ratio in Asia, adding delayed diagnosis was the main cause of these deaths.

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Political parties should be given equal opportunity to contest election: President

October 10, 2023 by Abid Khan

He said upcoming general elections should be free and fair.
President expressed these views while talking to Muhammad Ali Durrani.
He appreciated statements of political leaders for demanding level playing field.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi has said that the upcoming general elections should be free, fair, transparent and inclusive.

He emphasized that all political parties and their leadership should be given equal opportunities to participate in the election process to strengthen democracy in the country. “Democracy becomes meaningless if people are not able to elect leaders of their choice”, he added.

The President expressed these views while talking to the Former Federal Minister and Senator Muhammad Ali Durrani, who called on him at Aiwan-e-Sadr.

The President was of the view that there was a dire need for political, institutional and stakeholder unity in the country to battle the difficulties on all possible fronts, including that of economy. “Bitterness must end and give way to cooperation and forgiveness”, he said.

He stated that difficult decisions needed backing of the people and their participative ownership. He further said that the forthcoming general elections provided a good opportunity to create the vibrancy needed to rebuild our country.

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President calls for holding regular senates meetings of universities

October 9, 2023 by Abid Khan

He also directed for immediate filling of vacant posts of senate members.
President chaired 6th meeting of Senate of COMSATS University Islamabad.
Dr Arif Alvi lamented admissions in universities in Pakistan was very low.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi stressed upon the need of holding of regular meetings of senates of universities for timely decision making.

He also directed for immediate filling of vacant posts of senate members in different universities. The president chaired the 6th meeting of the Senate of the COMSATS University Islamabad, at Aiwan-e-Sadr.

The meeting was attended by executive director COMSATS, secretaries of ministries of IT and federal education and senate members. He further observed that universities should also commence timely process for recruitment on teaching and administrative vacancies, besides establishing new departments while keeping in view needs of the market. Prior to starting of teaching in new departments, an inquisitive analysis of the requirements of the markets should be made, he opined, adding that universities should impart education and skills to their students in conformity with the needs of the market.

The president reiterated that while comparing with other countries of the region, the number of students seeking admissions in universities in Pakistan was very low and emphasized upon the universities to utilize online education system for increasing numbers of qualified graduates.

He also advised that universities should explore new avenues for generating their financial resources whereas for the research grants, they should seek assistance from professionals.

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President calls for expanding bilateral trade volume with Bahrain

October 6, 2023October 6, 2023 by Abid Khan

He said demand for skilled labour force was increasing.
President Pakistan attached brotherly relations with Bahrain.
He said Pakistan embassies abroad should play their due role.

KARACHI: President Dr Arif Alvi stressed the need to expand bilateral trade volume with Bahrain besides increasing export of skilled labour force to the country.

Talking to Pakistan’s Ambassador-designate to Bahrain Saqib Rauf who called on him here at the Governor House, the president said demand for skilled labour force in different socio-economic related fields especially information technology and artificial intelligence was increasing in the international market.

Therefore, he said the ambassador-designate should be fully focused on capturing the market demand by exporting the required skilled workforce from Pakistan.

President Alvi said Pakistan attached special importance to the brotherly relations with Bahrain. He stressed that economic, educational and cultural ties with Bahrain should be strengthened.

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President for joint efforts to raise awareness on breast cancer

October 5, 2023 by Abid Khan

He said stakeholders should join hands for awareness.
He highlighted use of digital technologies in healthcare challenges.
Presidency Alvi urged women to conduct self-examinations.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr. Arif Alvi has urged the need for making collaborative efforts by the public and private sector to create awareness about breast cancer, especially during October, besides providing support to those affected by the disease.

He said that media and other relevant stakeholders should join hands in the breast cancer awareness campaign and encourage women to engage in regular self-examinations and seek timely medical guidance for the early diagnosis of this life-threatening ailment.

The President made these remarks during a meeting with a delegation from Siemens Healthineers in Pakistan. CEO of Siemens Khurram Jameel, and the First Lady Begum Samina Alvi attended the meeting virtually.

During the meeting, the President highlighted the potential of digital technologies in addressing healthcare challenges, particularly in enhancing awareness, improving healthcare accessibility, and raising the quality of care while minimizing costs. He underscored the importance of early screenings, self-examinations, and improved medical services.

Moreover, the President also underlined the pivotal role that private sector partners could play in raising awareness through media campaigns, standee displays in hospitals and public areas, distribution of pamphlets, and organizing educational workshops and seminars in women’s educational institutions. He also called for organizing breast cancer awareness events during October.

He also commended the role of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and telecom companies, who had initiated a call-caution tone from October 01 on the advice of Presidency urging women to conduct self-examinations and seek medical advice if they noticed any unusual growth.

He said that spreading the message of self-examination for early breast cancer detection should not be regarded as taboo. He called upon media houses to broadcast/telecast messages regarding the significance of self-examination during their morning and talk shows, as well as in public service announcements to create awareness about the disease.

The CEO of Siemens Healthineers pledged his company’s support for the breast cancer campaign during the meeting.

During the meeting, it was highlighted that Pakistan had one of the highest mortality rates due to breast cancer in Asia, with approximately 90,000 cases diagnosed annually.

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President stresses need for increasing trade for economic stability

September 28, 2023 by Abid Khan

He expressed these views in meeting with delegation of IIA.
The delegation apprised president of contribution of IIA.
It also highlighted challenges faced by business community.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi stressed the need for increasing trade activity and enhancing the volume of the country’s exports to ensure economic stability.

The president expressed these views in a meeting with a delegation of the Islamabad Industrial Association (IIA) led by Muhammad Ahmed, here at the Aiwan-e-Sadr.

President Alvi said investment in information technology and boosting its exports would prove helpful in attaining the goals of development and progress.

The delegation apprised the president of the contribution of IIA in promoting exports of the country. It also highlighted the challenges faced by the traders and businessmen.

Earlier, President Dr Arif Alvi announced a special remission of 90 days in sentence of prisoners on the eve of Eid Milad un Nabi.

The remission will be applicable for male prisoners above 65 years of age and women inmates over 60 years, who have completed one-third of their imprisonment. The persons under 18 years who have served their one-third sentence will also get the benefit of remission.

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President announces remission for prisoners on Eid Milad un Nabi

September 27, 2023 by Abid Khan

The remission will be applicable for male and female prisoners.
The reduction will not apply to prisoners involved in murder
President stresses exploring trade opportunities with Bangladesh.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi announced a special remission of 90 days in sentence of prisoners on the eve of Eid Milad un Nabi.

President Alvi approved the remission for prisoners in accordance with Article 45 of the Constitution.

The reduction in sentence will not apply to the prisoners involved in murder, espionage, and anti-State activities.

The other categories without remission include convicts of adultery, theft, dacoity, kidnapping, and terrorism. Also, the remission will not be applicable on those involved in financial crimes and the ones who incurred losses to the national exchequer.

Earlier, President Dr Arif Alvi stressed the need for exploiting opportunities with Bangladesh in areas of trade, investment and culture.

The president expressed these views in a meeting with the country’s ambassador-designate to Bangladesh Syed Ahmad Maroof here at the Aiwan-e-Sadr.

President Alvi mentioned that huge potential in trade existed between Pakistan and Bangladesh, which he said, needed special attention.

He said the two countries enjoyed the commonalities of religion and history and emphasized the need to strengthen people-to-people and cultural ties.

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President calls for long term planning to boost tourism in Pakistan

September 27, 2023 by Abid Khan

President stresses competitive job opportunities for professionals to prevent brain drain

The president, in his message on World Tourism Day.
He said many developing countries badly affected by climate.
He said now is time for new and innovative solutions.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi has said that amidst the climate emergency threatening many travel destinations, it was a dire need for long-term planning to boost the tourism industry sustainably and set new boundaries for securing its future.

The president, in his message on World Tourism Day annually observed on September 27, said climate emergency threatened many travel destinations and the very survival of communities and economies that depend on tourism. He said many developing countries, severely affected by a changing climate, also faced a growing investment deficit and a cost-of-living crisis.

President Dr Arif Alvi has said that Pakistan was home to some of the world’s most fascinating tourist attractions, including the highest mountain peaks, stunning coastlines, beautiful lakes, lush green valleys, ancient civilizations, and a rich cultural heritage. He said the Day was meant to renew a pledge to consider the power and potential of the tourism sector in advancing the prosperity and progress of the region.

The president said the Day was celebrated every year under the auspices of the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) to raise awareness about the importance of tourism and its impact on our society. He said the this year’s theme, “Tourism and Green Investments,” provided ample opportunity to identify the potential of green investments as a key priority for the growth and sustainable development of tourism, he added.

He said for World Tourism Day 2023, UNWTO emphasized the need for more and better-targeted investments for people, the planet, and prosperity. Now is the time for new and innovative solutions, not just traditional investments that promote and underpin economic growth and productivity, he remarked.

President Alvi said this year’s theme aimed to harness the full potential of sustainable tourism by motivating private actors to adopt zero-emission pathways, reduce their energy consumption, and leverage renewable forms of energy to protect the biodiversity and ecological balance of all destinations.

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President for enhancing trade and cultural cooperation with Jordan

September 26, 2023 by Abid Khan

President emphasized need for regular high-level exchanges.
He appreciated commonality of views between Pakistan and Jordan.
He expressed satisfaction over current relations between two countries.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi has asked Pakistan’s Ambassador-designate to Jordan to work for further enhancing bilateral cooperation with the brotherly country in the areas of trade, economy, culture, and people-to-people contacts.

He said that Pakistan cherished its close, friendly and fraternal relations with the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan which were rooted in shared religion, culture and history.

Congratulating the Pakistan’s Ambassador-designate to Jordan, Major General (r) Muhammad Ajmal Iqbal, the President said that Pakistan highly valued its ties with Jordan and wanted to further improve bilateral trade, economic, political and cultural relations for the mutual interest of the two countries. He expressed satisfaction over the current relations between the two countries, which were marked by warmth and commonality of views on both sides.

The President emphasized the need for regular high-level exchanges, including the exchange of Parliamentary delegations, holding of Bilateral Political Consultations and Joint Ministerial Commissions to improve socio-political and economic ties.

He appreciated the commonality of views between Pakistan and Jordan on various issues concerning the Islamic world, especially Palestine and Islamophobia, and urged the need to work closely with other Muslim countries on such issues.

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President Alvi urges universities to focus on artificial intelligence

September 23, 2023 by Abid Khan

Federal Education Minister Madad Ali Sindhi called on President Alvi.
Dr Alvi stressed for promotion of quality education and training.
He sought government attention to provide education to 27m children.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi sought the government’s special attention to provide education to the 27 million out of school children through both traditional and nontraditional ways.

During a meeting with Caretaker Minister for Federal Education and Professional Training, Madad Ali Sindhi who called on President Dr Arif Alvi here, the president also stressed for promotion of quality education and professional training in the country.

He said special arrangements should be made to provide education to the people living in remote areas of the country.

President Alvi also proposed that online tools of education could also be utilized for the provision of education to the people living in remote areas.

He also suggested to utilize various platforms other than school buildings such as mosques to provision education to the people.

Highlighting the importance of education for special persons, the president stressed that special arrangements should also be made for them to give education along with the normal children.

With respect to the girls education, he said the girls should be encouraged to continue their education in schools.

He said the universities should equip their students with skills according to the needs of the market.

The number of people enrolled in universities for higher education in Pakistan is very less compared to other countries in the region, he said adding special measures should be taken to increase the number of people with higher education in the country.

He proposed the universities to provide higher education to more students with the help of online education and different shifts, adding that besides the 4-year programs, the universities should also start 2-year degree programs.

With the help of online and distance education programs of Virtual University and Allama Iqbal Open University, the number of highly educated people can be increased, the president said.

He also stressed the universities to focus on artificial intelligence, machine learning, cyber security and cloud computing

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President calls for enhanced cooperation with KSA

September 22, 2023 by Abid Khan

He said Pakistan highly valued its relations with KSA.
President apprised delegation Pakistan had constituted SIFC.
General Fayyadh said Pakistan and KSA enjoyed close ties.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have reiterated their desire to further improve bilateral cooperation in the areas of trade, economy and defence.

This was discussed at a meeting between the visiting Chief of General Staff of the Saudi Armed Forces General Fayyadh bin Hamed Al-Ruwaili, who along with the members of his delegation, called on President Dr Arif Alvi, at Aiwan-e-Sadr.

Welcoming the delegation, the President said Pakistan highly valued its relations with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) which had always supported Pakistan at difficult times. He stated that both brotherly countries enjoyed excellent relations in various fields and had commonality of views on various regional and international issues. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing bilateral economic and financial ties with the Kingdom for the mutual benefit of two brotherly countries.

The President highlighted that Pakistan was looking for investment as the country had huge potential for the investment in the agriculture and IT sectors. He apprised the delegation that Pakistan had constituted a Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) to serve as one window platform to fast-track decision making and facilitate Foreign Direct Investment in four key areas: Information Technology, Agriculture, Energy and Mining in the country, especially from the KSA.

Expressing satisfaction at the existing level of cooperation, the President said that the high-level exchanges of military leadership of two countries would further boost defence cooperation. He informed that he was highly impressed by the vision of Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman that led to the normalisation of relations between the Kingdom and Iran and would also bring peace and prosperity to the region.

He appreciated the role played by the KSA in the Organization of the Islamic Countries for important Muslim causes, especially for Palestine, Kashmir and Afghanistan. He deeply thanked the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for providing financial support to Pakistan to deal with its economic challenges. He asked General Fayyadh bin Hamed to convey his warm regards to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman.

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President Alvi condemns killing of Sikh leader

September 21, 2023 by Abid Khan

He expressed concern over killing of Sikh leader.
He said murder of Sikh leader exposed real face of India.
It is an open secret that India is major source of trouble.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi has strongly condemned the involvement of India in the murder of Canadian Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar and has urged the world to take serious note of the state-sponsored killing on the Canadian soil.

Expressing concern over the killing of the Sikh leader, the President said that it had been the policy of India to persecute and eliminate the leadership of minority groups in India and outside world. The brutal murder of the Sikh leader exposed the real face of India that has been intolerant towards the minority groups, the President added.

He maintained that India had unleashed a reign of terror against the Muslims in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJ&K) and other minority communities for decades.

He regretted that the silence and the inaction of the world over the atrocities being committed by India in the IIOJ&K and the persecution of minorities and demolishment of their places of worship emboldened India to carry out such operations on foreign soil.

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President directs Post Office to return Rs 1.35m to pensioner

September 20, 2023 by Abid Khan

He gave these remarks while accepting a representation.
Complainant said department wrongly recorded his date of birth.
The department unjustifiably deducted in lieu of salary paid.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi has directed the Pakistan Post Office Department to pay Rs 1.35 million to a retired employee as the amount was wrongly deducted from his pensionary benefits by the Postmaster General Punjab, Lahore (the Agency) on account of a mistake in employee’s date of birth.

President said that the employee continued to serve four more years in his department after his retirement on the orders of the competent authority and had a bonafide belief of receiving the salary for the period. He added that depriving the employee of pensionary benefits and deducting the salary paid in performance of his duties was unlawful and maladministration had been established.

He gave these remarks while accepting a representation filed by Muhammad Yousaf (the complainant) against the decision of the Wafaqi Mohtasib declaring that the Agency had rightly deducted the amount from his pensionary benefits. The complainant had alleged that he served for 38 years with the Agency and he retired in 2016 but his department had wrongly recorded his date of birth due to which his retirement year was changed to 2012.

Subsequently, he overworked for additional four years but a huge amount of Rs 1.35 million was unjustifiably deducted in lieu of the salary paid to him for four years from his pensionary benefits. Feeling aggrieved, he approached the Wafaqi Mohtasib which passed the orders in the Agency’s favour. Afterwards, the complainant raised the matter with the President by filing a representation against Wafaqi Mohtasib’s decision.

President accepted the representation of the complainant and pointed out that the Agency had notified the date of retirement on superannuation of the complainant effective from May 05 2016 vide its letter dated June 04 2015 and the complainant performed his duties on the basis of said order of the Agency.

He stated that although the issue of the correct date of retirement of the employee had been settled by the Federal Service Trubunal and the Supreme Court of Pakistan, however, the issue of depriving a worker of his salary for his services rendered still remained unresolved.

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President for collective efforts to address socio-economic challenges

September 19, 2023 by Abid Khan

President Alvi met delegation of KCCI in Karachi.
He urged creation of an inclusive society.
He expressed optimism about Pakistan’s potential

KARACHI: President Dr. Arif Alvi has emphasized the need for collective efforts to tackle challenges such as unemployment, rising stress levels in society, improving access to opportunities for differently-abled individuals, and enhancing female participation in businesses and employment.

He, in a meeting with a delegation from the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) in Karachi, underscored the importance of volunteerism and active involvement of the chambers, banking sector, and civil society to overcome the socio-economic challenges in the country.

President stressed that the business community should play a pivotal role in advancing social sectors and fulfilling their corporate social responsibility by helping those in need. He highlighted that the collaborative endeavors between the public and private sectors could bring about a positive transformation in people’s lives, particularly in the realm of social initiatives.

He urged the creation of an inclusive society that actively promotes female participation in socio-economic activities. He called upon KCCI members to inspire and support women in becoming future entrepreneurs, fostering confidence and empowerment among them.

President acknowledged the positive impact of information technology on facilitating bank account opening and financial transactions for women. He emphasized the business community’s role in providing a conducive atmosphere for women at workplace.

He also called on the corporate sector to prioritize the welfare of their workers and environmental protection, ensuring a better world for future generations.

Regarding the performance of the banking sector, President Alvi praised its achievements over the past three years. He urged chambers to develop fast-track mechanisms to ensure quantifiable performance, with a specific goal of achieving 20 to 25% female employment within the industry. He commended some banks in the country for achieving a remarkable 30% female employment.

President expressed optimism about Pakistan’s potential, citing abundant natural and human resources. He emphasized the need to provide quality education and skills to harness the competitiveness of the industrial and business sectors.

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Justice Qazi Faez Isa to take oath as CJP on Sep 17

September 13, 2023 by Abid Khan

President Dr Arif Alvi will administer oath
Invitations sent for oath-taking ceremony.
PM Kakar will also participate in ceremony.

ISLAMABAD: The swearing-in ceremony of the nominated Chief Justice of Pakistan Qazi Faez Isa will be held on September 17 at the President’s House, for which preparations have been started.

President Dr Arif Alvi will administer the oath to the nominated Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa. Caretaker Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar and heads of armed forces including federal ministers will also participate in the ceremony.

Invitations have been sent for the swearing-in ceremony.

Sources said current Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial moved to the house reserved for retired judges after vacating the Chief Justice House. He is retiring from the post on September 16.

On the other hand, the spokesperson of Islamabad Police said in his statement that security has been provided to the nominated Chief Justice as per the law while his Chief Security Officer has also been appointed.

Earlier, President Arif Alvi approved the appointment of Justice Qazi Faez Isa as the Chief Justice of Pakistan, after which the Ministry of Law issued a notification.

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President for implementation of job quota for PWDs

September 13, 2023 by Abid Khan

He said 10-12% population of country was facing disabilities.
President Alvi made these remarks during a follow-up meeting.
MoHR claimed 98 Differently-Abled-Persons provided jobs.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr. Arif Alvi has underscored the need for the implementation of job quota for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) by the public and private sectors.

He said that the 10-12% population of the country was facing various forms of disabilities and it was the responsibility of government and private sectors to employ PWDs, as per their skills and qualifications, so that to empower them financially.

The President made these remarks during a follow-up meeting on the framework for classification of disabilities, held at Aiwan-e-Sadr.

Ministry of Human Rights briefed the meeting on the progress made so far with regard to implementation of disability employment quota. It was informed that the ministry was actively pursuing with the government organizations to implement job quota for persons with disabilities in letter and spirit. The Ministry highlighted that 98 Differently-Abled-Persons (DAPs) had been provided jobs by the government organizations since March 2023.

The Ministry further informed that a master list of potential employers was being prepared to seek their support in providing jobs to PWDs. NAVTTC apprised the meeting that 1500 PWDs had been trained for job placement.

The meeting was apprised that presently DAPs availed the job quota only from BPS 1-15 while no specific quota had been reserved for them against the gazetted positions.

The President stressed the importance of amending the existing recruitment rules to reserve quota for PWDs in gazetted jobs. He underlined the need for imparting skill-based education to PWDs to enhance their employability and ensure their active participation in mainstream economic activities.

The President also highlighted the importance of close coordination among the stakeholders to address issues related to the registration of PWDs at federal and provincial levels. He also appreciated the efforts made by NAVTTC by training 1500 PWDs as well as the role of Ministry of Human Rights for helping DAPs in getting jobs.

The Officials from provincial governments updated the meeting about the measures taken by them for the facilitation and training of PWDs.

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President Alvi calls for enhancing cooperation with China

September 12, 2023 by Abid Khan

He said China was a reliable and tested friend.
Pakistan wanted to strengthen strategic relations with China.
President said Pakistan highly valued its ties with China.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr. Arif Alvi has called for more robust cooperation with the People’s Republic of China in the areas of trade, economy, culture, and defense.

He said that China was a reliable and tested friend and Pakistan wanted to further strengthen the strategic relations with China for the mutual benefit of the two countries.

The President made these remarks during his meetings with the Ambassadors-designates of the People’s Republic of China and Venezuela (Non-Resident), as well as the Republic of Colombia (Non-resident), who presented their diplomatic credentials to the President and separately called on him at Aiwan-e-Sadr.

Welcoming the Ambassador-designate of China to Pakistan, Mr. Jiang Zaidong, the President said that Pakistan highly valued its ties with China as it had always stood by Pakistan at difficult times. The President said that Pakistan would continue to support China on all core issues.

Highlighting the importance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the President said that CPEC would greatly contribute to the socio-economic development of Pakistan. He informed me that the project had helped modernize our infrastructure, build our capacity, and ensure a sustainable energy supply.

He added that Pakistan was fully committed to the timely completion of all projects under CPEC. The President expressed his gratitude for China’s unflinching support to Pakistan’s socio-economic development as well as its principled stance on the Jammu & Kashmir dispute.

In his meeting with the Ambassador-designate of Venezuela, Mr. Jose Rafael Silva Aponte, the President said that Pakistan placed special emphasis on improving trade and economic relations with Venezuela. He highlighted that Venezuelan investors could benefit investment-friendly policies of Pakistan.
While talking to the Ambassador-designate of the Republic of Colombia, Mr. Julio Anibal Riano Velandia, President Arif Alvi underlined the need for further enhancing economic, cultural, and trade relations with Columbia.

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President Alvi meets with Dr Nadeem Jan

August 31, 2023 by Abid Khan

Both discussed matters relating to national health.
President emphasized special focus on breast cancer.
He said basic treatment of mental health could be provided.

ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Federal Minister for National Health Services Regulations and Coordination, Dr Nadeem Jan called on President Dr Arif Alvi and discussed matters relating to national health in the country.

The president emphasized a special focus on issues of breast cancer, the growing population, and mental health in the country.

President Alvi and the health minister discussed the proposals regarding nutrition, rehabilitation of differently abled persons, and mental and physical weakness among the children.

He stressed the need to provide consultation facilities to improve mental health in the country.

He said the basic treatment of mental health could be provided with the help of modern technology, Artificial Intelligence, and chatbots.

The minister commended the president’s special focus and guidance for the eradication of polio in the country.

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Pakistan’s economic uplift linked with IT development: Arif Alvi

August 30, 2023 by Abid Khan

Pakistan become second largest free lance market in world.
President underlined that by easing the financial movement.
He said IT had now become unavoidable part of almost every filed.

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi stressed the need to equip youth with skills of latest technology saying that the Pakistan’s economic uplift was linked with the development of Information Technology in the country.

He said Pakistan had become the second largest free lance market in the world, however the people were facing issues related to financial transactions.

He underlined that by easing the financial movement and financial transactions in Pakistan, the country’s economy could further boost and its GDP growth rate could increase by 2-3%.

Addressing the closing ceremony of Huawei ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) competition 2022-23 here, the president said IT had now become unavoidable part of almost every filed of life.

He informed that Huawei was going to open its global service center in Pakistan which would create employment opportunities besides ensuring technology transfer to the youth of the country.

“This ICT Competition Program from Huawei speaks volumes of the efforts made in the past decade and how this Industry-Academia Relationship has been thriving towards providing the solid backbone towards the ICT Industry of Pakistan”, he added.

President stressed that the universities should arrange boot camp in the campuses to train the university graduates and make them ready for the market.

He also urged the universities to start two-year undergraduate associate degree programs for the students as the growing technology around the globe does not need degrees but skills.

The students from Pakistan had won second and third prize in the Network Track and third prize in the Innovation Track at the Huawei ICT Competition 2022-2023 Global Final concluded at Huawei Headquarters in Shenzhen, China.

He said the political and bureaucratic leadership must also be equipped with the basic skills of IT and modern technology.

He said a program was initiated by the government to train 1000 bureaucrats in IT field but despite several years, only 800 received the required training due to lack of will by the officers.

Expressing disappointment over a high rate of out of school children in the country, the president said 27 million or 32% children were out of school.

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President for measures to ensure financial inclusion of women

August 28, 2023 by Abid Khan

He said more steps needed to promote gender equality.
Alvi said jobs for people with disabilities could be tailored in banks.
He expressed concern over rising incidents of banking fraud.

KARACHI: President Dr Arif Alvi stressed the banking institutions of the country to take measures to further increase the financial inclusion of women as well as ensure gender equality in the banking sector.

Besides the provision of easy and accessible financial services to women and differently-abled persons, he emphasized that the banking sector should also focus on providing more employment opportunities and financing facilities as well as providing on-the-job training to them.

President expressed these views while chairing a meeting with representatives of various banks held here at Sindh Governor House to review progress on initiatives aimed at financial inclusion of women and differently-abled persons as well as progress on the measures to ensure employment and financial opportunities for them. The review meeting was attended by senior officials of the State Bank of Pakistan and Chief Executive Officers of different commercial banks.

Terming meaningful participation of women in economic activities as vital for the progress and prosperity of the country, the President said that it was encouraging to see that the share of female account holders and their share in banking sector jobs has witnessed a surge in previous years.

He added that more steps were needed to be taken to promote gender equality and inclusion of women and persons with disabilities in the banking sector and other economic activities.

President said that the jobs for people with disabilities could be tailored in the banking sector and the process of opening bank accounts should be further simplified.

The President, while referring to the fast-paced growth of digital technologies across the world, said that the banking industry in Pakistan has to keep pace with the changing circumstances by using the latest IT tools.

He expressed concern over the rising incidents of banking fraud and emphasised the need to improve the safety mechanisms of banks to effectively protect the interests of banking customers.

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