Physical remand of Shahid Khaqan extended till August 15

An Accountability Court of Islamabad on Friday extended physical remand of former prime minister and senior PML-N stalwart Shahid Khaqan Abbasi till August 15.

The graft-busting body had produced Khaqan Abbasi before Judge Mohammad Bashir after politician’s 13-day remand ended today.

Approving request of National Accountability Bureau (NAB), the court extended remand of Mr Abbasi.

It is worth mentioning that the PML-N leader is accused of granting tenders of LNG-Terminal to his “blue-eyed individuals” and caused a loss of millions to the national exchequer.

Voting for no-trust motions against Chairman, Deputy Chairman Senate today

Authorities have finalised preparations for the upcoming session of the Upper House as voting for the no-trust motions against Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjran and the Deputy Chairman Salim Mandivalla is scheduled to take place in the Senate session today.

Ballot papers for the forthcoming voting in Senate have been prepared which will be used for secret voting by senators in accordance with their names in alphabetic order.

It is declared mandatory to insert vote into the ballot box after casting vote in favour or opposition.

A Presiding Officer (PO) will also announce the schedule of elections for the vacant seats, whereas, Senator Barrister Saif will organise polls for the new chairman and deputy chairman.

The instructions were issued in a letter released by Senate Secretariat for voting on the no-confidence motion. The secretariat has also imposed a ban on carrying mobile phones in the polling booth. The letter also stated that grabbing photos of the ballot paper is also prohibited in order to ensure secrecy of the vote.

The chairman of the upper house of parliament said in a statement that he would resolutely face the opposition’s motion to oust him.

“We will rout the opposition’s no-confidence motion,” said Sanjrani who enjoys the backing of the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and its allied parties.

He slammed the opposition parties over rumours of his stepping down from the office.

Earlier today, Pakistan People’s Party chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari hosted a luncheon for senators of opposition parties ahead of Thursday’s voting for the no-trust motion.

Former chairman Senate Raza Rabbani briefed the opposition members about the process of voting after Bilawal Bhutto’s preliminary words of welcome. Raja Zafarul Haq and Hasil Bizenjo also addressed the event.

Earlier, on July 9, the opposition parties had submitted a resolution against Senate chairman Sadiq Sanjrani to the secretariat of the upper house of parliament with signatures of 38 opposition members.

PM Khan, Saudi Crown Prince agree to to further boost bilateral ties

Prime Minister Imran Khan telephoned Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz and thanked him for his efforts and support to Pakistan and its interests. During the telephonic conversation, the Prime Minister stressed that the developing relations with Saudi Arabia is a top priority of his country. Imran Khan described Saudi Arabia as a friend that Pakistan trusts. He said that his country cannot forget Saudi Arabia's constant standing in all adversities and difficult times. In response, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman praised the distinguished relations between Saudi Arabia…

Supreme Court: 14 years jail in charge of gas theft proved

Supreme Court of Pakistan on Wednesday turned down bail petition of an accused arrested under gas theft allegation.

A bench of the apex court headed by Acting Chief Justice, Mr. Justice Sheikh Azmat Saeed, rejected bail plea of an accused from Lakki Marwat, who was arrested for allegedly stealing gas to generate electricity.

Accused was stealing gas to generate electricity for sale, Justice Ijazul Ahsan observed during the hearing. The accused aimed gun at concerned officials when they visited him for inquiry, the judge further said.

A power generator was also recovered from his house, Justice Ijaz added.

“Lakki Marwat suffers 18 hours power load shedding and keeping a generator in such situation is compulsion for power consumers,” defence counsel argued.

The accused was selling electricity to the whole neighborhood, Justice Qazi Ameen remarked.

He will be awarded 14 years jail term if the charge of gas theft proved against him, Justice Azmat Saeed said.

Fourteen years’ jail term is minimal for gas thieves, acting CJP further said.

The accused was booked in the gas theft case in March this year.

It is to mention here that gas theft is a major menace causes an annual loss of Rs 50 billion to the national exchequer.

In 2016, National Assembly passed the Gas (Theft and Recovery Act) that imposed heavy penalties on offenders engaged in gas theft with maximum punishment of 14 years jail term and a penalty of Rs 100 millions.

ECC: Rs 1 billion granted as ‘Roti subsidy’ on gas for small bakers

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) joined heads today over the increase in prices of roti (flatbread) in Pakistan, on Wednesday.

The Committee decided that a subsidy worth rupees 1 billion would be awarded to small bakers on gas consumption used to bake the dough.

While gas prices for small bakers have also been reverted to what they were on June 30, 2019.

It is being hoped that the subsidy will aid in reducing the price of the roti to come back to what they were before the price hike.

Commercial bakers and Resturants cannot be facilitated by the subsidy, the ECC decided.

The ECC also decided to impose a 10% tax and duty on cotton export within the country.

The ECC in a meeting on July 17 reviewed the overall economic situation of the country.

The ECC session also considering continuing wheat export or impose a ban on it.

It is to be mentioned here that the Ministry of National Food Security and Research had recommended imposing a ban on the export of wheat.

According to the agenda, the ECC will review the situation of wheat stocks in the country.

The meeting will consider supplementary grants for various government departments and ministries.

The prime economic body of the cabinet will be briefed on the situation of prices and inflationary trends in the country.

The ECC meeting will also consider over a summary of financial assistance for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA).

According to sources, the session will determine per bag price of the imported urea under the agenda.

Moreover, it will consider a summary regarding supply of gas to the villages of Hangu district, sources added.

North Korea test fires two short-range missiles from Hodo peninsula

North Korea test fired two short-range ballistic missiles from the Hodo peninsula on east coast on Wednesday.

South Korean military in a statement said in Seoul, North Korean missiles launches intended to pressure South Korea and the United States to stop upcoming military drills scheduled for next month.

US and Pakistan to enhance bilateral trade: White House fact sheet

The United States and Pakistan can further enhance bilateral trade if strategic ties between the two countries continue to improve, said a White House fact sheet released on Tuesday.

The fact sheet “Working toward Peace and Stability: Building Economic Prosperity” notes that the United States and Pakistan enjoy a strong economic partnership that benefits both countries.

The official document points out that Pakistan and the US traded $6.6 billion worth of goods last year, setting a new record of bilateral trade.

While the document recognises Pakistan’s role in the Afghan peace process, US officials recently also urged Islamabad to encourage transit trade between India and Afghanistan, noting that it would benefit all by enhancing trade between South and Central Asian regions.

President Donald Trump also expressed his desire to increase trade with Pakistan when asked at his July 22 news briefing what his administration was willing to do to help boost the Pakistani economy.

“Yes, I see great trade with Pakistan. And I’m not talking about a little bit more. I’m talking about — we could go 10 and even 20 times what we’re doing right now,” he said.

“You know, Pakistan is a big country. It’s actually a very big country, and they have tremendous product. They make great product,” he added.

“I’ve bought from Pakistan over the years when I was in the private sector. They make incredible product. They’re brilliant people. They’re hard-working people.”

He said that he believed the US and Pakistan could “have a fantastic trade relationship. I don’t mean we’ll increase it by 20 per cent. I mean, I think we can quadruple it. I think it could go — I mean, literally, it sounds crazy — you could go 10 times more. You could go 20 times more.”

He said he believed in multiplying trade with Pakistan because he felt “what we do right now is not much, and we should do a lot.”

Trump’s statement and the White House factsheet endorse Islamabad’s claim that Prime Minister Imran Khan’s US visit was a success, although it also highlights the key issues that need to be resolved to further enhance this relationship.

The document notes that Pakistan also purchased extensive amounts of American liquefied natural gas during the same period, about 22.8 billion cubic feet.

ExxonMobil re-established its presence in Pakistan in 2018 after 27 years and is working to increase LNG imports.

It lays greater emphasis on economic relations than did recent statements by US officials, who focused more on Pakistan’s cooperation in restoring peace to Afghanistan.

American energy producers are seeing more and more business opportunities with Pakistan and American companies are incorporating cutting-edge technologies into energy projects throughout Pakistan, the document adds.

FM Qurasi Saudi Minister discuss regional and global issues

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have agreed to expand bilateral cooperation in the fields of information and culture.

The understanding came at a meeting between Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Saudi Minister for Media Turki bin Abdullah A-Shabana in Islamabad on Wednesday.

Speaking on the occasion, the Foreign Minister said Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have long maintained historical and cultural relations, and Pakistan gives high value to its ties with Saudi Arabia.

He said the two countries have unanimity of views on important regional and global issues.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi said Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman's visit to Pakistan has further strengthened relationship between the two countries.

He said establishment of Pak-Saudi Supreme Coordination Council is an important step toward promotion of political, economic and cultural cooperation between the two countries.

The Minister thanked Saudi Arabia for increasing Hajj quota for Pakistan up to two hundred thousand.

Increased ceasefire violations indicate India’s frustration over failure in IoK: DG ISPR

Director-General Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Asif Ghafoor on Wednesday said the increased Indian ceasefire violations (CFVs) indicate their frustration due to failure in Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

In a post on Twitter, DG ISPR said, “Increased Indian Cease Fire Violations (CFVs) indicate their frustration due to failure in IOJ&K. CFVs are being & shall always be effectively responded. Pak Army shall take all measures to protect innocent civilians along LOC from Indian firing deliberately targeting them.”

Increased Indian Cease Fire Violations (CFVs) indicate their frustration due to failure in IOJ&K. CFVs are being & shall always be effectively responded. Pak Army shall take all measures to protect innocent civilians along LOC from Indian firing deliberately targeting them.

— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) July 31, 2019

His tweet comes after India's unprovoked firing and shelling at the Line of Control (LoC) on Tuesday martyred one Pakistani civilian and wounded nine others, including women and children.

The martyred civilian was identified as 26-year-old Nauman, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military's media wing, said, adding that those who were wounded were shifted to a local hospital.

The Indian Army targeted civilian areas in Dana, Dhodial, Lipa, Jora, Shahdara, and Shahkot sectors on purpose, the ISPR added, noting that India used mortars and artillery guns in the firing and shelling.

Many Indian posts were hit by Pakistan Army as well, the military's media wing added.

 

Increased ceasefire violations India’s frustrations: DG ISPR

Director-General Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) Major General Asif Ghafoor on Wednesday said the increased Indian ceasefire violations (CFVs) indicate their frustration due to failure in Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

In a post on Twitter, DG ISPR said, “Increased Indian Cease Fire Violations (CFVs) indicate their frustration due to failure in IOJ&K. CFVs are being & shall always be effectively responded. Pak Army shall take all measures to protect innocent civilians along LOC from Indian firing deliberately targeting them.”

Increased Indian Cease Fire Violations (CFVs) indicate their frustration due to failure in IOJ&K. CFVs are being & shall always be effectively responded. Pak Army shall take all measures to protect innocent civilians along LOC from Indian firing deliberately targeting them.

— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) July 31, 2019

His tweet comes after India's unprovoked firing and shelling at the Line of Control (LoC) on Tuesday martyred one Pakistani civilian and wounded nine others, including women and children.

The martyred civilian was identified as 26-year-old Nauman, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military's media wing, said, adding that those who were wounded were shifted to a local hospital.

The Indian Army targeted civilian areas in Dana, Dhodial, Lipa, Jora, Shahdara, and Shahkot sectors on purpose, the ISPR added, noting that India used mortars and artillery guns in the firing and shelling.

Many Indian posts were hit by Pakistan Army as well, the military's media wing added.

 

Lets fly out this holiday season! PIA announced discounted tickets

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced discounted tickets up to 20 per cent.

In a series of tweets, the national flag carrier announced they would be offering discount up to 10 per cent to all the passengers travelling from London to Sialkot from September 24 to November 30.

The discount season is on and we're offering yet another deal! Fly from London to Sialkot and avail an awesome 10% discount all the way from 24th September to 30th November! Isn't it amazing? Book now at https://t.co/zzPi4NyCFA#PIA #Sialkot #London #PIADiscountDeals pic.twitter.com/WeiS9kkGFz

— PIA (@Official_PIA) July 30, 2019

Passengers will be able to purchase the tickets on a 10 per cent discounted prices for travelling from Pakistan to London till August 10, it added.

Lets fly out this holiday season! We're offering you a flat 10% discount from Pakistan to UK only till 10th August. Yes you read that right, FLAT 10% OFF! What are you waiting for? Book now and make the most of this limited time offer! #PIA #UK #Pakistan #PIADiscountDeals pic.twitter.com/tHvakV4OpB

— PIA (@Official_PIA) July 31, 2019

Furthermore, 20 per cent off would be offered on the tickets for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) until August 12 to the passengers.

From Pakistani culture to Arabic heritage! Travel from Pakistan to UAE (Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Dubai and Sharjah) valid till 12th August 2019 and avail an exciting 20% discount! #PIA #Pakistan #UAE #PIADiscountDeals pic.twitter.com/whidcUh7tm

— PIA (@Official_PIA) July 30, 2019

Moreover, senior citizens would be given special discount up to 10 per cent by PIA as well as the school students, who would get a 10 per cent discount over international and local flights.

Hajj Operations: Govt saved Rs5 billlion in expenses of hotel, transport

Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Noor-ul-Haq Qadri said the government saved Rs5 billlion in the expenses of hotel and transport during the Hajj operations of this year.

Speaking at a ceremony in Lahore, he said the government is returning the money to pilgrims which was saved in the expenses of hotels and transport.

“Owing to increase in expenses of Hajj, it was expected that the number of applications would be less, however, banks received record Hajj applictions,” he said.

The minister said from the next year, the facility of Road to Makkah project will be extended to Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar and other airports.

The number of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims from Pakistan is the highest in comparison to the entire world.

Two days earlier, the spokesman of Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony said in a statement, 129,000 pilgrims including 93,000 of government and 36,000 of the private scheme have so far reached the holy land to perform the sacred religious obligation. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) would bring 78,000 pilgrims to holy land through 350 flights.

He said vigilance teams of the ministry have completed the monitoring of 336 Hajj Group Organisers (HGO).

Haram guides have already guided and facilitated over 66,000 pilgrims. The toll-free helplines have received 552 calls for guidance and help and 12 filed dispensaries were working to provide free medical facilities to intending pilgrims.

FO summons Indian Deputy High Commissioner over ceasefire violations along LoC

Foreign Office summoned Indian Deputy High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia on Wednesday and lodged a strong protest over unprovoked ceasefire violations by the Indian forces along the Line of Control.

An innocent civilian was martyred while nine other civilians, including women and children, sustained serious injuries in Danna, Dhddnial, Jura, Lipa, Shardda and Shahkot sectors along LoC on Tuesday.

In a statement, Foreign Office Spokesperson Dr. Muhammad Faisal said the Indian forces along the LoC and Working boundary have continuously been targeting civilian populated areas with heavy mortars and automatic weapons which still continues.

He said the deliberate targeting of civilian populated areas is indeed deplorable and contrary to human dignity and international human rights laws.

The Spokesperson said the ceasefire violations by India are a threat to regional peace and security and may lead to a strategic miscalculation.   

He urged the Indian side to respect the 2003 Ceasefire arrangement; investigate these and other incidents of ceasefire violations, instruct the Indian forces to respect the ceasefire in letter and spirit and maintain peace on the LoC and the Working Boundary.

Hafeez Sheikh to Chair ECP meeting Today

Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the cabinet will meet in Islamabad on Wednesday (today) with Finance Advisor Dr Abdul Hafeez Sheikh in the chair to fix support price of cotton in order to increase its production.

A five-point agenda has been issued in this regard.

In the meeting, Ministry of National Food Security will give a comprehensive briefing on reserves, supply and demand of wheat.

ECC will also consider imposing duty and taxes on importing cotton to restrict descend in its cost.

The agenda includes reviewing a summary of importing more LNG and running LNG Terminals with absolute proficiency.

Five-point agenda also includes consideration on New Economic Operators Program of the Revenue Division.

Little boy gave a new discovery to history

A young boy has accidentally found a nest of fossilised dinosaur eggs; how's that for a summer holiday activity, eh?

The 11-year-old boy found what he thought was a 'strange stone' while out near a lake in Heyuan, Guangdong Province in China, but when he gave it a closer look, he thought it might be a dinosaur egg - and it turns out he was right.

In fact, there were 11 eggs in total. Experts have said the three-and-a-half inch (9 cm) eggs are around 66 million years old, belonging to the late Cretaceous period.

The boy Zhang Yangzhe says he was trying to find something that could crack open walnuts when he came across the 'special rock' and, after spotting some circles on it, called over his mum to take a look.

Speaking to the Heyuan Radio and Television Station, the schoolboy said: "I thought it was a cement circle at first. Later, I asked my mum to look at it and thought that the shell was like a dinosaur egg."

Zhang said he recognised the pattern after seeing similar fossilised eggs at the museum."I have learned this knowledge in the books and in the cultural corridor of the school," he explained. "I have seen it in museums. Different dinosaur eggs have different shapes."

His mum Li Xiaofang said her son loves science and has read a bunch of books about dinosaurs, making his discovery even more exciting."The stone is partially exposed," she said. "The shell is below, I think it is similar to the dinosaur egg seen by the museum."

Li decided to call the authorities and stood over the eggs while they waited for them to arrive. Experts from Heyuan Dinosaur Museum confirmed that they were indeed dinosaur eggs and began to excavate them from the site.

The eggs have since been taken to the museum so further tests can be carried out to determine the type of eggs.

 

Federal Cabinet orders reversal of roti, naan price

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday chaired a meeting on gas tariff for tandoors and prices of roti and naan, expressing displeasure over the increase in their rates.

He directed reverting the prices of roti and naan at the previous level. Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan said Prime Minister Imran Khan took strict notice of the increase in the price of bread and directed raising the issue in the ECC meeting.

The cabinet appreciated the chief justice of Pakistan's efforts towards clearing the backlog of cases in the Supreme Court of Pakistan and desired that it would be replicated in the lower judiciary (district level) as well.

She said the cabinet also appreciated the chief justice for establishing Model Courts. She said the cabinet gave approval for the establishment of the National Road Safety to reduce accidents and improve travelling on highways and motorways.

She said the cabinet approved separation of Services and Regulation Departments in the Civil Aviation Authority and decided to improve facilities at airports.

The cabinet decided to take immediate measures for the people affected by recent heavy rains in Karachi and Hyderabad, expressing concern over the losses and difficulties being faced by public.

Awan said the cabinet expressed commitment to continue efforts to widen the tax net while appreciating the measures taken by the Federal Board of Revenue in this regard and increasing the number of tax filers.

Cabinet orders reversal of roti, naan price

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday chaired a meeting on gas tariff for tandoors and prices of roti and naan, expressing displeasure over the increase in their rates.

He directed reverting the prices of roti and naan at the previous level. Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Information and Broadcasting Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan said Prime Minister Imran Khan took strict notice of the increase in the price of bread and directed raising the issue in the ECC meeting.

The cabinet appreciated the chief justice of Pakistan's efforts towards clearing the backlog of cases in the Supreme Court of Pakistan and desired that it would be replicated in the lower judiciary (district level) as well.

She said the cabinet also appreciated the chief justice for establishing Model Courts. She said the cabinet gave approval for the establishment of the National Road Safety to reduce accidents and improve travelling on highways and motorways.

She said the cabinet approved separation of Services and Regulation Departments in the Civil Aviation Authority and decided to improve facilities at airports.

The cabinet decided to take immediate measures for the people affected by recent heavy rains in Karachi and Hyderabad, expressing concern over the losses and difficulties being faced by public.

Awan said the cabinet expressed commitment to continue efforts to widen the tax net while appreciating the measures taken by the Federal Board of Revenue in this regard and increasing the number of tax filers.

Karachi faces more difficulties as Lath Dam overflows

K-Electric, the sole power distribution company in Karachi on Tuesday said the overflow of Lath Dam has created a critical situation at KDA Grid 33, causing a major breakdown in the metropolis.

In a series of tweets, the power supply company said, the monsoon downpour in the city on Monday and Tuesday caused the Lath Dam near Super Highway to overflow. "The floodwater entered K-Electric’s KDA Grid station, located at Gulzar-e-Hijri Scheme 33, one of the most critical grids of KE’s 220kV grid and an interconnection point between KE and NTDC," K-Electric tweeted.

Overflow of Lath Dam creates critical situation at KDA Grid (1)

Monsoon downpour has caused Lath Dam near Super Highway to overflow. The floodwater has entered K-Electric’s KDA Grid station, located at Gulzar-e-Hijri Scheme 33, one of the most critical grids of KE’s 220kV grid..

— KE (@KElectricPk) July 30, 2019

Due to the overflow, as an emergency safety measure, K-Electric was forced to suspend supply to feeders associated with the grid, forcing power outages in Sohrab Goth, Abulhassan Isphahani Road, Super Highway, KWSB’s NEK Pumping station among few others.

K-Electric said power supply will be affected to several areas including Gulshan, Azizabad, Liaqatabad, Malir, FB Area, Surjani, Shadman, Johar, Shah Faisal among many others.

However, work to remove water from the grid station commenced again in the morning to restore the power supply disruption caused by monsoon downpour in most parts of the city.

“Urban flooding and water accumulation continue to hamper restoration efforts in few areas of Karachi. Our teams are on-ground in these areas and we are making all efforts for the removal of this water so that restoration efforts may be accelerated. We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused,” K-Electric tweeted.

“Pakistan Army has come to support our efforts. All possible resources including trenches, water pumps and sand bags around the grid have been deployed to block the water and our teams are on ground to manage situation,” they added.
At least 20 people have been killed including six children, in rain-related incidents in various parts of the city.

Overflow of Lath Dam creates critical situation at KDA Grid. (8)
Pakistan Army has come to support our efforts. All possible resources including trenches, water pumps & sand bags around the grid have been deployed to block the water & our teams are on ground to manage situation. pic.twitter.com/27EWjlKv8T

— KE (@KElectricPk) July 30, 2019

The city received monsoon showers on the second day, Tuesday afternoon, adding to the problems for the citizens as the majority of the areas were flooded with rainwater.

The lack of the required drain system chocked with garbage, along with shattered sewage system, with many roads and low lying areas submerged under rainwater.

Sikh pilgrims arrive Pakistan to attain birth anniversary celebrations of Baba Guru Nanak

A special delegation of around 500 Indian Sikh pilgrims has arrived Pakistan to participate in the inaugural ceremony of celebrations of the 550th birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak in Nankana Sahib tomorrow.

Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi issued visas to the Indian Sikh Pilgrims.

A statement issued by Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi says Pakistan believes in policy of promoting visits to religious shrines and people-to-people contacts between the two countries.

FM discuss human rights situation of IOK with European Parliamentarians

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has stressed upon the need for consistent efforts to build upon the current momentum and sensitize the international community regarding deplorable situation of human rights in Occupied Kashmir.

He was talking to a 10-member delegation of European Parliamentarians in Islamabad.

He said successive reports by the Office of High Commissioner for Human Rights, the UK Parliament’s All Parties Parliamentary Kashmir Group report, as well as the hearing by European Parliament’s Sub-Committee on Human Rights in Brussels lent credence to Pakistan’s stance on the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.

The foreign minister appreciated the efforts of European MPs, Pakistani and Kashmiri diaspora and those involved in raising issue of gross human rights violations in occupied Kashmir in the Europe and beyond.

Meanwhile during an interaction with the media in Islamabad, Members European Parliament has urged India to come on table for dialogue to resolve Kashmir dispute according to aspiration of Kashmiri people.

The MEPs said they would give feedback to the European Parliament after assessing the situation on ground so that a collective voice could be raised to resolve the Kashmir issue.

Pakistanis can now get Canadian student visas in 20 days

Canada has made it easier for Pakistanis to get student visas for its country.

Canada is a famous destination for Pakistani visitors, Canada always welcomes its visitors with open arms. Due to its easy visa and immigration policies Pakistanis love to visit or reside in Canada. It has included Pakistan in the Student Direct Stream program, which streamlines visa applications for students.

The program was begun for India, China, the Philippines and Vietnam last year. Under the SDS policy, it will take 20 days for visas to be processed after complete applications and biometrics are submitted.

Pakistani High Commissioner to Canada Raza Bashir Tarrar praised the Canadian government for the decision.In order to apply for a student visa, you can visit this website but remember that you already need to have been accepted into a Canadian university.

Govt will protect and develop worship places of minorities: PM Imran

Prime Minister Imran Khan has reiterated his commitment to build Pakistan on the model of State of Madina, ensuring rights to people, rule of law and provision of facilities to citizens at equal level.

Addressing a ceremony in connection with National Minority Day at Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad on Monday, he said the State of Madina was a modern state that protected rights of every citizen, and Pakistan will be raised on the same model. 

The Prime Minister said the PTI government has been carrying out struggle for ensuring provision of rights to people, following the principles practiced in the State of Madina.

Imran Khan said the government will protect and develop worship places of minorities in the country and also facilitate them to the maximum level to perform their religious rituals.

He said the government is committed to open Kartarpur Corridor for Sikh community on 550th birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak.

Court extends Judicial remand of Rana Sanaullah till 9 August

An Anti-Narcotics Court in Lahore has extended judicial remand of PML-N leader Rana Sanaullah and other five suspects in a case pertaining to possession of contraband in the vehicle.

ANF produced all suspects before judge Khalid Bashir under tight security.

As the hearing began, Advocate Nazeer Tarar held the point of view that the PML-N stalwart was arrested on a political basis.

Commenting on the ANF challan which it had submitted before the court in previous hearing, the Advocate said: “The challan is incomplete as it lacks complete documents in the submitted file”.

On the other hand, ANF alleged Rana Sanaullah of being involved in smuggling of narcotics for a prolonged period of time in the past.

After hearing arguments in the case, court then extended judicial remand of all suspects for 11 days.

Fake Bank Accounts Case: Zardari, Faryal s' remand extended till August 8

An accountability court has extended physical remand of former president Asif Ali Zardari and Faryal Talpur till August 8 in fake bank accounts and Park Lane Estate Company cases, on Monday.

Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) co-chairman was produced before Justice Muhammad Bashir.

As the hearing resumed, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Rawalpindi prosecutor pleaded with the court to extend Zardari’s physical remand for another 10 days.

However, Zardari’s defense counsel Latif Khosa pleaded with the court to extend the remand till August 19 due to Eid-ul-Azha holidays.

After hearing arguments from both sides, Justice Bashir remarked that the remand could only be extended for 15 days at one time.

On the other hand, medical reports of the former president were also presented in the court.

Earlier on July 19, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had filed Park Lane properties reference against the former president and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari.

According to the NAB, Zardari is accused of denting the loss of Rs 3.77 billion to the national exchequer.

According to details, Asif Ali Zardari was allegedly for running a fake front company by the name of Parathon as a shareholder in Park Lane properties.

A loan worth Rs 1.5 billion was taken out from the bank and transferred to the company account in a private bank. It has also been revealed that he had forged documents to comply with the loan policy and coaxed the National Bank into loan approval.

 

Rain caused deaths of six in Punjab

At least six people were killed and several others suffered injuries in rain-related incidents in different areas of Punjab.

According to the details, two siblings were killed and another injured when the wall of their house collapsed due to downpour in a Sargodah village. The area residents rushed to the science and shifted the bodies and the injured to the hospital.

As many as 10 suffered injuries as the roof of their house caved in after heavy rain in Sheikhupura. Rescue officials shifted the injured to the hospital for medical treatment.

A man was killed after the roof of his house collapsed in Faisalabad. In another incised, a 17-year old boy drowned in water when he was returning to his home in Wazirabad. Two girls drowned while taking bath in a river in Dera Ghazi Khan.

Earlier on July 27, four people, three members of a family among them, had been died of electrocution caused by incessant rains in Gujranwala.

Rescue sources had relayed the incident took place in the Wazirabad neighbourhood of the city. Two brothers, identified as 14-year-old Saleem and 12-year-old Abbas, had received a fatal electric shock as they touched a water pump.

KKH reopened one way for traffic

The Karakorum Highway has been restored between Gilgit and Diamer for one way traffic.

FWO sources said that the road was blocked by landslide at Goner Farm near Chilas last night.

Meanwhile, Workers of Frontier Works Organization have re-opened road for one way traffic in Guro,  Jaglot where mud-flow has blocked the Gilgit-Hunza portion of KKH  yesterday.

Trump’s Mediation Offer On kashmir Has Exposed Modi Govt: Ali Zadi

Federal Minister of Maritime Affairs Ali Haider Zaidi on Sunday said that US President Donald Trump s offer of mediation on Kashmir has exposed Modi government.

Talking to media on his return from United States, Ali Zaidi said that India is not interested in finding a solution of Kashmir dispute. He said that India does not know what to say on Trump s mediation offer.

He said that Prime Minister Imran Khan during his meeting with President Trump presented Pakistan stance on Kashmir issue in a befitting manner. Ali Zaidi termed US President s offer to become a mediator on Kashmir dispute as good news for peace and stability in the region.

He said that PM Imran and President Trump discussed various issues related to peace and stability in the region including Afghanistan. Ali Zaidi said that Prime Minister also supported the ongoing Afghan peace process during the meeting.

Taking a jibe at the Sindh government, Ali Zaidi said that Pakistan People s Party (PPP) is in power for the past 11 years in the province but problems faced by the people still remain unresolved.

Talking about Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Member National Assembly (MNA) and Fixit founder Alamgir Khan, who was briefly detained by Sindh police on Sunday, Ali Zaidi said that people like Alamgir are staging protests for the resolution of problems faced by the people of Karachi. He said that there is no need to stage a protest if the provincial government performs its duty properly.

Pakistan, Iraq agrees to enhance bilateral relations

Pakistan's Ambassador to Iraq, Sajid Bilal called on Iraqi President Barham Salih in Baghdad.

The Iraqi President acknowledged the important role Pakistan is playing in world affairs.

Ways to further develop Pakistan-Iraq bilateral relationship were discussed on the occasion.

The Pakistan Ambassador also invited Iraiq President on behalf of President Dr Arif Alvi to visit Pakistan.

5th CPA Asia Regional Conference To Begin in Islamabad Today

Fifth Asia Regional Conference of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association will begin in Islamabad today.

Speaker National Assembly Asad Qaiser will chair.

It will be attended by Speaker of Ugandan Parliament and incumbent President, Member of British Parliament Lord Purvis of Tweed Jeremy Purvis, Member Malaysian Parliament Dr. Noraini Binti Ahmad, Chairperson CPA Executive Committee Emilia Lifaka, Secretary General CPA Akbar Khan, Speaker Gilgit Baltistan Legislative Assembly Fida Muhammad Nashad, Speaker Azad Kashmir Legislative Assembly Shah Ghulam Qadir and other national and international personalities of prominence, members of parliament and observers.

Speaker National Assembly says the aim of the conference is to bring parliaments of various countries together for regional prosperity.

Mikaal Zulfiqar will play a pilot in love with Sana Javed in his next drama

After appearing in Khasaara last year, Mikaal Zulfiqar is gearing up for his upcoming drama, Zard Bahaar alongside the Khaani star, Sana Javed.

Mikaal said "My character’s name is Captain Salman who is a commercial airline pilot. He is in love with Dr. Samira, who is being played by Sana Javed. It’s a very intrinsic love story and naturally, as dramas go, even this one has a lot of twists and turns."

According to the actor, "The play deals with a particular topic and an incident that takes place with Sana’s character which I can’t reveal right now. Due to this a lot of problems arise and then the complications remain till the end. Their love story faces a lot of challenges and even after they get married, they face a lot of challenges."

"The issue of watta-satta is also there. There are 2-3 issues in this play that arise."

"It has been directed by Rubina Ashraf, who is a legend in the industry. It has been a real pleasure working with her. I feel like actors who become directors are really good with other actors because they understand how an actor views things. She has also worked really hard on this play. Her daughter, Minah Tariq is also introduced who is playing the role of my sister."

The cast includes Usman Peerzada, Irsa Ghazal, Muhammad Ahmed, Seemi Raheel, Osama Tahir, and Shermeen Ali. The serial is written by Naila Ansari and Produced by Six Sigma.

"Humayun Saeed and Nadeem Baig have also worked on its production," added Mikaal.

Foreign forces cannot bring security, cause more tension in region: Rouhani

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says any presence of foreign forces in the Persian Gulf will only cause even more tension in the region, amid reports that the UK and the US are pushing for a joint force to escort oil tankers as they pass through the Strait of Hormuz off Iran.

“Iran makes constant efforts to ensure the Sea of Oman, the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz remain safe passageways for international shipping,” he said during a meeting with visiting Omani Foreign Minister Yusuf bin Alawi in Tehran on Sunday.

“The presence of foreign forces wouldn’t help the regional security, and if anything, it would actually be the main source of tension,” he added.

The remarks come as both the UK and the US are leading two sharply different plans for patrols in the Persian Gulf.

Washington has been pushing for a scheme whereby nations protect their own ships but partake in joint operations to monitor the waterways to prevent incidents.

The administration of US President Donald Trump claims that the patrols are needed to protect the ships from threats it says are coming from Iran, following several mysterious attacks that damaged oil tankers and cargo ships in the Sea of Oman over the past weeks.

The US and some of its allies have blamed Iran for the attacks, a claim Tehran has vehemently denied. Iranian officials have warned countries in the region to watch out for false flags by “foreign players.”

The UK, on the other hand, has been trying to put together a European force to protect vessels moving through the Strait of Hormuz, after Iran seized a British-flagged tanker this month for attempting to flee the scene of a collision with an Iranian fishing boat in violation of international rules.

Tensions flared up between London and Tehran after the UK navy seized Iranian oil tanker Grace 1 in Gibraltar, claiming that it was carrying oil to Syria in violation of the European Union’s sanctions against Damascus.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Rouhani told the Omani top diplomat that London’s move was illegal and would prove “costly” for them.

“Iran continues to stand against any breaches of law that endangers the safety of shipping in the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz and the Sea of Oman,” the Iranian president asserted.

He argued that all of the regional issues were connected and, therefore, every government in the region needed to help maintain peace and stability there.

Reconstructing Syria and paving the way for Syrian refugees to return, ending the Saudi-led war on Yemen and stopping Israel’s ongoing crimes against the people of Palestine were some of the key issues that he said had to be resolved.

The Iranian president said Tehran has never started tensions in the region, unlike the American officials, whom he accused of causing frictions with their “delusions” and their decision to leave the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.

Bin Alawi, for his part, said Oman and Iran needed to overcome all challenges and help keep the region secure.

He emphasized that without Iran it was not possible to keep the region safe.

Meanwhile, the Omani foreign minister on Sunday rejected rumors that he had transferred a message from the US and the UK to Iranian official during his trip to Tehran.

Muscat, he said, played no mediatory role in Tehran with regards to the latest wave of tensions gripping the region.

The top Omani diplomat added that all sides need be in contact in order to prevent further incidents in the Strait of Hormuz and safeguard international shipping lines.

PCB decides to remove Sarfaraz as cricket team captain

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to remove Sarfaraz Ahmed as the captain of the national cricket team, with think-tank reportedly having already chosen his replacement.

The PCB — prior to the ICC Test Championship — has decided to remove the cricketer from Test captainship. The 32-year-old Sarfaraz, who has led Pakistan in 13 Test matches to date, of which the team won four and lost eight, currently leads the team in all three formats of the game.

The move comes as a surprise to some, especially after Sarfaraz — under whose leadership the Pakistan cricket team came fifth after winning only five matches in the World Cup 2019 — had clarified earlier this month that he would not be parting ways with the captainship.

Speaking during a press conference on July 7, 2019, in Karachi's National Stadium, the wicket-keeper had said he was made the team's captain by the PCB and it was the Board itself that would decide about his future.

It has been learnt that there would be further development on the issue in a cricket committee meeting on August 8, in Lahore; however, it remains to be seen whether Sarfaraz would retain his captainship of the team in one-day international (ODIs) and Twenty20 (T20) as the matter was still in the talks.

Further, there has been no suggestion to promote captain Asad Shafiq to captainship. However, Shan Masood, who is leading National Bank's team in domestic cricket, is very likely to be made the captain.

 

Police detain PTI's Alamgir Khan, three others as FixIt, PPP workers clash at protest

Police on Sunday detained Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) member of the National Assembly, Alamgir Khan, alongside at least three others as FixIt members and Pakistan People's Party (PPP) workers clashed during a protest.

FixIt members, under the leadership of MNA Alamgir Khan, were staging a protest outside the office of minister of Sindh for local government, Saeed Ghani, when it turned into a clash that left multiple people injured.

On the other hand, PTI leader Khurram Sher Zaman reacted to Alamgir Khan's detention, alleging that the PPP workers and police were the ones who assaulted others.

However, Sheeraz Nazeer, the senior superintendent of police (SSP) for South district, refuted Zaman's claims and said people from both the sides were wounded in the clash.

Fazl gives August deadline to govt, says would march to Islamabad otherwise

Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (Fazl) chief Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman said Sunday the federal government had an August deadline to step down, warning, otherwise, that his party and allies would march to Islamabad.

Speaking to the participants of the 'Million March' here in the provincial capital, Fazl termed today's march to be the last one and said the next one would be towards the federal capital.

The JUI-F noted that if the federal government resigned by August, it would then be able to save themselves from the Opposition's march. However, if the leadership failed to do so, then, in October, Fazl and his allies would march to Islamabad alongside the entire country. He termed the potential demonstration as 'Azadi March'.

Fazl spoke of how the 2018 general elections were rigged and he did not accept its results. All political parties desire fresh elections, he said, adding that one the one hand, there was "back-breaking" inflation, and, on the other, there taxes were being "rained down" on the people.

Fazl also slammed the new requirement of presenting the national identity card (CNIC) for purchases worth more than Rs50,000. That, he said, was not a documented economy but a "foreign agenda".

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) was trying to gain access to the pockets of shopkeepers at every nook and corner, he warned.

The JUI-F chief further criticised the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), saying the anti-graft watchdog carried out accountability during the tenure of former president General (retd) Pervez Musharraf and, at that time too, everyone knew of its character. However, the NAB had never been so completely unmasked before as it had been in the present, he noted.

No lawsuit against British publication by Shehbaz: Akbar

Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Accountability Shahzad Akbar on Sunday claimed that PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif had not initiated a case against British publication The Mail on Sunday and online news site Mail Online about an article published on July 14.

Akbar, while addressing a press conference in Islamabad, recalled that Sharif had issued a formal legal complaint against the publication and had deemed the "gravely defamatory" news report to be part of a politically motivated campaign against him.

Akbar claimed that the complaint issued via London-based legal firm Carter-Ruck Solicitors did not refute any specific allegation made against Sharif, nor did it say that a case had been filed against the publication.

Akbar added that the journalist behind the report, David Rose, is sticking to his story, and also shared a tweet from him dated July 26:

According to Akbar, although the complaint stated that the article did not include Sharif's version, it included his son's version and his office had also been contacted.

He said the complaint stated that reporting the story had not been in the public's interest. "How was it not in public interest?" Akbar asked, adding that this statement required clarification.

Akbar said that nowhere in the four-page complaint were the allegations in the article denied. "Not one word in the story [was] refuted," he asserted.

"According to Sharif's own law firm, no case has been initiated [against the British publication] as yet," Akbar said. "They complained to the Mail on Sunday saying, [...] 'We are thinking of filing a case against you.' This is not a lawsuit. Going to court is [initiating a lawsuit]."

"If you are in the right, why not go to court?" Akbar asked.

The PM's special assistant challenged Sharif to make his letter of complaint public despite its status as privileged communication.

Read: Shehbaz to file suit against The Mail, PM Imran for 'fabricated and misleading story'

Earlier, following the publication of the article, Akbar seemed willing to appear against Sharif in a London court. "In that court, I will [produce evidence] of every TT (telegraphic transfer) made by you; how kick backs were sent from here; how money was transferred through hundi and hawala." he had said.

Today, the premier's special assistant recalled his earlier statements, adding: "I can reveal 50-100 times more things [about Sharif's alleged embezzlement] than this story, come to court."

"I am feeling left out. You sent a legal notice to the Mail, send me one too. I have packed my suitcase and I'm ready to appear in court in London, where you likely won't go, and I will stand there and tell the truth about what you've done," he said.

The premier's special assistant also said that Sharif had vowed to take him to court. After publication of the report, the premier's aide had asked the PML-N leader not to back away from his "promise" of filing a case against him.

The story published earlier this month claimed that Sharif, the former chief minister of Punjab, had embezzled funds provided by UK's Department for International Development (DFID) for the rehabilitation of the 2005 earthquake.

It quoted Assets Recovery Unit Chief Shahzad Akbar and a few other individuals — none of whom were in an official position.

The story was quickly refuted by the PML-N and the party had insisted that it was published "on the behest of [Prime Minister] Imran Khan".

It was also rejected by DFID, that said the body's "robust systems protected UK taxpayers from fraud".

Britain ramps up preparations for 'very real prospect' of no-deal Brexit

The British government is working on the assumption that the European Union will not renegotiate its Brexit deal and is ramping up preparations to leave the bloc on Oct 31 without an agreement, senior ministers said on Sunday.

Boris Johnson, who took over as British prime minister on Wednesday with a promise to deliver Brexit by the end of October “no ifs or buts”, has said he plans to seek a new exit deal with the EU. The EU has said repeatedly that the deal cannot be reopened.

Leading Brexit supporter Michael Gove, who Johnson has put in charge of 'no deal' preparations, wrote in the Sunday Times newspaper that the government would undertake “intensive efforts” to secure a better deal from the EU.

“We still hope they will change their minds, but we must operate on the assumption that they will not ... No deal is now a very real prospect and we must make sure that we are ready,” Gove wrote.

“Planning for no-deal is now this government's no. 1 priority,” he said, adding “every penny needed” for no-deal preparations would be made available.

The Sunday Times also reported that Dominic Cummings, the mastermind behind the 2016 referendum campaign to leave the EU and now a senior aide to Johnson, told a meeting of the prime minister's advisers that he had been tasked with delivering Brexit "by any means necessary".

Ministers are preparing for a no-deal emergency budget in the week of Oct 7, the newspaper added.

Writing in the Sunday Telegraph, new finance minister Sajid Javid said he had ordered no-deal preparations in his Treasury department to be stepped up.

“In my first day in office [...] I tasked officials to urgently identify where more money needs to be invested to get Britain fully ready to leave on Oct 31 deal or no deal. And next week I will be announcing significant extra funding to do just that,” he said.

Javid, a former interior minister, said this would include funding for 500 new Border Force officers.

Reheat the dish
Johnson has said the Irish backstop, an insurance policy designed to prevent the return of a hard border between EU-member Ireland and the British province of Northern Ireland by provisionally keeping Britain in a customs union with the EU, must be removed from any Brexit deal.

It was one of the most hotly contested elements of the divorce agreement his predecessor Theresa May reached with the EU, and opposition to it was a key driver behind the deal being rejected three times by parliament.

“You can't just reheat the dish that's been sent back and expect that will make it more palatable,” Gove wrote. “We need a new approach and a different relationship. Critically, we need to abolish the backstop.”

Lawmakers from opposition parties and the governing Conservative Party have threatened to try and block Johnson taking Britain out of the EU without a divorce deal.

The Observer newspaper reported that former finance minister Philip Hammond, who quit last week before Johnson took office, held talks with the opposition Labour Party about how to stop a no-deal Brexit.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said on Sunday his party would do everything it could to prevent the country from leaving the EU without a deal.

Although Johnson has been adamant he will not hold an election before Brexit, his Conservative Party does not have a majority in parliament, are divided over Brexit and under threat of a no-confidence vote when parliament returns in September.

Speculation of an early election to break the deadlock is likely to be fuelled by a YouGov opinion poll in the Sunday Times, which showed the Conservatives had opened up a 10-point lead over Labour since Johnson took over.

Tenancy Violation Case: Irfan Siddiqui grants bail

A local magistrate approved the bail of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif’s close aide Irfan Siddiqui on Sunday.

Police had arrested Siddiqui in violation of tenancy laws from the federal capital on Friday.

According to sources, the magistrate informed Siddiqui’s son Noman about his father’s bail and issued an order in this regard.

Read more: Irfan Siddiqui arrested for ‘violating’ tenancy law

Earlier, police said Siddiqui was arrested for violating tenancy laws and renting out his house without informing police. A case was registered under Section 188 at the Ramna police station.

Another man named Javed Iqbal, said to be the tenant at the house, was arrested along with Siddiqui and presented before the court.

Pakistan-Turkey Navies conduct joint exercise

Joint Naval Exercise of Pakistan and Turkey ELAD was conducted in Karachi which mainly focused on counter terrorism operations and rescue operations.

According to a spokesman of Pakistan Navy, the 12 days exercise was aimed to enhance professional capacity of personnel and mutual cooperation.

The spokesman said the Pakistan and Turkey navies have deep professional relations and mutual cooperation and both to continue bilateral and international exercises.

 

First Pakistani to Travel into Space

Namira Salim, the first Pakistani to reach the North and South Pole, will soon become the first Pakistani to travel into space as well.

Talking to the Orlando Sentinel at the Apollo 11 mission’s 50th anniversary, she said that she is inspired to do more. So first of all, I think I should go as far as possible on Earth before I break the orbit.

44-year-old Salim has a $200,000 ticket for the suborbital flight of Virgin Galactic, a British spaceflight company. She is one of the founding members of famous billionaire Richard Branson’s space tourism company.

Salim was one of tens of thousands of individuals who applied to travel to outer space and got selected after a year of negotiations. She launched a non-profit, Space Trust, in 2015 with an aim to promote peace through space travel.

The trust established the 0G Summit to promote international cooperation in space. Presently, it is working to set up the first peace summit in orbit by 2030.

Salim is finally heading to space, as Virgin has sent its first passengers (its staff members) on test flights to space this year via its SpaceShip Two from the Mojave Air and Space Port in California.

She has done Bachelors in international business from Hofstra University and has a Masters degree in international affairs from Columbia University.

After completing her education, she returned to Pakistan and became the founding president of the country’s first International Association of Students in Economics and Business Management, a cultural exchange program working with the United Nations.

She moved to Monaco in 1997 and worked to improve diplomatic relations between the two nations. She also became the first Honorary Consul of Pakistan to the Principality of Monaco in 2011.

Salim is also an artist and her sculptural art pieces revolve around the theme of peace. Her jewelry line is also in the offing, which will be based on the constellations.

Shamoon responds to ex-wife Humaima Malik’s ‘abusive’ marriage claims

Few days back, after the Mohsin Abbas and Fatima’s domestic violence issue Humaima Malik shared about her past ‘abusive’ relationships, marriage and ‘domestic violence’ she silently endured for years, after which her ex-husband Shamoon Abbasi has now spoken up about their marriage.

Without naming anyone, Humaima wrote on her Instagram stories about the pain filled days and nights which still haunt her. I’m ashamed of myself today that I didn’t do anything for myself in three years of abusive marriage, seven years of another abusive relationship and then it happened again. 

Now, after Malick’s statements, ex husband Shamoon Abbasi has decided to speak on the matter, recalling a healthy relationship between the two. Abbasi said that Malick’s post really confused him since it’s been more than five years since they have parted ways.

He said that may be we didn’t agree on few points and argued a few times.. But it doesn’t mean we ever wanted to hurt each other to that extend.Once we parted, she had the entire world to conquer and I knew she will i always thought may be I was not good enough for her career, though I tried to help as much as I could. And always hoped she gets married to the person that is better for her.

He also said that Humaima had called him a few months back and wanted to start a joint venture or a film together. To which, he agreed and decided to work on something next year. He further went on telling that Humaima is still in contact with his siblings and she often visits his mother.

UN appreciates Pakistan's effort to combat desertification through land development

United Nations has appreciated Pakistan's effort to combat desertification through afforestation and land development by using its own indigenous resources.

The appreciation came from Executive Secretary of UN Convention to Combat Desertification in a meeting with Adviser to Prime Minister on Climate Malik Amin Aslam in Kubuqi, China.

It was agreed on the occasion that cooperation with UN Convention to Combat Desertification would be enhanced in future.

Malik Amin Aslam, who also attended 7th International Desert Forum in Kubuqi, briefed about Pakistan's resolve to combat desertification through afforestation and land development.

NADRA launches registration process of Naya Pakistan Housing Program across country

NADRA has launched the registration process across the country under Naya Pakistan Housing and Development Authorty Project titled ''A home for every Pakistani at low price; in easy instalments.''

Registration will be accepted for only one member of each family on the basis of First Come-First Served Basis.

The interesting people have been advised not to forget to obtain a receipt and make sure that their CNIC and Tracking numbers are entered correctly.

India's adamant attitude on Kashmir issue can cost it heavy: FM Qureshi

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi says India's adamant attitude on Kashmir issue can cost it heavy as the situation in the Indian occupied territory is deteriorating.

Talking to media, Foreign Minister said the offer of mediation by US President Donald Trump during Prime Minister Imran Khan's visit to Washington was more than Pakistan’s expectations.

He said the matter of US mediation on Kashmir was initiated by India, though the Modi regime is now backtracking from it following a hue and cry in his country's political circles.

The Foreign Minister said Prime Minister Imran Khan made the US realized that Kashmir is a flashpoint which requires an early resolution.

He said the US President was informed that Pakistan is a peace loving country and desires peace in the region including with India.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi said the US desired Pakistan’s role for an intra-Afghan dialogue for which the Prime Minister committed to play his role to convince the Taliban leadership.

He said the Prime Minister categorically stated that the notion of strategic depth is outdated as the country is ready to extend all out assistant for Afghan peace.

He said Pakistan wants ballot to replace the bullet in Afghanistan and also desires Taliban leaders to join the political process by taking part in elections.

Pakistanis can now get Canadian student visas in 20 days

Canada has made it easier for Pakistanis to get student visas for its country.

Canada is a famous destination for Pakistani visitors, Canada always welcomes its visitors with open arms. Due to its easy visa and immigration policies Pakistanis love to visit or reside in Canada. It has included Pakistan in the Student Direct Stream program, which streamlines visa applications for students.

The program was begun for India, China, the Philippines and Vietnam last year. Under the SDS policy, it will take 20 days for visas to be processed after complete applications and biometrics are submitted.

Pakistani High Commissioner to Canada Raza Bashir Tarrar praised the Canadian government for the decision.In order to apply for a student visa, you can visit this website but remember that you already need to have been accepted into a Canadian university.

Govt will protect and develop worship places of minorities: PM Imran

Prime Minister Imran Khan has reiterated his commitment to build Pakistan on the model of State of Madina, ensuring rights to people, rule of law and provision of facilities to citizens at equal level.

Addressing a ceremony in connection with National Minority Day at Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad on Monday, he said the State of Madina was a modern state that protected rights of every citizen, and Pakistan will be raised on the same model. 

The Prime Minister said the PTI government has been carrying out struggle for ensuring provision of rights to people, following the principles practiced in the State of Madina.

Imran Khan said the government will protect and develop worship places of minorities in the country and also facilitate them to the maximum level to perform their religious rituals.

He said the government is committed to open Kartarpur Corridor for Sikh community on 550th birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak.

Court extends Judicial remand of Rana Sanaullah till 9 August

An Anti-Narcotics Court in Lahore has extended judicial remand of PML-N leader Rana Sanaullah and other five suspects in a case pertaining to possession of contraband in the vehicle.

ANF produced all suspects before judge Khalid Bashir under tight security.

As the hearing began, Advocate Nazeer Tarar held the point of view that the PML-N stalwart was arrested on a political basis.

Commenting on the ANF challan which it had submitted before the court in previous hearing, the Advocate said: “The challan is incomplete as it lacks complete documents in the submitted file”.

On the other hand, ANF alleged Rana Sanaullah of being involved in smuggling of narcotics for a prolonged period of time in the past.

After hearing arguments in the case, court then extended judicial remand of all suspects for 11 days.

Fake Bank Accounts Case: Zardari, Faryal s' remand extended till August 8

An accountability court has extended physical remand of former president Asif Ali Zardari and Faryal Talpur till August 8 in fake bank accounts and Park Lane Estate Company cases, on Monday.

Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) co-chairman was produced before Justice Muhammad Bashir.

As the hearing resumed, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Rawalpindi prosecutor pleaded with the court to extend Zardari’s physical remand for another 10 days.

However, Zardari’s defense counsel Latif Khosa pleaded with the court to extend the remand till August 19 due to Eid-ul-Azha holidays.

After hearing arguments from both sides, Justice Bashir remarked that the remand could only be extended for 15 days at one time.

On the other hand, medical reports of the former president were also presented in the court.

Earlier on July 19, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had filed Park Lane properties reference against the former president and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari.

According to the NAB, Zardari is accused of denting the loss of Rs 3.77 billion to the national exchequer.

According to details, Asif Ali Zardari was allegedly for running a fake front company by the name of Parathon as a shareholder in Park Lane properties.

A loan worth Rs 1.5 billion was taken out from the bank and transferred to the company account in a private bank. It has also been revealed that he had forged documents to comply with the loan policy and coaxed the National Bank into loan approval.

 

Rain caused deaths of six in Punjab

At least six people were killed and several others suffered injuries in rain-related incidents in different areas of Punjab.

According to the details, two siblings were killed and another injured when the wall of their house collapsed due to downpour in a Sargodah village. The area residents rushed to the science and shifted the bodies and the injured to the hospital.

As many as 10 suffered injuries as the roof of their house caved in after heavy rain in Sheikhupura. Rescue officials shifted the injured to the hospital for medical treatment.

A man was killed after the roof of his house collapsed in Faisalabad. In another incised, a 17-year old boy drowned in water when he was returning to his home in Wazirabad. Two girls drowned while taking bath in a river in Dera Ghazi Khan.

Earlier on July 27, four people, three members of a family among them, had been died of electrocution caused by incessant rains in Gujranwala.

Rescue sources had relayed the incident took place in the Wazirabad neighbourhood of the city. Two brothers, identified as 14-year-old Saleem and 12-year-old Abbas, had received a fatal electric shock as they touched a water pump.

KKH reopened one way for traffic

The Karakorum Highway has been restored between Gilgit and Diamer for one way traffic.

FWO sources said that the road was blocked by landslide at Goner Farm near Chilas last night.

Meanwhile, Workers of Frontier Works Organization have re-opened road for one way traffic in Guro,  Jaglot where mud-flow has blocked the Gilgit-Hunza portion of KKH  yesterday.

Trump’s Mediation Offer On kashmir Has Exposed Modi Govt: Ali Zadi

Federal Minister of Maritime Affairs Ali Haider Zaidi on Sunday said that US President Donald Trump s offer of mediation on Kashmir has exposed Modi government.

Talking to media on his return from United States, Ali Zaidi said that India is not interested in finding a solution of Kashmir dispute. He said that India does not know what to say on Trump s mediation offer.

He said that Prime Minister Imran Khan during his meeting with President Trump presented Pakistan stance on Kashmir issue in a befitting manner. Ali Zaidi termed US President s offer to become a mediator on Kashmir dispute as good news for peace and stability in the region.

He said that PM Imran and President Trump discussed various issues related to peace and stability in the region including Afghanistan. Ali Zaidi said that Prime Minister also supported the ongoing Afghan peace process during the meeting.

Taking a jibe at the Sindh government, Ali Zaidi said that Pakistan People s Party (PPP) is in power for the past 11 years in the province but problems faced by the people still remain unresolved.

Talking about Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Member National Assembly (MNA) and Fixit founder Alamgir Khan, who was briefly detained by Sindh police on Sunday, Ali Zaidi said that people like Alamgir are staging protests for the resolution of problems faced by the people of Karachi. He said that there is no need to stage a protest if the provincial government performs its duty properly.

Pakistan, Iraq agrees to enhance bilateral relations

Pakistan's Ambassador to Iraq, Sajid Bilal called on Iraqi President Barham Salih in Baghdad.

The Iraqi President acknowledged the important role Pakistan is playing in world affairs.

Ways to further develop Pakistan-Iraq bilateral relationship were discussed on the occasion.

The Pakistan Ambassador also invited Iraiq President on behalf of President Dr Arif Alvi to visit Pakistan.

Pakistan, Iraq agrees to enhance bilateral relationship

Pakistan's Ambassador to Iraq, Sajid Bilal called on Iraqi President Barham Salih in Baghdad.

The Iraqi President acknowledged the important role Pakistan is playing in world affairs.

Ways to further develop Pakistan-Iraq bilateral relationship were discussed on the occasion.

The Pakistan Ambassador also invited Iraiq President on behalf of President Dr Arif Alvi to visit Pakistan.

5th CPA Asia Regional Conference To Begin in Islamabad Today

Fifth Asia Regional Conference of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association will begin in Islamabad today.

Speaker National Assembly Asad Qaiser will chair.

It will be attended by Speaker of Ugandan Parliament and incumbent President, Member of British Parliament Lord Purvis of Tweed Jeremy Purvis, Member Malaysian Parliament Dr. Noraini Binti Ahmad, Chairperson CPA Executive Committee Emilia Lifaka, Secretary General CPA Akbar Khan, Speaker Gilgit Baltistan Legislative Assembly Fida Muhammad Nashad, Speaker Azad Kashmir Legislative Assembly Shah Ghulam Qadir and other national and international personalities of prominence, members of parliament and observers.

Speaker National Assembly says the aim of the conference is to bring parliaments of various countries together for regional prosperity.

Mikaal Zulfiqar will play a pilot in love with Sana Javed in his next drama

After appearing in Khasaara last year, Mikaal Zulfiqar is gearing up for his upcoming drama, Zard Bahaar alongside the Khaani star, Sana Javed.

Mikaal said "My character’s name is Captain Salman who is a commercial airline pilot. He is in love with Dr. Samira, who is being played by Sana Javed. It’s a very intrinsic love story and naturally, as dramas go, even this one has a lot of twists and turns."

According to the actor, "The play deals with a particular topic and an incident that takes place with Sana’s character which I can’t reveal right now. Due to this a lot of problems arise and then the complications remain till the end. Their love story faces a lot of challenges and even after they get married, they face a lot of challenges."

"The issue of watta-satta is also there. There are 2-3 issues in this play that arise."

"It has been directed by Rubina Ashraf, who is a legend in the industry. It has been a real pleasure working with her. I feel like actors who become directors are really good with other actors because they understand how an actor views things. She has also worked really hard on this play. Her daughter, Minah Tariq is also introduced who is playing the role of my sister."

The cast includes Usman Peerzada, Irsa Ghazal, Muhammad Ahmed, Seemi Raheel, Osama Tahir, and Shermeen Ali. The serial is written by Naila Ansari and Produced by Six Sigma.

"Humayun Saeed and Nadeem Baig have also worked on its production," added Mikaal.

Foreign forces cannot bring security, cause more tension in region: Rouhani

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says any presence of foreign forces in the Persian Gulf will only cause even more tension in the region, amid reports that the UK and the US are pushing for a joint force to escort oil tankers as they pass through the Strait of Hormuz off Iran.

“Iran makes constant efforts to ensure the Sea of Oman, the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz remain safe passageways for international shipping,” he said during a meeting with visiting Omani Foreign Minister Yusuf bin Alawi in Tehran on Sunday.

“The presence of foreign forces wouldn’t help the regional security, and if anything, it would actually be the main source of tension,” he added.

The remarks come as both the UK and the US are leading two sharply different plans for patrols in the Persian Gulf.

Washington has been pushing for a scheme whereby nations protect their own ships but partake in joint operations to monitor the waterways to prevent incidents.

The administration of US President Donald Trump claims that the patrols are needed to protect the ships from threats it says are coming from Iran, following several mysterious attacks that damaged oil tankers and cargo ships in the Sea of Oman over the past weeks.

The US and some of its allies have blamed Iran for the attacks, a claim Tehran has vehemently denied. Iranian officials have warned countries in the region to watch out for false flags by “foreign players.”

The UK, on the other hand, has been trying to put together a European force to protect vessels moving through the Strait of Hormuz, after Iran seized a British-flagged tanker this month for attempting to flee the scene of a collision with an Iranian fishing boat in violation of international rules.

Tensions flared up between London and Tehran after the UK navy seized Iranian oil tanker Grace 1 in Gibraltar, claiming that it was carrying oil to Syria in violation of the European Union’s sanctions against Damascus.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Rouhani told the Omani top diplomat that London’s move was illegal and would prove “costly” for them.

“Iran continues to stand against any breaches of law that endangers the safety of shipping in the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz and the Sea of Oman,” the Iranian president asserted.

He argued that all of the regional issues were connected and, therefore, every government in the region needed to help maintain peace and stability there.

Reconstructing Syria and paving the way for Syrian refugees to return, ending the Saudi-led war on Yemen and stopping Israel’s ongoing crimes against the people of Palestine were some of the key issues that he said had to be resolved.

The Iranian president said Tehran has never started tensions in the region, unlike the American officials, whom he accused of causing frictions with their “delusions” and their decision to leave the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.

Bin Alawi, for his part, said Oman and Iran needed to overcome all challenges and help keep the region secure.

He emphasized that without Iran it was not possible to keep the region safe.

Meanwhile, the Omani foreign minister on Sunday rejected rumors that he had transferred a message from the US and the UK to Iranian official during his trip to Tehran.

Muscat, he said, played no mediatory role in Tehran with regards to the latest wave of tensions gripping the region.

The top Omani diplomat added that all sides need be in contact in order to prevent further incidents in the Strait of Hormuz and safeguard international shipping lines.