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PR. No. 5. President Hu Jintao went to a tent and shook hands with several Pakistani medial workers at the First People’s Hospital of Longnan City. “When the Chinese people suffered the devastating earthquake, the Pakistani people expressed concerns, offered relief materials and sent a medical team to us. The Chinese government and people feel deeply grateful.” Hu said. Hu praised them for their excellent skills and all-out efforts. The Chinese President said the team symbolized the friendship the Pakistani people cherished for the Chinese people and expressed his wish that the friendship would last forever. The team members said they felt Chinese people’s hospitality and vowed to do their best for the quake victims. SMA/AZC
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No. 6. A financial agreement between SME Bank (as borrower on behalf of Government of Pakistan) and Artigiancassa Bank (as lender on behalf of Government of Italy) was signed here today. The agreement provides for implementation of a credit facility offered by Government of Italy for provision of Soft Loan of Euro 7.75 million for small and medium enterprise (SME) development in Pakistan. The loan carries 0% interest rate, payable in 39 years. SME Bank would lend this loan to SMEs at a maximum markup of 4% on loan in Euro and 8% on loan in Pak Rupee. The credit facility shall be available only to private enterprises or enterprises with a public participation upto 20%. Research centres and Universities may also have access to the Soft Loan in order to set up pilot projects or demonstration centres in the field of technology innovation and environment protection. Each individual project, even if split into more than one contract, shall not exceed the amount of Euro 550,000 and shall not be lower than Euro 30,000. The credit line is proposed to be disbursed through a SMEDA-UNIDO IPU (Small and Medium Enterprise Development Authority – United Nations Industrial Development Organization Investment Promotion Unit). This IPU would be set up within SMEDA premises, through an Italian grant of Euro 1,418,200 (already released in favour of UNIDO). Financial and technical feasibility of each project loan is to be undertaken by the IPU and loans shall be managed through the network of SME Bank. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Syed Naveed Qamar, Pakistan ’s Finance Minister, and Italian Minister of State for Economic and Finance, Mr. Guiseppe Vegas. Mr. R. A. Chughtai, Chairman SME Bank signed the agreement on behalf of GoP and Mr. Stefano Gatti, Head of Revolving Fund Management Unit, Artigiancassa Banking Group of Italy signed on behalf of Italian Government. Earlier Italian Minister of State for Economic and Finance Mr. Guiseppe Vegas called on Finance Minister, Syed Naveed Qamar in Finance Division Islamabad. Both the Ministers discussed general guidelines of the financial agreement between the Governments of Italy and Pakistan that would help promote small and medium enterprises development in Pakistan, besides fostering collaboration in other sectors. Both the sides exchanged views on establishing a Technical Support Unit in Economic Affairs Division of Ministry of Finance that would underpin all similar Italian-Funded Projects in Pakistan in various development sectors. Subsequent monitoring and evaluation of all such projects would pave the way for maximum benefits to the people of Pakistan, simultaneously enriching Italian entrepreneurs experience in projects handling world over. In the end, Mr. Guiseppe Vegas, Italian MOS for Economic and Finance invited Pakistan’s Finance Minister to visit Italy at his convenience in times to come. Such visit certainly would strengthen bilateral relations between People and Governments of both the countries, Syed Naveed Qamar concluded. NJ/*-Ahmad-*
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No. 7. Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that Pakistan and Italy enjoy close friendly relations covering diplomatic, political, economic, security and agriculture sectors. The Prime Minister was talking to a Italian delegation headed by Mr. Giuseppe Vegas, Minister of State for Economic and Finance, who called on him at the PM’s Secretariat this morning. Ambassador of Italy to Pakistan was also present in the meeting. The Prime Minister said that Pakistan accords priority to its close relationship with Italy and is keen to further expand these relations in other sectors as well. The Prime Minister discussed with the Italian Minister the issue of better market access for Pakistani products and asked the Italian Minister to support Pakistan in European Union in this regard as Pakistan would like to further enhance its bilateral trade with Italy. The Prime Minister said that his government is focusing on improving the agriculture sector to overcome the food shortage and also seeks Italian cooperation to develop a mechanized agriculture in the country. In order to enhance people to people contact between the two countries, the Prime Minister called upon the need for exchange of visits of parliamentary delegations besides further strengthening the cooperation on the cultural side and to preserve heritage of old cities. The Prime Minister added that Pakistan is facing energy shortage and desired Italy to invest more in the power sector to supplement government efforts to overcome the energy shortage. The Prime Minister lauded the role of Italian government towards providing valuable assistance to rehabilitate the earthquake-affected areas. Mr. Giuseppe Vega felicitated the Prime Minister on assuming his office and expressed confidence that the bilateral relations between the two countries would further strengthen as both the countries have common vision on important international issues and Italy thinks Pakistan is playing an important role in the regional stability which ultimately impacts the world stability. He also extended invitation to the Prime Minister to visit Italy at his early convenience. The meeting was also attended by the Minister for Finance Syed Naveed Qamar. -Ahmad-
PR. No.8. The Privatisation Commission (“PC”) has received an overwhelming response in the shape of 19 Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from reputed Pakistani and International parties / consortia who have expressed their interest in entering the process towards acquiring 93.88% strategic shareholding in SME Bank Limited (“SME Bank”) along with transfer of management control. The last date for receiving EOIs was May 31, 2008. The parties, which have submitted their EOIs include1. Pak Kuwait Investment Company, 2. Orascom Telecom Holding SAE, 3. Citigroup Venture Capital International Investment G.P, 4. Commercial Bank of Kuwait, 5. Global Investment House K.S.C, 6. Gulf Cap FZC, 7. KASB Bank Limited, 8. Kohinoor Textile Mills and Mechantbridge Holdings S.A. Luxembourg, 9. Al Nakeel Investment LLC on behalf of Emirates Investment Group, 10. Hashwani Hotels Limited, Pakistan Services Limited, and The International Investor, Kuwait, 11. Security Investment Bank Limited, 12. Pak Libya Holding Company, 13. Pak Brunei Investment Company, 14. Associated Group, 15. Pak Steel, 16. Invest Bank, 17. Oracap Holdings, 18. Noor Financials and 19. IGI Investment Bank. BMA Capital Management is the Financial Advisor for the transaction. SME Bank’s privatisation represents an attractive investment opportunity for investors interested in entering into the commercial banking market of Pakistan. SME Bank has an unrestricted commercial banking license covering banking activities in Pakistan. SME Bank is a public limited company, which was incorporated in Pakistan on October 30, 2001. At present, SME Bank has employee strength of approximately 630 permanent and contractual individuals and is operating through a diverse network of 27 branches, which include 13 active commercial branches. According to JCR-VIS Credit Rating as on February 22, 2007. SME Bank was rated BBB for long-term and A-2 for short-term credits. SME Bank also holds a 73% share in SME Leasing Limited, listed on the Lahore Stock Exchange (“LSE”), which was incorporated as a wholly owned subsidiary of SME Bank. The Salient Features of the transaction include divestment of 93.88% GOP shareholding along with transfer of management control. The SME Bank has an unrestricted commercial banking license. The potential buyer will have to retain the name ‘SME Bank Ltd.’ For one-year post privatisation. The charter of SME Bank to be maintained for at least three years post privatisation. All permanent employees will be offered a severance package. GOP will keep the right to appoint at least one director on the board of directors of SME Bank post privatisation. All terms and conditions relating to privatisation of SME Bank shall be communicated to all pre-qualified bidders from time to time before the bid date. -Ahmad-
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No.9. Seventh edition of Shangri-La Dialogue organised in Singapore from 30-05-08 to 01-06-08 was attended by Defence Ministers and senior military officials from 27 countries of Asia-Pacific and beyond. The annual meeting, which takes its name from the hotel venue, is organized by the London-based International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS), a world renowned institute for strategic and politico-military conflict studies. General Tariq Majid, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), head of Pakistan’s delegation, in his address drew attention of the participants to the need for review of policy approach, and operational mechanism to make timely adjustments, which he said are critical to success in fighting terrorism. He accentuated that the way forward is to address the root causes; and recognition of the reality that countering terrorism requires change of mindset. It is impossible to get rid of violent extremism by military means alone, he emphasized. Rather a more holistic approach is needed to create an environment in-conducive to terrorism and extremism, he added. We should adopt a reprioritized comprehensive strategy based on political engagement and socio economic development, backed by essential military force to combat terrorism and counter violent extremism, he said. General Tariq Majid further said that the cumulative effect of events in the Middle East, sledge hammer approach of coalition forces in adjoining Pashton areas of Afghanistan, cross border missile strikes causing civilian deaths in FATA and tendency of some of the Western Countries to micromanage our counter terrorism policies, have created a perception that GWOT is directed at Muslims. Besides stoking tribal revenge and gravitating support from elsewhere in their fight against the perceived anti Islam War, is aggravating the conflict situation, he explained. Despite tactical / operational successes both inside Afghanistan and in Pakistan, the strategic goal of security stabilization remains elusive. In fact the security situation has become more tenuous and complex as the challenges to domestic and regional stability have increased manifold, he added. CJCSC expressed the need for more effective border control measures by the coalition forces operating on Afghanistan side of the border. He also brought to the notice of international community and the Afghan government the necessity of controlling poppy growth to break the nexus of terrorists and drug barons. Narcotics trade, he highlighted, is the main financial life line of terrorists and insurgents. Rather than waiting for full restoration of security in the eastern and southern provinces of Afghanistan, the reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts by coalition forcers should be made in tandem to help early stabilization, he added. On the sidelines of the conference, General Tariq held bilateral meetings with Air Chief Marshal Sir Jock Stirrup, Chief of the Defence Staff, United Kingdom, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, Chief of Defence Force, Australia, Rohita Bogollagama, Sri Lankan Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Peter Gordon Mackay, the Canadian Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. -Ahmad-
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No.10. Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly has said that Pakistan attaches great importance to Iraq ’s sovereignty and its territorial integrity and wishes to see an early end to the violence and return to stability. He further said that Pakistan wishes to see a prosper and stable Iraq since both the countries are tied in eternal bonds of religion, history and culture. He said this while talking to H.E Qais Sobhi al Yaaqoobi, the Ambassador of Republic of Iraq who called on him in the Parliament House, today. The Deputy Speaker while talking to the Iraqi Ambassador said that Pakistan would fulfill its commitments and continue extending diplomatic support to Iraq on all issues confronting its peace and stability. He assured that Pakistan would extend financial and technical support to Iraqi Government in education, health, telecommunications and transport sectors. The Deputy Speaker apprising about the February 18 Elections in Pakistan said that the elections have substantiated that majority of Pakistanis is progressive and enlightened and had voted progressive forces to the Parliament. He said that the Government would come up to their expectations and formulate policies which would create job opportunities, reduce inflation, provide health care, education and other amenities to the people. The Deputy Speaker said that the timely formation of Standing Committees and announcement of Leader of the Opposition were landmark achievements of the present National Assembly. He said that the Standing Committees would soon elect their chairmen and would be carrying out their role of Parliamentary oversight for ensuring good governance and accountability. Iraqi Ambassador said that Iraq attaches great importance to its relations with Pakistan and was eager to enhance its existing parliamentary and economic relations with Pakistan . He stressed for further diversifying economic cooperation between Pakistan and Iraq for common good of both the nations. He also conveyed invitation from the Speaker of Iraqi National Assembly to the Speaker and Deputy Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan to visit Iraq . The Ambassador requested the Deputy Speaker to use his good offices in persuading the Government of Pakistan to open Pakistani Embassy in Iraq , which would further cement the diplomatic ties between both the countries. The Iraqi Ambassador further informed the Deputy Speaker that Iraqi government has engaged warring factions into dialogue and had been successful in persuading them to end violence in the country in order to mitigate the sufferings of Iraqi people. He said that Iraq would look forward for Pakistan support for rehabilitation and reconstruction of irrigation and communication infrastructure. He also called upon the Pakistani Entrepreneurs to invest in Iraq as the Law and order situation in Iraq has considerably improved. -Ahmad-
PR. No.11. Islamabad, June 2, 2008. The Prime Minister in his opening remarks at the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting held at the Prime Minister’s Secretariat said that NEC is the country’s highest financial forum which approves the economic outlay and reviews the macro-economic performance of the country. The Prime Minister said that the annual plan 2008-09 to be discussed in today’s meeting marks the first important step by his government to deliver on its promises made to the people. The Prime Minister said that this will also signal a paradigm shift from the earlier consumption-led development strategy to pro-poor development strategy to ensure that the gains of economic growth are invested on the welfare of our people. The Prime Minister further said that the PSDP 2008-09 has been formulated through intensive discussion and consultations with all stakeholders so that the Provincial Governments, AJK, FATA & Northern Areas all must have a sense of ownership of the PSDP. The Prime Minister said that the PSDP must seize every opportunity of facilitating growth of the private sector. The public and private sector, he added, must walk together to establish a viable partnership. The Prime Minister said that major thrust of the PSDP 2008-09 would be on empowering our young men & women with necessary education and skills. This he added will enable Pakistan to effectively compete and take advantage of a rapidly globalizing world.
-Ahmad-
PR. No.12. Islamabad, June 2, 2008. Syed Naveed Qamar Federal Minister for Privatisation, Investment & Finance has strongly condemned the brutal bomb blast in Islamabad, which resulted in the loss of the lives of a number of innocent people. He expressed his deep grief and sorrow over the tragic deaths of innocent Muslim brethren. He termed it as a cowardly act and prayed to the Almighty Allah to shower His blessings over all departed souls and to give courage and fortitude to the members of the bereaved families to bear this irreparable loss with patience and equanimity. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of those who were injured in this sad incident. TP/-Ahmad-
PR. No.13. Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has expressed sorrow and grief over the death of the mother of Mr. Ashfaq Ahmad, Reporter, daily Jang, Multan. The Prime Minister prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed soul in peace and give courage to the bereaved family to bear the irreparable loss. -Ahmad-
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No.14. Federal Minister for Defence, Ch. Ahmed Mukhtar, has strongly condemned a bomb blast in the parking area of the Embassy of Denmark, in which precious human lives have been lost. Condemning highly cruel and cowardice act and the hidden hands involved in it would soon be taken to task and exemplary punishment would be given to them. The Minister expressed deep shock over the loss of innocent lives in the bomb blast. In his condolence message with the bereaved families, the Minister prayed to almighty Allah to shower his blessings on the departed souls and grant courage and fortitude to the bereaved families to bear this irreparable loss and patience and equanimity. AM/*-Ahmad-*
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No.15. The Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat, which met at the Parliament House today under the Chairmanship of Senator Abdul Ghaffar Qureshi to review matters relating to the housing societies operating in ICT, took a serious notice of the alleged irregularities committed by these societies and instructed the Circle Registrar, ICT to provide all information required by the Committee within one week on the prescribed proforma. The Committee also expressed its serious concern over the permission granted by the CDA recently to construct one or two additional floors on certain multi-storey buildings in Islamabad, saying that it could pose serious threat to public safety given the traumatic experience of October 2005 earthquake. “Safety comes first. Such permissions have been flouted in the past blatantly and there is no guarantee that the proposed certification by the structural engineers will not be misused this time also”, asked the Committee members. The Chairman of the Committee, as a precautionary measure, instructed CDA to include two members from the Senate body into the proposed Committee with a view to making the whole process merit-based and transparent. These two Senators will also be authorized to carry out random inspections of the sites. The Senate Committee also directed the CDA to provide copies of MOUs signed by the CDA recently to undertake joint ventures with foreign firms in connection with the mass transit project and development of bus terminals so that these could be vetted by the legal experts and to point out any deficiency, legal or otherwise, for avoiding trouble afterwards. The Senate Committee also took exception to the faulty and sub-standard development work carried out by the various housing societies operating in different zones of ICT and demanded stricter checks by the CDA to rein in these societies particularly with regard to compliance of relevant rules and regulations. It also called for pursuing the legal cases in the courts seriously observing that some times the vested interests manage to take stay orders in order to hide their wrong doings and the public at large suffers. The meeting was attended among others Senators Abdul Raziq, Muhammad Abbas Komaili, Engr. Rashid Ahmed Khan, Mrs. Rehana Yahya Baloch, Ms. Fauzia Fakhar-uz-Zaman, Ch. Muhammad Anwar Bhinder and Sardar Muhammad Latif Khan Khosa besides the Chairman CDA and senior officials of the Cabinet Division. SM/ank
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No.16. Islamabad, June 2, 2008. The Chairman Senate, Mr. Mohammedmian Soomro and Mr. Jan Muhammad Khan Jamali, Deputy Chairman Senate have strongly condemned the bomb blast occurring near Denmark Embassy here today, which claimed several precious lives besides causing injuries to several persons. They termed it as a dastardly act designed to demoralize the people and to bring the country into disrepute besides scaring away the potential investors and tourists. The Chairman Senate and Deputy Chairman Senate have expressed their heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their near and dear ones in the tragedy and wished speedy recovery to all those who sustained injuries in the blast. They appealed to the people to remain united for foiling the designs of the enemies of the country and prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed souls in eternal peace and grant courage and fortitude to the bereaved families to bear this loss with equanimity. SM/ank
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No.17. Islamabad, June 2, 2008. The Federal Minister for Women Development Sherry Rehman has taken a strong notice of the case of forced engagement of 15 under-age girls who have been pledged in marriage to settle a blood feud between two tribes near Kashmore. “Forced marriage of minor girls is unacceptable, and the government will not allow any violation of human rights against women,” the Federal Minister for Women Development said while commenting on the Kashmore Jirga news report. “The PPP government would not allow the practice of trading women and minors at any cost.” Ms Rehman informed that the Ministry of Women Development, on her directives, has already moved the Gender Crime Cell of the Interior Ministry. “We are pursuing the case and every effort will be made to take action against the perpetrators and provide relief to the victims.” The Sindh Chief Minister has also taken notice and asked for an immediate inquiry. Pointing to the absence of a comprehensive law addressing the heinous practice of forced marriages, the Federal Minister said that the Women Development Ministry is working on legislation on the issue. “It is a blatant violation of human rights and our government will never condone the practice.” The Federal Minister added that the Women Development Ministry has initiated a range of reforms as a part of the PPP government’s agenda to broaden the scope of women’s involvement, and give them their due leverage, in all level of domestic, public and professional activities. “We are strongly committed to rooting out all black laws and anti-women practices from the system We seek assistance from all stakeholders including the civil society and the media to help us bring reforms in the area of women development.” EW/ank
PR. No.18. Federal Minister for Water and Power, Raja Pervez Ashraf has said that coordinated efforts of all concerned are required to cope with the prevailing power crisis in the country and to generate approximately additional electricity of 1000 MW from the existing power plants both from the public and private sector. Generation of additional 1000 MW will help to reduce the quantum of load management about two hours and all possible steps will be taken to provide relief to the consumers. He made these observations while chairing an inter – ministerial meeting to discuss the ways and means to maximize power generation in the country particularly in the summer and prepare three months Action Plan for this purpose here today. Secretary and Advisor, M/O Water and Power, Additional Secretaries of M/o Finance and Petroleum and Natural Resources, Managing Director, PEPCO, MDs of PPIB, SNGPL and SSGC, CEOs of all GENCOs and senior officials of Ministry were participated in the meeting. The Minister directed MD, PEPCO to take immediate measures to meet the target to generate additional power of 1000 MW from GENCOs and IPPs from June 2008. He also asked the Gencos to keep their plants in order on maximum capacity and no shut down on minor faults will be allowed. He was of the view that today country was facing shortage of about 4000 MW electricity which has affected the economy and all segments of lives. It was decided in the meeting that all the concerned Ministries Finance, Petroleum and Water and Power will extend cooperation with each other to generate maximum electricity from Gencos and IPPs and to reduce the gap between demand and supply. The representative of Finance assured the meeting to provide enough financial resources to PEPCO within a week time to reduce its financial burden and payments to fuel supply companies. The Petroleum Ministry would supply the maximum gas to all Gencos and ensured timely supply of furnace oil to the public and private power projects to enable them to generate additional power of 1000 MW during the summer season. MD, PEPCO also assured the meeting to generate 1000 MW from the existing plants of GENCOs and IPPs from June 10, after receiving funds and required gas/ fuel supply to the power plants. Earlier, the representatives of Finance and Petroleum and CEOs Gencos gave a detailed briefing to the Minister on the financial matter related to cash resources and immediate release of sufficient funds, supply of fuel and gas, and generation capability during peak and off-peak hours, respectively. AJM/ank
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No.19. Islamabad, June 2, 2008. Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that the government would take measures for improving basic education and healthcare facilities in all areas of the country particularly NWFP. The Prime Minister said this while talking to the MNAs of the ruling coalition belonging to NWFP at his Parliament House chamber this evening. The Prime Minister said the government is determined to take concrete measures for poverty alleviation by increasing employment and income generation opportunities particularly in the underdeveloped areas of the country. He said the government would give priority to infrastructure development and the provision of basic facilities. Despite government’s resource constraint, development funds worth Rs. 10 million have been allocated at the discretion of every MNA during the current financial year, he added. The Prime Minister said the country is facing shortage of wheat and atta due to the wrong policies in the past. He said in order to facilitate availability of Atta to the people ban on inter-district movement of wheat and Atta has been lifted while law enforcement agencies and provincial governments have been tasked to take steps for controlling smuggling. The legislators from NWFP apprised the Prime Minister of the various matters relating to their constituencies particularly power and atta shortage. They also asked for the provision of natural gas, education and health facilities, for their respective areas. DSG/ank
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No. 20. Islamabad, June 2, 2008. Pakistan and the US have agreed to further enhance their bilateral cooperation in the field of defence and security matters especially in intelligence sharing and counter-terrorism efforts. This was decided at a meeting when the US Under Secretary of Defence, Mr. Eric S. Edelman called on Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani at the PM’s Secretariat this afternoon. The Prime Minister said that Pakistan values its strategic close, cooperative, and longstanding relationship with the US based on trust. The Prime Minister said that Pakistan is serious in its commitment to fight terrorism as this scourge is directly and adversely affecting the security of our people and the performance of our economy. Pakistan is combating terrorism in its own interest and not for the sake of any other country, he said. There is no question of negotiating with the militants, he added. We however feel that there is also need to address the root causes of terrorism and towards this end we have adopted a three-pronged strategy comprising political dialogue, economic development and continued campaign against terrorism. However, we will negotiate only with those elements who have laid down arms and joined the mainstream political activity, he said. We have neither withdrawn our forces from the bordering areas with Afghanistan nor have any intention to do so, the Prime Minister said. He emphasized the need for early passage of the legislation pertaining to the Reconstruction Opportunity Zones (ROZs) in order to improve the socio-economic condition in the tribal areas. The Prime Minister said a strong and stable Afghanistan is also in Pakistan’s own interest. We are ready to take all necessary measures to prevent illegal cross-border movement including the installation of the bio-metric system to prevent it. We are anxiously awaiting Afghanistan’s response to our proposals, he said. He said that early repatriation of over three million Afghan refugees in an honourable and dignified manner will also help prevent illegal crossings besides relieving Pakistan of the mounting cost and the expenditure being incurred on the upkeep of the Afghan refugees. The Prime Minister said that the electoral victory of the moderate and progressive political forces all over Pakistan including in the FATA augurs well for our campaign against terrorism and extremism. The Prime Minister said that Pakistan is in the process of consolidating the country’s transition to democracy within the ambit of the constitution. He said we are keen to restore the 1973 Constitution which envisaged a parliamentary form of government. The current constitutional dispensation is a hotch potch of parliamentary and presidential system, he added. Mr. Edelman applauded the return of democracy in Pakistan and said the US is keen to forge an enduring strategic partnership with Pakistan to the mutual benefit of our two countries. He said that the use of force is not enough to combat terrorism. His country was keen that all security agreements should have a mechanism to enforce them, he said. Federal Minister for Defence, Ch. Ahmed Mukhtar, Advisor on National Security, Mr. Mahmud Ali Durrani, Secretary Defence and senior officials also attended the meeting. The US Ambassador to Pakistan, Ms. Anne W. Patterson was also present during the meeting. DSG/ank
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No. 21. Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that the government accords high priority to women’s empowerment and would take all possible measures to achieve this objective. The Prime Minister expressed these views at a meeting with a delegation of Women Chamber of Commerce & Industry (WCCI) headed by Begum Salma Ahmad, President of WCCI at the Prime Minister’s Chamber, Parliament House this afternoon. The Prime Minister said that the government is fully cognizant of the existing status of the women in the society and is striving to bring about improvement in their lives through social, economic, political and legal empowerment. The Prime Minister appreciated the efforts of women entrepreneurs for their growing contributions in various sectors of the national economy and said they have demonstrated great potential in all walks of life.
The Prime Minister said that the government would make all possible efforts to bolster country’s exports and to facilitate the exporters’ community besides adopting concrete measures to increase the confidence of foreign investors. The delegation apprised the Prime Minister of the various proposals for promoting women participation in the business activities of the county. The Prime Minister assured the delegation that their proposals would be given serious consideration. DSG/ank
PR. No. 22. Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has condemned the terrorist incident which took place outside the Embassy of Denmark today. He said the loss of innocent human lives and injuries sustained as a result of this attack is highly condemnable. In his message to the Prime Minister of Denmark the Prime Minister conveyed deepest condolences on behalf of the government and people of Pakistan. The Prime Minister said this would redouble our resolve not only to apprehend the culprits of this heinous act but also to continue on our avowed path to fight terrorism and extremism. The Prime Minister also expressed deep sorrow and grief with the families of those who lost their lives in the tragic bomb blast. DSG/ank
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No. 23. The Ambassador of Japan H.E. Mr.Seiji Kojima paid a courtesy call on the Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Northern Areas Mr. Qamar Zaman Kaira today. During the meeting various issues of mutual interest were discussed. Mr. Kaira reiterated that the Government of Pakistan is keen on exploring all avenues of cooperation with the Japanese government. He said that he looks forward to Japanese assistance especially with regard to making an exclusive museum in the NAs – being an area rich in historical monuments - so that rare artifacts recovered or those that may get submerged in the process of building Diamer-Bhasha dam in the Northern Areas of Chilas or other adjoining areas could be preserved and secured. Highlighting the relations between the two countries, Mr. Kaira said that Japan’s role is greatly admired by every section of the society and all of the people of Pakistan not only for its positive contribution and assistance in relief work and grass root assistance in education sector in AJK and Northern Areas but also for the common values shared by the people of the two countries and close cooperation in diverse areas between the governments for successive years. Mr. Kojima said that Northern Areas of Pakistan offer marvelous tourism locations and mountaineering spots. He said that a number of tourists and mountaineers visit Pakistan to enjoy its scenic beauty. He informed that Japan has recently revised its travel advisory for the Northern Areas of Pakistan.
Japan-Pakistan relations have been nurtured up by high level visits from Japan and especially through Japan’s relief assistance for the disaster of the earthquake. Japan donated U.S.$200 Million as relief assistance to Pakistan in the aftermath of earthquake in Pakistan. AK/ank
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No. 24. President Pervez Musharraf has said that strong, stable, broad based and long-term relationship between Pakistan and the United States is in the interest of both countries and vital for lasting peace and stability in the region. The President made these remarks during a meeting with a six-member US Defence delegation led by Mr. Eric S. Edelman, US under Secretary for Defence (Policy) at the Aiwan –e- Saddr here today. President Musharraf noted with satisfaction that Pak-US relations remain on a positive and upward trajectory. He spoke at length on the key role that Pakistan had played in the war against terrorism and stated that the country’s resolve to fight terrorism and extremism remains firm, consistent with its values and national interest. He expressed the hope that the visit by the US delegation would serve to further enhance the excellent existing relations between the two countries in the field of defence cooperation. The delegates thanked the President for the opportunity to call on him. They expressed deep appreciation of the United States Government regarding the role of President Pervez Musharraf and Government in the war against terrorism. They stated that the US was committed to assist the Government of Pakistan in meeting its legitimate defence needs and bolstering its capabilities in the war on terror. They spoke of the increased collaboration in training, joint exercises, defence procurement and production. The regional geo-political situation with particular reference to Afghnistan also came under discussion during the call. Secretary Defence, Mr. Kamran Rasool and US Ambassador, Anne Patterson were also present during the call. MA/ank.
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No. 25. The Government condemns in strongest terms the dastardly terrorist attack outside the Embassy of Denmark in the Capital Islamabad in which six innocent lives have been lost and another 25 wounded. The Advisor to the Prime Minister on Interior Mr. A. Rehman Malik has expressed deep grief on behalf of the Government, the Ministry of Interior and the people of Pakistan over the tragic loss of life and injuries caused to many innocent people. We profoundly sympathize with the bereaved families and those injured in the terrorist attack. The Advisor to the Prime Minister on Interior Mr. A. Rehman Malik has immediately constituted a joint investigation team comprising officers from Police, Federal Investigation Agency and the Intelligence Agencies to conduct a swift probe into the dastardly act in order to apprehend the culprits and bring them to justice. The advisor has also asked the joint investigation team to furnish an initial investigation report within 24 hours. The Ministry of Interior has instructed all concerned to further tighten security in the capital and across the country. This cowardly act will not shake the government’s firm resolve to root out terrorism from all parts of the country. The democratic government has already taken steps towards that objective. The government would spare no efforts in tracking down the perpetrators of this heinous act at the earliest. The Advisor also assures the Diplomatic Community that security of all Diplomatic Missions, its personnel and other assets would be further beefed up and their safety would be ensured at all costs. Mukaram/ank
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No. 26. A meeting of the House Business Advisory Committee of the National Assembly was held today in Parliament House. Dr. Fehmida Mirza, the Speaker National Assembly presided over the meeting. The meeting discussed the agenda and ways to run the proceedings of 5th session of the National Assembly. The Representative of all the parliamentary parties gave their proposals regarding business in the House. It was decided that the National Assembly sessions would be held regularly in the evening except Thursday and Friday. It was also decided that the working hours of the daily sittings of the National Assembly will be enhanced to 05 hours per day i.e from 4.00 p.m to 9.00 p.m evening. The meeting also decided that no banner/poster shall be displayed in the premises of the National Assembly. The meeting was attended by Mr. Faisal Karim Kundi Deputy Speaker, Mr. Farooq H. Naik, Minister for Law and Justice, Syed Khurshed Ahmed Shah Minister for Labour, Manpower & Overseas Pakistanis, MNAs Sheikh Aftab Ahmed, Mr. Hanif Abbasi, Ch. Muhammad Barjees Tahir, Mr. Zahid Hamid, Mr. Ghaus Bus Mahar, Maulana Muhammad Qasim, Mr. Iqbal Muhammad Ali Khan and Mr. Munir Khan Orakazi . MT/ank
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No. 27. President Pervez Musharraf on Monday said the country’s economic fundamentals were strong and hoped the government would address the current downtrend. The President was addressing the participants of the National Defence University following the presentation of a National Strategy Paper on Governance of Specially Administered Areas (FATA and NAs), and their impact on national security. The event was attended by Governor NWFP Owais Ghani, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Tariq Majeed, Chief of the Army Staff General Ashfaq Pervaiz Kiyani and Air Chief Marshal Tanveer Mahmood. To a question about the prevailing economic situation, President Musharraf said it was certainly recoverable. “I hope the government moves forward politically for the salvation and putting back on track the de-railed situation. It is doable and achievable.” The President added. The President said the issues of economy and terrorism must not be politiciscd as these might harm the national interests. About county’s economic fundamentals, the President said “Alhamodolillah these are right and have been endorsed by international institutions.” “We have to solve the problem and Pakistan has to move forward. We must make sure that this nation rises,” the President said. He pointed at the recent slump of the stock exchange where billions were lost and the exchange rate that after staying stagnant for the past eight years to around Rs 60 went touched Rs 70 per dollar. The country loses Rs 28 billion with the increase of single rupee, he added. He expressed the confidence that “if correct and bold measures are taken than all issues that confront us, are solvable – whether political or in economic field and all the issues of energy, water and food”. The President said the three-pronged strategy of addressing military, political and socio-economic aspects was the way forward for addressing the situation in Pakistan’s tribal areas. “Military is certainly and is never the solution, as it only creates and environment, the solution is always through political measures,” the President added. He said apart from the peace deal done two years back the current deals have been done from a position of strength, particularly in Swat and South Waziristan. He said an important aspect would be to ensure that there was no linkage with al-Qaeda or foreign elements and there must not be cross border activity.
The President said it was important that the vast majority of the moderate people are weaned away from the extremists. He said there should be no politics involved while dealing with terrorism and the region be brought to mainstream by providing socio-economic development to the area. Similarly, he said, there was a need to integrate the Northern Areas both within and with the rest of the country, through roads and communications. The President said the recent measures taken to bring more development and improvement to the area will have a deep impact and the people will have a greater sense of contentment. To a question, the President said Pakistan’s relations with the United States of America were extremely important. He said ties between the two countries need to be broad based and not focused merely on extremism and terrorism. The relations, he said need to encompass social, economic and other ties. He said terrorism and extremism needs to be defeated and said Pakistan has been affected by terrorism since the time Soviet forces entered Afghanistan. He said it was vital for the stability of the region that Afghanistan was stabilized. President Musharraf said coalition forces in Afghanistan were trying to stabilize the situation. The President said he would not agree that the problems facing Afghanistan could resolve with the pulling back of coalition forces from Afghanistan. “I don’t think so,” the President said and added it could destabilize Afghanistan and also Pakistan. He said Afghanistan is a tribal society and can end up fighting each other as it did with the withdrawal of the soviet forces. He said it was important that other issues like Iraq and Palestine are resolved as they do have an impact on the situation in Afghanistan and need to be addressed. The President when asked about the need for long term water management said it was vital to have large water reservoirs to ensure water and energy security for the country. He said politicizing developmental issues of the country could impact economic growth. The President stressed pursuing all Projects to generate electricity and preserve water to meet the growing irrigation needs. To a question, he said Pakistan was pursuing a long term strategy to address poverty, unemployment, extremism through rationalization of education system across the country. About the food crisis, the President favoured giving higher price to the farmers, to match the international prices to curb smuggling. He said it will also bring prosperity to the rural, however added that the poor segment of the society need to be protected. Earlier the President was given a presentation on the national strategy on greater integration of FATA and Northern Areas and the security dimension. It dwelt at length on the various aspects of the two regions, the vulnerabilities of the specially administered regions and the need for bringing these into the mainstream for further strengthening the country. MA/wh
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