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PR No. 260 The reference is made to the news strip aired by Geo TV network on Saturday, 24th April, 2010 and news item appeared in certain sections of the Pakistani Press, regarding stranded Pakistanis in Malaysia, says a press release received here today from Malaysia. In this regard, Community Welfare Attaché, Ch Nadeem Ashraf of the Pakistan High Commission for Pakistan in Malaysia visited the residence of the twenty (20) Pakistani workers/labourers on Saturday(24th April, 2010) in Shah Alam suburbs of Kuala Lumpur allegedly detained (held captive by employers in Malaysia) and inquired into the matter and since then has been in constant touch with them. As per facts ascertained by him, the workers/labourers were not held in any kind of detention/captivity by the employer and were free to move around. They, however, at their own volition locked themselves up in the accommodation provided to them by the employer, as a protest against the contractors/outsourcing firms who brought them in Malaysia. As per inquiry, the contractor verbally promised them higher pay and salaries and better working conditions in Malaysia, whereas as per written agreement, shown to them just before their departure for Malaysia, the pay and salaries turned out to be much lower than promised, and working conditions were also not up to the mark. The Pakistan High Commission with the objective to resolve the stand off, held separate meetings with the employer and Pakistani workers/labourers and arranged for them part of their salary in advance for the month of April. The employer was also pressed to provide better accommodation, as well as look into possible increase in their salaries. Two of the labours were also taken to hospital for routine medical treatment and their communication with their families back home were also arranged. The matter was also taken up with the Malaysian authorities in order to address grievances of the Pakistani workers/labourers. The workers/labourers are of the view that since the contract of employment was not shown to them in advance and the salaries and working condition as promised by the outsourcing agencies were not met, therefore, they wanted to go back to Pakistan. The High Commission in Kuala Lumpur is in constant contact with the workers and the employer and is extending all possible assistance to the Pakistani workers / Labourers to resolve the matter in the best interest of our compatriots. **QB/Ahmad**
PR No. 261 The Higher Education Commission (HEC) and the Embassy of France signed a Memorandum of Understanding on Tuesday, whereby the Embassy will facilitate the Commission for selection of candidates for award of HEC scholarships and training in French Language in Pakistan. Dr. Sohail Naqvi, Executive Director, HEC and Mr. Daniel Jouannueau, Ambassador of France to Pakistan signed the agreement at the Commission Secretariat. Dr. Javaid R. Laghari, Chairman HEC, presided over the ceremony. Speaking on the occasion, the Ambassador said that this is a joint investment of the Governments of Pakistan and France. He said that HEC scholars in France enjoy the same facilities as the French students. The Ambassador appreciated the performance of Pakistani scholars studying in different universities of France. Dr. Javaid Laghari said that in addition to strengthening the human resource, the programme is a great source of cultural exchange between the two countries. He said that on average 100 HEC scholars will return from France every year, adding that same number of scholars will leave for France every year in the coming years. The Chairman emphasized that the research done by our scholars has to be transferred to the commercial and industrial sectors, which will definitely help in improving the overall economic condition of the country. “We are also looking forward to enhanced collaborative research between the scholars and universities of both the countries,” he added. Dr. Sohail Naqvi said that this agreement is yet another milestone in the longstanding relationship of HEC and the French Government. He said that the Pakistani scholars are studying in the best institutions of France. The Executive Director said that cooperation began by sending nine scholars in 2003-04 and gradually increased to around 100 students a year. “Till date, HEC has sent 564 scholars in the reputable universities of France for PhD studies,” he said. With the successful completion of PhD studies of HEC scholars, the return of PhDs to Pakistan has begun and so far 15 scholars have returned from France after successful completion of their studies and are serving in public sector universities and R&D organizations. Earlier in his welcome address, Dr. Riaz Hussain Qureshi, Adviser (HRD) HEC said that the joint committee of HEC and France, comprising the higher education and science attachés of the French Embassy, French scientists and representative from HEC interviewed 113 candidates in November in Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad for the award of HEC scholarships under the project entitled “Overseas Scholarships for MS/M.Phil leading to PhD in Selected Fields, Phase-II”, out of which 24 candidates have been selected for the scholarships. These scholars are currently studying French language course in Lahore and Islamabad. **AJ/Ahmad**
PR No. 262 Federal Minister for Food & Agriculture, Nazar Muhammad Gondal has said that water conservation through the introduction of modern irrigation systems with the help of Turkey would top the priorities of his ministry. He was holding a detailed meeting with Turkish ambassador, Babur Hizlan, at his office to finalize the areas for mutual cooperation identified in the latest MoU signed between the two countries. “We are keenly interested to welcome the Turkish investors in Pakistan. The private sectors of both the countries must be facilitated to work jointly for mutual benefit of both the countries. We are eager to seek Turkey’s assistance in oilseed development and import of Halal meat from Pakistan. Our basmati is the best in the world and must get Turkey investors’ attention”, added the minister. The minister said that Turkey is quiet advanced in the food processing engineering and manufacturing of farm machinery. The private sectors of both the countries would be facilitated to initiate joint ventures in Pakistan. He said that the visiting team to Turkey must include members from the private sector also. Mr. Gondal said that cool chains and value addition to agri products and milk are the potential areas for the Turkish investors. He added that the government and international donors are all set to support agricultural sector, as the majority of the population is dependent on it. He said that 90% of the farmers in the country are small farmers and the government is ready to provide them with the modern farm machinery on subsidized rates and Turkey’s assistance in the manufacturing would be highly appreciated. The Turkish ambassador said that that he would communicate the specific agenda for cooperation between the two countries to Anqara before the proposed visit. He said that Tika (Turkish International Development & Cooperation Agency) is ready to launch developmental projects in Pakistan. “I want Tika to be on ground as soon as possible and start working. Its time for carrying out developmental work now”, added the ambassador. Secretary Minfa, Zia-ur-Rehman, additional secretary, Shahid Hussain Raja and other officials of the ministry, also attended the meeting. **MS/Ahmad**
PR No. 263 The on going 5th Round of Political Consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of the two countries will further promote and improve already existing excellent relations between Pakistan and Egypt. This was stated by the Chairman Senate, Mr. Farooq H. Naek while talking to the Assistant Foreign Minister of Egypt, Mr. Ahmed Fathalla who called on him here today. Farooq H. Naek expressed his satisfaction over signing of more than 30 bilateral agreements and MOUs for promoting bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Egypt in various fields, including the bilateral consultations and a cultural agreement and stressed the need of further increasing quantum of bilateral trade which has steadily increased from US$ 80 million to US$ 314 million from 2004 to 2008. During the meeting the Chairman Senate observed that both the countries believed in moderation and were forward looking in their approach and outlook. Institutions like AL-Azhar are a beacon of light for the Muslims all over the world. Farooq H. Naek also underscored the need of creating institutions like Parliament of Muslim countries to evolve Muslim jurisprudence according to the injunctions of Holy Quran and Sunnah in accordance with the requirements of modern times. “The Parliament of the Muslim countries can play a leading role in presenting the true and real face of Islam and humanitarian aspects as well as universal egalitarian values of our religion. This Parliament will ensure uniform and harmonious evolution of laws in the Muslim world and bring unity among Muslim ummah”, Farooq H. Naek said. It was agreed upon in the meeting that parliamentary exchanges between the two countries be stepped up further to learn from each other’s experiences. Farooq H. Naek mentioned Egypt–Pak Friendship Association and creation of Pak–Egypt Friendship Group in the Senate to cement parliamentary and people to people contacts between the two Muslim brotherly countries. Farooq H. Naek also applauded Egypt’s active role in OIC, NAM, and the Arab League to promote world peace and peace in the Middle East through reconciliation among the Palestinian factions.
Mr. Ahmed Fathalla, Assistant Foreign Minister of
Egypt congratulated the
Chairman Senate on passage of Eighteenth Amendment Bill and termed it as a
landmark legislative achievement of Pakistani Parliament showing the
strength of democratic system in the country and proving to the world that
Pakistan being a Muslim society can resolve all of its problems through
deep rooted democratic system.
PR No. 264 The Chairman Senate, Mr. Farooq H. Naek has observed that exchange of frequent Parliamentary delegations between neighboring Muslim Countries, Pakistan and Tajikistan can be an ideal way of studying and understanding the political systems of each other and increasing people to people contact. He was talking to the Ambassadors of Tajikistan, Dr. Zubaydullo N. Zubaydov who called on him separately at the Parliament House today. The Chairman Senate said that visits of Parliamentarians and creation of Friendship Groups in the respective Parliaments would go a long way in boosting the existing close and cordial relations between the two countries. Mr. Naek also highlighted the importance of enhancing the level of bilateral trade to mutual advantage. He also welcomed the decision to start flights between Pakistan and Tajikistan and said that these will, tremendously increase the quantum of trade between the two Countries. Farook H. Naed assured the Ambassador that he would make all possible efforts for an early commencement of flights between the two countries. He said Parliamentary and cultural exchanges would give tremendous boost to the relations between the two countries. He said that Pakistan is exploring ways and means of importing Hydro Electricity from Tajikistan and enhancing the bilateral trade. The Chairman also extended his heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected Chairman of the Senate of Tajikistan and invited him to visit Pakistan along with a Parliamentary delegation preferably while the Senate is in session, at a convenient date. **RAQ/Ahmad**
PR
No. 265 Federal Minister for Housing & Works Rehmatullah Kakar has said that Pakistan Housing Authority (PHA) has acquired 16 acres land from CDA in I-16 for construction of housing units for the low paid government employees. He said that work on construction of Rangers Colony would be started soon on the land given by the Ministry of Interior. Presiding over a meeting to review the progress on PHA Housing projects, here today, the Minister said that PHA has been directed to hold meetings with the Khyber Pakhtoonkhaw and Sindh government for early launching of Prime Minister’s Housing Scheme in their areas for the benefit of shelterless people. He also directed the PHA to speed up the efforts for early accomplishment of the housing projects for the benefits of the shelterless people. The PHA officials gave a detailed briefing on the housing units being constructed by the organization in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad and other parts of the country. The Minister expressed satisfaction over the pace of work on the housing projects and said that the recent cabinet decision would allow construction of housing units in phase IV to be undertaken shortly. The Minister said that housing sector is directly linked with 47 industries and it would open up multi dimensional vistas for the promotion of business and commercial actives in the country. The Minister directed the PHA to take cognizant measures for launching more housing projects in the country under Prime Minister’s Housing for All Program. The Minister reviewed progress on the construction of housing units in Karachi, Islamabad and other parts of the country and expressed satisfaction over its pace. He said that the government would encourage and facilitate the local and foreign investors to participate in the housing projects. The Minister said speedy completion of the housing units under PM’s Housing for All Program would provide relief to the poor, governments servants and general public facing a lot of inconvenience due to not having their own house in the country. The Minister said that the Government was according high priority for the speedy development of the housing and construction sector which would help boost the economy, generate employment opportunities for the jobless youths. **MN/Ahmad**
PR
No. 266 Syed Naveed Qamar, the Federal Minister for Petroleum & Natural Resources today met with Dr. Ranald Spiers, Executive Director for Middle East & Asia of International Power Plc. (IP), along with Mr. Pervaiz Khan, Chief Executive, Uch Power (Pvt) Limited, who called on him today. During the meeting, Dr. Spiers briefed the minister about IP’s commitment to Pakistan manifested by its three expansion power projects, including the flagship 404 MWs Uch-II project, in pipeline. The visitors also discussed the energy sector inter-corporate circular debt issue which lately has grown to an alarming level. Dr. Spiers further explained that this issue is a key deterrent in justifying investment decisions in Pakistan to the international investors and thus may have a detrimental effect on IP’s expansion plans. By way of introduction, IP is a leading independent power generation company with over 32,000 MWs (gross) of capacity in operation and over 4,500 MWs (gross) under construction. It has interests in over 50 power stations located in 21 countries. IP is also the single largest private investor in Pakistan’s power sector with an existing ownership of 1,238 MWs (Net) in Hub Power; Kot Addu Power; and Uch Power. Upon completion of its three expansion projects, the net ownership of IP in Pakistan’s power sector will increase to 1,589 MW. AR/wh NOT TO BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, AND TELECAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF APRIL 28, 2010.
PR
No. 267 Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has sent a message of greetings to President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Mr. Hamid Karzai on the Revolution Day falling on April 28. In his message to the President of Afghanistan, the Prime Minister said: “It gives me great pleasure to extend, on behalf of the people and government of Pakistan, and on my own behalf, our most cordial felicitations on the Revolution Day of Afghanistan. Pakistan attaches great importance to ties of friendship and amity that exist between our two countries and peoples. We are keen to strengthen this bond of fraternity through cooperation in diverse fields. Your visit to Islamabad last month gave us an opportunity for useful interaction to promote mutual harmony and draw a road-map of bilateral cooperation in different areas. There is a need by the two sides now to implement this roadmap. I pray for your good health as well as for the well-being of the brotherly people of Afghanistan. NOT TO BE PUBLISHED, BROADCAST, AND TELECAST BEFORE THE MORNING OF APRIL 28, 2010.
PR
No. 268 In a whirlwind tour of Peshawar on Tuesday, the first after the former Frontier province got its new name of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, President Asif Ali Zardari launched four major development projects. He called upon the tribesmen to be vigilant against militants, reiterated the resolve to drive the militants out, distributed checks among the poor under the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) and exhorted party workers and office bearers to gear up for the political challenges that lay ahead. Briefing the media-persons, Spokesperson to the President former Senator Farhatullah Babar said that the President during the visit performed the ground breaking ceremony of the Rs. three billion up-gradation and remodeling of the southern bypass; dualization of the Warsak road; a trauma and burn centre in Peshawar and the rebuilding of 21 schools destroyed by militants in Swat besides making a number of announcements aimed at meeting the long standing demands of the people. The President also addressed a jirga of the tribal elders in the Governor House to reiterate the government policy to fight the militants to the finish. The Peshawar southern bypass, funded with United States’ assistance, when completed will link the Islamabad-Peshawar Motorway to Afghanistan and beyond to the Central Asian republics, opening up new avenues of trade and commerce in the region, he said. Speaking on the occasion the President said that Pakistan wanted trade and not aid and that the bypass was aimed at carrying forward this vision. He said that Pakistan has been asking for access to European and US markets for the goods produced in special zones affected by the war against militancy and expressed the hope that the new bypass will greatly facilitate the transportation of goods and manufactures from the Reconstruction Opportunity Zones to international markets. He said that in new industrial projects to be set up in the tribal areas under the private-public partnership the tribesmen will also be shareholders and part owners. About the burn and trauma centre the President said that it was promised by Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto during her visit to Peshawar and he was pleased to have performed the ground breaking of this project in the memory of the great leader. The President said that the government will not only rebuild the schools destroyed by the militants in Swat and Malakand but also build new academic institutions and universities in the area, indeed throughout the province, to spread education and knowledge to defeat the militant mindset that thrived on ignorance and absence of education. He said that the militants feared the education most because education promoted critical and independent thinking that challenged the world view of militants. That was why the militants had targeted the schools and academic institutions to block the emergence of independent minds that challenged the bigotry and intolerance that militants sold as religion, the President said. President Zardari said that he was very happy to perform the ground breaking for the reconstruction of the 21 destroyed schools in Swat to demonstrate the government’s commitment to the spread of education and knowledge. “We will not only rebuild these schools but also make new universities to fight the extremist mindset and defeat intellectually the purveyors of extremism and militancy”, he added. President Zardari said that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto University had already been set up in Malakand division to serve as fountainhead of education in the region. Let those who wanted to lower the banner of Pakistan in Swat and Malakand beware that we will not let anyone lower it, the President said. “We have raised it and it will flutter high for all times to come.” Addressing the tribal darbar the President asked the tribesmen to keep an eye on the militants who may be hiding in the tribal areas and not let them disturb the peace of the region. Let there be no doubt that we will chase to finish the militants and extremists, “if they tried to impose their obscurantist agenda on our people through guns and bullets,” the President said. “We have no alternative but to fight them he said adding also, ‘the absence of alternative has made our minds clear’,” he added. The President also said that he will ask the government to give the same compensation to the levies as was given to the police force in the fight against militancy. He also agreed with the demand that the internally displaced people in the tribal areas should be given the same facilities as had been given to the IDPs of Swat and Malakand and asked the government to give this demand serious consideration. The President said that for the past several decades the policies of the state were driven by considerations of security alone disregarding the imperatives of social and economic progress. He said that the present government believed in a paradigm shift in the policy and give top priority to economic and social development as critical weapons for fighting militancy. The President returned to Islamabad in the evening.
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