Change of guard ceremony held at Mazar-e-Iqbal

A simple but graceful Change of Guards ceremony was held at Mazar-e-Iqbal in Lahore today.

A smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan Air Force took charge of the guard duties from Punjab Rangers for today.

Air Vice Marshal Tariq Mahmood Ghazi was the Chief Guest on the occasion.

Source: Radio Pakistan

Pakistan National Day celebrated at Consulate General in Barcelona

A flag hoisting ceremony was held at the Consulate General of Pakistan in Barcelona to commemorate the National Day of Pakistan.

The event was attended by various government’s officials, politicians, representatives of the Consular corps, and members of the Pakistani community, including women and children residing in Barcelona.

At the ceremony, the messages from the honourable President, respectable Prime Minister and esteemed Foreign Minister of Pakistan were read aloud .

Speaking on the occasion, the participants emphasized the importance of the struggle of the Muslim leaders especially Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, for achieving a separate homeland for the Muslims.

In his address, former senator Jose Maria Sala highlighted the importance of Pakistani community in over social, economic and political fabric of Spanish life. He assured full support and cooperation to the consulate in maintaining a secure and friendly environment for the Pakistani community members working in Barcelona.

Source: Radi
o Pakistan

Delegation of Saudi Fund for Development calls on PM in Islamabad

A delegation of Saudi Fund for Development called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad.

The delegation was led by SFD Chief Executive Officer Sultan Bin Abdul Rehman Al Marshad.

On this occasion, the Prime Minister appreciated the signing of financial agreements worth 107 million dollars for construction of hydropower stations in AJK, which would not only provide clean energy but would also help eradicate the menace of deforestation, besides providing job opportunities to the local population.

The Prime Minister highlighted the need to expedite the processing of the new projects in the field of green energy and infrastructure, which once implemented, would go a long way in the economic revival of the country, besides serving the needs of the local communities.

The CEO SFD shared updates with the Prime Minister about the ongoing projects including Mohmand Multi-purpose hydropower Project, Golan Gol hydropower Project, Malakand Regional Development Project, and other projects funded throug
h Saudi grants.

Source: Radio Pakistan

Finance Minister vows to implement structural reforms in various sectors

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has reiterated government’s commitment to implement prudent fiscal policies and structural reforms in various sectors including FBR, privatization, and private sector facilitation.

Talking to British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott in Islamabad, he apprised the High Commissioner about the conclusion of the second IMF review under the Standby Arrangement.

Commending the Pakistan’s commitment to economic reforms, the British High Commissioner expressed the UK’s continued support for Pakistan’s development goals.

Jane Marriott emphasized the importance of further enhancing bilateral cooperation particularly in areas of mutual interest, and reiterated the UK’s commitment to strengthen the partnership between the two nations.

Source: Radio Pakistan

Saudi Arabia signs loan agreements with Pakistan for hydropower projects

The delegation of the Saudi Fund for Development called on Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema in Islamabad.

On this occasion, both sides signed loan agreements for Shounter Hydropower Project of 48 megawatts and Jagran IV Hydropower Project of 22 megawatts.

The loan amount for Shounter Hydropower Project is sixty six million dollars and Jagran IV Hydropower Project is forty one million dollars.

Source: Radio Pakistan

Armed forces, CJCSC, Services Chiefs congratulate nation on Pakistan Day

The Armed Forces of Pakistan, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and Services Chiefs have congratulated the nation on 84th anniversary of “Pakistan Day.”

According to a statement of ISPR, this historic day reminds us of the greatest sacrifices and contributions of our forefathers which they made in the struggle for creation of Pakistan.

The statement said plight of Muslims in India in general and IIOJK in particular, who are facing worst form of brutalities at the hands of the fascist regime, reminds us of the importance and value of the Independence where we cherish and respect our freedom every day.

It added that on this day, Armed Forces of Pakistan renew their resolve to defend the motherland and protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity at all times and at any cost, and uphold the national flag.

Source: Radio Pakistan

President, PM call for following footsteps of founding fathers to make Pakistan prosperous

President Asif Ali Zardari has stressed upon nation to participate in the nation-building process actively, embracing the values of hard work, integrity, and compassion.

In his message on Pakistan Day, he honored the commitment and sacrifices made by the Quaid-i-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah and his companions.

The President said our armed forces, civil administration, police, and law enforcement agencies have, with unwavering commitment, ensured the safety, security, and sovereignty of our nation.

Commenting on the Kashmir issue, the President said that the key to durable peace in South Asia is the resolution of the dispute in accordance with the United Nations Security Council Resolutions.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has asked nation to renew the firm resolve to follow the footsteps of founding fathers to make Pakistan a trivet of peace, progress and stability.

In his message on Pakistan Day, he said our forefathers made untiring efforts and rendered exemplary sacrifices for Pakistan as millions of Muslim
s left their homes in India and decided to migrate to Pakistan.

The Prime Minister said we are completely cognizant of the serious challenges confronting Pakistan currently including inflation, unemployment, circular debt, fiscal and trade deficit, and above all the growing scourge of terrorism.

He assured to stand committed to put Pakistan on the path to economic recovery and prosperity with a cogent policy reform framework.

Source: Radio Pakistan