PA Speaker hosts Bangladeshi journalists delegation

Lahore: Punjab Assembly (PA) Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmed Khan welcomed a delegation of Bangladeshi journalists at the Assembly chamber, in a move aimed at boosting bilateral relations and fostering greater public engagement.

The high-level meeting focused on enhancing cooperation between Pakistan and Bangladesh, with discussions centered on creating new opportunities for collaboration. The speaker emphasised the need for joint initiatives to promote cultural and educational ties, noting that exchanges between delegations are critical for strengthening mutual relationships.

During the session, the speaker described the journalists' visit as a demonstration of goodwill. 'New opportunities for cooperation with Bangladesh are emerging,' he said, urging the both sides to explore avenues that could enrich public and diplomatic connections.

The Bangladeshi delegation, clearly impressed by their visit, expressed their commitment to presenting Pakistan's true image to the world. One member of the group remarked, 'The beauty of Pakistan's northern areas has deeply impressed us.' The journalists also extended an invitation to Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmed Khan to visit Bangladesh, highlighting the benefits of closer engagement.

In addition to the formal discussions, the delegation was given a comprehensive briefing on the historical background of the Punjab Assembly and was also given a comprehensive tour of the new Assembly building.

The delegates included Ayub Bhuiyan, General Secretary/News Editor, National Press Club/BSS, Muktadir Rashid Romeo, Special Correspondent, Bangla Outlook, Porimol Palma, Diplomatic Correspondent, The Daily Star, Ms. Jannatul Tazri Trisha, Sub-Editor, The Business Standard, Haque Faruk Ahmed, Correspondent, Daily Jugantor, Rafique Muhammad, Special Correspondent, Daily Inqilab, Fakhrul Alam Khan, Chief News Editor, NTV, Abu Sufian, Diplomatic Correspondent, RTV, Golam Saqlain, Bangladesh Correspondent, The Diplomat Magazine, Zaker Hossain, Special Correspondent, NTV Online.

ATC acquits two men in acid attack case

Lahore: An anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Friday acquitted two men accused of throwing acid on a young boy following a minor altercation.

ATC Judge Manzer Ali Gul conducted the trial proceedings and announced the verdict after reviewing arguments from both sides. The court ruled in favour of the accused, stating that the prosecution failed to provide sufficient evidence against accused Talha and Ali Hamza.

According to the defence, the accused and the victim worked at the same workshop, and the acid was accidentally spilled on the boy.

The case was registered at Shadbagh police station on the complaint of a citizen, Amjad, who alleged that the accused had thrown acid on his son, Fahad.

Lahore Police continue welfare efforts for martyrs’ families

Lahore: Lahore Police remain committed to the welfare of the families of police martyrs, ensuring they receive financial and social support.

Under the Martyrs' Package, 9 families have been provided with houses worth Rs. 1.295 billion since 2024.

According to the Lahore Police spokesperson, 87 families of police employees have received over Rs. 214.34 million in scholarships for their children's education. Additionally, Rs. 3.82 million have been distributed among 11 families under the dowry fund, while 18 families have been provided Rs. 4.36 million as a subsistence allowance.

CCPO Lahore, Bilal Siddique Kamyana, emphasized that martyrs are the pride of the nation, and their families will continue to receive full support. He stated that all available resources are being utilized to assist them, including financial aid for housing, education, and medical treatment.

He further reiterated Lahore Police's unwavering commitment to the well-being of its personnel and their families, ensuring that the sacrifices of the martyrs are honored with dignity and care.

SBP delegation visits PITB to explore Punjab’s digital transformation

Lahore: A delegation from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) visited the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) to gain an in-depth understanding of the Punjab government's ICT initiatives.

The delegation included Assistant Chief Manager of State Bank BSC Lahore Ali Atta, Deputy Director of SBP NIBAF Islamabad Hafiz Anwar, and participants from nine countries for the 53rd International Central Banking Course.

The visit provided a platform for the delegation to review key projects executed by PITB in areas such as e-Governance, Automation, Citizen-Centric Services, Business Support, and Youth Empowerment.

During the visit, PITB Director General (DG) e-Governance Sajid Latif presented a comprehensive briefing on PITB's groundbreaking projects, highlighting how they have significantly contributed to transforming Punjab into a digital hub. The SBP delegation commended PITB's efforts and discussed potential opportunities for future collaboration aimed at enhancing financial and digital inclusion across the province.

Speaking on the occasion, PITB Chairman Faisal Yousaf stated, 'Our commitment to digital transformation not only modernizes public service delivery but also plays a crucial role in fostering financial inclusion and economic growth. We eagerly anticipate further collaborations with SBP to drive a more digitally empowered future for Punjab.'

PA Speaker terms holding of 1st CPA Asia and Southeast Asia Regional Conference a significant milestone

Lahore: Punjab Assembly (PA) Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan on Friday termed holding of 1st CPA Asia and Southeast Asia Regional Conference as significant milestone in the parliamentary journey of the Punjab Assembly.

A special ceremony was held at the Punjab Assembly to acknowledge the successful hosting of the 1st CPA Asia and South East Asia Regional Conference, said a press release issued here.

The event recognized the contributions of assembly officials, staff and partner institutions by awarding honorary shields.

The Speaker said, "Holding of the conference represents a major diplomatic achievement at the international level."

He extended congratulations to Punjab Assembly Secretary General Chaudhry Amer Habib and his team for their exemplary arrangements and tireless efforts in ensuring the conference's success.

Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan further emphasized that the inclusion of the Punjab Assembly in the CPA Asia Executive Committee was a testament to its effective leadership and parliamentary capabilities.

He attributed the success of this conference to teamwork and outstanding arrangements, wherein all relevant institutions exhibited exemplary performance.

He also declared the designation of Pakistan as the CPA Asia Regional Secretariat a remarkable honor, asserting that this achievement marks the beginning of a new chapter in Pakistan's parliamentary diplomacy. He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring the continued hosting of such prestigious international events in the future.

During the ceremony honorary shields were given away.

Man held for woman’s kidnap attempt

Lahore: A man, who allegedly attempted to kidnap a woman in Nankana Sahib, has been arrested following a quick response by the Virtual Women Police Station.

An emergency call was received at the Virtual Women Police Station through Helpline 15, where the caller reported that a man was attempting to abduct a woman at gunpoint. The staff immediately dispatched police officers to the scene. The authorities acted swiftly, located the suspect, and arrested him. Initial reports indicate that the accused had been blackmailing the woman for the past one month and a half, but she remained silent out of fear for her honour. The suspect entered the woman's house and tried to abduct her at gunpoint. However, when the woman began shouting and screaming, the suspect threatened to kill her and fled the scene.

Punjab Safe Cities Authority spokesperson confirmed that the police had registered a case against the accused and were pursuing legal action.