Category: Lahore

Lahore: Sufiyan Sarfaraz Dogar, Chief Executive Officer of Pakistan Railways Freight, said on Wednesday that Pakistan-Russia international freight train service is expected to commence its operations by March 15, 2025. The initiative aims to boost regional trade with Iran, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Russia.

He also sought containerized cargo commitments from the whole business community in general and members of All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) in particular for the upcoming run. He emphasized the significant potential for enhancing trade between Pakistan, Russia and transit countries including Iran, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan.

He shared these details during his visit to APTMA office here. APTMA Chairman Kamran Arshad, former chairman Tariq Mehmood, Secretary General Raza Baqir, and senior APTMA members were also present.

The CEO added that freight service would operate from Qasim International Container Terminal and Pakistan International Container Terminal, offering container capacity options of 22 tonnes (TEU) and 44 tonnes (FEU).

He further explained that this rail link marks a significant step forward in regional trade infrastructure. The Taftan station in Pakistan would serve as the key entry point for goods moving along this international corridor. The issues related to the deployment of customs officials at the Taftan entry point have been almost resolved.

He also informed APTMA members that Russia would be able to export oil, natural gas, steel and industrial goods directly to Pakistan. In return, Pakistani exporters would gain improved access to Iran, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and Russian markets for textiles, food products and agricultural goods, including rice, wheat, and cotton.

He mentioned that Pakistan and Russia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in the Railways sector during the 27th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) in June 2024. This agreement laid the groundwork for this ambitious project, which promises to establish a more efficient and cost-effective trade route connecting South Asia with Central Asia and Russia.

Mehmood Lakho, Executive Director of Pakistan Railways Freight, assured APTMA members of full facilitation regarding logistics, freight and cargo transportation.

In his remarks, APTMA Chairman Kamran Arshad highlighted the strengths and potential of Pakistan's textile industry. He noted that the textile sector is on an upward trajectory, with an ambitious export target of USD 50 billion within five years. He thanked the government for creating an enabling environment for the growth of the textile industry, which has led to increased exports and valuable foreign exchange earnings for the country.

He proposed to develop adequate infrastructure and value-added services to facilitate trade. He recommended the automation of freight handling and cargo delivery to reduce costs and dwell time, the establishment of dry ports along the route to further reduce costs, a Barter Trade Agreement between Pakistan and Russia on the pattern of the Pak-Iran Barter Trade Agreement, and the strengthening of banking channels with Russia.

Kamran Arshad further resolved to extend full cooperation from APTMA to Pakistan Railways Freight for the new rail service that could revolutionize trade dynamics in the region.

Lahore: The Pakistan-China Chambers of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI), Punjab Food Authority, Information and Culture Department Punjab and Pak Connects have rescheduled 'Pak-China Chah Festival 2025' for the second week of April 2025.

The decision has been made due to unforeseen circumstances and the scheduling of major cricket matches in Lahore, which would have impacted logistics and attendee experience.

PCJCCI President Nazir Hussain said here Wednesday that the Pak-China Chah Festival is a celebration of the deep-rooted friendship between Pakistan and China, showcasing the rich cultural heritage, trade collaborations, and the diverse traditions.

Representatives from Punjab Food Authority (PFA) shared that while 'we are eagerly looking forward to hosting the festival as per the original schedule, the prevailing uncertainties and concurrent major sporting events necessitated a revision in dates to ensure the best possible experience for our attendees, exhibitors, and partners. We appreciate the understanding and continuous support of our esteemed guests and stakeholders.'

Salahuddin Hanif, Secretary General PCJCCI said that the new schedule for the Pak-China Chah Festival will be confirmed shortly, with exciting events, exhibitions, and interactive sessions planned to make this edition even more memorable. 'We look forward to welcoming all participants in April 2025 for an extraordinary celebration of tea, culture, and friendship.'

Lahore: The 13th edition of the Lahore Literary Festival (LLF) is all set to host an impressive roster of over 150 international and national scholars, artists, and thought leaders from February 21 to 23 at the Alhamra Arts Council.

The festival, renowned as one of South Asia's premier intellectual gatherings, will feature more than 60 sessions spanning literature, history, poetry, cinema, heritage, architecture, and contemporary affairs.

A highlight of the event is the inaugural session titled 'Muslim Enlightened Thought in South Asia,' scheduled for February 21 at 2: 30 PM in Alhamra Hall 1. The session will see renowned historian Dr. Ayesha Jalal join forces with distinguished academic Mary Richardson to explore the historical and contemporary narratives that shape the Muslim world.

Festival organisers have highlighted the event's role in bridging global and regional cultural dialogues. 'The LLF is a rare platform where the most distinguished voices of our time engage in meaningful conversations on literature, culture, and global narratives,' said Razi Ahmed, chairman of Alhamra and CEO of LLF. He added that the festival is designed to provide an intellectually enriching experience that celebrates both tradition and modernity.

The programme will feature a dynamic mix of panel discussions, book launches, poetry readings, exhibitions, and performances. An exclusive exhibition at the Allah Bakhsh Gallery will further underscore the festival's commitment to celebrating artistic excellence. Beyond the Alhamra venue, select sessions and artistic engagements will extend across Lahore, highlighting the city's status as a vibrant cultural hub.

Leading figures such as Dr. Ayesha Jalal (historian, USA), Diana Darke (Middle Eastern cultural heritage expert, UK), Susan Stronge (scholar of Mughal and Sikh art, UK), Peter Frankopan (acclaimed historian, UK), Jessica Bruder (award-winning journalist and author, USA), Fatimah Asghar (renowned poet and screenwriter, USA), and several other prominent intellectuals and creatives from around the globe will participate.

Reflecting on the festival's impact, Touqeer Haider Kazmi, Executive Director of Alhamra, remarked, 'LLF transforms Lahore into a crossroads of global thought, where ideas flourish and cultural boundaries dissolve. This year's edition continues our legacy of fostering a dialogue that is both historically rich and forward-looking.'

As the Lahore Literary Festival enters its 13th year, it not only reinforces Lahore's position as a beacon of literary and artistic innovation but also reaffirms the city's longstanding tradition of intellectual engagement on an international stage.

Lahore: Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) President Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif met with Members of the Provincial Assembly (MPAs) to discuss public welfare projects and the party's future political strategies.

MPAs from Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Muzaffargarh, Layyah, Rajanpur, and DG Khan were included in the meeting.

During the meeting, PML-N President Nawaz Sharif expressed optimism about the country's economic recovery, citing a likely turnaround with a reduction in inflation and interest rates. He stated, 'Allah Almighty is making things easier. The reduction in the policy rate has increased business confidence, and after challenging economic conditions, inflation is decreasing, which will bring more relief to the people.' He also highlighted the resumption of construction work and the international recognition of PM Shehbaz Sharif's efforts.

Nawaz Sharif further emphasized that the opposition's focus on negativity and hatred contrasts with PML-N's record of serving the country, especially in the fields of politics, defense, and development. He noted, 'Had the continuity of development not been disrupted, the country would have been much further ahead, and the people would not have had to suffer.'

CM Maryam Nawaz acknowledged the trust placed in her by the party, leadership, and the people of Punjab. She said, 'It is a big responsibility to meet the high standards of public service set by Nawaz Sharif and Shehbaz Sharif.'

MPAs in attendance praised the leadership of Nawaz Sharif and Shehbaz Sharif, highlighting that, even in difficult times, Nawaz Sharif provided hope and demonstrated unmatched patriotism. They commended the swift, transparent, and high-quality development in Punjab, spanning various sectors such as education, health, agriculture, industry, and the environment. They also noted the increasing popularity of Maryam Nawaz Sharif, particularly among women and youth, and appreciated her efforts in advancing the welfare of farmers and the agriculture sector.

Senior party leaders, including Senator Pervez Rashid, Rana Sanaullah, Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, and Rashid Nasrullah, were present at the meeting. Other notable attendees included Deputy Speaker of the Punjab Assembly Malik Zaheer Iqbal Channer, Provincial Minister for Irrigation Muhammad Kazim Pirzada, and several other provincial ministers and assembly members.

Lahore: An anti-terrorism court (ATC) on Tuesday extended the interim bail of Opposition Leader in the National Assembly, Omar Ayub, till March 14 in three cases related to the May 9 violence, including the attack on Jinnah House.

ATC Judge Manzer Ali Gill presided over the hearing on Omar Ayub's pre-arrest bail applications. However, the opposition leader failed to appear before the court despite the expiry of his interim bail.

Omar Ayub's counsel submitted an exemption application, stating that his client was in Peshawar to attend proceedings in a high court case. He requested the court to grant a one-day exemption from personal appearance.

During the proceedings, DSP Legal Javed Asif presented the case records against Ayub.

After reviewing the application, the court granted the exemption and extended Omar Ayub's interim bail till March 14.

Omar Ayub is facing charges in multiple cases, including attacks on Jinnah House and Askari Tower, as well as the torching of Shadman Police Station.

Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif laid the foundation stone for the state-of-the-art Saudi-German Hospital in Lahore Smart City by pressing a ceremonial button, alongside Sultan Sobhi Batterjee, Chairman of Batterjee Group.

The new facility, Saudi German Hospital Lahore, will be part of the Lahore Batterjee Medical City, which will have a total of 500 beds. The Saudi German Hospital itself, constructed at a cost of $250 million, will feature 300 beds.

CM Maryam Nawaz highlighted that the Saudi German Hospital Network is renowned worldwide for its cutting-edge medical technology and high-quality treatment services, with a successful presence in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, Morocco, and Yemen. 'This hospital will not only provide world-class medical facilities to the people of Lahore but will also serve the entire Punjab region,' she said, emphasizing the hospital's commitment to modern technology and international standards.

The CM noted that the establishment of the hospital in Lahore Smart City would create employment opportunities for local youth, while strengthening Punjab's healthcare system. She called on the private sector to play an active role in improving the province's health services, asserting that this new hospital will mark a significant milestone in advancing public health and establishing a welfare society.