Category: Lahore

Lahore: With the positive feedback from the recent Davos summit, it is clear that Pakistan is increasingly being recognized globally for its business potential, innovative spirit, and the resilience of its people. Maria Tauqir, a Pakistani host of the two-day Davos summit held last week at Switzerland, speaking here on Sunday to a delegation of women entrepreneurs said this mega event not only enhanced the visibility of Pakistan's private sector but also strengthened the global perception of Pakistan as a country brimming with opportunities for investment and collaboration. She further explained that the summit was a testament to the growing importance of Pakistan in the global business community, highlighting its readiness to contribute to international development and trade. She said the summit also included a key visit to the World Economic Forum, where discussions centered around global economic trends, sustainable growth, and transformative ideas. The forum acted as a bridge for forging new internatio nal partnerships, and for Pakistan, it was an invaluable opportunity to present itself as an ideal destination for investment. The forum's diverse participation reinforced the importance of collaboration across borders to solve global challenges, with Pakistan positioned as an essential player in these dialogues. Maria, who is also General Manager Interiors Pakistan, highlighted the importance of showcasing Pakistan's positive image on the global stage and reiterated ChenOne's commitment to empowering women in Pakistan, creating opportunities for them to lead and succeed in the business world.

Lahore: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif visited the residence of National Assembly (NA) Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq in Lahore on Sunday.

He held a meeting with the speaker, which was also attended by NA Deputy Speaker Ghulam Mustafa Shah and Members of the National Assembly (MNAs) Khursheed Shah and Shazia Marri.

The prime minister extended heartfelt congratulations to Deputy Speaker Ghulam Mustafa Shah on the wedding of his son, offering his best wishes and blessings for the newlyweds.

Other prominent members of the National Assembly were also present at the occasion.

Lahore: The Women of the World (WOW) Festival Pakistan 2025, held at the iconic Alhamra Arts Center in Lahore, concluded on Sunday with a vibrant celebration of women's achievements, resilience, and creativity.

This year's festival, themed 'Surkhab' (The Falcon), symbolized women's soaring spirit, strength, and ability to rise above challenges. The two-day event, organized by the British Council Pakistan in collaboration with the WOW Foundation and Alhamra Arts Council, brought together over 100 delegates, including activists, artists, writers, and thought leaders from across the globe.

The WOW Festival is a global movement that celebrates the achievements of women and girls while addressing their challenges. Jude Kelly founded the festival in the UK and has since expanded to various cities worldwide, including Lahore, Pakistan. The WOW Festival, first held in Lahore in 2018, promoted gender equality and empowered women through discussions, performances, and workshops.

The festival, a hallmark of cultural and social discourse in Pakistan, was a melting pot of art, literature, film, workshops, panel discussions, and performances. The Alhamra Arts Center, with its rich cultural ambiance, was transformed into a hub of creativity and empowerment, attracting thousands of attendees who participated in diverse activities.

This year's theme, 'Surkhab,' was a fitting tribute to women's resilience and strength. The falcon, known for its grace and power, was a metaphor for women's ability to soar above societal constraints and achieve greatness. The festival celebrated this spirit through various artistic expressions, including a public mural by Summaiya Jillani titled Tasweere-Zana, which adorned the walls of Alhamra, and the Zal: Reel Identity exhibition by Aiman Amin, which explored the intersection of identity and art.

The Celebration of Women's Voices kicked off on Saturday, February 1, with engaging events across multiple venues within Alhamra. The Central Lawn, Back Gallery, Front Gallery, and Burney Garden were abuzz with activities ranging from interactive workshops to thought-provoking panel discussions. Highlights of the first day included: Performance: Chop Kazamihay Di (Nanjali Play) by Arbitram Academy, which captivated the audience with its powerful storytelling.

A panel discussion, Inclusion: Making Modernity, led by Radar Namin, explored the role of women in shaping contemporary society.

Izrah Meyer's workshop Spread Your Wings: Dynamics of Gender and Power encouraged participants to challenge societal norms and embrace their potential.

Fireside Chat: Justice Samana Imitar, in conversation with Anamiah Qadir, discusses the role of women in the judiciary and their contributions to justice and equality.

The second and concluding day, Sunday, February 2, continued the momentum with equally inspiring events:

A panel discussion, The Age of Digital Literacy, featuring Aisha Shabaugh and Sarah Almer, moderated by Norman Malik, highlighted the importance of digital skills for women in the modern world.

Youth Panel: Challenging Unrealistic Standards: How AI Redefines Learning, College Admissions and Team Applications, where young leaders like Zoya Arkin and Mykah Azhar shared their insights on navigating the digital age.

Performance: Release by Monstra Khan and Wolfha Weari, a mesmerizing dance performance that amazed the audience.

Scholar Bolsturi's workshop, Financial Autonomy for Entrepreneurs, provided practical advice for women starting their businesses.

Chairman Alhamra Razi Ahmed expressed his delight at the festival's success, stating, 'WOW Festival 2025 has once again proven to be a beacon of hope and empowerment. The theme of 'Surkhab' resonated deeply with the audience, and we are proud to have provided a platform for women to share their stories and inspire others. Alhamra will continue to support initiatives that promote gender equality and cultural exchange.'

Executive Director Alhamra Syed Tauqeer Haider Kazmi added, 'The festival has not only brought together women from diverse backgrounds but has also created a space for dialogue, learning, and celebration. The overwhelming response from the public is a testament to the importance of such events in fostering a more inclusive society. It is heartening to see how art and culture can bridge gaps and bring people together, inspiring collective progress. We look forward to continuing this empowerment and cultural exchange journey in the years to come.'

The festival celebrated women's achievements and was a testament to the power of unity and human connection. Attendees laughed, smiled, and engaged in lively conversations, creating an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie. Traditional food stalls, interactive activities like the Wardrobe Solution Specialist workshop, and the Aiming for the Stars telescope activity added to the festive spirit. Social media was abuzz with event coverage, with activists and influencers sharing their experiences and highlights from the festival. The British Council Pakistan's initiative was widely praised for creating an environment of hope, enlightenment, and empowerment.

Lahore: The Pakistan Furniture Council (PFC) on Sunday called for lowering the interest rate to a single digit,an essential factor for reviving economy that will greatly help ease of doing business to compete the global market by boosting the exports.

Chairing a Board of Directors meeting here,CEO PFC Mian Kashif Ashfaq highlighted that high interest rates have stifled economic growth with increasing the cost of doing business and due to absence of investors interest.

He argued that a lower interest rate would encourage businesses to borrow,invest and expand their operations, ultimately leading to job creation and economic development.

He said that industry was struggling due to rising production costs,limited access to affordable financing and an bleak economic conditions. He said a single-digit interest rate would ease the financial burden on the private sector, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs),which form the backbone of the economy.

He urged the government and central bank to adopt a pro-growth monetary policy and create a conducive environment for investment instead of lowering rate by one percent.

Kashif Ashfaq also stressed the importance of reducing reliance on foreign loans and enhancing domestic revenue generation to ensure long-term economic stability.

He called for bold reforms and effective policy making to restore investor confidence,stimulate economic activity, and place Pakistan on a sustainable path of growth and prosperity.

Lahore: A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) and the Mashhad Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Mines, and Agriculture.

The signing ceremony took place at the Governor's House Lahore, with Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider Khan and Governor General of Khorasan Razavi Iran Gholam Hussein Muzaffari, in attendance, said a handout issued here on Sunday.

The MoU was signed by Zaki Ijaz, Regional Chairman and Vice President of FPCCI, on behalf of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry, and Mohammad Reza Tawaklizadi, President of Mashhad Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Mines, and Agriculture, on behalf of his organization. The primary goal of the agreement is to facilitate a bilateral trade target of $10 billion in exports between Pakistan and Iran.

Later, Governor Saleem Haider Khan and Governor Gholam Hussein Muzaffari inaugurated a one-day shopping festival organised by the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry at the Expo Center Lahore. The event showcased a wide range of products made in Pakistan, further promoting trade between the two countries.

Talking to the media, Governor Punjab Sardar Saleem Haider Khan highlighted the significance of the three-day visit by Governor Gholam Hussein Muzaffari, during which several agreements and MoUs were signed to boost bilateral exports and imports. He noted that the Governor General of Khorasan Razavi expressed great interest in Pakistani products, stressing that both countries, being close Islamic neighbors, should focus on expanding trade relations in the region rather than looking further afield. He also mentioned plans for an upcoming visit to Iran with a delegation of traders to assess the implementation of these agreements.

The Governor added that Governor Gholam Hussein Muzaffari had assured to consider reducing tourist and business visa fees and improving facilities for easier travel and trade. He further emphasized the importance of the Pak-Iran gas pipeline as a solution to Pakistan's energy crisis.

Governor Gholam Hussein Muzaffari expressed his gratitude to Governor Punjab for the warm hospitality and noted that his visit to the exhibition was a highlight of his trip.

Abuzar Shad, President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry, also addressed the media, emphasizing the commitment to implement the signed agreements and expand trade relations with the Khorasan Razavi Province. He reiterated the goal of increasing exports and imports between Pakistan and Iran.

Lahore: Following the online sale of tickets available here for the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 last week, physical tickets for the eight-team competition will go on sale at 15 hours Gulf Standard Time (GST) / 16 hours Pakistan Standard Time (PST) from February 3 (Monday).

The physical tickets will be available to fans across 108 TCS centres in 26 cities of Pakistan (infographic attached).

As announced previously, general stand ticket prices will start from 1,000 Pakistan Rupees, while premium seating will be available from 1,500 Pakistan Rupees across different categories for the 10 matches taking place in Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi.

Hosts Pakistan will take on New Zealand in the opening match of the event at the National Stadium in Karachi on 19 February.

Ticket information for the India matches to be played in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on 20 and 23 February and 2 March, will be released in due course. In the meantime, fans can register their interest in tickets here.

ICC Men's Champions Trophy Final tickets - to be played on Sunday, 9 March - will be available for purchase following the conclusion of the first semi-final in Dubai.