Category: Lahore

Lahore: Convener of the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) Regional Standing Committee on Food, Shahid Imran, said that the forthcoming 2-day "Balochistan Summit" will yield positive impact and attracting foreign and local investors in diversified industries and sectors.

Speaking to a delegation of traders led by Chaudhary Zahid Iqbal Arain from Vehari, here on Sunday, Shahid Imran emphasized that with the judicious policies and collaborative initiatives, Balochistan has the potential to become a hub for international trade and economic growth, benefiting the entire country.

Shahid Imran highlighted Balochistan's abundant natural resources and strategic location, which offer immense opportunities for business, investment, and industrialization on a global scale. He stressed that the province requires special attention to unlock its economic potential and foster sustainable growth. He noted that the collaborative efforts of Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of FPCCI, and the Balochistan Board of Investment and Trade (BBoIT) will be crucial in driving this transformation.

The focus, he said, will be on promoting joint ventures and international partnerships to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) and encourage technology transfer. He emphasized that the two-day summit, scheduled for January 27, will provide an important platform for investor networking and position Balochistan as a lucrative destination for global enterprises.

He further pointed out that Balochistan offers significant opportunities in sectors such as mining, energy, fisheries, agriculture, and tourism. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has further bolstered the province's strategic importance as a trade and connectivity gateway. He called for a business-friendly environment, addressing infrastructure gaps, enhancing security, and streamlining regulatory frameworks to fully capitalize on these opportunities.

He underscored that industrialization efforts should focus on value-added industries, which will create jobs, benefit local communities, and ensure inclusive development.

Lahore: The Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PCMEA) Sunday expressed concerns over the challenges faced by hand-woven carpet industry, urging the government to take immediate steps to remove export-related hurdles.

PCMEA Chairman Mian Atiq-ur-Rehman and Vice Chairman Riaz Ahmed told media here that no programme or initiative can succeed unless export barriers are addressed in an effective manner.

They pointed out that longstanding issues at the Torkham Border have impacted the carpet sector, which was once a major source of foreign exchange for Pakistan. The delays and disruptions at the border have made it difficult to import partially processed raw materials from Afghanistan, they explained. The office-bearers emphasized that quality and timely delivery of export orders are essential for maintaining the credibility of exporters in global markets.

They claimed that hand-woven carpet industry operates without relying on government energy resources and remains a vital source of employment, particularly for workers in rural areas. This sector plays a crucial role in preventing urban migration by providing millions of people with jobs at their doorstep, they stated, and vowed that Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association and the Carpet Training Institute (CTI) continue to work for sustainability of this traditional craft.

Calling hand-woven carpets a distinctive global identity for Pakistan, they expressed the deep emotional connection that artisans and stakeholders have with the industry, which has thrived for decades. However, they apprehended that without immediate intervention, this sector could face irreversible decline.

PCMEA office-bearers also highlighted a recent meeting with Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan, where they discussed key issues, including complications at the Torkham Border and certain State Bank circulars affecting the sector. The association appealed to the government to address these matters urgently to ensure the industry's survival and protect the livelihoods of millions of workers.

They expressed optimism about the "Uraan Pakistan" programme, stating that it has the potential to alleviate the challenges faced by export-oriented sectors. However, they demanded proper monitoring of the programme's implementation and regular consultations with stakeholders across all export industries.

Export promotion is vital for the country's economic growth, and sustainable progress can only be achieved if the concerns of the export sector are resolved on a priority basis, they concluded.

Lahore: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to send Saim Ayub to London immediately for the treatment of his right ankle fracture incurred during the second Test match against South Africa in Newlands, Cape Town.

Saim Ayub was scheduled to stay with the team in Cape Town and travel to Pakistan as he was advised six-week rest by the doctors. Saim will travel to London from Cape Town on the first available flight.

Upon intervention of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, it has been decided to send Saim Ayub to London immediately as appointment has been fixed with the renowned orthopaedic experts in London. Assistant coach Azher Mehmood will accompany Saim Ayub to London. The decision has been taken after consultation with doctors.

The PCB chairman talked to the opening batter Saim and inquired about his well-being and expressed good wishes for swift recovery.

Mohsin Naqvi said: 'Saim Ayub will be checked up by sports ortho specialist doctors in England as an immediate appointment has been made by the PCB. The medical team is looking into the entire case and Dr. Mumraiz has shared Saim's medical reports with specialists in England."

The PCB chairman said that Saim Ayub is a stylish batsman and an asset to Pakistan cricket.

'Saim's treatment will be ensures at the best hospital of the world and all resources will be used for his treatment. We hope that the left-handed batter will make a full recovery before the ICC Champions Trophy."

Saim Ayub is sure to miss the two Test matches against the visiting West Indies but the PCB wants to see the batter fit for the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled to be hosted by the defending champions Pakistan from February 19 to March 9.

Lahore: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to send Saim Ayub to London immediately for the treatment of his right ankle fracture incurred during the second Test match against South Africa in Newlands, Cape Town.

Saim Ayub was scheduled to stay with the team in Cape Town and travel to Pakistan as he was advised six-week rest by the doctors. Saim will travel to London from Cape Town on the first available flight.

Upon intervention of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, it has been decided to send Saim Ayub to London immediately as appointment has been fixed with the renowned orthopaedic experts in London. Assistant coach Azher Mehmood will accompany Saim Ayub to London. The decision has been taken after consultation with doctors.

The PCB chairman talked to the opening batter Saim and inquired about his well-being and expressed good wishes for swift recovery.

Mohsin Naqvi said: 'Saim Ayub will be checked up by sports ortho specialist doctors in England as an immediate appointment has been made by the PCB. The medical team is looking into the entire case and Dr. Mumraiz has shared Saim's medical reports with specialists in England."

The PCB chairman said that Saim Ayub is a stylish batsman and an asset to Pakistan cricket.

'Saim's treatment will be ensures at the best hospital of the world and all resources will be used for his treatment. We hope that the left-handed batter will make a full recovery before the ICC Champions Trophy."

Saim Ayub is sure to miss the two Test matches against the visiting West Indies but the PCB wants to see the batter fit for the ICC Champions Trophy scheduled to be hosted by the defending champions Pakistan from February 19 to March 9.

Lahore: Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique expressed deep sorrow over the tragic van accident in Bahawalnagar which resulted in several casualties and injuries. According to a handout issued on Sunday, the minister directed health authorities to provide the best possible medical care to the injured who were immediately shifted to nearby hospitals. He emphasized ensuring that no effort is spared in treating the victims. Rescue 1122 teams promptly shifted the injured to various hospitals for emergency treatment. The minister praised the rescue teams for their swift response and assured the families that the government stands with them in this difficult time. The health department is closely monitoring the situation to ensure all necessary support that is extended to the injured and their families.

Lahore: The Alhamra Arts Council set the stage for a vibrant evening of classical music, celebrating the richness of Eastern melodies.

The Alhamra's spokesperson told media on Saturday that the event featured renowned vocalist Ghulam Abbas as the guest of honour, warmly received with a bouquet by Chairman Alhamra Razi Ahmed and Executive Director Tauqeer Haider Kazmi.

The highlight of the evening was the exceptional performances by instructors and emerging artists from the Alhamra Academy of Performing Arts. Well-regarded Sitar and Tabla maestros Ustad Saleem and Shahid Ali Khan captivated the audience with their masterful renditions. World-renowned sarangi player Zohaib Hassan added an enchanting touch, leaving the audience spellbound with his unparalleled artistry.

Chairman BOG Razi Ahmed remarked, "Alhamra is deeply committed to nurturing classical music. Under the guidance of expert instructors, the Academy is preserving and propagating this invaluable art form. Instruments like sitar and Tabla hold fundamental significance in Eastern music, and their revival is a monumental task we proudly undertake."

Executive Director Alhamra Syed Tauqeer Haider Kazmi highlighted the historical importance of traditional Eastern instruments, stating, "The Alhamra Academy has taken on the responsibility of safeguarding and transmitting these timeless musical traditions to future generations. We are privileged to have a wealth of experienced instructors dedicated to this mission."

The event was masterfully hosted by Naveen Roma, whose unique style added charm to the evening. The packed auditorium resonated with continuous applause as the audience celebrated the exceptional talent and dedication of the performers.

With this spectacular beginning to the new year, Alhamra has set the tone for a series of vibrant cultural programs and festivals, promising unforgettable experiences for art enthusiasts in the days ahead.