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Minister for minorities visits Chinese Consulate in Lahore

Lahore:Provincial Minister for Minorities Ramesh Singh Arora visited the Chinese Consulate in Lahore on Wednesday, where he held a meeting with Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren.

During the meeting, the two officials discussed strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in the areas of minorities empowerment, economic development, and cooperation between Pakistan and China.

Minister Arora highlighted the longstanding and robust friendship between Pakistan and China, stating, 'The friendship between Pakistan and China is as deep as the oceans and as strong as the mountains. China has been a constant ally to Pakistan, providing diplomatic support and economic assistance at crucial moments.

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) stands as a testament to our partnership, offering unparalleled opportunities for mutual growth, prosperity, and regional connectivity.' He highlighted Punjab's critical role in this transformation, noting that the province is well-positioned to attract Chinese investments that will drive development, create jobs, and enhance the economy. Minister Arora also reiterated the Punjab Government's unwavering commitment to the empowerment and protection of religious minorities. He shared several ongoing initiatives aimed at improving the welfare of minority communities in Punjab, such as the creation of the 'Minority Cards,' educational scholarships, vocational training programs, and efforts to restore religious minority places of worship.

'Under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the Punjab Government is dedicated to promoting an inclusive society. We are creating equal opportunities for all, fostering interfaith harmony, and ensuring that the rights of every citizen, regardless of their religion, are respected,' said Minister Arora. He also highlighted the importance of vocational training, quality education, and digital learning to connect international markets. Minister Arora invited the Chinese Consul General to visit the Kartarpur Corridor, a symbol of religious tolerance and a major initiative for Sikh pilgrims. He further stressed the need for China's support in building the capacity of religious minorities in Pakistan, particularly through educational and economic development initiatives.

Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren expressed his appreciation for Minister Arora's visit and praised the efforts of the Punjab Government, particularly under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, in improving the lives of religious minorities. 'The initiatives launched by the Punjab Government, including the Nawaz Sharif IT City, cancer hospitals, air ambulance services, and the Apni Chhat and Apna Ghar programs, are a clear indication of the government's dedication to improving the lives of its citizens, particularly those from marginalized communities,' he said.

Zhao Shiren also commended the Punjab Government's solar panel program, which aims to provide affordable and sustainable energy solutions to the people of Punjab. 'These initiatives are not only making a tangible difference in the lives of the people but also strengthening the economic development of the province,' he remarked.

He also highlighted the importance of strengthening educational and agricultural collaborations between Pakistan and China. 'Agriculture and education are two key areas where we believe there is immense potential for further cooperation. China is already running scholarship programs in five major universities in Punjab, and we are committed to expanding these efforts to ensure that the youth of Punjab have access to quality education,' he stated. As the visit concluded, both sides expressed a strong desire to continue working together to create an environment of peace, prosperity, and development for all.

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Punjab Cabinet approves amendment to motor vehicles ordinance

Lahore:The Punjab Cabinet has approved an amendment to Section 24 of the Motor Vehicles Ordinance Act, 1965, a significant move aimed at streamlining vehicle registration processes across the province.

A spokesperson for the Excise and Taxation Department said that, under the existing law, vehicle owners were required to register their vehicles in their district of permanent residence. However, with the new amendment, residents of Punjab will now have the flexibility to register their vehicles in any district within the province.

Since 2020, registration numbers have been issued under a unified registration series across Punjab. The proposed amendment will also remove any restrictions on the movement of vehicles between provinces.

The amendment seeks to enhance the enforcement of motor vehicle laws and simplify the e-challan process. Additionally, vehicle owners will benefit from expanded online services, including vehicle transfers, e-registration cards and the online payment of token taxes.

The spokesperson added that the amendment will come into effect after approval by the Provincial Assembly.

Director General Excise and Taxation Punjab, Umar Sher Chatta emphasised that these reforms would modernise the vehicle registration and taxation systems, making them more efficient and user-friendly for the residents of Punjab.

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Minister visits head office of department of Auqaf & Religious Affairs

Lahore:Provincial Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Auqaf Chaudhry Shafay Hussain visited the head office of the Department of Auqaf and Religious Affairs here on Wednesday. Secretary Auqaf Dr Tahir Raza Bukhari gave a detailed briefing on the organizational structure, workings, and future plans of the department. The minister also chaired the Auqaf Board meeting at the Auqaf House. During the board meeting, a five-point agenda was discussed. The board approved the Auqaf budget estimates of 4,508.367 million rupees for the fiscal year 2024-25. The board ratified the notification of a 20-25 per cent salary increase for employees and a 15 per cent increase in pensions for Auqaf department staff. The board approved the elimination of unnecessary posts in the department as per government policy. The reduction of unnecessary posts will result in annual savings of 33.7 million rupees for the department. The board also approved certain administrative and financial matters of the department. 'It is h eartening to know that the Department of Auqaf and Religious Affairs generates its own resources,' remarked Provincial Minister Chaudhry Shafay Hussain. The minister congratulated the secretary Auqaf on achieving the budget targets. The minister directed improvements in the cleaning system of shrines and mosques under Auqaf's administration.

'Ensure the provision of better facilities to visitors,' instructed the minister. 'There is also a need to increase the rent of Auqaf properties rented out,' said the minister. He directed the development of an effective strategy to eliminate illegal encroachments on Auqaf lands. He emphasized the activation of the United Ulema Board and announced an upcoming visit to the Quran Board. The board meeting was attended by the secretary Auqaf , officials from the Finance, Regulation, and Planning and Development departments, and other relevant officers.

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Lone congratulates Donald Trump on becoming 47th President of US

Islamabad: Prominent Hurriyat leader and Vice Chairman of Friends of Kashmir International, Abdul Hameed Lone, has extended heartfelt congratulations to Donald Trump on assuming office as the 47th President of the United States. In his message, Lone lauded Trump's remarkable victory and expressed hope for his constructive engagement in addressing the long-standing Kashmir conflict.

"I congratulate you on your resounding victory and election as the 47th President of the United States," Lone stated. He further appealed to President Trump to support the Kashmiri people's right to self-determination, a right enshrined in United Nations Security Council resolutions.

Drawing attention to the prolonged and unresolved Kashmir dispute, Lone described it as one of the most contentious and pressing international conflicts. He highlighted the decades of suffering endured by the Kashmiri people due to the ongoing dispute between two nuclear-armed neighbors, India and Pakistan.

"The people of Jammu and Kashmir yearn for their internationally recognized right to self-determination," said Lone, emphasizing the promises made through UN resolutions. He called on President Trump to play a constructive role in resolving the issue, which he termed critical not only for the people of Kashmir but for over 1.5 billion individuals in South Asia living under the shadow of potential nuclear conflict.

Lone pointed out the grave human rights violations, economic hardships, and political marginalization faced by the Kashmiri people, stressing the regional and global implications of the issue. "The Kashmir conflict is not only a matter of human rights but also a necessity for regional and international peace and stability," he added.

As a global leader and champion of democratic values, Lone urged President Trump to leverage America's unique position to mediate and support peaceful resolutions to international conflicts. He emphasized that Trump's leadership and influence could encourage dialogue among all parties involved, promote adherence to international law, and uphold the Kashmiri people's right to determine their own future.

"I appeal to you to advocate for justice and ensure the preservation of peace in South Asia," Lone said, calling for diplomatic efforts to facilitate meaningful dialogue with international partners and organizations. He expressed optimism that a peaceful resolution to the Kashmir issue would not only alleviate the suffering of millions but also solidify Trump's legacy as a leader committed to global peace.

Abdul Hameed Lone concluded his message with a hopeful note, urging President Trump to focus on advancing a fair and dignified solution for the people of Kashmir, thereby contributing to the cause of international harmony and stability.

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DPO Tank visits Gul Imam Police Station, Chowki

Tank: District Police Officer (DPO) Tank, Aslam Nawaz Khan on Tuesday visited Gul Imam Police Station and Chowki Gul Imam and inspected the security arrangements.

According to police spokesmen, the DPO along with DSP Rural Syed Marjan Khan paid this visit following the prevailing law and order situation and recent security threats.

During the visit, the DPO examined government buildings, police lockups and records.

The district police chief thoroughly assessed the security arrangements a the police station and chowki.

He instructed the personnel at both the police station and the post to chowki to remain vigilant and to further strengthen security measures in light of current circumstances.

He stressed the need for promoting community policing and encouraged greater cooperation between the police and the public.

He asked the on duty personnel to ensure effective and positive use of their weapons.

The DPO instructed them to ensure their own safety while performing duties, saying, the use of bullet proof jackets and helmets must be ensured.

Furthermore, he asked the police officers and personnel to listen to public issues seriously and resolve the genuine issue without any delay.

On this occasion, the DPO also listened to the issues being faced by the policemen, saying that all available resources would be utilized for the welfare of policemen.

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Food group exports increase by 13.83% to $3.959 bn in 1st half of FY 2024-25

Islamabad: Food group exports from the country witnessed an increase of 13.83 percent during the first half of the current fiscal year (2024-25) as compared to the corresponding period of last year, Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) reported.

The exports of various food commodities were recorded at $3.959 billion during July-December (2024-25) as compared to the exports of $3.478 million in July-December (2023-24), according to PBS data.

The food commodities that contributed to positive growth in trade included rice, the exports of which grew by 14.50 percent, from $1.637 billion to $1.875 billion.

The other food commodities that contributed to positive growth included fish and fish preparations, the exports of which increased by 1.47 percent, from $199.074 million to $201.996 million whereas the exports of vegetables rose by 1.71 percent, from $128.661 million to $130.859 million.

The exports of tobacco increased by 103.65 percent, from $44.918 million to $91.478 million; meat and meat preparations by 3.64 percent, from $240.108 million to $248.858 million and sugar by 1525.93 percent from $21.069 million to $342.571 million.

The food commodities that contributed to negative growth in trade included fruits, the exports of which decreased by 1.32 percent, from $171.345 million to $169.084 million.

The exports of spices dipped by 16.14 percent, from $57.465 million to $48.191 million; oil seeds, nuts, and kernals by 16.54 percent, from $364.102 million to $303.873 million

whereas the exports of all other food items decreased by 10.82 percent, from $614.194 million to $547.712 million.

Meanwhile, on year-on-year basis, the exports of food commodities witnessed a decrease of 4.23 percent during the month of December 2024 as compared to the same month of last year.

The food group exports during December 2024 were recorded at $804.857 million against the exports of $840.426 million.

On month-on-month basis, the exports of food commodities however increased by 1.88 percent in December 2024 when compared to the exports of $790 million in November 2024, PBS reported.