Pakistan to Buy 200,000 Tons Russian Wheat to Tame Inflation - Bloomberg

Pakistan to Buy 200,000 Tons Russian Wheat to Tame Inflation - Bloomberg

Pakistan plans to buy about 200,000 tons of wheat from Russia as part of Prime Minister Imran Khan’s bid to control inflation by increasing supplies of essential commodities.

Islamabad will soon sign a memorandum of understanding with Moscow for the supply of the grain on a government-to-government basis, Pakistan’s wheat commissioner, Imtiaz Ali Gopang, said by phone. The shipments from Russia are likely to arrive by December after the federal cabinet approves the proposal, he said.

Russia’s agricultural agency said the country has already shipped 128,000 tons to Pakistan this season, which marks the first wheat exports there since 2014, according to United Nations trade data. Pakistan also plans to import 1.5 million tons of wheat through state-run Trading Corp. of Pakistan, while more than 1 million tons of the grain will be imported by the private sector, Gopang said.

Pakistan’s presence in the global market could further boost global wheat prices. On Wednesday, benchmark futures in Chicago reached a six-month high.

The Khan administration is trying to spur growth through monetary easing, incentives for construction and making efforts to control inflation by facilitating imports of essential items such as wheat and sugar. The nation’s food price inflation surged 12.9% from a year earlier in August.

The price of wheat flour will start coming down as four ships of wheat imported by Trading Corp. of Pakistan are seen arriving in October, Gopang said.

Pakistan, the world’s eighth-biggest wheat producer in 2019-20, has already imported about 430,000 tons so far this year to build strategic reserves of the grain and plug a 1.5-million-ton shortage, caused in part by damage to crops after heavy rains. Private importers have booked 1.09 million tons of wheat, which will be shipped in 18 vessels until January.

Bloomberg

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USF Signs MoUs With Ufone and Jazz for Provision of High Speed Mobile Broadband in Balochistan & Sindh

USF Signs MoUs With Ufone and Jazz for Provision of High Speed Mobile Broadband in Balochistan & Sindh

Prime Minister Imran Khan Wednesday stressed upon promotion of information technology, cyber connectivity and digitalization ‘because Pakistan’s future was linked with the adoption of these latest modes of science and technology’.

He was addressing at a signing ceremony for awarding of Rs. 1.28 billion worth contracts by Universal Service Fund (USF) to cellular companies for provision of voice and high speed mobile broadband data services in areas of Balochistan and Sindh. 

The contract signed between USF and telecom provider Jazz will cover the areas of Khairpur, Sukkur and Ghotki in Sindh, whereas the areas under the contract signed between USF and telecom provider Ufone include Bolan, Jhal Magsi, Ziarat and Kalat in Baluchistan. The contracts were signed by USF CEO Haaris Mahmood Chaudhary with Jazz CEO Aamir Ibrahim and Ufone CEO Rashid Khan.

Terming the signing of contracts as ‘good omen’ for the country, the prime minister observed that it was in line with their government’s vision of uplifting the most backward, poor and deprived areas of Sindh besides different impoverished areas of Baluchistan through a network of internet connectivity. The prime minister regretted that lopsided development in the country had affected these areas.

He said the MoU would lead to wider connectivity in these remote areas, thus paving a way for development and prosperity. He cited construction of Karakoram highway in Gilgit Baltistan which had connected inaccessible areas and helped in improving the standards of living and educational facilities.

The prime minister said the majority of the people in those areas also wanted the provision of e-learning and distance learning facilities through the use of mobile phone services. Adult literacy could be achieved through the spread of internet system. Such connectivity would be vital for the fifth industrial revolution, he opined. 

He said Pakistan had the second-largest young population in the world which possessed ‘a vibrant potential’, and stressed that IT ministry should work further in tapping the IT skills. The prime minister said setting up IT parks was also significant step by the ministry as it would have positive impacts upon the country’s exports.

Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Syed Amin ul Haq said his ministry through USF was committed to bridging the digital divide by development, deployment and uptake of Information Communications Technology (ICT) initiatives to make a real difference in people’s lives.

The minister informed that through the contracts, around 2.4 million people in 1,146 mauzas of Bolan, Jhal Magsi, Ziarat, Kalat, Khairpur, Sukkur and Ghotki districts would be provided High Speed Mobile Broadband services, covering an unserved area of 34,660 sq.km.

He said the projects had the potential to impact important areas such as healthcare, communications, agriculture and transportation, adding that the telecom ministry would continue to undertake more challenging and productive programmes in the future including the establishment of IT Parks, including the ones to be opened in Islamabad and Gilgit in near future.

The project of manufacturing and assembling of 3G and 4G Mobile Phones in the county as approved by Cabinet and Economic Coordination Committee is also in the offing, while the launch of triple bundle in Gilgit Baltistan is in completion phase, he said.

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AICS and PPAF hold a roundtable, chaired by the Italian Ambassador, to share effective methodologies for remote communities’ development

AICS and PPAF hold a roundtable, chaired by the Italian Ambassador, to share effective methodologies for remote communities’ development

Islamabad, September 30, 2020: Within the framework of the Sustainable Development Festival 2020, the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) Office in Islamabad and the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF) organized a zoom Roundtable chaired by the Ambassador of Italy in Pakistan, Andreas Ferrarese, to highlight how the Italy-Pakistan Development Cooperation Programme has worked on remote community development, through a series of initiatives, e.g. PPAF’s Poverty Reduction Programme and the Debt Swap. 

The Annual ASVIS Sustainable Development Festival goes from September 22 to October 8. ASVIS has been founded by Prof. Enrico Giovannini, former Labour Minister, SDGs proactive promoter in the Italian Government and Civil Society. The aim of the Festival is to mobilize societies and institutions in Italy and in partners countries on the urgency of implementing the SDGs identified through the Agenda 2030, signed in 2015 by 193 countries.

The aim of the Roundtable within the Festival was to listen, from PPAF and other key actors of the Italian-financed and co-promoted initiatives with the Pakistani government and its Provinces, which innovative methods were worth to analyse and share for fostering remote communities’ self-development, for a better quality of livelihood. Such approach being multi-actor, the Roundtable reflected the teamwork imprinted by AICS Islamabad since its relaunching a year ago as the relators were well-balanced between the two countries, and gender-wise. They represented: PPAF as Pakistani Foundation, UNESCO, the Pakistan Italy Debt Swap, the Ministry of Food Security, Universities of both countries (Ca’ Foscari, CUST) and the Italian Archaelogical Mission in Swat, the Pakistan Italy Alumni Network, a Research & Development NGO (EvK2CNR), the Chitral Women Handicrafts Center.  

Ambassador Ferrarese highlighted that: “Italy and Pakistan continue sharing and update their common vision on poverty reduction and climate change towards prosperity and social change, acting through multi-actor schemes involving the State till remote Civil Society.” 

Emanuela Benini, AICS Director Islamabad, said: “It is through the continuity of such Italian-Pakistani approach that we may today articulate our common work, in 3 pillars: NATURE/climate change, CULTURE, OliveCULTURE, with 3 cross-cutting issues: 1-how remote communities may value and foster the resources in/around them, from resilience to well-being, 2- how the nexus research-training-labour can lead to a better quality of life and economic growth, 3-how institutional strengthening is essential  to ensure sustainability.”

Qazi Azmat Isa, PPAF CEO by lauding the Italian government’s efforts said: “In order to empower vulnerable communities it is essential to work at the institution level and follow five basic values which are inclusion, participation, accountability, transparency and stewardship. We implemented the PPR Programme supported by AICS whereby we worked closely with more than 4000 community institutions and built onto their strength to reach the most deserving individuals. It not only enabled us to make a profound impact at the grass-root level but also enhanced our capacity as development providers.”

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➠ #Latest_Jobs at All jobs advertisement published in Daily Mashriq Sunday 27 Sep 2020 - Read for Details

➠ #Latest_Jobs at All jobs advertisement published in Daily Mashriq Sunday 27 Sep 2020 - Read for Details 

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Embraer E195s make Vietnam operational debut with Bamboo Airways

Embraer E195s make Vietnam operational debut with Bamboo Airways

Singapore, 29 September, 2020 – Two Embraer E195s have commenced operations in Vietnam with Bamboo Airways, offering the first jet service to Con Dao from Hanoi, Vinh and Hai Phong.Con Dao Island and the surrounding National Park is an area of outstanding natural beauty 1400km (760nm) from the capital Hanoi, off the southern coast of Vietnam. The popular tourist destination, featuring an archipelago of 16 islands, is currently only served by turboprop aircraft due to its short runway, light pavement, and lack of fuel provision.

The Embraer E195s join Bamboo Airways’ fleet on a wet-lease agreement with Denmark based Great Dane Airlines, adding to the growing number of E-Jet operators in the Asia Pacific region.

“Bamboo Airways is proud to offer jet-operated flights to Con Dao with the E195s,” said Mr. Dang Tat Thang – Executive Vice Chairman of Bamboo Airways. “The aircraft’s short runway performance makes it an ideal aircraft for flights to and from Con Dao. The two by two seating will offer our passengers a high level of comfort in a modern, spacious aircraft, including the one-of-its-kind Business Class on the route to Con Dao.”

“Congratulations to Bamboo Airways on this strategic move. The E-Jets will give them great flexibility both in performance as well as in economics,” says Raul Villaron, Vice President, Asia Pacific for Embraer’s commercial aviation unit. “The E195’s fuel efficiency and economics enables Bamboo Airways to cost effectively manage fluctuating demand and operate lower density routes with the right sized aircraft. We welcome Bamboo Airways to the Embraer family and our global team are here to support them.”

Bamboo Airways is the first to operate direct flights to Con Dao from three cities; the capital Hanoi, Hai Phong city in the North and Vinh city in the central area. There will be two flights a day on the Hanoi - Con Dao route and daily flights from Hai Phong and Vinh to Con Dao in the initial phase. Bamboo Airways are operating the aircraft in a comfortable single class configuration with 118 seats.

Embraer is the world’s leading manufacturer of commercial aircraft up to 150 seats with more than 100 customers from all over the world. For the E-Jets program alone, Embraer has logged more than 1,800 orders and 1,600 aircraft have been delivered. Today, E-Jets are flying in the fleet of more than 80 customers in some 50 countries. The versatile 70 to 150-seat family is flying with low-cost airlines as well as with regional and mainline carriers.

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PIC, UNESCO Launches Online Appeal Management Information System On Eve Of IDUAI

PIC, UNESCO Launches Online Appeal Management Information System On Eve Of IDUAI

ISLAMABAD (APP - 28th Sep, 2020 ) :The Pakistan Information Commission (PIC) with support of UNESCO's Multi-donor program on Thursday launched Online Appeal Management Information System to support citizens' fundamental right of access to information through robust e-governance system.

The new system was launched in a function held here at local hotel, aiming to commemorate International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) titled "Access to Information in Times of Crisis".

IDUAI - "Access to Information in Times of Crisis" was celebrated by United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) with partners including the Pakistan Information Commission (PIC), the European Union delegation in Pakistan, the Embassy of Sweden, the Embassy of Netherlands and the Sustainable Social Development Organization (SSDO).

The new Online Appeal Management information system (AMIS) of the Pakistan Information Commission, along with a new website was launched on the occasion with the support of UNESCO's Multi-donor program on Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists.

The initiative aims to support citizens' fundamental right of access to information through robust e-governance systems, which directly contribute to the Sustainable Development Goal 16: Peace, Justice and Strong institutions.

The AMIS will enable citizens to file information requests with PIC online, accessible via www.rti.gov.pk. The newly developed portal has been integrated with a system that allows the commission to process multiple requests digitally. In the wake of Covid19, the need to strengthen digital systems has grown rapidly, especially in terms of accessing and sharing public information.

Ms. Patricia McPhillips, Country Representative and Director, UNESCO stressed that the access to information was an integral part of strengthening democracies as it instils transparency and accountability.

Wouter Plomp, Netherlands Ambassador to Pakistan, emphasized the need to enforce the Right to Information (RTI) laws in order to facilitate citizens and also to remain open to gradually improving the RTI laws.

In 2019, 74th UN General Assembly adopted IDUAI as a United Nations day. As the designated agency UNESCO globally monitors the number of countries that adopt and implement constitutional, statutory/ and or policy guarantees for public access to information.

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CarFirst expands its operations to Multan, CEO CarFirst inaugurated operations in Multan

CarFirst expands its operations to Multan, CEO CarFirst inaugurated operations in Multan

Karachi, September 28, 2020: Member of the National Assembly, Makhdoom Zain Qureshi, and Raja Murad  Khan’s, CEO of CarFirst inaugurated the launch of CarFirst operations in Multan. Mr. Zain Qureshi and Mr. Murad  Khan talked about the importance of creating sustainable jobs in Multan.  The CEO of CarFirst shared the company’s vision, services, and products  with the members of the Multan press.

Makhdoom Zain Qureshi, Member of the National Assembly said: “The biggest challenge facing the used  car industry  in Multan  was  reliable sources and quick payment,  CarFirst directly solves these problems eliminating any  elements  of fraud with their instant  inspection and payment  system.  The contemporary world requires digitalization and innovative solutions to our problems, for all these reasons and more we welcome CarFirst to Multan and pray for their prosperity.” 

While  speaking  to the members of the Multan press,  Raja Murad Khan, CEO and Co-Founder CarFirst, said  “CarFirst, has a progressive vision of growth and expansion throughout Pakistan, with Sialkot, Gujranwala, and Gujrat on the cards. We have come to Multan, in response to the overwhelming demand for CarFirst’s trusted services. The people in Multan will be able to have their cars inspected, priced, and sold under one roof all within an hour. 

CarFirst is geared towards simplifying the lives of our customers and continuously driving Pakistan’s used car industry forward through innovation, and playing our role as Pakistan’s most trusted used car trading platform. We are proud to be the drivers of change by bringing forth transparency, regulation, instant payment, secure transfers, and hassle-free trading for Multan.”

The press  conference was held at CarFirst’s regional office in Multan, where Mr. Zain Qureshi and Mr. Raja Murad  Khan shared CarFirst’s expansion plans, paving the way for other Tech companies to follow.  CEO  of  CarFirst,  Raja  Murad  Khan, expressed that there is a need  for  developing seamless infrastructure solutions that are fundamental in enabling Tech companies to counteract issues  that affect work  productivity such  as disruption in electricity, data network services,  and internet connectivity.

The presser was attended by CarFirst’s national leadership team, their official hygiene partner for public events, LifeBuoy, and members of the Multan press club. CarFirst is Pakistan’s most trusted used car trading platform that revolutionized the way used cars are  traded in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Faisalabad, and Hyderabad. CarFirst has solved the problems of the used car market by bringing in regulation, transparency, instant payment, secure transfers, and hassle-free trading. The fastest way to sell a car has now arrived in Multan, with potential sellers now able to sell their car in 45 minutes.

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Qatar Airways Celebrates The Growth Of Its Super Wi-Fi Equipped Fleet By Offering 100 Days Of Free High-Speed Broadband Connectivity To Passengers

Qatar Airways Celebrates The Growth Of Its Super Wi-Fi Equipped Fleet By Offering 100 Days Of Free High-Speed Broadband Connectivity To Passengers

DOHA, Qatar – Qatar Airways is now offering 100 days of free on-board Super Wi-Fi connectivity to all passengers, in celebration of the airline equipping more than 100 of its state-of-the-art aircraft with high-speed broadband.

From 25 September 2020 for the next 100 days until 2 January 2021, passengers can stay connected with family, friends and colleagues free-of-charge using the Wi-Fi connectivity on board. Qatar Airways now offers the largest number of aircraft equipped with high-speed broadband connectivity in Asia, the Middle East and North Africa.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, said: “During these challenging times Qatar Airways continues to lead and innovate, providing our passengers with the five-star experience they have come to expect from the World’s Best Airline. We are delighted to bring high-speed broadband connectivity to all our loyal passengers for the duration of their flights, from departure to arrival.

“Not only does this showcase the exceptional Qatar Airways service at a time when other airlines are using the current market challenges as a reason to reduce their Wi-Fi offerings.

“It also proves that our mission to connect people around the world does not start and end with just travel. We understand the importance, especially in recent months, of enabling people to be connected at all times, whether on-the-ground or 35,000ft in-the-air.”

More than 100 Qatar Airways aircraft have been fitted with the high-speed Super Wi-Fi service, using the award-winning GX Aviation technology from global mobile satellite communications provider, Inmarsat, since the launch of the service in 2018.

Qatar Airways passengers on flights fitted with GX Aviation usually receive up to one hour free access to the Super Wi-Fi service, with the ability to purchase full-flight access if more online time is needed.

A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways was named ‘World’s Best Airline’ by the 2019 World Airline Awards, managed by Skytrax. It was also named ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’, ‘World’s Best Business Class’, and ‘Best Business Class Seat’, in recognition of its ground-breaking Business Class experience, Qsuite. It is the only airline to have been awarded the coveted ‘Skytrax Airline of the Year’ title, which is recognised as the pinnacle of excellence in the airline industry, five times. HIA was recently ranked “Third Best Airport in the World”, among 550 airports worldwide, by the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2020.

According to the latest IATA data, Qatar Airways has become the largest international carrier between April to July by fulfilling its mission of taking people home. This enabled the airline to accumulate unmatched experience in carrying passengers safely and reliably and uniquely positioned the airline to effectively rebuild its network. The carrier has stringently implemented the most advanced safety and hygiene measures on board its aircraft and in Hamad International Airport.

Qatar Airways’ onboard safety measures for passengers and cabin crew include the provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for cabin crew and a complimentary protective kit and disposable face shields for passengers. Business Class passengers on aircraft equipped with Qsuite can enjoy the enhanced privacy this award-winning business seat provides, including sliding privacy partitions and the option to use a ‘Do Not Disturb (DND)’ indicator. Qsuite is available on flights to more than 30 destinations including Frankfurt, Kuala Lumpur, London and New York. For full details of all the measures that have been implemented onboard and in HIA, please visit qatarairways.com/safety.

Qatar Airways operations are not dependent on any specific aircraft type. The airline’s variety of modern fuel-efficient aircraft has meant it can continue flying by offering the right capacity in each market. Due to COVID-19’s impact on travel demand, the airline has taken the decision to ground its fleet of Airbus A380s as it is not commercially or environmentally justifiable to operate such a large aircraft in the current market. The airline’s fleet of 49 Airbus A350 and 30 Boeing 787 are the ideal choice for the most strategically important long-haul routes to Africa, the Americas, Europe and Asia-Pacific regions.

Qatar Airways’ home and hub, Hamad International Airport (HIA), has implemented stringent cleaning procedures and applied social distancing measures throughout its terminals. Passenger touchpoints are sanitized every 10-15 minutes and boarding gates and bus gate counters are cleaned after each flight. In addition, hand sanitizers are provided at immigration and security screening points. HIA was recently ranked “Third Best Airport in the World”, among 550 airports worldwide, by the SKYTRAX World Airport Awards 2020. HIA was also voted the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ for the sixth year in a row and ‘Best Staff Service in the Middle East’ for the fifth year in a row.

To ensure travellers can plan their travel with peace of mind, the airline has generous booking and refund policies. For full terms and conditions visit qatarairways.com/RelyOnUs

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Emirates expands network further with restart of flights to Muscat and Entebbe

Emirates expands network further with restart of flights to Muscat and Entebbe

Airline’s global network boosted to 94 cities in October

Karachi / Dubai – September 29, 2020 – Emirates today has announced it will restart services to Entebbe, Uganda (1 October) and Muscat, Oman (2 October), bringing the total number of cities served by the airline to 94. Emirates is gradually resuming operations and rebuilding its network to provide more opportunities for travel, sparing no effort to ensure the highest standards of health and safety for its customers and employees at every travel touch point.

Emirates will operate to Entebbe with three weekly flights on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays. The addition of Entebbe expands Emirates’ African network to 20 destinations, enabling customers to safely and easily connect to destinations across Europe, the Far East, the Americas, the Middle East and West Asia with one convenient stop in Dubai. Emirates flight EK 729 will depart Dubai at 1030hrs, arriving in Entebbe at 1500hrs. The return flight, EK 730, will depart Entebbe at 1700hrs, arriving in Dubai at 2325hrs.

Flights from Dubai to Muscat will operate twice a week on Sundays and Fridays. Emirates flight EK 866 will depart Dubai at 0215hrs, arriving in Muscat at 0330hrs. The return flight, EK 867, will depart Muscat at 0440hrs, arriving in Dubai at 0555hrs.

Services to both cities will be operated by the Boeing 777- 300ER. Tickets can be booked on emirates.com, the Emirates App, Emirates sales offices, via travel agents as well as online travel agents.

Customers can stop over or travel to Dubai as the city has re-opened for international business and leisure visitors. Ensuring the safety of travellers, visitors, and the community, COVID-19 PCR tests are mandatory for all inbound and transit passengers arriving to Dubai (and the UAE), including UAE citizens, residents and tourists, irrespective of the country they are coming from.

Destination Dubai: From sun-soaked beaches and heritage activities to world class hospitality and leisure facilities, Dubai is one of the most popular global destinations. In 2019, the city welcomed 16.7 million visitors and hosted over hundreds of global meetings and exhibitions, as well as sports and entertainment events. Dubai was one of the world's first cities to obtain Safe Travels stamp from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) – which endorses Dubai's comprehensive and effective measures to ensure guest health and safety.

Flexibility and assurance: Emirates' booking policies offer customers flexibility and confidence to plan their travel. Customers who purchase an Emirates ticket by 30 September 2020 for travel on or before 30 March 2021, can enjoy generous rebooking terms and options, if they have to change their travel plans due to unexpected flight or travel restrictions relating to COVID-19, or when they book a Flex or Flex plus fare. More information here. 

COVID-19 PCR testing: Emirates customers who require a COVID-19 PCR test certificate prior to departure from Dubai, can avail of special rates at the American Hospital and their satellite clinics across Dubai by simply presenting their ticket or boarding pass. Home or office testing is also available, with results in 48 hours. More information on www.emirates.com/flytoDubai

Free, global cover for COVID-19 related costs: Customers can now travel with confidence, as Emirates has committed to cover COVID-19 related medical expenses, free of cost, should they be diagnosed with COVID-19 during their travel while they are away from home. This cover is immediately effective for customers flying on Emirates until 31 December 2020, and is valid for 31 days from the moment they fly the first sector of their journey. This means Emirates customers can continue to benefit from the added assurance of this cover, even if they travel onwards to another city after arriving at their Emirates destination. For more details: www.emirates.com/COVID19assistance

Health and safety: Emirates has implemented a comprehensive set of measures at every step of the customer journey to ensure the safety of its customers and employees on the ground and in the air, including the distribution of complimentary hygiene kits containing masks, gloves, hand sanitiser and antibacterial wipes to all customers. For more information on these measures and the services available on each flight, visit: www.emirates.com/yoursafety

Tourist entry requirements: For more information on entry requirements for international visitors to Dubai visit: www.emirates.com/flytoDubai

Dubai residents can check the latest travel requirements at: www.emirates.com/returntoDubai.

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Infinix & Atif Aslam join hands to Launch the Much-Awaited Infinix Zero 8

Infinix & Atif Aslam join hands to Launch the Much-Awaited Infinix Zero 8

Islamabad September 29,2020:- Infinix, Pakistan’s top selling smartphone brand is gearing up to launch its latest flagship, the Infinix Zero 8 in collaboration with the legendary pop musical icon Atif Aslam. The brand has roped in one of the country’s most loved names to represent the highly anticipated and much-awaited Zero 8 in Pakistan.

Widely considered as Pakistan’s most accomplished musician who has represented the country worldwide, Atif Aslam will join the Infinix family as the official brand ambassador for the Zero 8. This partnership is geared towards introducing Infinix’s brand position and perception in the market as the generators of creativity, freedom, and greatness. The legendary musician’s contribution to the brand will be precious to inspire the world with innovative technologies and products that enrich people’s lives.

“We are delighted to welcome Atif Aslam to the Infinix family as the brand ambassador for our latest flagship phone,” said Mr. Joe Hu, CEO Infinix Pakistan. “Our main goal is to connect with our consumers on a deeper level, that mainly starts from high end R&D to find out what our audience requires and moving forward to delivering on that and exceeding expectations. This has led Infinix to be the number one choice for Pakistanis.” 

The legend Zero 8 runs on the Android v10 operating system, set with the Media Tek Helio G90Tchipset, 128 GB ROM, and 8 GB RAM. The powerful combination will enable consumers to experience improved speeds and overall device performance, including quick upload and download. The 90Hz Full HD+ Display and G90T processor also means enhanced performance on the screen and for the cameras, including the wide-angle, ultra-wide-angle, and rear cameras with 64 MP at the rear and 48 MP at the front; it will take the photography experience to another level. Infinix Zero 8 is expected to be launched soon with the price tag of Rs. 35,000 to Rs. 40,000 and will be available on Daraz for pre-orders.

 

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Pak-Qatar Takaful Receives ‘Best Takaful Company’ Award from FPCCI

Pak-Qatar Takaful Receives ‘Best Takaful Company’ Award from FPCCI

Pak-Qatar Takaful (PQT) honored with FPCCI Achievement Award as Pakistan's Best Takaful Company by His Excellency Dr. Arif Alvi, President of Pakistan in Islamabad recently. Mr. Zahid Awan, Director, Pak-Qatar Takaful Group was present to receive the award.. Dr. Hafeez Shaikh (Adviser to the Prime Minister on Finance and Revenue) and Muhammad Hammad Azhar (Federal Minster for Industries and Production), were also present.

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Qatar Airways says losses reach $1.9 billion amid pandemic, boycott - FT

Qatar Airways says losses reach $1.9 billion amid pandemic, boycott - FT

DUBAI: Long-haul carrier Qatar Airways on Sunday reported revenue losses of $1.9 billion for the past year, blaming the coronavirus pandemic, its liquidation of shares in Air Italy and the ongoing boycott of Doha by four Arab nations for the drop.

The state-owned carrier also blamed new accounting rules for further adding to losses for the past fiscal year, which ended March 31.

“If not for the exceptional circumstances of fiscal year 2020, our results would have been better than the year before,” Qatar Airways CEO Akbar al-Baker said in a statement.

It also restated its losses for the previous year in the financial report Sunday, putting it at close to $1.3 billion as opposed to the $639 million it earlier reported. It lost $69 million in 2018.

The coronavirus pandemic halted global aviation for months, which only has begun to pick back up. Qatar also has been targeted by Bahrain, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates in a boycott since June 2017.

That boycott continues today, despite efforts by other Gulf Arab nations and the US to reconcile the countries involved in the political dispute.

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Lucky Cement Limited voted as Pakistan’s Most Outstanding Company in Materials Sector by Asiamoney

Lucky Cement Limited voted as Pakistan’s Most Outstanding Company in Materials Sector by Asiamoney

Karachi, 28 September: Lucky Cement Limited was recognized by Asiamoney under its Asia's Outstanding Companies Poll 2020 for Materials sector in Pakistan.  Asia's Outstanding Companies Poll recognizes publicly listed companies across the region for their excellence in a variety of business areas and markets.

The results recognized 140 companies as being the most outstanding for their sectors and in their market. More than 880 fund managers, buy-side analysts, bankers and research analysts took part in the voting. In total, over 4,602 votes were received for publically listed companies across 11 markets in Asia.

The aim of this poll is to identify and give recognition to Asia’s most outstanding listed companies in each market and sector. In casting the vote, the Company’s overall performance including its financials, management team, IR activities and CSR initiatives are considered.

Asiamoney is an information source on the world’s capital markets with an insight into the latest developments of the global financial markets. It is an affiliated publication of Euromoney Institutional Investor.  Asiamoney reports, and offers analysis on, the financial and investment markets for capital issuers, borrowers, institutional investors and senior corporate and government monetary decision makers with business interests in Asia Pacific.

Lucky Cement is the largest producer of Cement in Pakistan with production capacity of 12.15 MTPA and also one of the country’s leading exporters of quality cement. It is the first Shariah Compliant Company of Pakistan certified by the SECP.

The Company has always emphasized on the responsible and rational use of natural resources, a strategy that allows it to reduce any adverse impact of its operations for environment conservation. Under its ambit of CSR the Company actively contributes in health and education sector as well as in community development, for which it was recently recognized as one of the top ten Most Supportive Brands of Pakistan during the current pandemic by IPSOS, a multinational market research company with headquarters in Paris, France. The Company also joined hands with the Prime Minister's Ehsaas Emergency Rashan Programme to provide rashan (Ration) to those affected by the Covid-19 outbreak across Pakistan.

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Agha Steel signs Rs10.5 billion MoU with Horizon Steel

Agha Steel signs Rs10.5 billion MoU with Horizon Steel

Karachi, September 28: Agha Steel Industries is going to sell 100,000 metric tons of low-carbon billets worth approximately Rs 10.5 billion per annum to Horizon Steel, a press release said on Monday.The two companies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that ensures Agha Steel will reliably supply the intermediate steel product that the downstream steel industry uses as raw material.

“Thanks to product innovation and heavy investments in R&D, Agha Steel is able to manufacture for the first time in Pakistan refined low-carbon quality billets that are used in the wire rod industry. Until now, the downstream industry heavily relied on expensive imported raw material. That’s going to result in huge import substitution and big benefit for our national kitty,” said Suleman Lakhani, chief marketing officer of Agha Steel.

The company uses the latest European electric arc furnace technology supplied from Danieli to produce billets, a transitional steel product that can either be turned into steel bars used in construction or transformed into wire rods to manufacture many high value engineering products.

“With the realization of this MoU, Agha Steel’s sales are going to grow by 68 per cent from the current level within a year. We foresee many such contracts with companies operating in the downstream industry. The availability of good quality raw materials is going to enlarge this industry to its true potential” added the CMO of Agha Steel, which is going public next month to finance its expansion drive.

Unlike most local steel-makers that use the traditional induction furnace for melting scrap, Agha Steel has invested in a high-efficiency and environment-friendly electric arc furnace. It recently increased its billet-making capacity from 250,000 MT to 450,000 MT a year.

Speaking on the occasion, Horizon Steel CEO Shoaib Sultan said it was encouraging to witness that steel products can now be made end-to-end within Pakistan. “I expect the downstream industry will see tremendous growth in coming years and the future looks very bright” he said.

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اچھی بات : دس بار حج کرلو ، دس مسجدیں بنوالو۔۔۔۔

اچھی بات : دس بار حج کرلو ، دس مسجدیں بنوالو۔۔۔۔

#HadeesMubrak #Islamicquotes #Quoteoftheday  - 

#quoteoftheday #quotes #urduquote #urdushayari #urduquotes

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Facebook critics launch rival oversight board to review the company's content moderation practices

Facebook critics launch rival oversight board to review the company's content moderation practices

The new group, which bills itself as the "Real Facebook Oversight Board," counts among its initial members the heads of three US civil rights groups.

Facebook "responds to criticism with bad faith statements and cosmetic changes.

SAN FRANCISCO Reuters 26 Sep 2020: Critics of Facebook Inc , including the architects of an advertising boycott against the company, on Friday launched a rival oversight board to review the company's content moderation practices.

The new group, which bills itself as the "Real Facebook Oversight Board," counts among its initial members the heads of three US civil rights groups, the former president of Estonia and the former head of election integrity at Facebook.

The announced launch comes a day after Facebook's officially-mandated Oversight Board said it would start work in mid-late October, nearly a year behind schedule.

That delay means the official Facebook-funded board is unlikely to review cases related to the Nov. 3 US election, which has generated some of the most contentious issues faced by the world's biggest social network.

The rival board plans to move at a faster clip. It will hold its first general meeting next week, it said in a statement, and focus squarely on election topics, including voter suppression, election security and misinformation.

Facebook "responds to criticism with bad faith statements and cosmetic changes," said board member Roger McNamee, an early investor in Facebook who turned critical of its leaders over their handling of misuse of the platform in the 2016 election.

"The Real Oversight Board will act as a watchdog, helping policymakers and consumers defend against a renegade platform."

Members plan to broadcast their meetings in weekly shows on Facebook Live, according to the statement.

The group said it was being funded by Luminate, a philanthropy backed by The Omidyar Group, but did not disclose a funding amount. Facebook has committed $130 million to its project, which it said would cover operational costs for at least six years.

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Aristotle Quote - Ghibat karne wala mutabar kaisay hosakta hi ... #Urduquotes #Quoteoftheday -

Aristotle Quote - Ghibat karne wala mutabar kaisay hosakta hi ...  #Urduquotes #Quoteoftheday  - 

#quoteoftheday #quotes #urduquote #urdushayari #urduquotes #quoteoftheday #quotes #urduquote #urdushayari #urduquotes #HadeesMubrak

#آیات_قرآنی  #قرآن_شریف #اللہ #اسلامک_پوسٹس

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Stimulus Hosts Regional Final Round of ClimateLaunchpad Global Competition

Stimulus Hosts Regional Final Round of ClimateLaunchpad Global Competition

Islamabad, September 25th, 2020– Stimulus, the Pakistan partner for ClimateLaunchpad Global Competition, hosted the Regional Final of the competition on September 17 & 18, 2020, with support from Engro Foundation. With participation from 14 countries across Eastern Europe, Middle East & Central Asia, the event attracted 200+ participants who logged in to attend the event virtually, across the region.

ClimateLaunchpad is the world’s largest green business ideas competition with the mission to unlock the world’s clean-tech potential that addresses climate change. Pakistan is participating for the second time in the ClimateLaunchpad program along with 57 countries. A total of 41 teams participated in the Regional Final round including 3 teams from Pakistan from which two teams, O’Naps and Aabshar have been shortlisted for the semi-final round on September 30, 2020. O’naps aims to provide safe and environmentally friendly menstrual hygiene solutions to reduce the health risks of women, while Aabsharhas developed a water optimizer that saves water up to 98% by simply installing as an add-on to taps.

The event began with a welcome address from Ms Shandana Gulzar Khan, MNA who spoke about the need for innovation and young people to take a lead in solving the local challenges faced by their countries. As Chairperson of Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians, Ms Gulzar extended her support through the network for any facilitation required by teams in the different countries.

Hosting the event, Hira Wajahat, National Lead ClimateLaunchpad Pakistan said: “The response to ClimateLaunchpad in Pakistan has been phenomenal. Not only do we receive amazing applications from across Pakistan, we have also been recognized as the country having more than 50% participation from women in clean-tech and climate entrepreneurship for the second year in a row. The possibilities for Made in Pakistan are phenomenal which is what we want to work towards in the long run.”

Other speakers joining the event included MrWouterPlomp, Ambassador of The Netherlands to Pakistan; Ms Birgit Lamm, Country Director FNF; Mr Favad Soomro, Engro Foundation; Mr Habib Haider, Shell Pakistan; Ms Ayla Majid, Khalid Majid Chartered Accountants; Mian Talha Nasruddin, Jazz; Ms Saima Qadir, Country Director PFAN; Ms Sophia Hasnain, CEO Linked-Things; as well as international speakers from UK, Romania, Switzerland and Ukraine.

Mr Malik Amin Aslam, Advisor to the PM for Climate Change was the Chief Guest for the event. In his closing remarks, Mr Aslam spoke in detail about Pakistan’s Clean Green strategy and the initiatives supported by the MoCC. He encouraged participation of youth in ensuring a healthy and green future and stressed on the importance of entrepreneurial ventures for the same. Mr Aslam indicated his support for new ventures that align with the MoCC vision and invited the teams from the Region to visit Pakistan and see how the various initiatives are being implemented.

Stimulus, the local partner for ClimateLaunchpad is signed up for the Clean Green Pakistan initiative of the Ministry of Climate Change and contributes its efforts to promote and support climate entrepreneurship in Pakistan.

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Govt gives go head - 100 medicines price hiked 262pc

Govt gives go head - 100 medicines price hiked 262pc  

ISLAMABAD: The federal government has approved price hikes as high as 262 per cent of nearly 100 local and imported medicines in Pakistan.

According to a notification issued on Thursday, this change was approved for drugs in the “hardship category” on the recommendation of the Drug Pricing Committee (DPC) under the Drugs Pricing Policy of 2018, said an official of Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP).

Due to long-term shortages of some lifesaving medicines, the federal cabinet allowed rationalising prices of drugs that had previously been reported to be in short supply.

The previously permitted price hikes of the drugs were insufficient to stopping non-availability and subsequent reselling of such drugs on the black market, along with a lack of control of the quality of drugs obtained outside official channels.

Considering the above-mentioned factors during its 37th, 38th and 39th meetings of the DPC, the body recommended to the federal government increasing the price of these non-available or scarce drugs.

According to the notification, the drugs that have become costlier include those used to treat eye, ear, tooth, mouth, and blood infections, fever, postpartum issues, heart diseases, abdominal and stomach pains, malaria, diabetes, headache, sore throat, flu, skin diseases; as well as certain antibiotics.

Pakistan Today - 25 Sep 2020

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To support Pakistan’s transition to renewable energy resources World Bank approves $450m in financing

To support Pakistan’s transition to renewable energy resources World Bank approves $450m in financing 

September 25, 2020: The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors approved $450 million in financing on Thursday to support Pakistan’s transition to renewable energy resources that reduce its reliance on fossil fuel imports and lower costs of electricity production.

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Hydropower and Renewable Energy Development project will help shift the national energy mix to domestic clean resources by investing in renewable energy generation, including hydropower and solar, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. It will also help strengthen energy sector institutions to better manage a growing portfolio of renewable energy projects across the province.

This project supports Pakistan’s goal to become a low-carbon, renewable energy-reliant economy by 2030 and contributes to its national target in reducing greenhouse gas emissions to combat climate change,” said Najy Benhassine, World Bank Country Director for Pakistan. “It will facilitate the expansion of renewable energy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa by identifying and preparing solar and hydropower projects that are technically sound, environmentally and socially sustainable, and investment ready.”

The project will provide low-cost and low-carbon electricity to consumers and will support the economic development of those communities near the hydropower and solar projects by revitalizing infrastructure, creating jobs, and supporting the development of tourism activities.

“To scale up renewable energy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the project includes a comprehensive skills training program to build technical capacity in identifying investment opportunities, preparing projects, and mobilizing commercial financing,” said Mohammad Saqib, Task Team Leader for the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Hydropower and Renewable Energy Development project.  “In addition, by installing solar photovoltaic systems onto hydropower assets, production capacity is expected to rise and generate greater return on investments.”

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Lucky Cement Limited Launches Scholarships of Vocational Training for the Youth of District Lakki Marwat

Lucky Cement Limited Launches Scholarships of Vocational Training for the Youth of District Lakki Marwat

PAKISTAN, September 24, 2020: In an effort to empower the youth of Pakistan, Lucky Cement Limited has launched a dedicated vocational training program for the permanent residents of District Lakki Marwat. The initiative offers possible opportunities of employment through skill development. Under this program eligible youth will be enrolled for various vocational training programs in partnership with Hunar Foundation at Rashdiabad in District Tandoallahyar.

Lucky Cement Limited is offering full scholarships to the participants for vocational training with boarding and lodging. Students residing permanently and holding domicile of District Lakki Marwat are eligible for the program.

Comprising of several small villages, Lakki Marwat is one of the most under-developed District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Lucky Cement Limited has been actively contributing for the development of this region. In this regards, several community development projects were launched and employment opportunities were also offered to the locals of this remote District at Lucky Cement Limited’s Pezu Plant.

Now in an effort to empower the youth of this area, the Company has launched a dedicated vocational training program, which will train the local youth in various trades and support in uplifting their economic conditions.

The management of Lucky Cement Limited believes that the aim of this program is to empower youth and create employment opportunities for them, especially from the rural areas regardless of their financial background. The management believes that the program will help in providing more opportunities to youth which is vital for the progress of any nation.

The Company has a proven history and track record of its strong commitment for the improvement of society and the communities in which it operates. The primary focus of CSR initiatives of the Company remains in the development of the education sector, women empowerment, health, environment and local communities.

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FBR foiled money laundering attempt by Shell Companies worth 1.8billions Through Tax Evasion

FBR foiled money laundering attempt by Shell Companies worth 1.8billions Through Tax Evasion

Islamabad 24th Sep 2020: FBR working in line with PM vision ofCurbing Money laundry in the country, successfully unearth mega scandal of Money laundering and Tax evasionby Shell Company name M/s Burshane LPG Pakistan Limited. Court has issued Non-bailable arrest warrants against CEO, CFO and two other directors.

The sources said the FBR found a network of shell companies involved in income tax evasion and owned by a Pakistan Stock Exchange-listed company.

“The listed company has been found engaged in the business of liquefied petroleum gas and involved in smuggling of the LPG from Taftan border,” a source said, requesting the company name to remain undisclosed.

The sources said the Directorate of Intelligence and Investigation of Inland Revenue discovered properties worth billions of rupees acquired from illegal funds.Sources said that the directorate of I&I-IR Karachi, under the supervision of Director General Dr Bashir Ullah, has investigated into the case and unearthed fraudulent activities and financial malpractice of the specified company.

Sources said that the deceit network for money laundering is run by the accused CEO of the company in collusion with other directors and the Chief Financial Officer.

The investigation has revealed that the accused company is also involved in purchase and sale of smuggled Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) which is bought from Taftan border, and the related proceeds are kept out of books, thus these are concealed sales and purchases.

The accused company has thus evaded huge amounts of tax of around Rs1,775 Million, and the accused CEO, CFO and other directors of the company have acquired properties worth billions from the proceeds of crime as defined under section 3 of the Anti-Money Laundering Act 2010, sources disclosed.

In tax year 2015, the accused company was fraudulently acquired by another private limited company by funds acquired from National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) on the basis of defective land Khata. The same accused directors were the directors of the acquiring company at the time of this fraudulent merger which violated the provisions of section 97A of the Ordinance resulting in evasion of capital gain of around Rs1 billion.

The accused company has also concealed heavy investments of around Rs240 million in a private limited company, M/s Roots International Private Limited, and has also concealed acquisition of the said company in the name of the accused CEO.

Moreover, the personal bank accounts of the accused CEO and other directors have indicated huge cash transactions in their personal bank accounts from undisclosed sources, and hefty credits from another listed company which are prima facie from the proceeds of smuggled LPG being sold in the market.

The investigation has further led to detection of concealment of sales preliminary in two years amounting to Rs726 million and Rs828 million. It has also been identified that the company has unexplained and out of books movement of funds of Rs389 million and Rs396 million in the tax year ending June 30, 2018 and June 30, 2019 respectively from its bank accounts to an individual prima facie for purchase of smuggled LPG.

Further, the court has provisionally allowed attachment of nine bank accounts of the accused company which appear to be involved in money laundering for a period of 90 days from the date of order, and also issued non-bailable arrest warrants of the accused CEO, CFO and other two directors of the accused company. The role of external auditor and the banks involved in the case is also under investigation, sources added

FBR foiled money laundering attempt by Shell Companies worth 1.8billions Through Tax Evasion from MyvoicetvDoTCom

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