DAILY NEWS AND ARTICLES

AIOU to hold inter-regions sports competitions at country level

2019-01-25T01:56:00.001+05:00

AIOU to hold inter-regions sports competitions at country level

ISLAMABAD, Jan 24 - Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) will hold inter-regions sports competitions at country-wide level through its strong regional network in order to encourage talents and positive attitude for establishment of a healthy society.

The competitions would be held at Regional level across the country while grand competition would be arranged at the University’s main campus in which the winning teams of regional competitions would be invited to participate.

The Director Regional Services has been advised to chalk-out comprehensive plan to involve the maximum number of students in such activities at their door-steps.

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Suzuki unveils the 3rd Gen Wagon R

2019-01-23T21:29:00.000+05:00

Suzuki unveils the 3rd Gen Wagon R

After quickly grabbing a huge share in Pakistan’s auto market, Suzuki’s Wagon R has made a name for itself.

The 3rd generation of the Wagon R has finally been unveiled in India, and is expected to hit the local markets as well.

The starting price of the Wagon R third generation in India is Rs. 4.19 lakh (Rs. 823,000). It comes primarily in three different variants: LXI, VXI and ZXI. The Wagon R, in India, is offered in 7 different trims based on transmission and engine options.

The 2019 version of Wagon R has the feel of a completely new car, improving on its design, looks and even performance.

The front of the car gets a new grille and redesigned headlights. The bumper also has a different look with a trapezoidal housing for fog lights. Overall, the feel of the Wagon R has drastically changed for the better.

The rear of the car has also received major changes; a new tailgate along the elongated tail lamps.

Suzuki has opted for Heartect platform with the new Wagon R which makes it much lighter but at the same time, more rigid and provides better safety and performance.

When we talk about the dimensions of the car, the third-iteration of Wagon R is 60mm longer, 145mm wider and 25mm shorter.

One important fact to note is that this time around, the Wagon R has 35mm longer wheelbase which means that it will have significantly larger cabin space.

According to Suzuki, the safety element has also been improved; there is effective absorption of impact and dispersion of crash energy.

However, in Pakistan, the safety of the cars is an ignored factor and it remains to be seen which variants are imported/assembled.

The cabin also comes with various changes and most noticeable of all is the new dashboard and a new infotainment system with a two-tone finish.

There is no doubt that this is a huge step up on the models that are currently being sold in Pakistan or India, for that matter.

For the first time in Wagon R’s history, the vehicle now comes with a 1.2L petrol engine along with an already existing 1.1L petrol engine. The comparison of both engines paired to a 5-gearbox is as following:

The 1.2-liter motor makes 82 bhp and 113 newton meters of peak torque while the 1-liter unit makes 67 bhp and 90 Nm. Both engines are paired to a 5-speed gearbox.

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Realme 2 Pro has all the essentials of a mid-ranger [review]

2019-01-23T21:15:00.000+05:00

Realme 2 Pro has all the essentials of a mid-ranger [review]

Check out the Realme 2 Pro if you’re in the market for a mid-ranger.

The original Realme 1 was a great phone for the price. It quickly gained the market and Realme made its name as a value-oriented brand in India, but it had no presence in Pakistan.

However, just a few weeks ago, the Realme brand finally launched in Pakistan and brought two smartphones, the Realme 2 Pro and C1.

Today we have with us the Realme 2 Pro and we’re going to see how good of a phone it actually is for the price and is it a threat to other brands in Pakistan?

Review

Design and Display

The body of the phone is actually made of polycarbonate instead of glass, unlike what most people thought.

The famous diamond pattern back from the original Realme 1 is also gone and we now have a much more subtle design on the back of the phone.

This is a letdown, considering that you’re paying Rs. 44,000 for an all-plastic phone.

The sides of the phone have a different textured finish than what you have on the back and might chip easily if you don’t take care of it or put a case on it.

The back of the phone also houses the dual cameras and an LED flash right next to it. The fingerprint scanner is also placed in the middle.

The fingerprint scanner is actually the largest upgrade over the Realme 1 since it didn’t have one at all.

The right-hand side of the phone houses the power button whereas there’s a volume rocker on the left side. On the bottom, you will find the 3.5mm headphone jack and sadly, an outdated micro-USB port instead of Type C, which is what you should be getting, especially at this price range.

As for the display of the phone, we have a 6.3-inch IPS LCD panel with Full HD+ resolution (1080 x 2340) with an aspect ratio of 19.5:9. The odd aspect ratio is thanks to the dewdrop notch on top of the screen.

It’s not actually bad looking and does preserve some screen real estate and the screen-to-body ratio is also 90.8%. Not only does the Realme 2 Pro look good with such a good screen-to-body ratio but you also get a larger surface area to play with.

The display itself is actually nice and offers plenty of brightness which makes it easier to view in direct sunlight and it also gets dim enough to use comfortably in the dark.

Performance

Before moving on to the performance of the phone, let’s get the specifications out of the way first.

Realme 2 Pro runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 octa-core chipset. There’s an option of 6/8GB RAM and 64GB/128GB storage and in Pakistan.

We’re actually used to getting the lower end variants here but the Realme 2 Pro actually comes with the highest end configuration in Pakistan with 8GB RAM and 128GB of internal storage.

Furthermore, if you decide that 128GB of internal storage is still not enough, there’s also a dedicated microSD card slot available which allows you to expand the storage by up to 256GB.

As is the case with most mid-rangers nowadays, day to day performance was smooth on the Realme 2 Pro. There was no lag or stuttering when moving through the UI or during the animations.

The loading time of applications was decent as well and their overall performance was satisfactory.

The gaming performance on the Realme 2 Pro also did not disappoint. Heavy and demanding titles like Asphalt 9, PUBG also ran great and the FPS were stable and high as well.

The 8 GB RAM on board also made sure that multitasking was a breeze. You can open up multiple applications in the background and you’ll still be able to switch between them without them shutting down or reloading from the start.

Camera

Moving on to the cameras, on the back you have a dual camera setup. The main camera is a 16MP unit with an aperture of f/1.7, backed by a 2MP sensor used for portrait shots.

The 16+2MP setup on the Realme 2 Pro is actually not a bad configuration, especially with the wide aperture, the night results have been more than decent.

Photos that were taken in daylight or well-lit conditions had good detail and sharpness and the images had nice contrast as well.

Battery

The battery on board the Realme 2 Pro is a huge 3,500mAh unit. Unfortunately, there’s no VOOC or Super VOOC charging support built in the Realme 2 Pro so you only get the regular 5V/2A charging here.

Again, at this price range, you expect fast charging to be available on the phone, but unfortunately, you have to make do with a slow charging phone.

The chipset on board actually does support Qualcomm’s Fast Charge 4.0 but it isn’t enabled here. Hopefully, you won’t be needing that during the day.

During our testing, the power efficient 660 processor managed to help the device last through the day.

Verdict

Realme 2 Pro offers decent value for money and gives a tough time to its competition but it also falls a bit short in some areas like fast charging and USB type-C, which is pretty much standard in this price range but it’s nowhere to be found in the Realme 2 Pro.

Apart from that, you get lots of RAM, a huge amount of storage and a fairly capable processor as well.

All in all, it’s a good start by Realme in Pakistan and hopefully, future products from Realme in Pakistan will improve on the price-to-specifications ratio.

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AIOU sets-up exams centers in middle-east countries

2019-01-23T20:36:00.001+05:00

AIOU sets-up exams centers in middle-east countries

ISLAMABAD, JAN 23 - Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) in collaboration with Pakistani missions has set up Examination Centers in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, Oman and Bahrain.

The final exams of Metric, FA, BA, B.Ed (1.5 years) and MBA COL programs for Pakistanis settled in Middle-East will start from February 3 and will be continued till February 21.

Roll number slips to all the enrolled students have been sent at their given addresses. Date sheet/roll number slips have also been placed at website overseas@aiou.edu.pk.

Students abroad could also contact for further information from University’s Directorate of Overseas Education and e-learning in Islamabad, at phone numbers 92-51-9250140 or e mail overseas@aiou.edu.pk.

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Britain Airways team to visit Islamabad airport next week to assess security measures

2019-01-23T20:24:00.001+05:00

Britain Airways team to visit Islamabad airport next week to assess security measures

ISLAMABAD, JAN 23 - A team of senior officials from Britain's national flag-carrier will be visiting Pakistan next week to inspect whether all prerequisite security measures are in place before the airline resumes its flights to Islamabad in June after a 10-year break.

"The main purpose of the visit will be to engage the Pakistani authorities on the critical security measures which British Airways (BA) will require full implementation of before they commence operations in June," read a letter written by British Deputy High Commissioner Richard Crowder to Secretary Aviation Division Shahrukh Nusrat.

During the visit, according to the letter, the BA team would like to visit the new Islamabad International Airport to "see first-hand the security measures in operation and to understand the infrastructure and services in place to support [BA] flights to and from Islamabad".

The deputy high commissioner wrote that the resumption of directs flights to Pakistan by Britain's flag-carrier was excellent news for both the countries.

"I see British Airways' return as a vote of confidence in the future of our two countries' links, and, of course, a reflection of the great improvements in the security situation in Pakistan in recent years," he wrote.

BA's head of worldwide airports, Paul Coventry, International Risk Adviser David Craig and Director Safety and Security John Monks will be visiting the country on January 29-30. The team is expected to visit the Islamabad airport on either day of their visit.

In September 2008, British Airways had suspended all its flights to Pakistan "for an indefinite period" citing security concerns in the aftermath of the Marriott Hotel bombing that claimed more than 50 lives and injured more than 250 people.

The airline last month decided to resume direct flights from London Heathrow to Islamabad’s new airport. According to a press release issued on BA's website, the route will launch as a three-per-week service, operated on a three-class Boeing 787 Dreamliner, with return fares starting from £499 [roughly Rs91,000].

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New car makers to invest $1.5 billion in Pakistani Auto Sector

2019-01-22T21:51:00.002+05:00

New car makers to invest $1.5 billion in Pakistani Auto Sector

The leading automotive companies of Pakistan have committed to bring new investment of $1.5 billion in the auto industry of Pakistan.

Amir Allahwala, former Chairman Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts & Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM), made this statement while briefing the Senate Committee on Industries and Production on Tuesday.

He informed the committee that eight new car makers have already entered the Pakistani market with an investment of $1.5 billion while another investment of as much amount is also expected in the near future.

Under the investment plan, the new plants have been established to manufacture glasses and windscreens of vehicles. Moreover, another plant to make alloy wheels is being set up in the country.

The committee was informed that over the past five years, Pakistan auto industry had witnessed phenomenal growth as in 2013-14, Pakistan produced 116,000 units of cars, which reached 218,372 units in 2017-18.

Amir went on to say that Suzuki’s Mehran car will come to an end within the next two months.

Suzuki had launched Mehran in 1989 in Pakistan, and it has since been one of the most popular cars in the country.

“We have heard for a while that Suzuki is considering stopping manufacturing Mehran, but despite all the criticism and flaws, Suzuki sold more than 42,000 units of Mehran in 2017,” the panel was informed.

He also informed the upper house of the parliament that Pakistan exports as much as 75000 cars to countries like Nepal and Sri Lanka every year.

He, however, did not provide the numbers for imported vehicles.

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Tickets for PSL games in Dubai go online for sale

2019-01-22T21:25:00.001+05:00

Tickets for PSL games in Dubai go online for sale

LAHORE, JAN 22 - Tickets go online for sale for the opening ceremony of the Pakistan Super League and the matches scheduled in Dubai.

The star-studded tournament will start with a glittering ceremony on February 14th at 7 PM followed by the first game of the fourth season of the league between the defending champions, Islamabad United and Lahore Qalandars at 7:45 PM.

Dubai International Stadium will host the total of 14 matches during the tournament, which will be divided into two legs.

PSL 2019’s eight matches will be staged in Pakistan, three in Lahore and five in Karachi including the big final.

However, the details regarding the availability of tickets are not yet revealed.

The fourth edition of the PSL will start from February 14 at the Dubai International Stadium, while the final of the tournament will be played at the National Stadium Karachi on March 17.

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JIT fails to convince CM Buzdar; wants deadline extended by a week

2019-01-22T19:57:00.001+05:00

JIT fails to convince CM Buzdar; wants deadline extended by a week

LAHORE, JAN 22 - Chief Minister Punjab Usman Buzdar has showed no-confidence over the initial probe report into Sahiwal alleged police encounter that killed four including a minor.

Additional Inspector General (AIG) Police Syed Ijaz Hussain Shah, who is heading the JIT, presented his initial probe report in a meeting being chaired by Chief Minister Punjab after end of the given deadline to JIT.

Well informed sources said the CM, while showing his resentment over Mr Shah, said the non-seriousness towards the inquiry will not be tolerated.

To this, the JIT head reportedly responded by saying that it was not possible to submit a report about such a high profile case within three days.

Reportedly, the JIT head told the Chief Minister that the team could not rely only on the statements of the eyewitnesses, and it needed to conduct a forensic analysis of the car.

CM Buzdar, however, rejected the JIT’s request to extend the deadline for the probe, saying that “he would not tolerate the delay of even a moment in provision of justice”.

Sources say that at max, the Chief Minister could give one more day to the JIT, and if it fails to submit the report by then, formation of a judicial commission could be announced with JIT’s initial report referred to the commission.

Sources have claimed that the JIT failed to determine the people responsible for the incident within the deadline given by the CM Punjab.

It was also learnt that efforts were underway to save police high-ups in the case by scapegoating sub-inspector and constable-level policemen.

replacing the CTD Chief and SSP Operations is also being discussed.

Mr Buzdar also directed the JIT head to refrain from issuing statements in media as the matter was highly sensitive in nature.

Earlier in the day, the JIT head had, in front of media personnel, excused himself from presenting a final report of the Sahiwal incident.

“It is not even possible to submit an initial report right now. We will conduct investigations on scientific basis and determine what the truth is,” Mr Shah had said while speaking to the media after visiting the incident site and recording statements of eyewitnesses.

It is pertinent to note that Chief Minister of Punjab Sardar Usman Buzdar had promised that the JIT team investigating the Sahiwal incident will submit its report on Jan 22.

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UNGA president calls on army chief

2019-01-22T19:13:00.002+05:00

UNGA president calls on army chief

RAWALPINDI, JAN 22 - Ms Maria Fernanda Espinosa Garces, President of the United Nations General Assembly UNGA called on General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) at GHQ, Monday.

Matters of mutual interest including regional security were discussed. The visiting dignitary acknowledged and appreciated Pakistan Army’s contributions for United Nations in maintaining peace, stability and rehabilitation in conflict zones.

She also said that UN values Pakistan’s role in the war against terror and efforts to resolve the regional issues.

COAS thanked visiting dignitary for her acknowledgment and contributions as part of UN.

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Pak-Iran share fraternal relations: Asad Qaiser

2019-01-22T16:33:00.001+05:00

Pak-Iran share fraternal relations: Asad Qaiser

ISLAMABAD, JAN 22 - Iranian Ambassador Mehdi Honardost called on Speaker National Assembly Asad Qaiser on Tuesday at Parliament House and discussed matters pertaining to bilateral relations and regional issues.

Referring to warm relations between Iran and Pakistan, the Speaker remarked that both countries are intertwined by stronger multi-dimensional relations and underlined the need for renewed commitment to diversification of strategic, trade, economic, cultural and Parliamentary relations in the face of regional and global challenges.

Highlighting deep rooted religious, cultural and moral ties between the two countries, the speaker said that the trade volume between both countries is not optimum. He urged that both countries can benefit from mutual imports and exports.

Asad Qaiser also recommended frequent exchange of delegations to assign substantive meanings to inter-Parliamentary relations.

He termed Pak-Iran Parliamentary engagement as ‘highly imperative’ for cohesion of the entire region. The Speaker said that stronger Pak-Iran relation is inevitable for regional peace, security and prosperity.

He said that Pakistan believed in the unity of Muslim countries and stressed the importance of both Pakistan and Iran working together for resolution of problems faced by the Ummah.

The Speaker noted that the two countries also need to move forward with consensus on matters of international importance.

Iranian Ambassador Mehdi Honardost thanked the Speaker for continued efforts for strengthening parliamentary and bilateral relations and enhancing interaction in all areas including trade and economic cooperation.

He also conveyed the desire of the Iranian leadership and the government for continued efforts for growth in bilateral ties.

He added that Iran consider Pakistan as its partner for peace in the region and expressed his hope that in future both nations will continue to chart the paths of prosperity together.

He reiterated Asad Qaiser’s proposal for diversification of trade and economic relations and urged for comprehensive engagement of the Parliamentary committees to explore the avenues for cooperation.

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Uzbek, Pak cultural and people to people ties improved manifold: ambassador Furqat

2019-01-22T13:07:00.001+05:00

Uzbek, Pak cultural and people to people ties improved manifold: ambassador Furqat

Historical movie Islam Khodja screened at PNCA

ISLAMABAD, JAN 22 – Ambassador of Uzbekistan Furqat Sidikov has said relations between Uzbekistan and Pakistan are growing at a fast speed adding our special emphasis has been on promoting and strengthening people to people contacts.

He expressed these views on the occasion of screening of a movie Islam Khodja. A large number of people hailing from all walks of life including diplomatic corps witnessed the movie.

The embassy organised the movie show in collaboration with Mayor of Islamabad and the National Art Gallery.

The ambassador further said culture was yet another field where both countries had a big potential to increase cooperation.

The particular interest of Pakistani viewers was also atrracted by the fact that this film has historical ground based on existing archive materials without a single change in happened events.

He particularly thanked the Mayor of Islamabad and PNCA for assisting in the organization of such an important cultural event, which allowed highlighting the cultural potential of Uzbekistan, as well as strengthening the Uzbek-Pakistani cultural cooperation.

The ambassador told such events shall be organised in other major cities of Pakistan including Lahore and Karachi.

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AIOU to hold exams for overseas students from February 3

2019-01-16T12:40:00.000+05:00

AIOU to hold exams for overseas students from February 3

ISLAMABAD, - Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) will hold final exams of Metric, FA, BA, B.Ed (1.5 years) and MBA COL programs for Pakistanis settled in Middle-East from February 3.

According to a notification, these exams will take place in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, Oman and Bahrain. The exams will continue till February 21.

These will be conducted through Pakistani missions in these countries.

Roll number slips to all the enrolled students have been sent at their given addresses. Date sheet/roll number slips have also been placed at website Overseas@aiou.edu.pk .

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Brexit: Theresa May's deal is voted down in historic Commons defeat

2019-01-16T12:16:00.002+05:00

Brexit: Theresa May's deal is voted down in historic Commons defeat

LONDON, JAN 16 - Prime Minister Theresa May's Brexit deal has been rejected by 230 votes - the largest defeat for a sitting government in history.

MPs voted by 432 votes to 202 to reject the deal, which sets out the terms of Britain's exit from the EU on 29 March.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn has now tabled a vote of no confidence in the government, which could trigger a general election.

The confidence vote is expected to be held at about 1900 GMT on Wednesday.

The defeat is a huge blow for Mrs May, who has spent more than two years hammering out a deal with the EU.

The plan was aimed at bringing about an orderly departure from the EU on 29 March, and setting up a 21-month transition period to negotiate a free trade deal.

The UK is still on course to leave on 29 March but the defeat throws the manner of that departure - and the timing of it - into further doubt.

MPs who want either a further referendum, a softer version of the Brexit proposed by Mrs May, to stop Brexit altogether or to leave without a deal, will ramp up their efforts to get what they want, as a weakened PM offered to listen to their arguments.

Laura Kuenssberg: May's nightmare

History was made tonight with the scale of this defeat - a higher figure than the wildest of numbers that were gossiped about before the vote.

But the prime minister's dilemma is a more serious version of the same it's always been.

She has no majority of her own in Parliament to make her middle way through stick.

And her many critics don't agree on the direction she should take - a more dramatic break with the EU, or a tighter, softer version.

Those two fundamental and clashing positions have always threatened to pull her and the government apart.

The Brexit debate has cut across traditional party lines.

Some 118 Conservative MPs - from both the Leave and Remain wings of her party - voted with the opposition parties against Mrs May's deal.

And three Labour MPs supported the prime minister's deal: Ian Austin (Dudley North), Kevin Barron (Rother Valley) and John Mann (Bassetlaw).

The most controversial sticking point was the issue of the Northern Irish backstop - the fallback plan to avoid any return to physical border checks between the country and Ireland.

Mrs May had hoped new assurances from EU leaders this week, saying the backstop would be temporary and, if triggered, would last for "the shortest possible period", would help her garner more support.

But in the debate leading up to the vote, members from all sides of the House said the move did not go far enough.

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Saudi, Pakistan Trade Mission begins in Jeddah

2019-01-15T20:32:00.003+05:00

Saudi, Pakistan Trade Mission begins in Jeddah

JEDDAH, JAN 15 - In line with the Saudi-Pakistani business and economic relations, the Saudi-Pakistani trade mission has started in Jeddah on Sunday.

30 Pakistani and 86 Saudi food and building material companies met to discuss and explore opportunities to export Saudi products to Pakistan.

This trade mission is organized by Saudi Export Development Authority “Saudi Exports”.

The Pakistani delegation, upon his arrival in Jeddah on Saturday, had a meeting with His Excellency the Deputy Minister of Energy, Industry and Mineral Resources Eng. Abdul Aziz Al-Abdulkarim and the Secretary General of Saudi Export Development Authority Eng. Saleh Al-Solami.

The two sides discussed aspects of joint cooperation and ways to enhance trade and economic relations between the two countries.

Then, a dinner was held in the presence of His Excellency with the Pakistani delegation, concluding with taking memorial photographs.

The Trade mission ceremony started on Sunday, with a speech from Eng. Saleh Al-Solami welcoming Pakistani brothers in their second country, saying: “I am pleased to welcome you to this special meeting, which reflects the strategy of enhancing economic and trade relations and investment cooperation between Saudi Arabia and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

It also highlights the strong relationship between the two countries, As the leaders in both countries are keen to consolidate this relationship for the benefits of both countries and people”

“In addition to our relations with our brothers in Pakistan, this participation of Saudi Arabia represented by “Saudi Exports”, opens many export opportunities.

Which emphasizes the strength of trade relations and keenness to increase economic cooperation between the two countries.

I would like to thank you for attending and hope that our efforts will succeed in achieving the aspirations of both countries” said Al-Solami.

Then, the Deputy Chairman of Jeddah Chamber Eng. Ziad Al Bassam welcomed the Pakistani delegation and praised the trade mission which will lead to various investment opportunities.

Afterwards, the Pakistani Commercial Consul in Saudi Arabia, Mr. Shahzad Khan, delivered a speech in which he referred to the depth of the Saudi-Pakistani relations and the contribution of this trade mission in enhancing trade exchange, activating partnership and encouraging mutual investments between the two countries.

Mr. Khan also praised the hospitality that the Pakistani delegation received, and thanked "Saudi Exports" for their efforts and organizations for the cooperation between both countries.

Business matching meetings between Saudi exporters and potential buyers from Pakistan began after that.

Meetings will continue until Monday (January 14th), which is an opportunity for companies to have many deals to develop their businesses.

This trade mission is an extension of the historical economic and trade relations between the two countries.

The total non-oil exports from Saudi Arabia to Pakistan during the past five years has reached SR17 billion, with over SR191 million for food exports and more than SR365 million for building materials during the same period.

This trade mission reinforced “Saudi Exports” efforts to support local exporters and promote their products and services to expand in international markets, reflecting the Saudi 2030 vision and its objectives to increase non-oil exports from 16% to 50% of total GDP and diversify sources of income for the national economy.

It is worth mentioning that "Saudi Exports" invests all its capabilities to improve the efficiency of the export environment, overcome the obstacles that exporters may face, raise awareness about export practices, and develop human competencies in the field of export.

It is also working to raise the export readiness of the targeted enterprises through an assessment of the export readiness and consultation services to improve the export capacity of the target enterprises.

"Saudi Exports" is also working to facilitate the creation of suitable opportunities and export markets suitable for enterprises by preparing the manuals of market access and market studies on demand.

"Saudi Exports" contributes to the emergence of Saudi products to the target groups through participation in international exhibitions.

"Saudi Exports" also provide a service to facilitate linking exporters with buyers and potential partners through trade missions and bilateral meetings on the sidelines of international exhibitions.

The work of the "Saudi Exports" reflects the Kingdom’s vision 2030 and meets the aspirations of the wise leadership in order to diversify sources of income for the national economy.

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Ukraine embassy hosts Ukrainian Diaspora in Pakistan to celebrate winter festivities

2019-01-15T13:15:00.003+05:00

Ukraine embassy hosts Ukrainian Diaspora in Pakistan to celebrate winter festivities

ISLAMABAD, - The Embassy of Ukraine in Islamabad celebrated “Happy Malanka” and this event offered excellent opportunity of festivity to children, young and not very young participants.

Happy Malanka in the Embassy of Ukraine in Islamabad was celebrated in connection with New Year and Winter Season`s Festivities together with Ukrainian citizens and Pakistani alumni of Ukrainian Universities.

Children had several games to show their creativity while parents had opportunity to tell their children that they have a young child still alive inside them.

What is Happy Malanka?

Malanka (Ukrainian: Маланка) is a Ukrainian folk holiday to be celebrated on 13 January, which is New Year’s Eve in accordance with the Julian calendar.

The Ukrainian New Year obtained the name Malanka from a Christianized folk tale of pagan origin, as collected and published by a Ukrainian ethnologist.

According to available information, the story is based on the creator god Praboh, and his four sons and one daughter. One of his sons was the Devil, the second son was St. George (Yar-Yarylo), the third St. John (Rai), and the fourth was Lad or Myr (Peace).

Ukraine embassy hosts Ukrainian Diaspora in Pakistan to celebrate winter festivities

The one daughter is an earth goddess named Lada, who had two children: a son called the Moon and a daughter “Spring-May”, later referred to as Mylanka because she was loving (мила).

As mother Earth, she was responsible for the blooming of flowers and the greenery of spring. In a version of the myth of Hades and Persephone, Mylanka’s evil uncle (the Devil) desired her presence in the underworld and abducted her one-day when the Moon was hunting.

While she was gone, the Earth was left without spring and once she was released from the vices of the Devil, flowers began to bloom and greenery spread around the world.

In simple words, Malanka is celebration of beginning of Spring and change of weather from worse to normal.

In Indo-Pak subcontinent, this event is also celebrated but with different mythological background and this is called Basant Bahar. Throwing wheat to doorstep is also an important ingredient of celebration of Basant Bahar in Indo-Pak celebration, particularly in Punjabi traditions.

How do Ukrainians celebrate Happy Malanka?

Therefore, Ukrainians celebrate Malanka to symbolize the onset of spring and they dress in traditional Ukrainian clothing and holding props such as the star and go door to door to their neighbours, nearest friends and family.

This is called a Koliada, which starts on 6 January, Christmas Eve (Sviaty Vechir) and ends on 19 January.

Ukraine embassy hosts Ukrainian Diaspora in Pakistan to celebrate winter festivities

Traditionally, the first thing to do when you are invited into the family’s house is to have the eldest male throw wheat grains around the entrance, which gifts the family with happiness, health, love, luck and more.

As the male is throwing the wheat grain, he is saying a verse (вірш).

Once this is completed, the rest of the carolers join in. Each person sends wishes to the family through these verses, they perform little skits and in between each of these, they sing traditional Ukrainian carols (Kolyadka).

The Embassy of Ukraine in Islamabad is actively celebrates different traditional festivities in embassy to promote Ukrainian culture and invite Ukrainian families living in and around Islamabad.

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USUF’s travel to Ukraine Initiative at NYT Travel Show 2019

2019-01-15T12:58:00.002+05:00

USUF’s travel to Ukraine Initiative at NYT Travel Show 2019

KIEV, - For the third year in a row, the U.S.-Ukraine Foundation (USUF) will be promoting Ukraine as an attractive travel destination through its participation in the New York Times Travel Show, January 25-27, 2019.

The exhibition, now in its 16th year, is considered the largest and most prestigious gathering of its kind, with a record 32,000 visitors in 2018.

The featured participants of USUF’s Travel to Ukraine booth (#478) are Vacanture Ukraine travel agency and the Agency of Regional Development of Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast, the latter of which is highlighting tourism opportunities in the Carpathian Mountains.

Ukraine, with its rich history, beautiful architecture, vibrant culture and hipster restaurant and pub scene, continues to draw accolades as a largely undiscovered “must see” travel destination in Europe.

Please do stop by our Travel to Ukraine booth and talk to our experts about why Kyiv, Lviv, Odesa, Ivano-Frankivsk and other Ukrainian cities have become a magnet for hundreds of thousands of foreign tourists annually.

The New York Times Travel Show will be held at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City. For exhibit times and ticket information visit the exhibition’s website.

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AIOU places assignments’ marks at website

2019-01-15T02:13:00.002+05:00

AIOU places assignments’ marks at website

ISLAMABAD, - Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) on Monday put academic assignments’ marks of Matric program relating to Semester Spring, 2018 on its website for information of the enrolled students.

The concerned students have been advised to visit the website to check their marks. In case of any error or laps they may contact the University’s Examination Department.

The correction could be done before the announcement of the final exams’ result that is expected to be announced next week.

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UNGA President Maria Fernanda Espionosa to visit Pakistan on Jan 18

2019-01-15T01:04:00.000+05:00

UNGA President Maria Fernanda Espionosa to visit Pakistan on Jan 18

ISLAMABAD, JAN 14 - At the invitation of the Government of Pakistan, President of the UN General Assembly, Maria Fernanda Espionosa, will arrive in Islamabad on 18-22 January 2019.

This visit to Pakistan is the first to any country in the Asia-Pacific region by the President of the General Assembly (PGA), after her election.

Ms. Espionosa will call on the President and the Prime Minister. The Foreign Minister will hold a meeting with the visiting dignitary.

Apart from official engagements, the PGA will also meet members of the Women Parliamentary Caucus, Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) and visit Pakistan’s Peacekeeping Training Center. Ms. Espionosa will also address members of academia, think tanks and students.

This marks the second visit by the President of UN General Assembly since 2010.

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AB de Villiers ready to play PSL Matches in Pakistan

2019-01-14T21:16:00.000+05:00

AB de Villiers ready to play PSL Matches in Pakistan

LAHORE, JAN 14 - Former South African skipper, AB de Villiers, who is one of the most prolific cricketers in the cricketing world, is ready to play Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches in Pakistan.

De Villiers will represent Lahore Qalandars for the fourth edition of the league.

The news was announced on Monday.

De Villiers also confirmed the news by saying he was looking forward to performing in front of Lahore’s crowd in March.

“I am delighted to confirm that I will represent Lahore Qalandars in front of our home crowds on 9 and 10 March, during the HBL PSL 2019,” de Villiers announced.

He was optimistic about the return of international cricket to Pakistan and felt that he could play a part in helping the cause.

“I feel I have a role to play in helping international cricket return to Pakistan,” Mr 360 expressed.

The former South African batsman was hopeful that his presence would help Qalandars get the missing piece in their squad.

“I look forward to revisiting the Gaddafi Stadium and aim to play my part in helping Lahore Qalandars achieve something they have been aspiring for since the inception of this tournament in 2016,” he added.

This would be De Villiers’ second visit to Lahore as he has previously been part of the South African squad that visited Pakistan in 2007. He scored an important, unbeaten 45-run innings to draw the Lahore Test.

The right-arm power-hitter then smashed, 103 not out, 35 and 17 in the first, second and fifth ODIs, respectively.

I still remember the support and appreciation we received in 2007. Furthermore, I feel I have a role to play in helping international cricket return to Pakistan.

These have been some of the motivating factors for me to return to Lahore,” said de Villiers.

Elated by his announcement, franchise owner Rana Fawad said:

I am certain he will further brighten the Gaddafi Stadium with his amazing talent and skills on 9 and 10 March.

Team’s captain Mohammad Hafeez also welcomed de Villiers’ move and said:

I am confident that AB will take home memories.

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Azerbaijan embassy to organize seminar on independence

2019-01-14T20:48:00.000+05:00

Azerbaijan embassy to organize seminar on independence

ISLAMABAD, JAN 14 - The Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Pakistan and IQRA University are organizing a Seminar titled “From Martyrdom to Independence” in Islamabad on January 17.

The Seminar will be held at IQRA University, Islamabad Campus from 15:00 to 16:30 hours.

The Vice President IQRA University Dr. Mohammad Islam will deliver the opening remarks followed by a short video on the topic.

The former Special Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Ex-Ambassador of Pakistan to Afghanistan, Kuwait and Nepal Syed Abrar Hussain, the Chancellors, Iqra National University Obaid Khan, and the Chairman Senate Standing committee and Convener of Pakistan-Azerbaijan Friendship Group in Senate Senator Talha Mahmood will also address the participants.

The Azerbaijan in embassy holds, on regular basis, such seminars and interactions in order to highlight various issues.The Azerbaijan in embassy holds, on regular basis, such seminars and interactions in order to highlight various issues.Besides, the embassy under the aegis of the Hyder Aliey Foundation, also carries out charity and humanitarian work in various parts of Pakistan.

Besides, the embassy under the aegis of the Hyder Aliey Foundation, also carries out charity and humanitarian work in various parts of Pakistan.

While Ambassador of Azerbaijan Ali Alizada will also deliver a speech on the occasion and highlight various aspects of the topic.

Likewise, the embassy every year dedicates full day with persons with disabilities besides distributing sacrificial meat among the needy on every Eid ul Adha.

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Sarfraz and co get whitewashed by South Africa

2019-01-14T15:44:00.001+05:00

Sarfraz and co get whitewashed by South Africa

JOHANNESBURG, JAN 14 - Pakistan on Monday lost the third and final Test to South Africa at Johannesburg by 107 runs to suffer the ignominy of being whitewashed by the home side.

In pursuit of their 381-run target, the Sarfraz Ahmed-led side mustered 273 runs in the final innings of the match.

Chasing a target of 381 runs, Pakistan were dismissed for 273 runs with middle-order batsman Asad Shafiq top-scoring with 65 runs.

Kagiso Rabada and Duanne Olivier claimed three wickets each for the home side.

Attention will now shift to a five-match ODI series, which gets underway at St Georges Park in Port Elizabeth on Saturday.

The Proteas won the Test series 3-0.

Scores in brief:

South Africa 262 (Markram 90, De Bruyn 49, Faheem 3/57) and 303 (De Kock 129, Amla 71, Shadab 3/41)

Pakistan 185 (Sarfraz 50, Babar 49, Olivier 5/51) and 273(Shafiq 65, Olivier 3/74, Rabada 3/75).

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SC dismisses NAB plea, upholds IHC verdict against Sharifs

2019-01-14T14:38:00.001+05:00

SC dismisses NAB plea, upholds IHC verdict against Sharifs

ISLAMABAD, JAN 14 - The Supreme Court (SC) on Monday dismissed National Accountability Bureau’s (NAB) plea and upheld the Islamabad High Court (IHC) verdict against deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif, his daughter Maryam Nawaz and son-in-law Captain (retd) Safdar in the Avenfield Reference.

A five member bench headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Mian Saqib Nisar comprising Justice Asif Saeed Khosa, Justice Mushir Alam, Justice Gulzar Ahmed and Justice Mazhar Alam heard the plea challenging the IHC verdict in the Avenfield case which suspended the sentences of the trio.

During the hearing, Justice Ahmed remarked that, “It is not necessary that an appeal in the top court can undermine a high court verdict,” adding that the bench will look into the merits of the case.

He further asked the NAB prosecutor that on what basis does he expect the court to suspend the IHC verdict.

“Part of the verdict that granted bail was not challenged,” added Justice Ahmed. “Mere high court remarks cant be used as a basis to suspend the awarded sentence.”

Upon hearing this, the NAB prosecutor responded saying, “A bail can only be granted in certain circumstances and the high court did not shed light upon any such circumstance.”

Further on in the hearing, Justice Khosa said, “What is the problem? Has Sharif been acquitted?” To which the NAB lawyer said, “The decision is almost equal to an acquittal.

”

The chief justice added that observations of an interim order does not have an effect on the submitted appeal.

Justice Khosa further asked the NAB prosecutor that how did the high court abuse its power by granting a bail? “One member of the family is behind bars already.

According to your point of view, the high court verdict is wrong and you want us to commit the same mistake.”

Towards the end of the hearing, CJP Nisar asked the NAB counsel, on what grounds should the apex court suspend the bail. “Rules of granting a bail differ from rules of suspending a bail.”

The Avenfield case

An accountability court on July 6, 2018 sentenced the Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) supremo to 10 years in prison and imposed a fine of £8 million after finding him guilty on different charges in the Avenfield properties case.

Judge Muhammad Bashir also handed out a seven-year imprisonment to Maryam and fined her £2 million whereas her husband Safdar was awarded a one year jail term.

However on Sept 19, the IHC suspended the sentences awarded to Sharif, Maryam and Safdar in the case. A division bench comprising Justice Athar Minallah and Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb suspended their sentence in a short verdict.

The verdict was announced in light of the petition filed by the trio, seeking suspension of the Avenfield verdict until a final decision is made on their appeals against the sentence.

Later, NAB approached the apex court challenging the IHC verdict releasing Sharif and his family members.

According to the Avenfield Properties reference, Sharif, his brood and his son-in-law had purchased four flats in Park Lane, UK, illegally.

However, the deposed premier and his family members consistently claimed that the apartments were purchased through legal means.

They were jailed in a case stemming from 2016 Panama Papers revelations which showed that the apartments were purchased through off-shore companies.

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APS attack survivor Ahmad Nawaz awarded points of light award

2019-01-14T12:14:00.003+05:00

APS attack survivor Ahmad Nawaz awarded points of light award

ISLAMABAD, JAN 14 - Ahmad Nawaz, who survived the attack on the Army Public School in Peshawar in 2014, has become the third Pakistani to be awarded a Point of Light. He was recognised for his work as an anti-radicalisation youth activist.

Mr Nawaz has addressed thousands of students at various schools in the UK and events organised by the United Nations, encouraging communities to unite and fight extremism together.

British PM Theresa May commented his work in a letter:

“The work that you do to educate young people about extremism and radicalisation is invaluable – and the fact that it comes from your own experience is testament to your incredible personal strength and resolve.

Your recent appointment to the National Counter Extremism Advisory board demonstrates the positive impact of your work. You should feel tremendously proud and I wish you the very best with your continued endeavours.”

Mr Ahmad Nawaz said:

“I am deeply honoured to be recognised as a ‘Point of Light’ by the Prime Minister. It has propelled me to do more of the positive work that I do for the society.

I would like to encourage other young people to do the same in order to have a society free of extremism and violence.”

Ahmad Nawaz is working with the Home Office and has recently been appointed a member of National Counter Extremism Advisory board.

He is also a winner of the No2H8 Crime Young Upstander Award for his courage and conviction.

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Jeremy Corbyn sets sights on downing street ahead of Brexit vote

2019-01-13T21:03:00.000+05:00

Jeremy Corbyn sets sights on downing street ahead of Brexit vote

LONDON, JAN 13 - Jeremy Corbyn has set his sights on taking over Brexit negotiations, confirming he will call a no confidence vote to trigger a general election "soon" if Theresa May's current deal is rejected in parliament.

The Labour leader made the admission as Transport Secretary Chris Grayling denied there was a "void" in government over Brexit.

MPs are due to return to Westminster on Monday - a day before they will vote on whether to pass or reject the prime minister's divorce deal with Brussels.

Mr Corbyn was pressed to name a date for when he would table a no confidence vote but refused to.

He said: "We will table a motion of no confidence in the government at a time of our choosing, but it's going to be soon, don't worry about it."

Senior shadow cabinet ministers have also said it will come soon, with shadow justice secretary Richard Burgon told on Thursday it will be "a matter of days at the most".

Mr Corbyn also suggested he would extend Article 50 if a general election was called and he won the keys to Downing Street.

"Clearly there's only a few weeks between that and the leave date, there would have to be time for those negotiations," he said.

And he hinted at his opposition to another referendum, saying: "My own view is that I'd rather get a negotiated deal now, if we can, to stop the danger of a no-deal exit."

Mr Grayling tried to woo Conservative MPs to back Mrs May's deal, calling it a "sensible compromise".

He told "It's not giving everybody everything what they want, but it was never going to - this was a 52-48 result."

Asked if he had got everything he wanted, the Brexiteer admitted: "Of course not.

"The prime minister herself has said this is not the perfect deal.

"But if you offered me this deal back in 2016 at the time of the referendum and you'd have said instead of staying in the EU you can have this, I'd have said thank you very much."

Mr Grayling also talked down reports of calling in military chiefs to help plan for a no-deal divorce, but admitted some Ministry of Defence staff were being seconded.

He was given a chink of hope by Labour MP John Mann, who also told he was likely to side with the government on Tuesday.

"A day is long time in politics so things can change but as it stands it is likely I will vote for the deal, yes," he said.

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AIOU expedites mailing of books to its students

2019-01-13T19:10:00.000+05:00

AIOU expedites mailing of books to its students

ISLAMABAD, JAN 13 - Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) has so far dispatched text books to its about six lakh students of Matric, FA, BA, B.Ed (1.5 years) and Postgraduate programs who had registered themselves for Autumn 2018 semester.

Total number of students registered during the semester was seven lakh fifty thousand, which were highest-ever. One semester covers study period of six months.

According to the Director Admissions, the rest of enrolled students will receive the books by end of this month.

The books' mailing process has been expedited as per the instructions of the Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Zia-Ul-Qayyum.

It was being ensured that the students could get the same at the earliest so that they submit their academic assignments within stipulated time-schedule.

The students have been advised to contact their relevant post offices in case of delay in the books’ delivery.

For any relevant information, the students have been advised to contact University’s helpline: 051-111-112-468.

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