Tag: islamabad

  • First-ever discounted Russian crude oil cargo arrives in Karachi

    First-ever discounted Russian crude oil cargo arrives in Karachi

    Under a newly established agreement between Islamabad and Moscow, the inaugural shipment of discounted Russian crude oil arrived in Karachi on Sunday, marking the beginning of enhanced trade relations between the two nations.

    Departing from Russia over a month ago, the oil cargo reached Pakistan via Oman. Officials announced that the unloading process would commence on Monday, with the oil undergoing processing at the Pakistan Refinery Limited (PRL).

    During its lengthy voyage, the 100,000 metric ton oil shipment was divided into two parts in Oman due to the Karachi port’s limited capacity to accommodate larger vessels. Subsequently, two smaller ships, each carrying 50,000 metric tons of oil, embarked on their journey to Karachi.

    Upon the cargo’s arrival, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his enthusiasm on Twitter, describing Sunday as a “transformative day” and affirming the fulfillment of his commitment to the nation.

    He expressed the belief that these developments would contribute incrementally to prosperity, economic growth, energy security, and affordability. The Prime Minister further recognised and commended all those involved in this national endeavor who helped turn the promise of Russian oil imports into reality.

    Sources indicate that this Russian oil shipment will not be subject to the existing domestic oil pricing mechanism in the country. Consequently, the PRL will assume the benefits or losses associated with the Russian oil. Additionally, the sources stated that this shipment serves as a test case to evaluate the quality of the crude oil and the ratio of refined products. A report will be submitted to the federal government to inform future decisions regarding long-term commercial oil agreements.

    Pakistan had secured its order for the initial cargo of Russian crude oil at a discounted rate of up to $18 per barrel. Following the Platts crude oil prices, Islamabad applied a discount ranging from $16 to $18 per barrel, according to insider information.

  • ‘3 billion allocated to finance films, health insurance for artists’: Marriyum Aurangzeb

    ‘3 billion allocated to finance films, health insurance for artists’: Marriyum Aurangzeb

    The Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Marriyum Aurangzeb, announced in a tweet two days ago that for the first time ever, the federal government has allocated at least Rs3 billion for the Film Finance Fund while Rs1 billion will be used to provide health insurance for artists.

    The minister highlighted the necessity of the move in playing a major role in the growth of the film industry, and in providing security for performing artists.

    Here is the complete tweet:

    “I am equally delighted to announce that funds have been allocated both for the Film Finance Fund and for Artists’ Health Insurance for the first time ever. Rs 2 bn have been allocated for the Film Finance Fund and Rs 1 bn for the Artists’ Health Insurance. I am certain that, jointly, these measures will play a major role in the growth of our film industry and improvement in the welfare of our nation’s Artists. This will play a key role in the promotion of Pakistan’s narrative, heritage and culture through films, as well as the growth of screen tourism in Pakistan.”

    In May, Aurangzeb had inaugrated PTV’s National Film Production Institute in Islamabad. At the ceremony, Aurangzeb revealed that the project will help in promoting Pakistan’s narrative worldwide, through screen tourism via the National Film, Culture Policy 2018, which states that cinema houses in the country will also be restored.

  • Budget 2023-24 prioritises promoting economic growth, says Ishaq Dar

    Budget 2023-24 prioritises promoting economic growth, says Ishaq Dar

    Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Ishaq Dar, delivered a comprehensive assessment of the FY2023-24 budget during a post-budget press conference in Islamabad. He highlighted the distinctive nature of this budget compared to previous traditional budgets, emphasising its focus on fostering economic growth.

    Dar shared that the coalition government is committed to addressing the concerns of traders before finalising the federal budget in parliament. In order to accomplish this, he announced the formation of two committees to address business-related issues and technical matters.

    These committees, customary within the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), will be established by the FBR chairman by Monday. Their purpose is to ensure comprehensive consideration of any overlooked aspects and provide a platform for individuals to voice genuine reservations.

    The finance minister refuted claims of introducing new taxes this year and emphasised the government’s efforts to provide substantial relief. He defended the allocation of Rs950 billion and Rs200 billion from the Public and Private Partnership mode, considering it a notable achievement. Dar reiterated the budget’s departure from traditional approaches, with a strong emphasis on fostering progress and economic growth.

    Dar expressed the government’s determination to rectify past economic losses by promoting employment opportunities, curbing inflation, and generating more jobs. Consequently, he anticipated a decrease in the policy interest rate.

    Read more: Govt allocates only Rs97 billion for education in budget 2023-24

    The minister projected inflation to be around 21 per cent in the upcoming fiscal year (2023-24), while estimating government expenditure at Rs14,040 billion.

    Addressing the power sector, Dar allocated over Rs1900 billion exclusively for its development. He stressed the importance of implementing necessary reforms to improve this sector. He also clarified that no new subsidies would be introduced in the renewable energy sector, despite its prominence in the budget.

    Furthermore, the minister addressed rumors regarding the withdrawal of edible oil, refuting such claims and affirming that no such action had been taken.

  • PIA’s Boeing 777 aircraft freed by Malaysian authorities, returns to Islamabad

    PIA’s Boeing 777 aircraft freed by Malaysian authorities, returns to Islamabad

    Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) successfully resolved the issue with its Boeing 777 aircraft, which was held by Malaysian authorities in Kuala Lumpur. According to a spokesperson for PIA, the aircraft was released a few hours later and arrived in Islamabad late Monday night. The spokesperson stated that the matter was resolved through diplomatic channels.

    The incident occurred a day earlier when PIA flight PK-894 was halted upon reaching Kuala Lumpur, following court orders that issued a stay on the aircraft. The stay was related to issues concerning a lease requested by a foreign company. The PIA spokesperson clarified that the Boeing 777 aircraft is owned by PIA, and the engine leasing company had obtained the stay by submitting incorrect data to a Malaysian court.

    According to The News, the leasing company had falsely claimed $4.5 billion, whereas the actual amount owed by PIA to the leasing company was $1.8 billion, which had already been paid. The spokesperson emphasised that such cases of halting an aircraft and extorting money are unprecedented, particularly considering that both the leasing company and PIA are not local entities in Malaysia.

    Following the incident, PIA took legal action by approaching the court in Malaysia through its lawyers. The spokesperson confirmed that the matter is currently under consideration by the court.

    It is important to note that PIA had already arranged for the repatriation of the passengers from the affected flight through an alternative aircraft. The airline had previously announced that the aircraft would soon return home to resume its commercial flights.

    PIA’s prompt response and successful resolution of the issue reflect its commitment to ensuring the safety and smooth operations of its flights. The airline continues to prioritise the well-being of its passengers while upholding its professional reputation in the international aviation industry.

  • Ban against corporal punishment enforced in Islamabad

    On Thursday, the federal government of Pakistan introduced rules to enforce the ‘Prohibition of Corporal Punishment Act, 2021’ throughout the capital city and territories, banning corporal punishment in public and private schools.

    According to Dawn, the law was passed three years ago, however the rules were updated a couple of months ago and the act was finally launched on Thursday.

    According to the act, teachers who are found guilty of inflicting violence on students will be punished through major penalities like compulsory retirement, dismissal from service or demotion to a lower post. Minor penalties include withholding promotion for a specific period or increment or financial advancement in accordance with the rules or orders pertaining to the service or post.

    The law states:

    “The child has the right to be shown respect for his personality and individuality and shall not be made subject to corporal punishment or any other humiliating or degrading treatment.”

    Speaking at the launch at the Islamabad Model College for Girls in F-10/2, the Minister of Federal Education Rana Tanveer Hussain praised the act as a shift towards fostering a culture of non-violence and empowering the rights of children:

    “Let us work together to implement these rules effectively and create an environment where every child feels safe and nurtured.”

    Convener of the Parliamentary Caucus on Child Rights and Parliamentary Secretary Law and Justice, Mehnaz Akber Aziz, who was also present at the ceremony, discussed the significance of the rules towards improving the lives of children:

    “The launch of the Prohibition of Corporal Punishment Rules is a testament to our commitment to ensuring children’s well-being and upholding their rights. These rules will provide clear guidelines and enforce strict measures to eradicate corporal punishment from educational institutions and child-related settings throughout Islamabad. I hope this will also incentivise the currently 2.4 million out-of-school children to head to schools.”

    United Nations International Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Representative Abdullah A. Fadil spoke on why corporal punishment must be outlawed in Pakistan:

    “Corporal punishment can inflict immediate pain and suffering, and sadly may also cause irrevocable damage that can last a lifetime. We need to act now and put all our weight behind this act so that all children in Pakistan are able to learn and grow in a safe environment and are protected in a society which respects and upholds their rights and dignity.”

  • Is everyone naraaz with Imran? Another PTI member leaves party

    In a major setback to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the party’s former Member of the National Assembly (MNA) Aamir Kayani has announced that he is quitting the party after the attacks of May 9 on the security forces as he has to “rethink” his politics.

    Addressing a presser in Islamabad, he expressed regret over the May 9 violent protests by PTI leaders, workers and supporters.

    “I made my decision two months ago, but will formally announce it today,” he said.

    “My entire family, including my grandfather and everyone, we belong to an army family,” the MNA said.

    “Our domain is politics, and we should stay in it,” he added.

    Kiani has not only decided to quit PTI but also announced to end his political career. He emphasised that he will not join any political party.

    On Tuesday, the party faced another major blow when Karachi’s Mahmood Baqi Moulvi quit the party.

    In a statement, Moulvi had said he was leaving the party due to “differences with the leadership”.

  • Dil toots: Chief Justice isn’t happy with criticism for saying ‘good to see you’ to IK

    Dil toots: Chief Justice isn’t happy with criticism for saying ‘good to see you’ to IK

    Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Umar Ata Bandial has clarified that he uses the phrase “good to see you” to greet everyone.

    During a hearing of another case, the CJP had an interaction with lawyer Asghar Sabzwari on Tuesday afternoon. He initiated the exchange by saying, “I am pleased to see you as you have appeared in my court after a considerable period.”

    The remark came after the judge was heavily criticised by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), analysts and commentators for saying “good to see you” to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Imran Khan when he appeared before the court after being arrested.

    Bandial then said that he says “good to see you” to everyone, not just to Imran Khan. He said that he had faced a lot of criticism for using the phrase. Justice Bandial said he holds a deep respect for everyone, adding that “etiquette and manners” are necessary for everyone.

    PML-N Senior Vice-President Maryam Nawaz, however, remained unimpressed with the Chief Justice’s explanation. Addressing Justice Bandial in a tweet, she asked if he says ‘good to see you’ to everyone who has stolen billions.

    She went on to ask, “Do you send everyone to rest houses,” adding another question about whether the Chief Justice allows every suspect to meet friends in the guest house as he did for Imran Khan.

    Last week, when Imran Khan appeared before Supreme Court to get relief against his arrest, the CJP said “good to see you”. His comment became a point of controversy with many arguing that special treatment was given to Khan.

     

  • US embassy in Pakistan issues security warning, cancels appointments

    US embassy in Pakistan issues security warning, cancels appointments

    The US Embassy in Islamabad has announced the cancellation of all routine consular appointments scheduled for Monday due to security concerns. The embassy issued a security alert on Sunday, stating that there is a possibility of road closures and/or traffic delays, which could impede the movement of people.

    The alert clarified that although the embassy is still operational, it is limiting the movements of its personnel to official and mission-essential travel only. The US Consulates General in Karachi and Lahore, however, are open for routine consular appointments, according to the notification.

    US citizens who are traveling in-country are advised to be aware of potential disruptions to mobile phone service and have contingency communication plans in place. The embassy urges US citizens to remain vigilant and maintain good situational awareness of their surroundings. It also recommends that they pay attention to local media for security updates and planned road closures.

    Furthermore, the US embassy strongly encourages its citizens to avoid large gatherings, unnecessary travel, and comply with all established security checkpoints. It is essential to take the necessary precautions and maintain a high level of security awareness to ensure personal safety while traveling in Pakistan.

  • ‘Aik aadmi faislay kar raha hai iss mulk ke’: Imran Khan blames Army Chief for his arrest

    Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan— who is currently facing charges on multiple counts in various cases—has said that there is only one man who is deciding every matter.

    Without naming Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir, Imran said that one person fears that if he comes into power, his seat will be gone, however, he has no intention of doing that.

    According to the PTI chief, this one man has harmed the country more than any enemy did. “He is pushing the country towards disaster”, said Khan.

    Sitting inside the Islamabad High Court (IHC) as he waits for written orders, he thanked the judiciary for releasing him.

    He once again claimed that he didn’t know about the violent protests going on across the country as he was under arrest at the time.

    According to him, the attacks on Corps Commander House by protestors are not his fault because he was put in jail as a terrorist.

    He revealed that no deal with the government has taken place.

    Khan has been given relief as he can’t be arrested as per court orders till Monday morning.

    On Tuesday, the former PM was arrested from IHC by NAB authorities in the Al-Qadir case, however, two days later Supreme Court termed the arrest illegal.

    In March, after the Zaman Park operation episode took place, Khan accused the establishment of interfering in politics, emphasising that nothing happens in the country without the permission of COAS Munir.

  • Pakistan travel disruption: Over 60 domestic and international flights cancelled

    Pakistan travel disruption: Over 60 domestic and international flights cancelled

    More than 60 domestic and international flights from various airlines have been cancelled due to the unstable situation in Pakistan, with many other flights being uncertain about their arrival and departure.

    The cancellations have affected flights to major cities such as Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, where the number of passengers has decreased.

    According to the airport schedule, more than 60 domestic and foreign flights from various airlines have been cancelled, including flights from Karachi to Jeddah, Madinah, Muscat, Dubai, Riyadh, Baghdad, and Baku. The arrival and departure schedule of Karachi Airport provides a comprehensive list of the affected flights, including those cancelled between Karachi and Islamabad, Lahore, Turbat, and Peshawar.

    To ensure that their travel plans are not disrupted, passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates on flight status.

    According to Minute Mirror, the following flights have been canceled according to the arrival and departure schedule of Karachi Airport:

    1. Karachi to Jeddah: ER 811 and ER 812
    2. Karachi to Medina: PK 743
    3. Salam Air flight to Muscat: OV 292
    4. Emirates Air flights to Dubai: EK 605 and 604, EK 609 and 608
    5. Karachi to Muscat: WY 323 and 324
    6. Karachi to Riyadh: PK 729
    7. Flight to Baghdad: IF 331 and IF 332
    8. PIA flight from Baku to Karachi: K 154

    The following flights have been canceled between Karachi and Islamabad:

    1. PK369
    2. PF121
    3. PF122
    4. 9P670
    5. 9P871
    6. PA200
    7. PF127
    8. ER502

    The following flights have been canceled between Lahore and Islamabad:

    1. PK302
    2. PK303
    3. 9P840
    4. 9P841
    5. PF141
    6. ER520
    7. PA406
    8. PK306
    9. PF147

    The following flights have been canceled between Karachi and Turbat:

    1. PK501

    The following flights have been canceled between Karachi and Peshawar:

    1. PK350
    2. PK351