China News: China smash their Asian Games gold record

GUANGZHOU: China smashed their 20-year gold medal record at the Asian Games early on Friday when women's karate fighter Feng Lanlan captured the delegation's 184th title.

The 26-year-old Asian champion Feng felled Japan's Emiko Homma 3-0 with a single scoring blow to clinch gold in the 68kg kumite class.

Kayaker Zhou Yu's triumph in the women's singles 500m discipline had earlier brought China's total to 183, equalling their haul at the 1990 Beijing Games.

China underlined their dominance in the event by picking up two more golds, including the men's canoe single 200m and the women's kayak double.

The hosts had already breezed to their goal of exceeding their 165-gold haul at the 2006 Doha Games with days to spare.

Although losing some of their most decorated athletes to injury and retirement, China brought 34 Olympic champions to the southern city of Guangzhou to usher in a new generation ahead of the London 2012 Olympics.

China will hope to further boost their record on Friday when Olympic boxing champion Zou Shiming defends his 49kg title against Birzhan Zhakypov, while the hosts will fancy their chances against South Korea in the men's basketball final.

One competition where the long arm of China's Soviet-style sports system has yet to produce success will wrap up on Friday, when Afghanistan take on Bangladesh in the final of the men's Twenty20 cricket competition.

Afghanistan's band of refugee camp-raised players upset a second-string side from world cricket power Pakistan in the semi-final on Thursday and will hope a fairytale ending can bring joy to their war-torn country.

Lahore News: Govt fails to ensure sugar sale at Rs 72 per kg

THE powerful sugar mafia has outsmarted the City District Government Lahore (CDGL) which has failed to ensure the sale of sugar at the official rate of Rs72 per kilogram and the commodity is being sold at Rs80 to Rs100 per kilogram in the open market. Sources in the CDGL have claimed that the authorities are only focusing on the sale of imported sugar by the Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP) at Rs 72 per kilogram in the open market while getting the Pakistani sugar, hoarded by dealers, at the official rate is still a dream for the public. The reason behind the difference in the rate of the TCP’s sugar and Pakistani sugar is that the former is thin while the latter is thick and called crystal sugar. Ashgar Butt, President Lahore Sugar Dealers Association, said the CDGL had no mechanism to check the sugar price in the open market. He said Chief Minister Mian Shahbaz Sharif was not informed properly about the demand and supply of sugar. He said a particular group of dealers was distributing the imported sugar to their favourites in the City. He said the daily demand of sugar in the provincial capital was around 1,000 tonne per day and the supply line was completely empty. He said though the mills had started sugarcane crushing but they were demanding Rs 80 per kilogram from the dealers, adding that if the dealers would buy sugar at Rs 80 per kg, then how they could sell it at Rs 72 per kg. MPA Saeed Elahi, who is member CM’s Taskforce on Sugar, admitted that local sugar was being sold at higher rates in the City. He, however, said that the TCP’s sugar was available at the official rate and there was no shortage. Rana Ayub, President Punjab Sugar Dealers Association, said the reason for sugar shortage was the lack of lifting capacity of the government. He said the lifting capacity of the TCP Karachi godown was around 5,000 tonne while the daily demand of sugar was around 12,000 tonne. He said the TCP should have spread the sugar stock across the country much earlier because the transportation time from Karachi to Lahore was that of about five days. He said the lack of lifting capacity was widening the gap between the demand and supply which ultimately was affecting the public. Mr Ayub also confirmed that sugar mills were demanding Rs 80 per kg and a large number of industrial consumers were ready to buy the sugar stocks at Rs 78 to Rs 80 per kilogram. He said he was ensuring the supply of sugar to the public instead of industrial consumers. He also criticised the local sugar dealers, saying many black sheep were still involved in hoarding of sugar. “This is why we have changed the supply time and on Thursday, we supplied sugar at Akbari Mandi during the day instead of the night,” he said, adding that the act had resulted in availability of sugar in the market for many hours. District Coordination Officer Lahore Ahad Cheema said that the city government was ensuring the sale of sugar at the official rate. However, he also admitted that Pakistani sugar was being sold at higher rates. He said teams were constituted to check the availability and sale of sugar at official rates in the City and they teams were checking around 700 retailers on a daily basis. He said the city government had also started inspecting big stores to ensure the sale of sugar at the official rate.

Sports News: Pakistan win cricket bronze, beat Sri Lanka

GUANGZHOU: Skipper Khalid Latif smashed an unbeaten 53 off 42 balls as Pakistan won the cricket bronze medal at the Asian Games with a six-wicket win over Sri Lanka on Friday.

Khalid, whose five one-day internationals made him the only capped player in his young team, hit four sixes and two fours to lift Pakistan past Sri Lanka's 135 all out with two overs to spare.

Three of those sixes came in one over from leg-spinner Malinga Bandara, boosting the total after Pakistan had lost four wickets for 85 runs.

Bilawal Bhatti returned unbeaten on a quickfire 24 off 14 balls that included the winning hit for a six off Nuwan Zoysa.

Pakistan made amends for the 22-run defeat in Thursday's semi-final against Afghanistan, who take on Bangladesh in the final later on Friday.

Sri Lanka's total revolved around an opening stand of 53 in eight overs between Zoysa and Jeevantha Kulatunga.

Kulatunga top-scored with 31, while Zoysa, who played 30 Tests and 95 one-dayers primarily as a left-arm seamer, hit two fours and a six in a run-a-ball 24.

Dilshan Munaweera's 28 carried Sri Lanka to 100-3 by the 15th over, before the last seven wickets crashed for 35 runs, four batsmen being run out.

Left-arm spinner Raza Hassan was Pakistan's best bowler with 2-19 from his four overs.

Pakistan News: Senate approves report on RGST amid opposition protests

ISLAMABAD: The Senate on Friday approved review report of Committee on Finance and Revenue on Reformed General Sales Tax (RGST) amid massive protest from the opposition and some of PPP allies, anewz News reported. Committee on Finance and Revenue presented its review report on RGST amid massive uproar in the house. The report was presented by Senator Ahmed Ali. A massive uproar was witnessed in the upper house over the bill. Opposition as well as the coalition partners of the government, MQM, JUI-F opposed the RGST and demonstrated against it. Awami National Party (ANP) supported PPP government over the bill. At the beginning of the session, government allies MQM and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) along with opposition PML-Q presented their proposals and a motion rejecting the RGST. PML-Q staged walk out against the bill. PML-N and Jamaat-e-Islami also opposed the bill and raised slogans against it. Senator Raza Rabbani raised his reservations on the bill, saying the report presented by the committee is inappropriate. Chairman Farooq H Naek refused voting over the bill presented against RGST.

World News: US Worried at New WikiLeaks’ Release

WASHINGTON: The United States is concerned about a big dumping of classified documents by WikiLeaks which is expected to include diplomatic cables.

“We are gearing up for the worst-case scenario, that leaked cables will touch on a wide range of issues and countries,” Crowley told media.

India News: RSS Hooligans Attack Mirwaiz in Chandigarh

CHANDIGARH: The Chairman of All Parties Hurriyet Conference, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, was attacked by the hoodlums of the Hindu communal organisation, Rashtriya Swayam Sevak Sangh in Chandigarh Thursday during a seminar on Kashmir and Pak-India relations.

According to the KMS news agency, the attackers barged onto the stage, where Mirwaiz had just started his speech and snatched mike before him. They subjected the APHC Chairman to physical assault.

The All Parties Hurriyet Conference (APHC) has started a campaign to apprise the people of India about the gross human rights violations being committed by Indian troops across the Valley and need for resolution of the Kashmir dispute.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq reached Chandigarh to address the seminar as a part of the campaign. He was also likely to travel to Kolkata for attending another seminar.

It may be mentioned here that the hooligans of Hindu extremist organizations had earlier attacked veteran Kashmiri Hurriyet leader, Syed Ali Gilani, and senior APHC leader, Shabbir Ahmad Shah.

Entertainment News: Romanian satire Morgen speaks universal language

LOS ANGELES: Set against the staunch bureaucratic backdrop of international border politics, “Morgen” is an oddball, gently-observed, fish-out-of-water tale that leaves an impression despite its languid, low-key tone.




Working with a cast of regional actors, Romanian filmmaker Marian Crisan refrains from firing more pointed satirical barbs to make his case for tolerance in the face of ever-tightening government regulations. His efforts were rewarded with multiple prizes at this year”s Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland.



While out fishing, Nelu, a middle-aged, mild-mannered supermarket security guard (Andras Hathazi) lands more than he bargained for when he encounters Behran, an illegal Turkish immigrant (Yilmaz Yalcin) ducking Romanian-Hungarian border police.



Despite the tricky language barrier (the impish, bearded Turk”s lines aren”t even accompanied by subtitles), Nelu offers the cold, hungry man refuge back at his rural farmhouse, much to the irritation of his bossy wife (Elvira Rimbu). In the process of trying to figure out how to smuggle his unintended guest across the border into Hungary, Nelu and Behran end up forming a curiously engaging bond.



Allowing his story to unfold in extended wide-angle shots that underscore the unhurried daily regimen of Nelu”s small-town existence, writer-director Crisan puts an accessible human face on the subjects of politics and xenophobia. While it recalls Danis Tanovic”s Oscar-winning “No Man”s Land” (depicting the 1993 war between Bosnia and Herzegovina) in its examination of the folly of international conflict, Morgen takes a less biting approach to its brand of satire, allowing its universal truths to unfold organically, with the patience of a seasoned fisherman intent on landing the big catch.

Latest News: Krishna asks Pakistan to dismantle terrorists’ network

Indian External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna has asked Pakistan to dismantle the terror machine operating from its territory and bring all the perpetrators of the Mumbai terror attack to speedy justice.

In a statement to coincide with the second anniversary of the terrorist attack in Mumbai, the Minister said, Once again I call upon Pakistan to dismantle the terror machine operating with impunity in territories under its control and to bring all the perpetrators of the Mumbai terror attacks to speedy justice. India has accused Pakistan of not doing enough to bring the plotters behind the audacious attacks to justice.He said India seeks peaceful, stable and cooperative relations with Pakistan. India is committed to resolving all outstanding issues with Pakistan through dialogue, the Minister added.

Bussiness News: EURO Devalues to Historic Low

EURO has plunged down to a historic low after the fears of fiscal crisis in Europe whereas bearish Asian markets have transformed into bullish.

European currency remained under pressure due to increased interest rates on Spanish debts and protests in Portugal. Value of EURO reached 1.32 dollars in London which is a historic low value. Apprehensions related with affects of Irish fiscal crisis reaching Portugal and Spain are also prevailing.

On the other hand German Chancellor Anjela Merkel has termed the fiscal and monetary situation of Europe as serious.

Afghanistan defeat Pakistan, Pakistan Got Upset Defeat

In the first semi-final game of cricket of Asian game Pakistan got defeated from Afghanistan team. The match was played at Guanggong International Cricket Stadium. It was upset defeat to Pakistan team. Pakistan team was favorite to win the Asian game but it was bad luck for them as they got defeated from Afghanistan team.

Babar Awan says Agriculture Tax is Provincial Matter,

Federal Law minister Babar Awan has said that after the 18th amendment, imposition of tax on agriculture has become a provincial matter.

Talking to the media outside the parliament house,

Freida Pinto look for work in Indian language film

Updated at: 1011 PST,  Thursday, November 25, २०१०

MUMBAI: Slumdog Millionaire’ star Freida Pinto has ruled out starring in a Bollywood movie as she thinks many of the films are “churned out” by producers with no quality control.


The Mumbai-born actress, who shot to worldwide fame with the Oscar-winning movie, has been offered several “

Pakistan, Malaysia final clash begins in A. Games hockey

GUANGZHOU: The final clash between Pakistan and Malaysia for lifting the Asian Games hockey title has begun here.
Pakistan has reached the final of Asian Games hockey after 20 years,

United States worried at new WikiLeaks release

The United States is concerned about a big dumping of classified documents by WikiLeaks which is expected to include diplomatic cables, State Department spokesman Philip Crowley said.

"We are gearing up for the worst-case scenario, that leaked cables will touch on a wide range of issues and countries,"

M.Q.M: Urges Agriculture Tax in RGST Talks

KARACHI, Pakistan News: The second round of talks, held between government officials and a delegation from MQM to review RGST, has concluded here late Wednesday.
Talks, ended after 1:00 am, lasted for no less than 8 hours .
Government, during the talks, assured MQM of reviewing RGST, however, MQM

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Rehman Malik: Anti-Corruption Drive To End Mence From Country:

Minister for Interior Rehman Malik said on Tuesday that the anti-corruption drive launched by the government would end the menace from the country.Talking to mediapersons outside the parliament, he said “the measures taken by the government

SHC To Hear Twin Offices Case Tomorrow

KARACHI: Chief Justice of Sindh High Court Sarmad Jalal Osmani today constituted a three-member bench to hear a constitutional petition challenging the two offices of the president of Pakistan and co-chairman of the Pakistan People’s Party held by Asif Ali Zardarim, our News reported Tuesday.

5 Dead in Mingora blast

A suicide bomber blew himself up in an apparent attack at a security convoy, killing at least five people including two women and injuring 45

Model Shayda Bastani released after $1.1m bail paid (AUS)

THE pregnant fiancee of Kings Cross identity Fadi Ibrahim has been released from a Sydney jail after making bail.
Shaghayegh Bastani, known as Shayda,

Budget surplus forecast to be $2 billion larger (AUS)

THE Federal Government is now forecasting a $3.1 billion Budget surplus in three years' time, larger than the $1 billion anticipated in the May Budget.

Budget For S Punjab Uplift Lauded

Health coordinator Punjab Sheikh Tariq Rasheed has lauded the provincial budget for an allocation of Rs 52 billion for south Punjab uplift. The huge development

Pakistani Parliamentarians Attend Briefing At NATO Headquarters

A delegation of Young Parliamentarian Forum led by Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Faisal Karim Kundi visited North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Headquarters on the invitation from Public Diplomacy Division of NATO. The purpose of the visit was

Punjab Assembly passes pro-media resolution

Amid media protest and boycott on fourth consecutive day, the Punjab Assembly during its proceedings on Tuesday passed a resolution recognizing and appreciating the media’s role for restoration

Govt to ensure equitable water distribution : Gilani

Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani said on Tuesday the government would protect rights of all the provinces and ensure equitable distribution as per 1991 Water Accord.Chairing a meeting here at the Prime Minster’s Secretariat, Gilani emphasized “depoliticization”

Country’s armed forces fully capable of coping internal, external challenges: PM

Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza on Tuesday said the country’s defence forces were fully capable of coping with internal and external challenges and expressed satisfaction over the high state of preparedness of Pakistan

LONDON: Iceland will close two airports on Friday for the first time,

Iceland will close two airports on Friday for the first time, a week after ash from an Icelandic volcano forced the shutdown of airspace over much of Europe and stranded thousands of passengers around the world, the Icelandic aviation authority announced.

The Keflavik International Airport and Reykjavík International Airport will be closed beginning early Friday morning, the aviation authority said, according to a statement on the Keflavik airport's website.

Though the ash cloud originated in Iceland, the country's airports have been spared from closure until now. Strong northwest winds had been blowing ash from the volcano, in the south of Iceland, out to sea and over Europe.


Elsewhere in Europe, most airports appeared to be open on Thursday and are expected to be open Friday.

That reduction in volcanic activity appeared to be the main reason that flights resumed operating in Europe on Wednesday, along with European countries relaxing their restrictions on flight, according to a spokeswoman for Eurocontrol, an intergovernmental body that manages European air travel.

Iceland will close two airports on Friday for the first time, a week after ash from an Icelandic volcano forced the shutdown of airspace over much of Europe and stranded thousands of passengers around the world, the Icelandic aviation authority announced.

The Keflavik International Airport and Reykjavík International Airport will be closed beginning early Friday morning, the aviation authority said, according to a statement on the Keflavik airport's website.

Though the ash cloud originated in Iceland, the country's airports have been spared from closure until now. Strong northwest winds had been blowing ash from the volcano, in the south of Iceland, out to sea and over Europe.

Elsewhere in Europe, most airports appeared to be open on Thursday and are expected to be open Friday.

Iceland will close two airports on Friday for the first time, a week after ash from an Icelandic volcano forced the shutdown of airspace over much of Europe and stranded thousands of passengers around the world, the Icelandic aviation authority announced.

The Keflavik International Airport and Reykjavík International Airport will be closed beginning early Friday morning, the aviation authority said, according to a statement on the Keflavik airport's website.

Though the ash cloud originated in Iceland, the country's

PM Gilani Pakistan desires peace, stability in region

ISLAMABAD, Apr 22 (apakistannewss.blogspot.com): Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has said that Pakistan desires peace and stability in the region and looks forward to establish friendly bilateral relations with all countries of the region.

Zardari: PPP Proved Critics Wrong By Curtailing Presidential Powers

BAHAWALPUR, Apr 22 (apakistannewss.blogspot.com) resident Asif Ali Zardari said Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) government proved its critics wrong as he gave up presidential powers and preserved rights of the people. Addressing the inaugural ceremony of Benazir Smart Card here at Ashrafabad, the President said 35 years ago Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto took forward the idea to bring power to the people. “We want to rule hearts of the people,” he said adding, “I did not stick to presidential powers and gave them back. Slogan of PPP is that people are the rulers.” He said for PPP leaders politics was worship and they embraced martyrdom and went to jails to preserve and protect rights of the people and their party lived on.

Zardari: Govt. Would do everything to address common men’s problems

BAHAWALPUR, April 22 Recognizing the enormity of problems faced by the common men, President Asif Ali Zardari Thursday reiterated the government’s resolve to address these issues problems by utilizing all available resources while generating more. “I know the problems are enormous, but the government will address these issues by increasing the country’s resources,” Zardari said while addressing a convention of the representatives, office bearers and the leadership of Peoples Youth Organization (PYO), Peoples Students Federation (PSF) and Peoples Labour Bureau (PLB) from Multan, Bahawalpur and D.G. Khan divisions here at Ashrafabad.

5 Militants Killed In Orakzai

Orakzai: 5 Militants Killed In Orakzai As many as 5 militants have been killed in a clash with security forces in Orakzai Agency today Reported by A Paksitan News. Security forces engaged the militants in a clash in Mushti Mela, Orakzai. Resultantly, 5 militants killed and 3...

Two weekly offs announced for govt offices

Lahore: Minister for Water and Power Raja Pervaiz Ashraf said the use of air-conditioners at the government offices would not be allowed before 11am, Geo News reported Thursday.He said while talking to a media briefing that the shops and commercial centers would be closed after 8pm except necessary businesses like pharmacy and bakeries etc..

Shoaib Sania Welcome in Pakistan

Lahore: Pakistan cricketer Shoaib Malik and Indian tennis star Sania Mirza have arrived here at the Jinnah International Airport. The newly-wed couple has come from Mumbai through PIA flight PK-275. The couple is present at the international lounge where PIA officials will host a luncheon in their honour after which they will go to domestic lounge to take the flight for Islamabad.

Hazarah Division Back To Life Again On 3rd mourning day

HAZARAH: Hazarah Division, which has been tense for several past days, began returning to normalcy, Geo News reported Thursday. After four-day violence which claimed the lives of at least ten people, the commercial centers, educational institutions and offices have re-opened amid mourning in the air. Fateha Khawni is in progress at mosques for the eternal peace of the deceased. The flowers are being showered on their graves. The traffic on the city roads is in full swing. The food supply to the city, which remained cut off for four days, has been restored. Karakoram Highway has been re-opened after several days.

Pakistan Fitness Concerns Ahead Of World T20

Pakistan face an anxious wait to know whether Twenty20 expert Umar Gul will be fit for the World Twenty20 as the team manager expressed hope Tuesday that the fast bowler can play. The 25-year-old Gul sustained a shoulder injury while fielding at a training camp in the eastern city of Lahore last week, but managed to bowl with a short run-up on Tuesday. All-rounder Yasir Arafat, 28, also injured his calf muscle and is awaiting a fitness test before the team departs on April 24. The third edition of the World Twenty20 will be held in the West Indies from April 30 to May 16. Pakistan, the defending champions, are placed in Group A alongside Australia and Bangladesh. Team manager Yawar Saeed said Gul felt no pain and is on the path to recovery. "We had MRI scans on both Gul and Arafat and a radiologist also examined them. Gul bowled three overs in the nets with a short run-up and felt no pain, so we are hopeful and will take fitness test on Saturday," Saeed told AFP. Gul is the most successful bowler in Twenty20 history with 43 wickets in 26 matches and also recorded best-ever figures in a Twenty20 match when he took 5-6 against New Zealand in the World Twenty20 in England last year. Arafat has played just seven T20 matches, taking six wickets. He was replaced mid-way through last year's World Twenty20 in England after sustaining an injury.

Gillani: Manmohan accepts invitation to visit Pakistan

Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has accepted invitation to visit Pakistan, claimed Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani, who had twice informal chats with Indian PM on the sideline of Nuclear Summit, which concluded here on Tuesday, Geo news reported.

obama meets chinese president at nuclear summit

US President Barack Obama met with Chinese President Hu Jintao at the start at the start of a 47-nation nuclear security summit in Washington, DC. The talks are expected to help determine whether China is prepared to join Western powers in a new round of UN sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program. Tehran says its ambitions are peaceful and it does not intend to build a weapon.

ndian Forces Shelling At Sialkot Working Boundary

SIALKOT PAKISTAN NEWS: Indian security forces opened unprovoked fire at Sialkot working boundary on Tuesday morning. Correspondent said in Shakargarh sector shells were fired with heavy guns from the Indian side. The shelling continued for 20 minutes. Indian troops unprovoked firing in Pakistani territory has become almost a routine and the security officials of the sides have held several flag meetings to sort out the matter.

Cheif Justice presses for effective Judicial Policy

Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Iftikhar Muhammed Chaudhry underscored the need for effective promulgation of Judicial Policy, Geo News reported Saturday. Addressing the session of National Judicial Policy Making Committee here, he directed that steps should be taken for efficacious dispensation of justice at low level. The CJs of all four provinces attended the meeting of the Committee. The CJ Chaudhry said pending cases were disposed of successfully to a large extent despite load shedding and the judicial timings, adding the judges and lawyers of the subordinate judiciary are working hard. Without the cooperation of the Bar, the target is inaccessible, he added. The Chief Justice said the International Judicial Conference would be held in Islamabad from April 16 to 18 to be attended by delegates from across the globe. He said the judiciary and the lawyers would be denied any ‘shortcut’.

Pakistan: No Compromise On Nuclear Deterrence Capability

Pakistan has said that it will not make any comprise on its nuclear deterrence capability as it guarantees peace and security in the region.

Air strikes kill 45 in Khyber ‘jirgah’

Conflicting reports suggest the jirgah was arranged by a banned militant organisation when jets struck Tirah Valley.

Govt. Girls High school Bihari Chok Green Town, Lahore.

Sania Shoiab tie the knot today

HYDERABAD: Pakistani Cricketer Shoiab Malik and Indian Tennis ace Sania Mirza tie the knot today, an Indian newspaper reported on Friday. Nikah will perform after Magrib at the residence of Sania Mirza. As per Islamic Law Nikah will be perform by Qazi Azmathullah Jafferi in the presence of both family members, relatives and some intimate friends.

Australia, Pakistan ties developing: Foreign Minister

Islamabad: Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Qamar Zaman Kaira has felicitated the nation on passing of the 18th amendment by the National Assembly and said it showed that only democratic system could deliver. Talking to media persons outside the parliament house today, the Minister said it was a historic moment and the legislators did a great job and rose up to the expectations of the nation. He said a section of media was criticizing the government and even some elements were doubtful before the actual tabling of the amendment that President would not transfer his powers to the parliament.

Muhammad Yousaf Raza GIllani congratulates Rabbani on adoption of 18th Amendment Bill in NA

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Thursday congratulated Chairman, Parliamentary Committee on Constitution Reforms, Senator Raza Rabbani on adoption of the 18th Amendment Bill in the National Assembly. He appreciated the hard work and expertise of the members of the committee in drafting the far reaching amendment with consensus, since adoption of the 1973 Constitution. The Chairman, Parliamentary Committee on Constitution Reforms thanked the Prime Minister for playing a leading role in evolving consensus in the Parliament on the Bill.

18th Amendment Bill NA passes , PM felicitate the Nation

Islamabad. Amidst desks thumping and in a very charged atmosphere, National Assembly Thursday passed the historic Constitution (18th amendment) Bill, 2010 by two- thirds majority, to restore the 1973 constitution to its original form and strengthen institutions. The House passed the bill containing 102 clauses, while rejecting a few amendments regarding concurrent list, renaming the NWFP, intra-party elections and women seats in the House and within parties, proposed by a few members of Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q).

Gas Generator in pakistan

Shahbaz Shareef

Gas Genrator not for use

NA Approves Judicial Commission

The National Assembly approved the seven-member commission for the appointment of judges in the SC and 11-member commission for the appointment of judges in the high courts. New article 175A approved by the majority to provide for the constitution of a seven-member judicial commission - for naming judges for appointment to superior courts to be confirmed by a parliamentary committee - consisting of the chief justice (chairman) and two senior-most judges of the Supreme court, a former chief justice or judge of the same court to be nominated by the chief justice, federal minister for law and justice, the attorney-general and a senior advocate of the Supreme Court to be nominated by the Pakistan Bar Council for two years.

Sindh against 18th amendment Strike in interior

The business activities remained suspended in interior Sindh on Thursday in response to shutter down and wheel jam call by the nationalist parties against 18th amendment. Trade and business activities remained suspended in Hyderabad, Kotri ,Tandu Jam, Tandu Allahyar, Badin and Matiary and other towns and cities and traffic remained thin. Meanwhile, unknown persons burnt tyres at National Highway and blocked the road. Heavy police contingents have been deployed to avert any untoward incident.

Obama, Medvedev sign nuclear disarmament treaty

US and Russian presidents Barack Obama and Dmitry Medvedev signed a landmark treaty cutting their nations' nuclear arsenals in Prague on Thursday. Moscow and Washington agreed the treaty after months of tough negotiations bogged down by various disagreements, particularly over US missile defence plans that Russia opposes. The treaty, which must be approved by the US Senate and the Russian parliament to take effect, is a successor to the 1991 Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START), which expired last December. The so-called "new START" cuts the number of deployed warheads by 30 percent from the levels set in the last major US-Russian disarmament treaty in 2002, specifying limits of 1,550 nuclear warheads for each of the two countries.

Shoaib Thanks

Former captain of Pakistan cricket team Shoaib Malik has expressed gratitude for nation and media for supporting him. In a statement, Shoaib said he is thankful to God and Pakistani nation who extended full support during his tough times. He said God knows everything and said he will personally thank the media friends as soon as he reach back home. “ I apologize if anyone feels hurt as far as my decision is concerned,” Shoaib added. On the other hand, Indian police said investigations are on as the case against Shoaib Malik has not been abolished.

ISLAMABAD: Survey launched to identify people below poverty line: Tarin

dvisor to Prime Minister on Finance Shaukat Tarin said on Sunday that a household income survey had been launched with the help of World Bank to identify the people below poverty line.Addressing a post-budget press conference, he said the people below the poverty line would be provided Benazir Cards for the provision of relief.

Islamabad: Tarin urges parliamentarians to show tax details

Advisor to Prime Minister on Finance Shaukat Tarin Sunday urged the parliamentarians to announce details of taxes they pay, in order to persuade people to pay taxes for national progress and development.

Islamabad: Budget reflecting nine point economic agenda of Govt : Tarin

Advisor to Prime Minister on Finance Shaukat Tarin has said budget speech reflects nine‑point economic agenda of the government. Talking to PTV on Saturday night, he lauded the efforts of economic advisory council and experts from various sectors in making budget keeping in view aspiration of the people.

Peshawar : NWFP cabinet approves revised estimates, budget 2009 10

The NWFP Cabinet in its special meeting held here Wednesday under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Ameer Haider Khan Hoti approved the revised estimates 2008‑09 and budget estimates 2009‑10.

Peshawar: Debate on NWFP budget concluded

Parliamentarians in NWFP Assembly have criticized the NWFP government for not taking measure to control the deficit and said that government failed to adopt any mechanism for controlling the deficit, which they termed as the record shortfall during the last 72 years history of the province. While taking part in the debate on budget parliamentary leader of Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarian (PPPP) and former Speaker Abdul Akbar Khan said that the deficit reflected in the supplementary budget of the province was also record high.

NWFP assembly passes Rs214 Billion Budget for the fiscal year 2009-10

NWFP assembly has passed Rs214.18 Billion budget on Monday after the members of the assembly from opposition and treasury benches withdrew their cut motions on the demands of grants on the request of NWFP Chief minister Ameer Haider Hoti. (Peshawar)

Lahore: Rs 2.3 billion earmarked for new vocational institutes

The Punjab government in its annual budget 2009-10 has allocated Rs 2.3 billion for the establishment of more new vocational training institutes in the province. The allocation will help enhance global competitiveness in Punjab, through qualitative and productive workforce by developing demand driven, standardized, dynamic and integrated Technical Education and Vocational Training system.

Lahore: Govt announces 15 pc ad-hoc relief to govt servants in budget

unjab government has announced 15 per cent ad hoc relief allowance for in-service government employees and 15 percent increase in net pension of retired employees from July 1, 2009 in the provincial budget 2009-10. Punjab Finance Minister Tanvir Ashraf Kaira announced this in his budget speech during the 13th session of the house here Tuesday. Speaker PA Rana Muhammad Iqbal was chairing the session.

Highlights of Punjab Budget 2009-10 (Punjab)

Pakistan Lahore: Highlights of Punjab Budget 2009-10 presented by Punjab Finance Minister Tanvir Ashraf Kaira in the provincial assembly are as under:-

US says focused on Pakistan energy needs, confident of nuclear safety

The United States is focused on meeting Pakistan’s growing energy needs, the State Department said in remarks Wednesday which indicated Washington’s openness to the possibility of future civilian nuclear cooperation with the key South Asian ally.“We are focused on Pakistan’s energy needs. But as we said last week, right now, that does not include civilian nuclear energy,” Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs P J Crowley said in response to a question at the daily briefing.

NPC to hold gala in celebration of consensus on 18th Amendment

The National Press Club (NPC) will organise ‘Jash-e-Jahmuriat Family Gala’ on April 10 to commemorate consensus on 18th Constitutional Amendment at Convention Center for supporting and strengthening democracy and supremacy of parliament in the country. Talking to APP, President NPC Afzal Butt said journalists waged a long battle for restoring constitution of 1973 to its real stature and faced number of hardships including imprisonment, flogging and torture.

Pakistan edges closer to banning domestic violence : Washington Post

The National Assembly Thursday repealed the Legal Framework Order, 2002 (Chief Executive’s Order No. 24 of 2002), with majority of the vote.The House passed the clause two of the bill further to amend the Constitution (18th amendment) bill, 2010 with 258 votes in favour of the clause.The Speaker National Assembly Dr. Fehmida Mirza announced “the Clause-II of the bill is passed with votes not less than two third of the total House,” after conducting vote on it.

Pakistan Army’s Mushak trainer crashes, pilot embraces shahadat

Mushak trainer aircraft of Pakistan Army crashed on Thursday while on its routine flight mission in Nagman Charsada road near Peshawar. According to ISPR, the pilot of the single seat aircraft, Captain Rashid embraced Shahadat following the crash. Body of the Shaheed pilot is being taken to Gilgit for burial with all military honors, in his home town. An enquiry into the incident has been ordered.

China snubs India on Security Council Seat

China snubbed India on its bid to become sixth member of United Nations Security Council as Indian Foreign Minister S M Krishna sought China support for the same during his recent four day official visit to China. Political analysists said here Thursday. The joint press conference by the two respective foreign ministers and the communique also failed to find a mention of much sought after China’s support with respect to permanent seat in the UN Security Council.

NA passes bill to substitute Article 58 of Constitution

The National Assembly Thursday passed Clause 17, of the 18th Amendment bill, 2010, to substitute Article 58 of the Constitution with ‘Dissolution of the National Assembly’. “Under the Clause, the President shall dissolve the National Assembly if so advised by the Prime Minister; and the National Assembly shall, unless sooner dissolved, stand dissolved at the expiration of 48 hours after the Prime Minister has so advised.

NA adopts 80 clauses of Constitutional Bill

The National Assembly on Thursday adopted 80 clauses of the over hundred-clause ‘Constitutional (Eighteenth Amendment) Bill 2010’ with two third majority and by also rejecting amendments in the bill by certain members.

PM assures no operation in Kala Dhaka

Apr 8 : Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Thursday assured JUI Members in the National Assembly that no military operation will be carried out in Kala Dhaka.Prime Minister gave this assurance to JUI members, who staged token walk out from the proceedings of the House soon after it started.Prime Minister said that he had already given this assurance to JUI members who called on him prior to the session and he reaffirmed in the House that no operation would be undertaken in Kala Dhaka.

Zardari urges parliament to pass 18th amendment bill without delay

ISLAMABAD, Apr 5 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday recalling repeated suspension of Constitution by “undemocratic forces” in the past that gravely undermined the federation, urged the parliament to pass the 18th constitutional amendment bill without delay.“The people of Pakistan are keenly watching and waiting for this crucial reforms bill to pass. This initiative must lead to new beginnings,” the President said in his address to the joint sitting of Senate and National Assembly here at the Parliament House.

ISLAMABAD, Apr 6 (APP): Exports from Pakistan to Malaysia witnessed unprecedented increase of 24.60 percent during year 2009 as compared to the export

ISLAMABAD, Apr 6 (APP): Exports from Pakistan to Malaysia witnessed unprecedented increase of 24.60 percent during year 2009 as compared to the exports of 2008.According to a press statement received here on Tuesday from Commercial Counselor for Pakistan High Commission in Malaysia, Wajiullah Kundi, the latest data for the year 2009 released by Malaysia External Trade Development Authority (MRTD) said that the total exports to Malaysia by Pakistan reached to RM.526.12 million in 2009 as compared to RM.422.32 million registered in 2008.

Fehmida for healthcare services in disaster management strategy Fehmida for healthcare services in disaster management strategy

ISLAMABAD, Apr 6 (APP): Speaker National Assembly Dr.Fehmida Mirza Tuesday stressed the need for integration of prompt healthcare services in the disaster management strategy in order to provide prompt medical care to the disaster stricken people.In her message on the World Health Day, being observed on Wednesday, Fehmida Mirza said it was imperative to make hospitals safe heavens for disaster stricken people instead of becoming disaster zones themselves.

Zardari ensuring supremacy of parliament: Firdous Ashiq

ISLAMABAD, Apr 6 (APP): Federal Minister for Population Welfare Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan on Tuesday said that President Asif Ali Zardari has taken a remarkable step through surrendering his powers for strengthing democracy and supremacy of the Parliament.Talking to APP after the joint session of the parliament, she said that it is remarkable step in the history of Pakistan, as for the first time a President has talked about the importance of institutions rather than individuals.She said, “Shaheed Benazir Bhutto had taken the initiative of reconciliation but today her vision has been practically implemented.”

Naek lauds introduction of 18th Amendment

ISLAMABAD, Apr 6 (APP): Chairman Senate, Farooq H. Naek here on Tuesday expressed delight and profound satisfaction over the introduction of 18th Amendment in the Parliament.Chairing the meeting of Senate House Business Advisory Committee, comprising heads of Parliamentary parties represented in the Senate, Naek said that being a historic consensus document, it symbolizes sovereignty of the Parliament.

Next budget to be tabled in June: Fehmida

ISLAMABAD, Apr 6 (APP): National Assembly Speaker Dr. Fehmida Mirza Tuesday said the next fiscal budget would be tabled in the Parliament in June as per the previous practices.She said this while talking to journalists here at the Parliament House. She hoped that the Constitutional Reforms Bill would be passed during the current session of the parliament.Fehmida said it was the combined contribution of all the political parties who kept in view the national interest and it was their big success.

Afghans can’t forget Pakistani support during Jihad: Prof Rabbani

KABUL, April 6 (APP): Former Afghan President Prof. Burhanuddin Rabbani has said that Afghan people cannot forget Pakistani support during the Soviet invasion and hosting millions of refugees so far.Talking to APP, Prof Rabbani said both the countries have historical relations and shared deep-rooted bonds of history, culture, geography, customs, languages, literature and faith.He said the Pakistani government always extended full support to Afghan people at the time of trial.

Country’s Armed Forces Fully Capable Of Coping internal, external challenges: PM

THAL COMPLEX, Apr 6 (APP): Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza on Tuesday said the country’s defence forces were fully capable of coping with internal and external challenges and expressed satisfaction over the high state of preparedness of Pakistan Air Force in carrying out anti-terrorist operations.The Prime Minister was addressing a select audience after witnessing a live fire power demonstration by the aircraft of Pakistan Air Force, marking successful conclusion of the first phase of exercise High Mark 2010. Chairman Joint chiefs of Staff Committee, three Services Chiefs, federal minister for defence and foreign defence attaches also witnessed the awesome fire power demonstration. The demonstration represented by the complete fleet of PAF, reflective of the devastating fire power of the PAF, was performed by F-16, JF-17 Thunder and Mirage aircraft at the PAF Thal Range. Prime Minister Gilani, who took keen interest in exercises of targeting the mock hideouts of terrorists said the speed, accuracy and strength of Pakistan Air Force was clearly visible in the demonstration. He expressed satisfaction that Pakistan Air Force, despite its heavy commitment in the ongoing Counter Terrorist Operations, and remaining within its own resources, undertook a major exercise High Mark-2010, which shows its full preparedness for its missions, role and task. He said the event not only portrayed the true potential of Pakistan Air Force, but also indicates its superior professionalism, incomparable skills and matchless team work of its air warriors, as well as the vision and planning of its commanders. Gilani said Pakistan strives for peace in a stable environment and assured the regional countries that it has no aggressive designs against anyone. “We, however, need to test our defensive capabilities,” he said.

کرکٹ اور ٹینس کا تاریخی بندھن

برصغیر کے میگا اسٹارز شعیب ملک اور ثانیہ مرزا کی منگنی کی خبر نے پاکستان اور بھارت میں ہلچل مچا دی۔ شادی 15 اپریل کو حیدرآباد دکن میں ہونے کا امکان ہے۔ ثانیہ مرزا شادی کے بعد پاکستان آئیں گی، جہاں ولیمہ کی تقریب ہوگی۔ اپنے اپنے میدانوں کے شہ سواروں کے درمیان رومانس کا آغاز اطلاعات کے مطابق لگ بھگ چھ ماہ قبل ہوا تھا۔ یہی وہ وقت تھا جب جنگ گروپ اور بھارتی ا دارے ٹائمز آف انڈیا کے درمیان امن کی آشا کے لئے بات چیت کا آغاز ہوا تھا۔ سابق کرکٹ کپتان شعیب ملک اور ٹینس کوئن ثانیہ مرزا کی منگنی کی خبر عین اس روز منظر عام پر آئی جب کراچی میں پاک بھارت دوستی و امن مشاعرے کی تیاریاں آخری مرحلے میں ہیں۔ شعیب ملک نے دبئی سے نمائندہ جنگ سے بات چیت کرتے ہوئے خبر کی تصدیق کردی۔ شعیب ملک کے خاندانی ذرائع کے مطابق شعیب ملک اور ثانیہ مرزا کی منگنی ایک ماہ قبل ہوئی تھی۔ دونوں خاندانوں کی ملاقات دبئی میں ہوئی۔ ذرائع کے مطابق شعیب ملک اور ثانیہ مرزا کی شادی اپریل کے دوسرے ہفتے میں ہوگی۔ شعیب ملک اور ثانیہ کے خاندانوں کی پہلی باضابطہ ملاقات گزشتہ ماہ دبئی میں پاکستان اور انگلینڈ کے درمیان دو ٹی ٹوئنٹی میچوں کے دوران ہوئی تھی۔ اس کے بعد شعیب ملک کی والدہ، بہن اور بہنوئی نے حیدرآباد دکن کا سفر کیا جہاں باضابطہ منگنی کی تقریب ہوئی۔ اس سے قبل شعیب ملک اور ثانیہ مرزا کی ملاقات ہوبارٹ (آسٹریلیا) میں بھی ہوئی تھی۔ ثانیہ مرزا کے والد نے تصدیق کی ہے کہ شعیب ملک کے ساتھ ثانیہ مرزا کی منگنی کی خبر درست ہے ۔شعیب ملک کی شادی کے بعد لاہور اور سیالکوٹ میں ولیمے کی تقریب ہوگی۔ ولیمے کی تقریب 16اور 17اپریل کو متوقع ہے۔ انہوں نے کہا کہ ثانیہ مرزا شادی کے بعد پاکستان آئیں گی، جہاں ولیمے کی تقریب ہوگی۔ واضح رہے کہ شعیب ملک کا حیدرآباد دکن کی عائشہ، اداکارہ سیالی بھگت سے بھی رومانس رہاہے۔ پاکستان کے سابق کپتان شعیب ملک کی ہونے والی اہلیہ ٹینس سپر اسٹار ثانیہ مرزا نے کہا ہے کہ ان کی ہونے والی شادی ان شاء اللہ ان کی زندگی کا سب سے بڑا دن ہوگا۔ کیا ثانیہ مرزا اور شعیب ملک کی شادی دونوں ملکوں کے درمیان ”امن کی آشا “میں اہم پیش رفت ثابت ہوگی؟

Shoaib’s marriage with Sania Nobody can stop

Legal experts say that Shoaib Malik’s marriage with Sania Mirza is their personal matter and nobody can stop them from this wedding. The experts’ stance in this regard is that if this is Shoaib’s second marriage then also the Shoaib-Sania wedding cannot be stopped under Indian law. Meanwhile, an Indian Tv said that the date of the wedding will be finalized after Shoaib’s family arrives in India. On the other hand, Bharatia Janata Party (BJP) asked Sania to reconsider her decision to marry Shoaib.x_x

Pakistan Arrests Ended UN Talks With Taliban: ex-UN envoy

LONDON: The arrest of key Taliban leaders in Pakistan put a halt to secret peace talks with the United Nations, the former UN special representative to Afghanistan said Friday in an interview.

Kai Eide, who stepped down from the post earlier this month, confirmed for the first time that he had held talks with senior Taliban figures but said these ended when Pakistan made a series of high-profile arrests. 


"Of course I met the Taliban leaders during the time I was in Afghanistan," said the Norwegian diplomat, talking to the broadcaster at his home in Oslo. Full Story

Full Story

"The first contact was probably last spring, then of course you moved into the election process where there was a lull in activity, and then communication picked up when the election process was over, and it continued to pick up until a certain moment a few weeks ago."

Face-to-face talks were held in Dubai and other locations, and he described the discussions as "in the early stages... talks about talks."

Such negotiations would have been impossible without the authorisation of the movement's leader, Mullah Omar, the diplomat believes.

The process had accelerated a few months ago, but Eide said it had come to a standstill after a top Taliban military commander and other figures from the militia were captured in Pakistan.

"The Pakistanis did not play the role they should have played. They must have known about this," he said.

"I don't believe these people were arrested by coincidence. They must have known who they were, what kind of role they were playing -- and you see the result today."

Pakistani officials have insisted the arrests were not aimed at wrecking the talks, media reported.

Taliban military commander Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar was captured last month in the southern Pakastani city of Karachi in Pakistan, in what US media said was a joint operation with American spies.

Other senior Taliban commanders have also reportedly been captured in Pakistan recently.

Senior US general David Petraeus last month hailed "important breakthroughs" and detentions in Pakistan, as he visited the country.

The developments were interpreted in the US as a sign of success in efforts to persuade Pakistani authorities to act against Afghan Taliban leaders on its territory.

Power Outage Continues Across the Country

LAHORE/HYDERABAD: Severe load shedding continued across the country as prolonged power cuts made common man’s life miserable. Hyderabad, Sukkur, Khairpur, Noshehro Feroz, Ghotki, Obaro, Nawabshah, Jaccobabad, Mirpur Khas and Larkana experiencing eight-hour load shedding in urban areas and 18- hour load shedding in rural areas. More than ten-hour load shedding affected industrial activities in Sialkot and Faisalabad whereas daily life also affected in different areas of Punjab due to 12 to 14 hours load shedding. Balochistan, NWFP and Azad Kashmir also passing through prolonged power cuts. Common expressed anger over organizations responsible for electric supply and demanded stern action against them and reduction in the duration of load shedding.

PCB central contracts, stipends to 37 players

LAHORE: Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has awarded central contracts to 37 players but it ignored five senior cricketers Shoaib Akhtar, Rana Naved-ul-Hasan and former captains Younis Khan, Mohammad Yousuf and Shoaib Malik while announcing the central contracts here on Friday. The PCB has placed 18 players in three categories while 19 cricketers have succeeded in getting special monthly stipends. Shahid Afridi, Kamran Akmal, Umar Gul, Salman Butt, Abdul Razzaq, Mohamamd Asif and Danish Kaneria were placed in "A" category and they will earn Rs250,000 a month. Umer Akmal, Mohammad Aamir, Saeed Ajmal, Faisal Iqbal, Misbah-ul-Haq and Imran Farhat have been given "B" category and they are entitled to a monthly salary of Rs175,000. Fawad Alam, Yasir Arafat, Mohammad Hafeez, Wahab Riaz and Abdul Rehman have been placed in "C" category, which brings a monthly salary of Rs100,000.

Rangers in Faizabad as violent protests on

RAWALPINDI: Violent protests continued in Faizabad and Murre-Bara Kahu Road against hike in fares of public transport. Protestors set bon fires and pelting stones at police as police resort tear gas shelling. On the other hand, Rangers have been called in Faizabad to bring situation under control. Angry protestors smashed windowpanes of shops and vehicles, set ablaze a car and blocked the road. Five policemen sustained injuries during the protest. Expressway and Murree Road have been closed for traffic. Police have arrested several protestors as severe shelling and Ariel firing on in these areas. Sporadic clashes have also been reported. Protestors blamed that administration has been failed to rein transporters who charged increased fares, which is th

China, Hits out at UK human rights repor

China has accused Britain of putting on a political show after a UK review of human rights around the world was highly critical of Beijing. The report, issued on Wednesday, named China as one of some 20 nations where there was cause for serious concern about human rights. Burma, Zimbabwe and North Korea were also named as countries of concern. The report said there had been a marked deterioration in some areas of human rights in China.

Red shirt' leaders say Bangkok protests to go on (Thai)

Thai 'red shirt' opposition demonstrators say they plan to stay in Bangkok indefinitely, albeit in smaller numbers.

US healthcare bill 'will reduce deficit by $138bn

The US Congressional Budget Office says the final version of the Democrats' healthcare plan will cut the federal deficit by $138bn over 10 years. The non-partisan body said the proposed legislation, which the House is expected to vote on at the weekend, would cost about $940bn over a decade. President Barack Obama said the bill represented the most significant effort to reduce the deficit since the 1990s. He has delayed a trip to Asia until June to help lobby wavering Democrats. The reforms would deliver on Mr Obama's top domestic priority by providing insurance to some 30 million Americans who currently lack it. They would increase insurance coverage through tax credits for the middle class and expanding of the Medicaid programme for the poor. If approved, they would represent the biggest change in the US healthcare system since the creation in the 1960s of Medicare, the government-run scheme for Americans aged 65 or over.

Jerusalem's African quarter (In pictures)