LPG prices increased by Rs5 per kg

31 mARCH 2011
The marketing companies have increased the prices of LPG by Rs 5 per kilogram in view of increase its prices in international market.The new prices of Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) in different cities would be as under: 10.5 kg domestic cylinder will be Rs.1,121 to 1,180 in Lahore, Gujranwala, Dera Gazi Khan and Karachi, Rs. 1,180-1,239 in Sialkot, Faisalbad and Sargodha, Rs. 1,239-1,298 for 11 Kg in Multan, Rs. 1,357 to 1,416 for 12 kg in Murree, Rahim Yar Khan and Muzaffarbad, Rs. 1,475-1,534 for 13 kg in Bagh, Azad Kashmir, FATA and Swat , Rs. 1,357-1,298) for 15 kg in Kohat and Rs.1,298-1,357 for 11.5 kg in Peshawar, Bahawalpur,Rawalpindi and Islamabad.The pre-planned increase in LPG prices by marketing companies and producers have reduced 60 per cent consumption of LPG.Muhammed Irfan Khokhar, chairman of LPG Distributors Association Pakistan and FPCCI LPG zonal standing committee said that LPG marketing companies have been fined earlier by OGRA on the request of LPG distributors over increasing in prices without permission by the authorities.He said that LPG marketing companies had not imported any kind of gas despite of that they are selling local gas as imported gas and he asked the government to review the LPG prices and stop that black mafia.

12 dead in Charsadda suicide attack, JUI_F Chief escaped life attempt

31 March 2011
At least 12 persons were killed including two policemen and 31 others injured when a suicide bomber apparently targeting the vehicle of JUI_F Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, blew himself up near DCO office on Thursday, police said.JUI (F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, who arrived to address party workers remained unhurt in the deadly suicide attack. However, windscreen of Maulana’s vehicle was smashed Two policemen escorting the vehicle of JUI_F Chief including Sub Inspector Jamrooz Khan and constable Haider Shah along with 12 people were killed.Ameer Jamiat-e- Ulama-e Islam, Maulana Fazlur Rehman had also escaped a similar attack on Wednesday at Swabi. As many as 10 persons were killed in Swabi’s suicide hit.

President takes notice of reports on extortion in Karachi

31 March 2011
President Asif Ali Zardari taking notice of the reports on extortion in Karachi has directed Interior Minister Rehman Malik to take measures against this menace in coordination with the provincial government. The President also directed for the submission of a detailed report about extortion in Karachi.It may be mentioned here that a large number of shopkeepers of various markets of Saddar area in Karachi on Thursday staged a protest demonstration against threats hurled to them by extortionist mafia

comedian Liaquat Soldier dies

30 March 2011
Famous Pakistani comedian Liaquat Soldier passed away after a heart attack in Karachi on Wednesday.He was participating in a live TV show in a special transmission for the World Cup semifinal between India and Pakistan, when he suffered heart attack and left the world on the same day.Liaquat Soldier started his acting career in 1973 and performed with all the major actors in more than 250 television plays.Several television celebrities including Moin Akhtar, Shahzad Raza, Rauf Lala, Ismail Tara and Zeba Shahnaz have expressed grief over his death and said Liaquat was one of the great stage comedians of the country.

Assailants kill minister’s security officer in Karachi

30 March 2011
Unidentified persons killed the security officer of Sindh Minister Agha Siraj Durrani near Almas Masjid, Yousuf Plaza in Federal B Area Wednesday afternoon, ambulance service and police official said ASI Nazir said that deceased Imran Jhangi, 35 was coming out from Almas Masjid after offering Asr prayers when assailants opened fire on him killing him on the spot.He said that his body was taken to Abbasi Shaheed Hospital in a private car without any legal procedure on the advise of family.

US envoy welcomes Pak-India premiers' meeting

30 March 2011
The US ambassador to India, Timothy Roemer, said that the meeting between India and Pakistan’s prime ministers was a good omen and was only possible through sports diplomacy. Roemer said that the United States has also welcomed the premieres meeting and said that the cricket diplomacy could dilute the hostility between the two countries. He expressed the hope that Pak-India talks would continue talks and look to resolve sensitive issues.

7 killed in Swabi suicide attack

30 March 2011
Seven people were killed and 15 wounded when a suicide bomber riding on a motorbike blew himself up near a police checkpoint in northwestern Pakistan on Wednesday, police said.“The bomber came on a motorbike and detonated himself close to Ambar check post near Swabi town,” local police chief Abdullah Jan said.He said the checkpoint was close to a camp set up by a religious political party for a public meeting in the town, located about 100 kilometres east of Peshawar.“Seven people including one of our police officials were killed and 15 wounded,” he said.“We have recovered the body parts of the suicide bomber,” he said.The meeting was planned by the hardline Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) party led by Maulana Fazlur Rehman, he said, adding that the event had been cancelled

Aitzaz Ahsan leaves for Mohali to watch semi final

29 March 2011
Central leader of Pakistan People’s Party Aitzaz Ashman left for Mohali, India to watch the Pakistan-India semi final to be played in Mohali on March 30.Aitzaz Ahsan along with a 12-member delegation, proceeded to Mohali, India from Vahga Border route.Talking to media , he said the outstanding issues between India and Pakistan must be resolved so that bilateral trade could be boosted and poverty eliminated.The delegation comprised President Pakistan Women Cricket Association Bushra Aitzaz, former PCB chairman Shahryar Ahmed with his wife, former ambassador Anisuddin and industrialist Yavar Ali.Atizaz also stressed that the visa policy between Pakistan and India must be eased to allow movement of maximum number of people across the borders and foster an atmosphere of friendliness.

 

PM wishes Afridi all the best

28 March 2011
Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani Monday telephoned Pakistan cricket skipper Shahid Afrifi and asked him to play their best against India in the semi final on March 30 in Mohali,“Prays of the entire nation are with you (the team) for your win in the upcoming semi final against India,” the Prime Minister said, lauding the outstanding performance that the national team has so far displayed.He further said that he was going to proceed to India to wish the team the best in person for their encouragement.Shahid Afridi, on the occasion, said each player will give his 100 percent to win the crucial match.

 

2 holidays in a week, likely by mid April

28 March 2011
The Government is giving serious consideration to opt for ‘two holidays a week’ as a part of energy conservation plan being implemented by mid April.
The government had earlir annuled the decision of ‘two holidays a week’ on November 27,2010.Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani will announce specific measures for nationwide energy conservation during energy summit scheduled to be held by mid April, official sources said.
The summit will be attended by the Chief Ministers of all the four provinces and heads of all the stakeholders in energy and power sectors.
Meanwhile National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Water and Power on Monday was briefed on water and power position in the country.

Pak India Semi final :Government takes steps to prevent match fixing: Rehman Malik

28 March 2011
Government has taken all measures to prevent match-fixing, said Interior Minister Rehman Malik on Monday.Talking to media at the provincial office of Crisis Management Cell, he said that it was the endeavour of the government not to repeat the case that happened in London involving several Pakistani players.“All the phone calls of the players are being kept under observation in this regard,” he added.He also welcomed the measures taken by the Indian Government for security during the semi-final to be played by the two countries on Wednesday.

11 involved in target killings held:Rehman Malik

28 March 2011
At least 11 high profile alleged killers involved in target killings in city have been arrested in a joint operation by the personnel of police and law enforcement agencies in recent days, said Interior Minister Rehman Malik here on Monday.Talking to news persons after holding a high level meeting on security situation in the province, particularly, in Karachi, at Chief Minister House here, he said that concrete and indiscriminate measures were being taken against the criminal elements.“Most of the criminals have taken refuge under the umbrella of political parties,” he pointed out.
The Minister while critically pointing out the role of the media said that since March 10, at least 154 persons were killed in the metropolis and added that out of these 43 were victims of target killings while others were assassinated due to personal enmity.“We cannot divulge any information at this stage about the affiliations of the those arrested involved in target killings and most of them are all hired killers,” he said while responding to various queries of the media persons.Interior Minister said that action will be taken jointly by the law enforcement agencies along with police against the criminals without any discrimination from midnight Monday-Tuesday.“Enough is enough and action will be taken across the board,” he added.Political parties, also at the same time, need to keep an eye on black sheeps in their ranks, the Minister said.

Pak-India match invitation accepted in national interest; Gilani

28 March 2001
Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani Monday said he accepted invitation of Indian prime minister to see the Pakistan-India semi-final at Mohali in national interest.“I have decided to avail this opportunity in national interest,” Gilani told the Cabinet, that was convened two days ahead of schedule to discuss his forthcoming visit to India.Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh invited President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani to witness the ICC world cup semi-final between their two teams, which is being billed as the “clash of titans”.The two leaders are expected to discuss whole range of bilateral matters match on March 30 before their teams clash at the Mohali Cricket Ground.At the cabinet meeting, the Prime Minister thanked his Indian Counterpart for extending an invitation to watch the semi-final match.
He said it was also a timely opportunity for the two governments to show the world that the two nations can play together and sit and deliberate together on issues of national importance.The two countries during the talks between their Foreign Secretaries at Thimpu, Bhutan had discussed counter-terrorism, progress on Mumbai trial included, humanitarian issues, peace and security, including confidence building measures, Jammu and Kashmir, promotion of friendly exchanges, Siachen, economic issues and the Wullar Barrage and Tulbul Navigation Project.During the cabinet meeting, Gilani also condemned the desecration of the Holy Quran by Terry Johns and said the heinous act was reflective of extremism prevalent in various societies.In his opening remarks at the cabinet meeting  Gilani said “I on behalf of people, Government of Pakistan and my Cabinet colleagues strongly condemn the desecration of the Holy Quran …  our government also condemn drone attacks which are counter productive and flare up extremism.”

stage sit-in Peshawar at the NATO Supply road if the drone attacks were not stopped,Imran Khan

25 March 2011
Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf Chairman Imran Khan has expressed his party's firm resolve to ensure justice for every segment of society.
Addressing a PTI "Azadi rally" from Muslim Town to Qartaba Chowk Mozang, Imran Khan stressed upon the people and especially youth to forge unity against the forces of evil exploiting the rights of Pakistanis.Khan condemning the drone attacks in Pakistani territory, demanded of the government to stop the US strikes. He announced to stage sit-in in Peshawar at the NATO Supply road if the drone attacks were not stopped within one month.
He urged the countrymen to stand united to stop the foreigner's Drone strikes against the country.PTI Chief also announced to extend every possible support to the family of Ibad-ur-Rehman who was crushed to death by a vehicle allegedly driven by the friends of US official Raymond Davis on January 27.He extended support to the cause of PCS officers and Doctors in Punjab for their services' matters. He said that the protection of minorities should be ensured at every cost.
Imran Khan criticised the politicians having their deposits and wealth in foreign countries. He said that people would not allow the encroachers of politics having their wealth abroad to participate in national politics.PTI Lahore President Mehmood-ur-Rashid,Mian Hamid Miraj and others also were present.

Benazir's assassins arrested, claims Rehman Malik

25 March 2011
Federal Interior Minister Rehman Malik Friday said that all the culprits involved in the killing of former premier Benazir Bhutto have been arrested.Talking to media here in Gujar Khan tehsil after inaugurating the passport office, Malik said that it had been ascertained where the plan of BB’s assassination was made, which vehicle used, how the killers reached the crime scene, what method they used to execute the killing and how they managed to escape. Rehman Malik said the government had fulfilled its promise of arresting Benazir Bhutto's murderers.The Interior Minister said that everything will be made public but first the report in this regard would be presented before the Pakistan People’s Party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC).

 

Armed men abduct 16 passengers in Tribal Area

25 March 2011
Unknown armed persons on Friday abducted sixteen passengers along with the vehicle and took them to undisclosed location, local sources informed.
According to correspondent, the miscreants had attacked a commuter van in Lower Kurram Agency’s area Medani Dam at about 1200 hours and injured three of the passengers. Leaving the injured, the attackers abducted rest of the sixteen passengers in the vehicle they were traveling in and took them to unknown location.
However, independent sources said that three vehicles were attacked and about 45 persons were abducted by the armed persons.
Locals of the area later shifted the injured to tahsil Alizai

Taliban trying to enter India:Rehman Malik

24 March 2011 Interpol Secretary General Ronald Nobel has revealed that terror bid during world Cup 2011 has been thwarted.
He was addressing a joint press conference following his meeting with Interior Minister Rehman Malik.
Rehman Malik said that Taliban tried to enter India, adding that some people were arrested but none of them was Pakistani national.
Rehman while demanding immediate action against those fanatics involved in desecration of the Holy Quran urged Interpol secretary general to play his role. Ronald said that this act would encourage terrorists’ agenda.
He said that a man who traveled to Maldives from Karachi was arrested during the world cup, adding that the man had desires to conduct terrorism in Sri Lanka On the occasion, Rehman Malik said Pakistani had shared intelligence information to foil terrorism bid.

Pakistan,s two C-130 Aircrafts with Relief Goods to Japan

 24 March 2011
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) on Friday dispatched two C-130 aircrafts carrying 24 metric tons of urgently needed food items to Japan.The humanitarian cargo included 13.5 tons of High Energy Biscuits, nine tons (7200 liters) of Milk and 1.5 tons (500 bottles) of clean Drinking Water.The Acting Chairman NDMA Brig. Sajid Naeem and Japanese Ambassador to Pakistan, H.E Chihiro Atsumi sent off the shipment.Talking to journalists he said that goods have been sent on the instructions of Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani, to express solidarity and share the grief of the People and Government of Japan in wake of the devastating tsunami.On behalf of the Government and People of Pakistan, Acting Chairman National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Brig. Sajid Naeem expressed grief on the over whelming loss to life and property due to the quake triggered tsunami.He said that the people of Pakistan stand by their Japanese brethren in this hour of need.The Japanese Ambassador to Pakistan, H.E Chihiro Atsumi thanked the Government and People of Pakistan for the expression of humanitarian concern in these difficult times.

President visits Japan embassy; offers assistance for tsunami victims

24 March 2011

President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday visited the Japanese embassy and offered Japan all possible assistance apart from the relief goods it has already sent. The President remained there for some time and expressed solidarity with the government and people of Japan over the devastating earthquake and tsunami.The Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, Chihiro Atsumi thanked the President for expressing solidarity on behalf of the Government and people of Pakistan with the Japanese government and people

Interpol to provide two million euros for FIA’s capacity building

24 March 2011
Interpol would provide two million Euros for the capacity building of 38 centres of Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) across the country besides giving access to the agency to its database.Secretary General of Interpol Ronald K. Noble said this at ajoint press conference wit h Interior Minister Rehman Malik hereThursday.The SG appreciated what he called strong role of Pakistan in global war against terrorism and said Pakistan was among the best countries that were cooperating with Interpol. He said the sacrifices rendered by Pakistan in war on terror were eternal and of paramount importance.Noble informed a person had been arrested in connection with alleged terror plot vis a vis Cricket World Cup, 2011, however, he did not give further details about the identity or place of arrest of the accused.Interior Minister gave a list of Most Wanted persons of 2009 to Interpol and called for issuing Blue Notices. The SG said Pakistan had done a great job by providing the list to Interpol.Malik said Pakistan had a pivotal role in war on terror, and was fighting this war for global peace.

Bombs kill one, wound 11 in KPK

23 March 2011
Mine and bomb attacks targeting police in Khyber PakhtunKhawa (KPK) on Wednesday killed one person and wounded 11, including nine officers, police said.In the first attack a donkey cart went over a mine buried by the roadside on the outskirts of Peshawar, police said.
“Both the donkey cart owner and donkey were killed. Basically the mine was planted to target police,” said Kalam Khan, a senior police official.
In the second incident a remote control bomb hit a police patrol pick-up, injuring 11, in the village of Darsamand, in Hangu district.
“Nine policemen and two passers-by were were wounded in this bomb blast. Militants are responsible for this attack,” said Abdur Rashid Khan, district police chief.

Wars not solution, talks only way forward between Pak-India: PM

23 March 2011
Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Wednesday said that his government would like to continue to work with the Government of India to resolve all outstanding issues peacefully and in just manner.
“Wars are not solution, talks are the only way forward between Pakistan and India”, Gilani remarked while talking to the Indian Peace delegation led by the famous Indian Journalist Kuldip Nayar that called on him here at the PM House on Wednesday.The Prime Minister appreciated the contribution of the members of the civil society of both sides towards promoting the ideas of peace, friendship and development in the region particularly between India and Pakistan and said that he wanted to benefit from the wisdom of the civil society and peace activists in pursuing cordial neighbourly ties with India.The Prime Minister stated that the first priority of his government was the development and well-being of the people of Pakistan for which peace and stability in the country were critical.

Pakistan Day :Karachi sviolence death toll rises to 19

23 March 2011
At least nineteen people were killed and several injured in separate firing incidents in various parts of Karachi during the last 24 hours, sending the affected areas in a grip of tension over the fresh wave of killings in the metropolis.According to details, eight people were wounded when unknown armed men opened fire on a passenger bus. The wounded people were shifted to hospital.In Banaras, unknown pillion riders opened fire at a hotel near metro cinema, killing three people and eight injured. Ghulam Hyder, 33, was shot dead in Lasi Goath, area of New Karachi. Two women were killed when unidentified gunmen opened fire at a house in Landhi.Similar shooting incidents took place in Gulistan-e-Jauhar, New Karachi, Landhi, Qasba Colony, Garden and Husainabad areas.Meanwhile, miscreants set a mini bus and rickshaw on fire, destroying it completely.Thirteen people were killed in separate incidents of violence and shootings in Karachi on Tuesday.

10 security personnel injured in road bombing

22 March 2011
A security forces convoy was hit by a bomb that was planted on a road in Dogra Chowk. The bomb was exploded by a remote control when the convoy was passing through the area. At least 10 men were injured in the incident.
The security forces cordoned off the area and started a search operation. The injure men were shifted to the Combined Military Hospital, Peshawar.

President’s 4th address to Parliament to be his toughest

22 March 2011
It is the first time in Pakistan when an elected president is going o address the same assembly for the fourth time. The president, in his address, will highlight the government’s three years performance and policies for next two years.
This time it does not appear an easy going for the president, though he had devolved his presidential powers to the parliament through the 18th Amendment. Due to Inflation, worsening law and order situation, drone attacks, gas and electricity load shedding and the release of Raymond Davis, a strong protest is expected during Zardari’s address 
The president’s three previous addresses to the Parliament’s joint session went smoothly as the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) was in good terms with other political parties. Between the third and fourth session of the Parliament, the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl left the government, the Muttahida Quami Movement quit the cabinet and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz ended its alliance with the PPP in Punjab.

No whereabouts of Fahim and Faizan’s families

22 March 2011
CCPO Lahore Aslam Tareen submitted a report to the Lahore High Court on Tuesday in which he said that the families of Fahim and Faizan, who were killed by US gunman Raymond Davis, had moved to an unknown location and their houses were also locked.The CCPO told the court that the neighbours of the victim families were also unaware with their whereabouts.The court was hearing the petition that asked the court to take notice of the disappearance of the victim families and it had summoned the Lahore CCPO on Tuesday to explain the situation.The Punjab government’s lawyer said that the families had accepted the blood money and they were free to go anywhere without any permission. The petitioner said as the federal and the provincial governments had refused to take the responsibility of a deal between Davis and the victim families, the heirs should be brought to court to record their statement. The court summoned the Punjab home secretary on March 28 for the recovery of the missing families.

CCPO Lahore summoned in court on Davis case

22 March 2011
The Lahore High Court on Monday summoned Lahore Capital City Police Officer Aslam Tareen for Tuesday (today) in connection with a petition for recovery of the families of Faheem and Faizan who were gunned down by CIA operative Raymond Davis.
Justice Chaudhry Iftikhar Hussain issued the order while hearing the petition filed by Malik Munsif Awan advocate, former counsel for the families.Awan has filed the habeas corpus petition before the Lahore High Court (LHC) for recovery of the families. He prayed to the court that the families of both the deceased were missing since March 15. He apprehended that somebody had kidnapped them and was keeping them under illegal detention. In his petition, Mr Awan made the federal interior minister, Punjab home secretary and Punjab inspector general of police respondents in his petition. The petitioner submitted that according to the media reports, the families also had Rs200 million of blood money with them and their lives were in danger. He said neither the provincial nor the federal government was taking responsibilities about their whereabouts. He requested the court to summon the respondents and issue them directions for presenting the abducted families before the court and set them at liberty.

Firdous terms education effective weapon against terrorism,extremism

22 March 2011
Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Dr.Firdous Ashiq Awan said on Monday that education was most effective weapon against scourge of terrorism,extremism.The present democratic government is making all out efforts for providing educational facilities to all, she added.In a meeting with a delegation from United Kingdom High Commission and Department for international development, UK and Pakistan Education Task Force Secretariat,she said education is the backbone of democracy and engine of growth.She told the delegation that after the passage of 18th Amendment,education department has been devolved to the provinces which can help in better policy making at the provincial level.
The minister said there is a need to evolve a national strategy for better implementation of provincial educational policies

12 militants killed in Lower Orakzai, Swat, Dir

22 March 2011
At least twelve militants were killed and several others injured in security forces’ operation against militants in Lower Orakzai Agency, Swat and Dir Lower on Tuesday. Security forces bombarded militants’ positions in various parts of Lower Orakzai Agency in which two hideouts were demolished and six militants killed.On the other hand, two militants were arrested near security forces’ Cheenjana check post in Hangu.In Swat and Dir Lower, security forces conducted operation against militants. At least 6 militants were killed in the operation. Armed forces also recovered heavy weapons and ammunition from the possession of militants.

Gilani takes coalition partners on board before President’s address

21 March 2011
Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Monday took on board all parliamentary coalition parties and partners before the address of the President to the joint sitting of the Parliament.
Addressing the parliamentary leaders of coalition parties from the Senate and the National Assembly at the Prime Minister House, Gilani said that the government would continue its reconciliation policy.
Gilani also took the coalition leadership into confidence on the President’s address on Tuesday, and contacted Leader of Opposition in the National Assembly Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan, Sindh Governor Dr. Ishratul Ibad, Jamiat-e-Ulema Islam-F chief Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman, Punjab Chief Minister Mian Shahbaz Shairf and Deputy Chairman of Senate Mir Jan Muhammad Jamali.
The Prime Minister said it was rightly a moment of pride for the democratic forces of the country as the fourth parliamentary year would start with the address of the President to the joint session.

7 killed, 45 trapped in coal mine blasts in Quetta

20 March 2011
At least seven coal miners were killed and about 45 others trapped following a series of blasts that occurred Sunday morning in a coal mine near Quetta, capital city of Balochistan province in southwest Pakistan.

According to the report, the accident took place at about 4:00 am (local time) when the gases accumulated due to poor ventilation in a mine located some 40 kilometers northwest of Quetta triggered off three blasts.There were an estimated 52 miners working at the different levels of the mine, which are 200 feet to 1,000 feet deep underground.Rescue team was dispatched to the site quickly following the blasts. So far only seven dead bodies have been recovered from the mine despite the fact that nearly eight hours have passed since the disaster happened.The death toll could further rise as some 45 other mine workers were still trapped inside the mine, said rescue workers.

10 more dead in ongoing Karachi violence

20 March 2011
 Ten people have been killed, including a policeman, in separate incidents of firing in many parts of the metropolitan city since last night, sending the affected areas in grip of tension.According to police, six people were injured when unknown armed men opened fire near Disco Bakery in Gulshan-e-Iqbal area. The wounded were shifted to a private hospital where two persons succumbed to their injuries and expired.The incident brought at a halt the business activities in the area where situation is reported to be tensed.Two more were shot and killed by unidentified assailants in Kharadar area. The identities of the deceased could not be ascertained.In Gulistan-e-Jauhar area, near Mosmiyat, one man was killed in firing incident while in a similar incident in Gulzar-e-Hijri area a policeman, Arshad, was shot dead.Kamran, 25, was killed in Baghdadi area when unknown men opened fire on him and fled.
In Purana Golimar area, Ali Nawaz, 45, was fired at and killed while a 30-year old man was gunned down in Kalri area of Lyari. In another such firing incident Chakiwara area of Lyari a political party activist Khushnood, 28, was shot dead.An office of a political party was attacked with explosives in Soldier Bazar but the no loss of life occurred since the office was closed.
Meanwhile, miscreants set on fire a mini bus in Lasbella area, destroying it completely.
Twelve people were killed in separate incidents of violence and shootings in Karachi yesterday.

Methane blast hits Quetta coal mine; 30 trapped

20 March 2011
Methane gas sparked an explosion inside a coal mine in Pakistan’s southwestern province of Baluchistan, trapping around 30 miners on Sunday, a government official said.
The blast occurred in a mine run by the state-owned Pakistan Mineral Development Corporation (PMDC) in Surran range, some 35 km (22 miles) east of the provincial capital, Quetta.“We don’t know about casualties right now. Rescue workers are busy in their work. Some 30 workers were inside the mine at the time of the blast,” a senior PMDC official told Reuters.Such explosions are not uncommon in coal mines in Pakistan, most of which are located in Baluchistan and neighbouring Sindh province, where safety measures can be lax.The country has huge coal reserves estimated at more than 184 billion tonnes. It produces 4 million tonnes of coal annually, most of which is consumed by brick-making kilns.

Raymond Davis himself paid blood money:Attorney General

Attorney General Maulvi Anwarul Haq revealed that according to record, Raymond Davis had paid the blood money to the heirs in his individual capacity.
He told this correspondent that according to law, a murderer remained in jail unless he paid Diyat. He said in 2008, the Supreme Court had asked the government to set up a fund that could be utilised for the release of such prisoners who could not pay fines.He said it could not be said that Raymond’s release was an outcome of an agreement between him and the heirs or an accord between two countries.He said there was no link between Raymond’s release and Aafia’s return. He said Aafia had been sentenced while Raymond was freed before being sentenced. Raymond could not be tried in the US again, he said.He said the US Justice Department had talked about an investigation and not a case against Raymond. He said when in any case the accused was forgiven, his case could not be reopened.Online adds from Washington: Though the Obama administration said it would not directly pay a seven-figure settlement to Pakistani families of two men killed by a CIA contractor, the US government ‘fully expects to get the bill’ at some point and would pay it, a US official told CNN.The assertion by the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, comes a day after Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said: “The United States does not pay any compensation”.
A lawyer closely connected to the case said this week that the families’ compensation was $1.4 million, but Punjab Law Minister Rana Sanaullah said that $2.34 million was paid to the legal heirs by the US government.The US official said the Pakistanis carried out all of the discussions with the families, but the US government was aware of the Pakistani efforts. “The agreement was reached between the families and the Pakistani officials,” the official said.The official was unaware of any Saudi involvement in the case, whether it be pressure on the Pakistani government to resolve the matter, making the payments to the families or both, but the official would not rule it out as a possibility.In Highland Park, Colorado, where Davis lives, his wife, Rebecca, defended him in an interview outside their home. She expected her husband to return home in the next week or so. “I knew it was self-defence. He’s not a Rambo, as the LA Times said,” Davis’s wife said. “He’s not an agent. He’s not Jason Bourne. He’s not any of these kind of crazy things that have been portrayed of him,” she added

Pakistan not to compromise on territorial integrity, sovereignty:.Firdous

19 March 2011
Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan said on Saturday that Pakistan would never compromise on its territorial integrity . The killings of innocent Pakistani citizens by the US drone attacks in Datta Khel, a day earlier is a condemnable act which does not merit any justification.
Such attacks will have a negative impact on the joint efforts of Pakistan and USA to eliminate the menace of terrorism, the minister said.She also said that such behaviour on part of US may negatively impact Pakistan’s efforts in separating the insurgents from peaceful and patriotic tribesmen of the areas.
Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan said that the PPP believes in the philosophy of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who laid the foundation of independent foreign policy.
She said that the PPP-led coalition government would never allow anyone to infringe upon the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan

Pakistan gets remarkable concession in Hajj expenses

19  March 2011
Pakistan has succeeded in getting remarkable concession of around Rs.30,000 to Rs.40,000 in expenses of per pilgrim for the year-2011 from Saudi Arabia, according to Ministry of Religious Affairs.However, Minister for Religious Affairs Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah, who is currently on a visit to Saudi Arabia to discuss the arrangements for upcoming Hajj, would officially inform the media about details of his highly successful talks with the Saudi authorities on his return, the sources said.
They said the ministry was devising an effective strategy to ensure provision of maximum facilities to Hajj and Umrah pilgrims in Saudi Arabia so that they could perform the religious obligations in a smooth manner.
This year, Khursheed Shah would himself monitor and supervise the whole Hajj operation to ensure flawless arrangements for the pilgrimage.
As a result of successful lobbying by the Ministry, the Saudi authorities have agreed to allow a substantial jump in the number of intending pilgrims to the holy places in the Kingdom for the next Hajj.
Saudi Arabia has approved additional Hajj quota of 20,000 for Pakistan, increasing it from the existing 158,000 to 179,210. This concession has so far been granted to Pakistan only, the sources said.
Pakistan has acquired a huge building comprising 211 rooms in Makkah, Saudi Arabia for four years and named it as “Pakistan House,” which is at a distance of 900 metres from Masjid-e-Haram.
The sources said “metro facilities” including train journey, which were earlier available at 250 Saudi riyals, would now be provided at 100 Saudi riyals.
However, the amount would be refunded to those pilgrims who would not avail the train facility, they said adding “The pilgrims availing the metro facility will reach Mina and Arafat in just five minutes.”
Moreover, the expenses of lodging and food during Hajj days, which were earlier 700 Saudi riyals, has now been reduced for Pakistani pilgrims under a special concession to only 200 riyals, the sources said.

PML-N submits motions against drone attack

18 March 2011
The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), the main opposition party, submitted two adjournment motions on Friday in the National Assembly Secretariat regarding Thursday’s drone attack and the prevailing crisis in Pakistan Railways.
The motions were submitted by PML-N members of National Assembly (MNAs) including Malik Shakir Bashir Awan, Raja Muhammad Asad Khan, Shireen Arshad Khan, Nighat Parveen Mir, Begum Nisar Tanvir, Rana Mehmoodul Hassan and Abdul Majeed Khan Khel.
They took stance in the first motion that the drone attack on a tribal Jirga in Datta Khel, North Waziristan Agency was tantamount to “an open aggression” and that the PML-N strongly condemned it.

Nation protest against Davis’ release

18 March 2011
Street protests erupted in the Country for a third day on Friday against the release of American national Raymond Davis, whose arrest after he shot dead two Pakistanis in Lahore.
The religious and social organizations staged protests in Lahore, Karachi and Peshawar against release of Raymond Davis.
Protesters chanted slogans against Raymond Davis and burnt tyres in Karachi, Lahore, Laki Marwat, Dera Ghazi Khan, Muzaffarghar, Charsada and towns in Azad Kashmir.
The police started baton charge and tear gas to disperse the protesters.
Raymond Davis, 36, shot dead two Pakistanis in Lahore on January 27, was released on Wednesday from a Lahore jail after the close relatives of those killed accepted Diyat blood money.

FO summons US Ambassador, lodge protest against drone strike

18 March 2011
Foreign office on Friday summoned US Ambassador Cameron Munter and officially recorded its protest against Thursday’s drone attack which killed over 40 people in North Waziristan.
Foreign Sectary Salman Bashir called Munter to foreign office Islamabad.
Foreign Secretary conveyed strong condemnation to the US Ambassador and has demanded an apology and explanation, said in a statement which was released by FO.
FO said that Pakistan was not a client state and such attacks were unacceptable.
FO said that Pakistan pulled out from Brussels summit in protest of drone attacks insight Pakistan territory. Brussels is hosting Pak-Afghan-US summit on March 26 this year.

PM supports court verdict on Raymond Davis

18 March 2011
Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on Friday while supporting the verdict of the court on the Raymond Davis case, said that it was inappropriate to hold any single institution responsible.A statement from the PM House said that the country’s leadership, including the opposition, had reached a consensus that the final decision would be taken by the court.“This consensus was also in line with the public sentiments at large. The court decided in favour of release of the detainee which has been implemented,” the statement said.
“It is, therefore, inappropriate to hold any single institution responsible for the final outcome of the case,” the Prime Minister said

Judge who heard Davis case goes on leave

17 march 2o11Additional district and sessions judge (ASJ) Yousuf Ojla, who conducted hearing of US national Raymond Davis in a double murder case, has gone on leave on Thursday.
Judge Yousuf Ojla did not come to the court, the sources said. They added that the judge has gone on leave due to personal engagements.Earlier, Judicial Magistrate Aniq Anwar met additional district and sessions judge. Aniq had conducted hearing of Raymond in illegal weapon case.
The additional district and sessions judge (ASJ) had acquitted Raymond Davis in a double murder case on Wednesday and ordered his immediate release after the legal heirs of the two victims accepted blood money under the Qisas and Diyat law and pardoned the killer.

 

Moonis Elahi arrested after bail dismissal

17 March 2011
Pakistan Muslim League-Q, Mooni Elahi presented himself for arrest to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) after rejection of his bail petition by the Lahore High Court (LHC) in NICL corruption case on Thursday,Earlier today, Moonis Elahi, after hearing of the case at LHC, sought permission and went home. Later, he arrived at FIA’s office along with some workers of his party and presented himself for arrest.
Talking to media on the occasion, Moonis Elahi said: “It is not like him to run away and that he would face everyone.”He said letting authorities arrest himself no big deal for him and added that it part of his training at home (to respect rule of law). Moonis Elahi said he would prove his innocence before everyone

General Kayani strongly condemns predator strike

17 March 2011
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani strongly condemned the predator strike carried out on Thursday in North Waziristan Agency resulting in loss of innocent lives.He said it is highly regrettable that a jirga of peaceful citizens including elders of the area was carelessly and callously targeted with complete disregard to human life, said a ISPR press release issued here.
“In complete violation of human rights, such acts of violence take us away from our objective of elimination of terrorism. It is imperative to understand that this critical objective cannot be sacrificed for temporary tactical gains. Security of people of Pakistan, in any case, stands above all," he added.COAS said “Pakistan Army condoles with the families whose dear and near ones have been martyred in this senseless attack. Pakistan Army shares the grief of people of Waziristan. Troops on ground have been ordered to render all possible assistance to bereaved families.”"Pakistan Army wishes to assure brave people of Waziristan that we shall do our best and utmost to protect their life, honour and dignity at all costs. Pakistan Army is fighting the terrorists and not its brethren in tribal areas." Gen Kayani addedThe COAS said that Pakistan Army has already launched a protest in the strongest possible terms, adding that it has been highlighted clearly that such aggression against people of Pakistan is unjustified and intolerable under any circumstances.

 

Blast in Quetta, leaves 3 including security personnel injured

17 March 2011
At least three people suffered injuries when a bomb placed in a car went off here on Thursday, police conformed.According to the police sources, a vehicle of a security forces was on its routine patrolling when it was targeted with the remote controled device planted by the unknown men in a car parked alongside the road near Badeini Chock.Resultantly, a security man and two passer bys identified as Khan Mohammad and Atta Mohammad received injuries.The injured were rushed to the nearby hospital for medical treatment.
Law enforcement agencies put a cordon around the site and started search to trace out the culprits involved in the heinous crime.Police have registered a case against the unidentified accused and initiated probe into the incident.

US drone strike kills 40 in North Waziristan

17March 2011
At least 40 people were killed and 15 others were wounded in a US drone strike in North Waziristan tribal region on Thursday.
According to initial reports, unmanned aircraft targeted a house and fired 6 missiles Dattakhel town, some 40 kilometres west of Miramshah, the main town in North Waziristan. “A US drone fired Six missiles and destroyed a house. At least 40 people were killed in the attack.

Militants torch two NATO oil containers

17 March 2011
Unidentified militants on Thursday torched two containers, carrying fuel for NATO forces stationed in Afghanistan near Karkhano market.
Police said the gunmen attacked the containers in wee hours in front of busy Karkhano market on Peshawar-Torkhum Road and opened fire on it. As result, fire erupted in the vehicles and were badly damaged.
The fire brigade rushed to the spot and extinguished the fire. No casualty reported, police said.

Lahore10 injured during protest against Davis release

16 March 2011
Punjab police started baton charge over Pakistan Tahreek e Insaf workers when they were trying to enter in Americian Consulate during the protest against the release of U.S national Raymond Davis involved in murder of two youths.
In the result of police torture some ten protesters injured and six were arrested on Wednesday night.
According to details PTI organized a protest at outside of U.S Consulate at Empress Road. During the protest the party workers burned the effigy of Raymond Davis, while a group of youngsters removed the security barriers and they tried to enter toward U.S Consulate but in the mean time police started the baton charge and arrested the protesters.
In the result of police action some 10 people injured including Sh Imtiaz, Muhammad Rafiq Butt, Saddat Butt, Ihsan Niazi, Rana Akhtar Hussain and others, while six persons arrested.
The PTI workers even continue their protest after the police clashes and they blocked the road. The protesters were raising the slogans against President Asif Ali Zardari, Rana Sanaullah provincial minister for law, Punjab government and U.S on the occasion. Those who led the protest were among PTI Lahore President Mian Mahmoodul Rashid, Ijaz Choudhry, Dr Yasmin Rashid and others.
Imamia Student Organization and banned outfit Hizbul Tahrir also record their protest and staged procession at outside the Lahore Press Club against the release of Raymond Davis. The police and protesters clashes continued for two hours and later a large number of police contingent covered the U.S Consulate. Meanwhile the security around the U.S consulate beefed up.

Raymond Case: We are Great full says US Envoy

16 March 2011
 US Ambassador in Pakistan, Cameron Munter on Wednesday said the families of the victims of the January 27 incident in Lahore have pardoned Raymond Davis.
According to a statement issued by US Embassy, Munter said: “I am grateful for their generosity. I wish to express, once again, my regret for the incident and my sorrow at the suffering it caused.”
He confirmed that the United States Department of Justice had opened an investigation into the incident in Lahore.
“I wish to express my respect for Pakistan and its people, and my thanks for their commitment to building our relationship, to everyone's benefit. Most of all, I wish to reaffirm the importance that America places in its relationship with Pakistan, and the commitment of the American people to work with their Pakistani counterparts to move ahead in ways that will benefit us all.” 

Three killed in North Waziristan drone attack

16 March 2011
A US drone attack on Wednesday killed at least three people in North Waziristan.
The strike took place in Datta Khel area of North Waziristan. US drone fired two missiles targeting a vehicle. At least three people were killed in the attack.
The vehicle was completely destroyed in the attack. The identities of those killed and wounded were not immediately known.
According to Associated Press, an American missile attacked on a house, killing five people in North Waziristan. The missile destroyed a house

Kazmi handed-over to FIA on remand

16 March 2011

Former Minister for religious affairs Hamid Saeed Kazmi on Wednesday was handed over to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) on five-day physical remand.
Special Judge Central (SJC) on Tuesday rejected the bail of former minister in the infamous Haj corruption scandal.
He was produced before the court of Senior Civil Judge Mukhtar Gondal. The court granted five-day remand.

CIA Contractor Raymond Davis released

16 March 2011
The court on Wednesday released CIA contractor in Pakistan Raymond Davis, who was arrested for killing two Pakistani citizens in LAhore, after payment of blood money (Diyat) in accordance with Sharia law of Pakistan.
Lawyer Asad Manzoor Butt claimed that the relatives of deceased were forced to sign “blood money” documents to pave path for Davis’ release in Kot Lakhpat Jail.
Punjab law Minister Rana Sanaullah also confirmed that Davis was released by Additional Sessions judge. He said that relatives of Faizan and Fahim, have forgiven the accused.

PM expresses Pakistan’s concern over catastrophe in Japan

15 March 2011
The Federal Cabinet on Monday expressed its profound grief and expressed solidarity with the Japanese people over the catastrophic earthquake and tsunami that reportedly killed over 10,000 people and rendered thousands homeless.
Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani at the very outset of the meeting expressed his profound grief, agony and sorrow over the heavy loss of life and damage to infrastructure.
“The government and the people of Pakistan share grief, agony and sorrow of the government and people of Japan,” the Prime Minister said.
He said Pakistan was assessing the situation and will provide any assistance, possible within its means.
Prime Minister Gilani said Japan has been a very generous friend of Pakistan and one of the main donors that has funded extensively in economic and social development projects of Pakistan.
He pointed that Japan provided around US $ 20 Million for relief and rescue operation last year when Pakistan was confronted with a natural catastrophe

PPP Manifesto Committee tasked to carry out review

15 March 2011
President Asif Ali Zardari, who is also Chairman of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), has directed for holding a meeting of the party’s Manifesto Committee to review the implementation of the mainfesto and make recommendations to make it more responsive to the changing needs.
Spokesperson to the President Farhatullah Babar said on Monday that the Committee would also examine the proposal of creating a separate Seraiki province in the light of the demand made by the people and give its recommendations.
The party manifesto was last reviewed in 2007 ahead of the general elections, he said.

Six killed in Karachi violence

11 March 2011

A fresh wave of violence sparked by the killings of several political activists swept Karachi.
At least six people have been killed and several others injured as violence continues in Karachi on Friday following the murders of several activists.
Eleven vehicles including four buses were also torched late Thursday. Meanwhile, there are reports of shootings in various area of the city.
On the announcement of the Education Ministry, all schools, colleges remained closed on Friday, while University examinations have been postponed.
Commuters of Karachi remained glued to bus stops, as public transport vehicles are not plying.

Blast in Peshawar mosque, no casualties

11 March 2011
A week after the devastating blast at the funeral procession in the Badabher area on Friday last, the militants have struck again as blast have been reported in Shahabkhel mosque in the area.
According to police, unidentified militants planted bomb in the local mosque to apparently target the Friday congregation but it went off premature causing no casualties.
However, building of the mosque was damaged in the terror incident. The law enforcers have further beefed up the security in the area and banned parking of vehicles outside the mosque.

Drone strikes kill 16 in North Waziristan

11 March
At least 16 people were killed in two US drone attacks in North Waziristan on Friday.
The first drone fired two missiles targeting a vehicle in Khaisor town, north of Miranshah. The attack left 12 persons dead.
The second strike came in spain wam where a vehicle was targeted as a result four people were killed.

CM converted Punjab budget into deficit: Kaira

10 March 2011
Pakistan People’s Party leader and former Punjab finance minister Tanvir Ashraf Kaira on Thursday said that Chief Minister Mian Shabaz Sharif has converted budget of the province into deficit of Rs 88 billion.
Addressing a press conference at Lahore Press Club, he said that provincial government had Rs 7.2 billion as cash balance in February 2008 but it transformed it into Rs 42 billion deficit in June 2009 due to the misuse of the funds by the Punjab CM.
He said that programmes like Sasti Roti Scheme, Food Support Program and Sasta Aata Program were the reasons of the deficit in which the PML-N workers were favoured.
He said the deficit of the Punjab government was Rs 88 billion even after the federal government converted the over draft of Rs 51 billion into loan for the province.

SC declares NAB chief’s appointment illegal

10 March 2011
The Supreme Court, on Thursday, declared the appointment of National Accountability Bureau (NAB) chairman illegal and unconstitutional and directed his removal from the office.
The three-member bench of the apex court, headed by Justice Javed Iqbal heard the petitions against the appointment of justice Deedar Hussain Shah as the chairman of NAB. The petitions were filed by opposition leader in the house Chaudhary Nisar Ali Khan and Shahid Orakzai. The petitioners maintained the appointment had not followed the standard procedure laid down in the constitution.
The SC on Thursday ruled the appointment against the constitution and ordered the government to appoint a new chairman for NAB.

PML-Q to table 20th constitutional amendment in Parliament: Shujaat

9 March 2011
Pakistan Muslim League (PML-Q) would table 20th constitutional amendment in the Parliament aimed at ensuring uniformed educational policy and syllabus across the country, President of PML-Q Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain said on Wednesday.
Addressing the concluding ceremony of the three-day International Seerat Conference, he said under the 18th Amendment, provinces had been given autonomy to prepare syllabus for their students, which was inappropriate.
He said that representatives of PML-Q in the constitutional reforms committee had submitted their dissenting notes over the issue of making the education sector a provincial matter.
“The education sector should remain with the Federal Government so that a uniformed policy across the country can be ensured, for which we will bring the 20th constitutional amendment in the parliament soon,” he added.
Shujaat urged upon the Muslims to follow teachings of the Holy Quran and Sunnah to get rid of the problems faced by the Ummah.

37 killed in blast during funeral prayers in Peshawar

9 March 2011
At least 37 people have lost their lives and more than 40 injured when a suicide blast occurred during a funeral prayer in Peshawar on Wednesday.
According to initial reports, the suicide bomber targeted a funeral procession of a wife of Hakeem Khan, a chief of Local Peace Committee, in Adezai area of Matani, Peshawar.
Police officer Zahid Khan said around 300 people were attending the funeral in the Matani area when the bomber struck.
Thirty-seven people killed and more than 40 injured in the blast. The injured have been shifted to nearby hospital. Police have cordoned off the area immediately after the blast. DCO Peshawar said that the blast was suicide attack. Panic and fear prevailed in the area after the explosion.
“Thirty-seven people were killed in the blast”, said Mian Iftekhar Hussain, Information Minister of Khyber PakhtunKhawa. Bomb Disposal Unit said that eight to nine kilogram explosives used in the blast.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani strongly condemned the suicidal attack in Adezai.

New US envoy visits Pakistan

7 March 2011
The new U.S. special envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan met with top officials in Islamabad on Monday during his first trip to the region since taking the position previously held by the late Richard Holbrooke.
Marc Grossman’s visit comes as U.S.-Pakistani relations are at a low point due to the dispute over an American CIA contractor who shot dead two Pakistanis.
Washington says the man, Raymond Allen Davis, has diplomatic immunity and acted in self-defense against robbers. Pakistan has resisted releasing him, saying the matter is up to the courts.
The U.S. Embassy said Grossman met late Sunday with finance minister, Abdul Hafeez Sheikh.
Grossman, who was appointed to the post in February, also was to meet Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, President Asif Ali Zardari and other top officials Monday, said Alberto Rodriguez, spokesman for the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad.

Its Enough, MQM once again Warn PPP

7 March 2011
Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) Rabita Committee has decided to resume boycott of Sindh Assembly saying that the party can not go along with Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) in Sindh.
A joint meeting of MQM Rabita Committee was held in Nine Zero Karachi. The members of MQM in National and Provincial Assemblies were attend the meeting.
Raza Haroon, a senior member of MQM said after the meeting that MQM will continue boycott of Assemblies. He said that MQM repeatedly drew the attention of PPP over situation of the city.
Raza Haroon further said that the crime situation in Karachi is very alarming. He said that MQM believes in non-violence.
Haroon stated that MQM has conveyed decision to Prime Minister and President.
Earlier, Rabita Committee has decided to boycott the session of Sindh Assembly from today and upcoming sessions of National Assembly and the Senate ver Zulfiqar Mirza’s statement.

Pakistan has differed with US on principles: Gilani

7 March 2011
Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani on Monday said Pakistan has differed with the United States of America arch  principles and would not take any step against the national interests.
Talking to reporters after inaugurating the International Seerat Conference, Gilani said the government has adopted a tough stance on the matter of Raymond Davis.
When asked about the stance adopted by the former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi regarding the issue of diplomatic immunity to Raymond Davis, Gilani said “government’s stance is tougher.”
About the use of drone strikes within its territory, Prime Minister Gilani said all diplomatic channels were being used to convince the United States of America against the hits, and pointed that these were “counter-productive”.
“We are against the drone strikes,” he said and added “we can’t have a war

No governance in Punjab: Warraich

7 March 2011
Pakistan Peoples Party Punjab President Imtiaz Safdar Warraich said there was no governance in Punjab as insecurity and lawlessness prevailed in the province.
Talking to newsmen on Monday after offering Fateha for Ejaz Ahmed Qureshi, brother of former State Minister Tasneem Ahmed Qureshi, the PPP Punjab president said the PPP was the symbol of the federation of Pakistan with deep roots among people.
Warraich said that because of best foreign and economic policies, national exchange reserves had reached over $17 billion whereas $10 billion in foreign aid become possible only because of President Asif Ali Zardari’s efforts. “A large number of public welfare projects have also been completed in the country during the last three years,” he added.
He said permission of tax free trade for Pakistan by European Union countries was also to the credit of the PPP government. “Pakistan has inked a pact of nuclear technology with China which is also a great achievement of the PPP government,” he added.

Forces pound militants’ hideouts in Kurram; 8 dead

At least 8 militants were killed when security forces pounded their suspected hideouts in Kurram Agency on Sunday.
According to the details, the security forces attacked militants’ hideouts in central Kurram with gunship helicopters where 8 miscreants were killed in the ambush.
The forces also arrested 3 militants in lower Orakzai Agency during a search operation.

Maulana Madni, son laid to rest

The slain Maulana Mohammad Ahmed Madni of Jamat Ahle Sunnat Wal-Jamat was laid to rest alongwith his son, Abu Bakr, here on Sunday.
Maulana and his son were shot dead by unknown assailants on Saturday at New Karachi area provincial metropolis. The assailants, later, managed to flee the scene after the tragic incident.
The funeral prayers of the deceased were offered following the Zohr and the two were laid to rest later at Sakhi Hassan graveyard.
Maulana Mohammad Ahmed Madni was a prominent religious scholar and the founder of Madrassah Mehmoodiah. He was also the head of Madrassah Taleem-ul-Quran.

Committee formed to establish counter terrorism authority: Firdous

6 March 2011
Sialkot
Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan said that a committee had been formed to establish a counter-terrorism authority. She further said that there was a need to have a counter-terrorism authority in the country and the ministry of interior was working on it.She said in the last cabinet meeting, the ministry had taken an initiative for the authority,but it could not be done due to some concerns of the ministry of law.
The minister,however, added that now a committee had been formed to review all the process and expressed the hope that soon some progress would be made in this regard.
She said that some elements were engaged in point scoring on the issue of extremism and terrorism and called upon all the political parties to join hands so that a comprehensive strategy could be adopted to steer the country out of these challenges.
The minister said that the government was fully cognizant of all the issues and using all available means to tackle the challenges faced by the country.