Day: June 15, 2024

Upon directives of Prime Minister of Pakistan, Minister for Housing and Works Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada chaired a meeting for transition plan for winding-up Pakistan Public Works Department. During the meeting, the committee deliberated on developing a comprehensive transition plan for the PWD, aimed at ensuring the efficient utilization of resources and the seamless continuation of public sector development projects. Furthermore, discussions were held regarding the maintenance of assets currently under charge of the PWD. Source: Radio Pakistan

Around two million pilgrims from across the globe are converging at Mount Arafat, the Jabal ar-Rahmah on the second day of the pilgrimage to perform the major Hajj ritual. Radio Pakistan's correspondent in Maidane-Arafa Bilal Khan Mehsud reports that countless pilgrims are making their way from Mina to the plains of Arafat, utilizing buses and trains as their mode of transportation. Hundred percent of the Pakistani pilgrims were allocated train tickets participating in the government scheme. This elevated hill holds great historical significance as it served as the location where Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) delivered his Farewell Sermon to the Muslims. Standing on the expansive plains of Arafat, this significant granite hill serves as a remarkable symbol of that crucial moment in Islamic history. Pilgrims devote the entire day at Arafat to supplicating to Allah, seeking forgiveness for their sins, and praying for personal strength in the future. Pakistan's Minister for Religious Affairs Chaudhary Sali k Hussain is also present at Arafat to perform Hajj. Pilgrims will make their way to Masjid Nimrah on the grounds of Arafa, where they will listen to the Hajj sermon amid continuous chanting of "Talbiyah". After the sermon, Hajj pilgrims will stay till Maghreb prayer here and then they will move towards Muzdalifah. Upon sunset, they will then head to Muzdalifah to spend night in open sky and collect pebbles for the symbolic stoning of the devil ritual. After the stay at Muzdalifah, the Hujjaj will perform the stoning of the devil on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah. The Pilgrims are praying from Allah Almighty for forgiveness of their sins. The people can listen live to the Hajj sermon in with Urdu translation through this link. https://manaratalharamain.gov.sa/arafa/arafa_sermon/ur Source: Radio Pakistan

National Logistics Corporation has crossed an important milestone to promote regional trade. NLC's first truck carrying six tonnes of cherries has reached China while the second consignment will depart from Gilgit-Baltistan next week. Last year, under the TIR system, the first export cargo of two trucks carrying medicines from Pakistan had reached Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. In April this year, a consignment of potatoes was dispatched through NLC trucks which covered the journey from Okara and Rahim Yar Khan to Dushanbe in just seven days. Source: Radio Pakistan

Pakistan Army and Frontier Corps North have inaugurated a social welfare home and boys hostel in Buner. This is aimed at empowering the local women and providing education to the children. Various facilities have been provided in the Social Welfare Complex. The local population have thanked Pakistan Army and Frontier Corps North for constructing the Social Welfare Complex. Source: Radio Pakistan

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif says the government's reform agenda prioritizes enhancing governance and delivering superior services to the public. He made these remarks while presiding over a meeting on strategic institutional reforms within the federal government in Islamabad today. The Prime Minister directed all the federal ministries to fully support these reforms. During the meeting, a comprehensive briefing was given on the strategic roadmap for reforms. The participants were informed that the task management system, nearing completion, is being introduced as per the Prime Minister's directives. Efforts have also commenced to appoint international experts in federal ministries. Additionally, it was disclosed that Key Performance Indicators will be established to monitor the ministries' performance. Source: Radio Pakistan

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has extended warm greetings and best wishes to Amir of the State of Qatar Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani on the auspicious occasion of Eid. During a telephonic conversation today, the two leaders exchanged views on the importance of Eid ul Adha, which symbolizes sacrifice, compassion and unity. At this joyous moment, both the leaders also spoke about the plight of the brave and innocent people of Palestine and urged the international community to redouble peace efforts and ensure an immediate end to violence and bloodshed in the region. The Prime Minister and the Amir reaffirmed the strong bond of friendship and brotherhood between Pakistan and Qatar, rooted in shared values and mutual respect. They discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation in various fields. The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation for Qatar's support and cooperation with Pakistan, particularly in the areas of trade, investment and labour. The two leaders agre ed to continue to work together to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the region and beyond. The Prime Minister thanked the Amir for graciously accepting the invitation to undertake an official visit to Pakistan and said the dates of his visit would be worked out soon. Source: Radio Pakistan