logo
‘Nation applauds Field Marshal's meeting with Trump': minister

‘Nation applauds Field Marshal's meeting with Trump': minister

LAHORE: Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari has said that while Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is launching modern air ambulances to serve the people of Punjab, the KP government, by contrast, has merely introduced rickshaws — a clear reflection of the priorities of the two administrations.
Commenting on the recent meeting between Pakistan's Field Marshal Asim Munir and US President Donald Trump, she said the encounter has rattled Modi's government and the 'Fitna' group, but brought pride and joy to the people of Pakistan. She added that world leaders are accorded respect on the global stage based on their national contributions, integrity, and service — as was clearly demonstrated by the warm reception given to Field Marshal Asim Munir in the United States.
Speaking on Punjab's rapid development, Azma Bokhari noted that under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz's leadership, the province is experiencing an unprecedented era of progress. As part of recent initiatives, 911 vehicles have been inducted into the 'Clinic on Wheels' fleet to ensure timely medical assistance for the public, she said.
Highlighting the provincial budget 2025-26, Bokhari said it is a balanced, tax-free, and people-friendly financial plan that truly reflects a commitment to public welfare. She emphasized that the budget not only offers relief to salaried individuals but also lays the foundation for strengthening the economy by expanding the tax net. Efforts are underway to bring non-filers into the tax system, aiming to promote transparency and accountability.
While addressing a joint press conference at DGPR alongside Provincial Minister for Labour and Sports, Malik Faisal Ayub, the minister information further stated that the Punjab government is making substantial investments in education, healthcare, sanitation, and transport. Under the 'Clean Punjab' campaign, exemplary cleanliness arrangements were made during Eid-ul-Azha, and soon, 1,100 eco-friendly buses will be operational across the province.
Azma Bokhari praised Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz's vision, noting that she considers every public rupee a sacred trust and is steering Punjab toward sustainable growth through transparent governance. Concluding the press conference, Bokhari reiterated the government's resolve to continue working for the development and welfare of every segment of society.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Punjab PA Speaker distributes cheques among sanitation workers
Punjab PA Speaker distributes cheques among sanitation workers

Business Recorder

timean hour ago

  • Business Recorder

Punjab PA Speaker distributes cheques among sanitation workers

LAHORE: Punjab Assembly Speaker, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan distributed award cheques among hardworking sanitation workers in Kasur under the 'Suthra Punjab Programme' initiated by the Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, in recognition of their excellent cleanliness arrangements during Eid-ul-Azha. On this occasion, the Speaker not only distributed the award cheques on behalf of the Punjab government but also announced an equal amount of personal reward for each worker — a gesture that was warmly appreciated by the attendees. Addressing the workers, Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan paid tribute to the leadership of the Government of Punjab and stated that the vision of public service envisioned by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif is now being implemented in letter and spirit. The successful execution of the 'Suthra Punjab' initiative is a prime example of this. The Speaker commended the efforts of the Suthra Punjab workers, stating that hardworking individuals are the backbone of a province's progress and development. 'Loyal and dedicated individuals like you are our pride,' he said. 'The true beauty of our society lies in the hands that serve silently and selflessly.' Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan especially acknowledged the commitment, discipline, and sense of duty demonstrated by these workers during the Eid holidays. 'Their performance is truly commendable,' he said. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025

Forces eliminate two Indian-backed terrorists in Balochistan
Forces eliminate two Indian-backed terrorists in Balochistan

Business Recorder

timean hour ago

  • Business Recorder

Forces eliminate two Indian-backed terrorists in Balochistan

RAWALPINDI: Two Indian-sponsored terrorists were killed and two others arrested in an operation by security forces in Balochistan, the military's media wing said on Sunday. The intelligence-based operation was conducted in Duki district after reports of the presence of terrorists affiliated with 'Fitna-e-Hindustan' (a terror proxy backed by India), according to Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR). ISPR stated that the hideout of the terrorists was effectively targeted. In the ensuing gun battle, two Indian-backed militants were killed, and two were taken into custody. Weapons, ammunition, and explosive materials were also recovered from the slain terrorists, who were reportedly involved in multiple terrorist activities. The military spokesperson affirmed that security forces remain committed to eradicating Indian-sponsored terrorism from the country, and vowed that such terrorists and their facilitators will be brought to justice. Yesterday, as many as 13 Pakistani soldiers embraced martyrdom in a suicide.

Weekly Cotton Review: Mixed trend persists on improved trading
Weekly Cotton Review: Mixed trend persists on improved trading

Business Recorder

time2 hours ago

  • Business Recorder

Weekly Cotton Review: Mixed trend persists on improved trading

KARACHI: The cotton market witnessed a mixed trend. Trading activities showed improvement. The spot rate recorded a decline of Rs 200 per maund. In the recent budget, the government has fulfilled the long-standing demand of APTMA by discontinuing the Export Facilitation Scheme (EFS) on imported cotton, yarn, and fabric. This move has provided a level playing field for the local industry to compete internationally, earning appreciation from industrial circles. Recent rains in Sindh and Punjab have led to the partial closure of ginning factories, affecting production activities. However, experts suggest that while the rainfall will benefit the cotton crop, standing water in the fields could pose a risk of damage. Earlier, the crop had already suffered due to extreme heat, prompting farmers to remain vigilant about weather fluctuations. On another front, discussions were held between the leadership of China and APTMA to promote bilateral trade. Both sides emphasized maximizing benefits from the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) to further strengthen trade relations between the two countries. Joint measures in this regard are currently under consideration. Sohail Talat, Chairman of the Pakistan Business Forum (PBF) and the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), has demanded the revival of the cotton industry in South Punjab. He declared that the struggle to eliminate taxes on cotton would continue until the government meets their demands. Ahsan-ul-Haq, Chairman of the Ginners Forum, stated that Pakistan's agriculture sector, particularly cotton crops, is facing severe damage due to the inefficiencies of the Meteorological Department. He emphasized the need for better weather forecasting and policy interventions to protect farmers' livelihoods. The Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association (PCGA) had demanded the removal of taxes on Khal and Banola, but the government has yet to take action. This delay has caused significant unrest among cotton growers, who are already struggling with financial and operational challenges. The local cotton market witnessed mixed trends in cotton prices over the past week. While prices in Sindh remained relatively weak, the Karachi Cotton Association's Spot Rate Committee reduced the spot rate by PKR 200 per maund, closing it at PKR 16,300 per maund. The supply of phutti (seed cotton) increased in both Sindh and Punjab, leading to the resumption of operations in several ginning factories. However, due to the distribution of phutti among a larger number of factories, many are operating only partially. The recent rains in Sindh and Punjab have discouraged ginners from purchasing large quantities of phutti, which is expected to disrupt the arrival of phutti and affect cotton quality. The government has discontinued the Export Facilitation Scheme (EFS) for cotton, yarn, and fabric in the budget and imposed an 18% sales tax on imported cotton, yarn, and fabric. This fulfills APTMA's long-standing demand for a level playing field, which is expected to benefit cotton farmers and encourage textile mills to purchase local cotton, thereby boosting domestic trade. According to a report, the sales tax on imported cotton, yarn, and fabric—as well as local cotton—may be reduced from 18% to 10%. However, confirmation of this news will only be possible after the official notification is issued. Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cotton Ginners Association (PCGA) remains concerned as its demand for the removal of taxes on cotton by-products, such as cottonseed oil and cake, has not been met. The Pakistan Kissan Ittehad has also raised its concerns and urged the government to address PCGA's demands. Sohail Talat, Chairman of the Pakistan Businesses Forum (PBF) and FPCCI, emphasized that the struggle to eliminate taxes on cotton will continue until the demands are met. The rate of cotton in Sindh is in between Rs16,200 to Rs 16,500 per maund, while the rate of phutti is in between Rs 7,500 to Rs 8,200 per 40 kg. In Punjab, cotton prices stood at Rs 16,700 to Rs 16,800 per maund. The rate of Phutti is in between Rs 7,800 to Rs 8,400 per 40 kg. However, prices of Banola have declined. The Spot Rate Committee of the Karachi Cotton Association reduced the spot rate by Rs 200 per maund, closing it at Rs 16,300 per maund. Karachi Cotton Brokers Forum Chairman Naseem Usman said that international cotton prices showed a mixed trend, with New York cotton futures trading between 66.00 to 69.00 cents per pound. According to the USDA's weekly production and sales report, 27,300 bales were sold for the 2024-25 season. Pakistan remained the top buyer, purchasing 9,200 bales, followed by Vietnam with 7,700 bales, and Japan in third place with 2,500 bales. For the 2025-26 season, sales reached 64,700 bales. Vietnam led with 34,300 bales, followed by El Salvador with 15,300 bales, and Malaysia in third place with 8,000 bales. Chinese Consulate General and All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) leadership have resolved to upsurge bilateral trade, take maximum advantage of Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and to explore possibilities of joint ventures in textile industry. Zhao Shiren Consul General of China, Li Haoteng, Commercial Counsellor and Wang Yaqiang, Vice Consul visited APTMA office on Tuesday and discussed in detail prospects, ways and means to increase volume of trade and joint ventures in textile industry. Dr Gohar Ejaz, Patron-in-Chief APTMA and Chairman APTMA Kamran Arshad welcomed the Chinese Consul General at APTMA. They were accompanied by Syed Ali Ahsan, former Chairman APTMA, Zonal Management Committee members including Haroon Ellahi, Muhammad Ali, Faisal Jawed, Ahsan Shahid, Ismail Fareed, Habib Anwar, leading textile exporters, Secretary General APTMA Shahid Sattar and Secretary General North Mohammad Raza Baqir. Speaking on the occasion, Zhao Shiren said both China and Pakistan enjoy strong economic and cultural relations and China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is an example of this robust relationship between both the countries. He highly appreciated the role of APTMA in general and of Dr Gohar Ejaz in particular in expansion of bilateral economic relations. He enumerated highly plausible services rendered by Dr Gohar Ejaz in cementing relation between China and Pakistan not only as Commerce Minister but also in his private capacity. He also spoke volume about community and welfare services being performed by Gohar Ejaz Foundation for poverty alleviation, medical services, educational and research uplift and industrialization of the country. Consul General highlighted expansion of bilateral trade since the signing of China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in 2006 and resolved to further uplift the said volume by taking maximum benefits from FTA. He noted that balance of trade is presently in favour of China and assured of his help to not only expand trade volume but also to bridge the gap in balance of trade. He informed that textile goods falling in more than 800 HS tariff lines of customs chapters 50 to 63 enjoy duty free status under FTA on import into China from Pakistan. He emphasised Pakistani textile industry to avail duty free regime widely liberalized for Pakistani textile products since implementation of Phase II of FTA in 2020. According to reports, cotton has been cultivated on 3.128 million acres in Punjab and 1.005 million acres in Sindh. The expected yield per acre is estimated at 170 kg. Punjab is projected to produce 4.898 million bales, while Sindh is expected to yield 2.519 million bales. The total anticipated cotton production for both provinces stands at 7.417 million bales. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store