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PM REAFFIRMS PAKISTAN’S COMMITMENT TO STRENGTHENING COLLABORATION WITH IAEA Thursday, 13 February, 2025 | 14 Shaban ul Moazzam, 1446
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PM Shehbaz, DG IAEA discuss peaceful applications of nuclear technology in various sectors Mr Grossi appreciates Pakistan’s constructive and longstanding engagement with agency
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Rs 20.00 | Vol XV No 219 | 8 Pages | Lahore Edition
ISLAMABAD
staff report
RIME Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to further strengthening its collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to harness the full potential of nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, ensuring continued benefits for the people of Pakistan and the global community. International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General (DG) Rafael Mariano Grossi paid a courtesy call on the prime minister at the PM House, said a statement from the Prime Minister office (PMO). During the meeting, they discussed the peaceful applications of nuclear technology in various sectors, including cancer diagnostics and treatment, agriculture, food preservation, water management, and industry, the PM Office Media Wing said in a press release. The prime minister commended the IAEA’s initiatives in promoting nuclear energy as a key solution for mitigating climate change and emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to leveraging nuclear technology for sustainable development.Pakistani cuisine recipes During the meeting, the prime minister noted that, as one of the founding members of the IAEA, Pakistan has maintained a productive and mutually beneficial partnership with the Agency
spanning over several decades. With the IAEA’s support, Pakistan had made significant progress in nuclear power generation, industrial development, healthcare, and agricultural advancements, contributing to the country’s socio-economic growth, he added. The DG IAEA appreciated Pakistan’s constructive and longstanding engagement with IAEA and said that the organization would continue to work with Pakistan in the same spirit. DPM, IAEA CHIEF RAFAEL HELD MEETING Earlier in the day, IAEA DG Grossi called on Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar to discuss the role of nuclear energy in climate mitigation and adaptation, according to a statement from the Foreign Office. According to a statement from the FO, Grossi arrived on a two-day visit to the country and called on DPM Dar. “They discussed the role of nuclear energy in climate mitigation/adaptation and its underlying financial imperatives,” the statement said. “They also held useful discussions on IAEA’s projects in Pakistan and the global issues on IAEA’s agenda.” It added that Pakistan values its cooperation with the IAEA and looks forward to the Agency’s continued cooperation. Last year, Pakistan was elected a member of the IAEA Board of Governors for the 21st time since becoming a member of the agency.
PM assures IMF chief of commitment to economic prudence, efficiency DUBAI
staff report
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Kristalina Georgieva wherein both sides discussed Pakistan’s ongoing IMF programme and the macroeconomic stability achieved through the government’s comprehensive reform agenda. The meeting held on the sidelines of the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2025 in Dubai, highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to implementing structural reforms and maintaining fiscal discipline, which had been instrumental in restoring economic stability and would be critical in driving sustainable growth, according to a PM Office press release issued Wednesday.Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif underscored the progress made under the IMF’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF), which has played a key role in stabilizing Pakistan’s economy; setting it on
the path of long-term recovery. He reaffirmed the government’s resolve to sustain the reform momentum, particularly in critical areas such as tax reform, energy sector efficiency, and private sector development. He assured the IMF chief of Pakistan’s commitment to economic prudence, efficiency, and sustainability as essential pillars for achieving inclusive and sustained growth. Kristalina Georgieva commended Pakistan’s efforts in effectively implementing the IMF-supported program, highlighting the country’s improving economic performance with rising growth and declining inflation. She recognized that Pakistan is on the path to growth and has undergone economic recovery. The IMF Managing Director also acknowledged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership and personal commitment to driving the country’s reform agenda, which has been critical in achieving economic stability and progress.
COAS urges youth to embrace ‘Pakistaniat’ for intellectual growth RAWALPINDI
staff report
General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff (COAS), addressed a gathering of young university and college students, representing youth from all across Pakistan. General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff (COAS), addressed a gathering of young university and college students, representing youth from all across Pakistan. During his interaction, COAS encouraged the students to strive for excellence in their academic pursuits and to develop skills that would enable them to contribute positively to the country’s progress. He also shared perspective on the impact of external environment on Pakistan, especially the threat from trans-border terrorism. The Army Chief praised the youth for their energy, creativity, and ability to innovate, stating that they are the future leaders of Pakistan. COAS highlighted the role of the Pakistan Army in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. He honoured the sacrifices of people of Pakistan in nation’s struggle against the menace of terrorism, and appreciated their resolute support to the Armed Forces and LEAs. Emphasizing the need to imbibe ‘Pakistaniat’, COAS highlighted the significance of Pakistan’s history, culture, and values in the intellectual development of our youth.
President Erdogan arrives to red carpet welcome in Islamabad ISLAMABAD
staff report
President of Turkiye Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday was accorded a warm welcome on arrival for a two-day visit. As the plane carrying Turkish president landed at Nur Khan Airbase, he was received by President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, First Lady Aseefa Bhutto, Deputy PM/Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and senior government officials. A 21-gun salute in the backdrop heralded the arrival of the dignitary, who was accompanied by a gh-level delegation.
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