With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore.

Ph: 99201390

No:579/Majid/Rana

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 30:

                   A memorandum of understanding was signed between Punjab government and World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) here today for cooperation in overcoming environmental pollution. Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif and Director Operation WWF Anwar Naseem signed the document. Deputy Speaker Punjab Assembly Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Special Assistant Mansha Ullah Butt and Manager Corporate Relations Sania Khan were also present.

                   Talking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that Punjab government is determined to provide a clean and healthy environment to the people and solid measures are being taken for this purpose. He said that government is making sincere efforts to control environmental pollution in the interest of future generations. He said that the agreement of cooperation signed between WWF and Punjab government is a step in the right direction and Punjab government will extend all out cooperation for the success of this programme so that a healthy environment could be provided to the masses.

                   Director Operation WWF Pakistan Anwar Naseem said that Earth Hour programme is successfully continuing at international level and is being furthered in one thousand cities of 150 countries. He said that this programme will prove useful in controlling environmental pollution and providing a clean atmosphere to the citizens. The Chief Minister and Anwar Naseem also lit torches on this occasion to express resolve to protect environment.

**5:43 PM**

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore. Ph: 99201390

No: 553/Majid/4M

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 26:

                        Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that Punjab has excellent resources, technical skill and experience to cope with dengue and any possible outbreak of dengue will be countered spiritedly. He said that all out resource will be utilized with the cooperation of people for the eradication of dengue virus. He said that Punjab is ready to provide necessary guidance and assistance to Sindh and Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa governments in dealing with the threat of dengue so that people of the whole county could be saved from this menace. He said that anti-dengue brigades will also be set up in Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, Multan and Gujranwala on the pattern of Lahore while high dependency units will be established at district headquarter hospitals. He said that Punjab government has started training programme for doctors and nurses of private hospitals so that maximum awareness could be promoted in the medical staff regarding dengue virus.

                        He was presiding over a high level meeting held with regard to dengue, at Chief Minister’s Secretariat, here today. Provincial Ministers Mian Mujtaba Shuja ur Rehman, Ch. Abdul Ghafoor, Senator Pervaiz Rashid, Deputy Speaker Punjab Assembly Rana Mashhood, Special Assistant Kh. Salman Rafique, Begum Zakiya Shahnawaz, Begum Shaista Pervaiz, Members National Assembly Pervaiz Malik, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Members Provincial Assembly, Chief Secretary, Chairman Planning & Development, provincial secretaries, Commissioner & District Coordination Officer Lahore and medical experts were present. The meeting reviewed the activities for the eradication of dengue and maintenance of cleanliness conditions. The Chief Minister directed that all departments should take part in the campaign for the detection and elimination of dengue larvae in a coordinated manner and help save citizens through exchange of information and proper utilization of government resources. He said that public cooperation is of vital importance for countering dengue and the youth should be motivated to participate in the anti-dengue drive on voluntary basis. He said that besides setting up of cabinet committee for warding off the threat of outbreak of dengue in Lahore, entomologists have also been posted at Town level. He said that necessary staff has been provided at the union council level for ensuring cleanliness. He directed that administrations and the departments concerned of other districts should be kept informed about the measures and experiences for controlling dengue in Lahore so that the threat of outbreak of this virus in those districts could also be countered effectively. He directed Chairman Planning & Development to consider inclusion of the subject of hygiene in educational institutions to promote awareness in the young generation about the importance of a clean and healthy environment. He said that Thailand and Sri Lanka have made substantial progress and benefit should be taken from their experience. The meeting was informed that a website has been launched through Punjab Information Technology Board for monitoring the activities of government departments for dengue control. Similarly, mobile sets equipped with special software have been provided to concerned staff of various towns of Lahore who record necessary data in these sets. These modern telephone sets will help in tracking dengue control activities in a comprehensive manner. Similarly focal persons have been appointed in different departments for immediate action on the public complaints regarding health and cleanliness while the garbage disposal work in parks and other open places is continuing on priority basis.

                        The Chief Minister further directed that Member National Assembly Pervaiz Malik should evolve a comprehensive policy for the maintenance of water filtration plants installed by the federal government in the provincial metropolis and provision of financial resources for this purpose so that potable water could be available to the masses. He issued instructions to consider provision of pick and drop facility to the blood donors. He said that coordination should also be maintained with the federal institutions for eradication of dengue while solid measures should be taken for the disposal of condemned tyres lying on the rooftops of houses and shops.

                        Minister for Education Mujtaba Shuja ur Rehman informed that dengue awareness campaign is continuing in educational institutions in the province and private educational institutions have also been included in this drive. Deputy Speaker Punjab Assembly Rana Mashhood Ahmad said that drama festival is being organized from March 30 for promoting awareness regarding dengue. Earlier, Secretary Health informed about steps taken by the department to control the possible outbreak of dengue virus. He said that a research and development cell has been established by the Health Department at the Institute of Public Health for research on dengue while facility of NS-I test has been provided in hospitals. Provincial Secretaries of Environment, Local Government, Higher Education, Food, Labour, Auqaf, Fisheries, Transport and Irrigation departments, Commissioner and DCO Lahore, Director General Rescue 1122, Chairman Dengue Advisory Group, Dr. Faisal Masood and the head of Punjab Blood Line informed the meeting about the measures taken by their respective institutions for coping with the threat of dengue.

**6:47 PM**

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore.

Ph: 99201390

No: 557/Akram/Akram

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 26:

                   Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has expressed deep sense of grief and sorrow over the loss of precious human lives in a bus accident near Sheikhupura. He expressed sympathies with the families of the victims and prayed that may Allah Almighty rest the departed souls in eternal peace and grant courage and strength to the bereaved families to bear the irreparable loss with fortitude.

                   The Chief Minister directed provision of best medical facilities to the injured and also prayed for their early recovery.

#######

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore. Ph: 99201390

No: 558/Majid/Akram

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 26:

                   Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that provincial government is implementing a comprehensive strategy for the welfare and betterment of industrial workers and besides improving their working conditions, residential, treatment and other basic facilities are also being provided to them. He said that modern residential colonies equipped with all basic amenities are being set up for shelterless industrial workers. He said that arrangements will also be made for quality education for the children of labourers in these colonies. The Chief Minister announced that the keys of houses will be given to industrial workers in newly constructed labour colonies in Lahore and Muzaffargarh on 1^st May.

                   He was addressing a meeting regarding construction of labour colonies for industrial workers, here today. Provincial Ministers Ch. Abdul Ghafoor, Haji Ehsanuddin Qureshi, Chief Secretary, Chairman Planning and Development, Labour leader Khursheed Ahmad and representatives of industrialists and officers concerned were present. Secretary Labour informed the meeting about the construction of labour colonies and the measures taken for the welfare of industrial workers. The Chief Minister said that labour complex has been completed at Defence Road Lahore at a cost of Rs. 2177 million. In addition to 1296 flats for labourers, intermediate colleges for boys and girls, mosque, hospitals, community centers and other facilities have been provided in the complex. He said that a modern labour colony has been constructed over 43 acre land in Muzaffargarh at a cost of Rs. 407 million. He said that 303 houses will be allotted to industrial workers in the colony. Similarly, he said that 992 flats will be constructed for labourers in the labour complex over 40 acre land in Multan. He said that a project has also been evolved for setting up of a labour colony comprising 208 flats over 215 kanal land in Warburton near Sheikhupura. The Chief Minister directed that institutes of technical education should be set up in all labour colonies.

                   The meeting also gave approval to the policy of allotment of houses in labour colonies under which all houses will be allotted through transparent balloting. 15 percent quota will be reserved in labour colonies for women workers and 2 percent for disabled persons. Prominent labour leader Khursheed Ahmad paid tributes to Chief Minister for restatement of labour inspectors and other measures for the welfare of labour community.

######  

With the compliments of the

Directorate General Public Relations,

Government of the Punjab, Lahore. Ph: 99201390

LAHORE, March 26:

HANDOUT (A)

No: 555/Majid/4M

                        Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that accountability of the anti-people and dishonest gang which has plundered the country with both its hands has become inevitable. He said that the rulers at the federal level have pocketed billions and trillions of rupees given by the nation for gas and power generation and also misappropriated the huge funds given by friendly countries due to which Pakistan is immersed in darkness and so much so its longstanding friends are reluctant to extend further assistance. He said that federal government has openly adopted an anti-Punjab attitude through suspension of gas and power supply to industries in the province due to which factories have closed down and millions of industrial workers lost their jobs.

                        He expressed these views while addressing office-bearers and members of chamber of commerce & industry and various industrial and trade organizations during his visit to Faisalabad today. Former federal minister Ahsan Iqbal, Provincial Minister Rana Sanaullah, Minister for Planning & Development Ch. Abdul Ghafoor and Members of national and provincial assembly were also present on the occasion. Replying to the questions raised by representatives of industrialists in their speeches and the problems created by worst load-shedding of power and gas and exorbitant bills, the Chief Minister said that billions of rupees of public money given in the form of taxes by the masses have been misappropriated on the pretext of income support programme, raw material of the steel mills has been sold while PIA and railways have been ruined through loot and plunder. Therefore, the rulers deserve no other title than Ali Baba and 40 Thieves. He demanded that the money misappropriated in the garb of income support programme should be utilized for power generation. He said that the protest of traders, industrial workers, the poor and the low-income segments of the society over the worst energy crises in the country’s history is their right however, it is his appeal to them to remain peaceful for having his support. He issued instructions to all members of national and provincial assembly and party office-bearers of Faisalabad Division to join the traders in their peaceful protest along with Muslim League-N workers. He announced that he will become a party to the case being heard by Supreme Court regarding distribution of gas. He said that Punjab with the cooperation of traders’ community of the province, took important decisions at the energy conference held in Islamabad to overcome energy crises but the federal government trampled these decisions and the federal ministers indulged in corruption of billions of rupees in rental power projects which is a tragedy. He said that national economy and trade is being ruined. He said that Nandipur and Chichoki Maliyan power plants in Punjab also became a victim to the lust of money of PPP ministers otherwise half of the load-shedding problem of the province would have been resolved. He said it is a tragedy that the investment made with the legitimate money is being lost due to energy crises while the rulers in Islamabad are indifferent. He said that federal government should have evolved a policy with the consultation of all stakeholders for generation of power from coal and baggase but the rulers are interested only in feathering their own nest. He assured that Member National Assembly Ahsan Iqbal will raise voice at the floor of national assembly for extension in the period of payment of the heavy bills of electricity received by traders and if the issue was not resolved he will join in their protest. The Chief Minister assured that Punjab government will not leave traders, industrialists, businessmen and workers alone in this situation and every effort will be made for upholding the rights of the people of the province and acceptance of their genuine demands. He said that the nefarious designs of those who are plundering national resources and hampering the process of industrial development will be foiled. He announced setting up of a committee comprising representatives of industrialists for dealing with the matters regarding inspection of factories and social security issues and held out assurance that the interest of industrialist community will be safeguarded.

                        Earlier, Member National Assembly Ahsan Iqbal in his address, made it clear that no change was made in the clause regarding distribution of gas in 18^th Amendment and it is intact in the form of 1973 constitution. Similarly, Pakistan Muslim League-N has shown no negligence in this regard. He said that energy crises are a self-inflicted wound caused by the inefficiency and corruption of federal government and had proper strategy been evolved, 80 per cent problem would have been resolved. He pointed out that the thermal unit which could bring 4000 megawatt electricity online is closed and had timely payments been made, the load-shedding would have been reduced. Members National Assembly Ch. Abid Sher Ali, Begum Khalida Mansoor, Members Provincial Assembly Kh. Muhammad Islam, Rana Muhammad Afzal, Mrs. Anjum Safdar, Zafar Iqbal Nagra, Muhammad Nawaz Malik, Dr. Khalid Imtiaz Baloch, Rao Kashif Rahim, Ch. Raza Nasrullah Ghumman, Joel Aamir Sahutra, Razia Joseph, Rai Ijaz Kharal, Shafique Gujjar, Khalil Tahir Sindhu and office-bearers and workers of PML-N were present on the occasion. President Chamber of Commerce & Industry Muzammil Sultan, former MNA Mian Abdul Mannan, Nasim Rehan Bharara, Naveed Gulzar, Rana Arif Tauseef, Mian Aftab Ahmad, Haji Bashir Ahmad, Kh. Shahid Razzaq Sakka, Waheed Khaliq Ramey, Mirza Shafique and other industrialists and traders informed the Chief Minister about their problems regarding energy crises and inflation. Earlier, Chief Minister Punjab met with the representatives of District Bar Association which included Munawar Hussain Sindhu, Fawad Cheema, Afzal Dogar, Khushhal Gujjar and Khurram Zeeshan.

**7:59 PM**

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore.

Ph: 99201390

No: 549/Sultan/4M

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 25:

                   Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has expressed deep sense of grief and sorrow over the tragic incident of suicide by a lady Fakhra Younis, who was a victim of acid throwing. He said that it is a point to ponder that such brutality is committed against women even in 21^st century. He stressed that deterrent punishment should be awarded to the accused involved in this inhuman act.

**7:39 PM**

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore.

Ph: 99201390

No: 546/Sultan/4M

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 25:

                   Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has congratulated to a 13-year old Pakistani student Musa Feroz on his marvelous achievement by getting first position in the international competition of mathematics conducted in Australia through internet.   

                   Chief Minister said that the young student Musa Feroz has proved that the Pakistani children are more talented than other children of the world. He said that every Pakistani is proud of this brilliant student belonging to Phalia, a backward area of the Punjab by winning 1^st position. Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif said that winning first position by a Pakistani student out of 15 lakh children of 100 countries is a great honour for Pakistani nation. He said that presence of such youth reflects this fact that the future of Pakistan is bright.

**6:55 PM**

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore. Ph: 99201390

No: 543/Sultan/4M

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 25:

                   Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that we will continue to serve the masses without caring for criticism. He said that parks will be constructed in every city of the province on the pattern of Fatima Jinnah Park constructed for women in Lahore. He said that at a time, parks with best recreational facilities were considered the monopoly of elite but we are constructing such recreational parks for common people. The Chief Minister announced that covered swimming pool, tennis and badminton courts will be constructed in Fatima Jinnah Ladies Park. He also announced cash prize of three thousand rupees each for the gardeners working in this park.

                   He was talking to media representatives and addressing the women after inaugurating Fatima Jinnah Ladies Park in Green Town, here today. Advisor Begum Zakiya Shahnawaz, Member National Assembly Naseer Ahmad Bhutta, Advisor Zaeem Hussain Qadri, Commissioner and District Coordination Officer Lahore, Director General PHA and a large number of women were present on the occasion.

                   Talking on the occasion, Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif said that Punjab government is taking solid steps for providing recreational facilities to the masses in the province. Best parks are being constructed throughout the province, he added. He said that a beautiful park has been constructed for women in Green Town and it would be made more attractive. He constituted a committee headed by Shaista Pervaiz Malik which will take steps for looking after this park and its further improvement. He directed that best security system should be evolved in this park and ladies police be imparted training for this purpose. He said that there should be round the clock security in the park so that women could benefit from recreational facilities without any fear. He directed that the construction work of covered swimming pool, tennis and badminton courts be started immediately. He lauded the efforts of local leadership of Muslim League-N and district administration for completing this excellent park for women. He said that ladies gym, jogging track, toilets, tuck-shops, benches and best facilities for the children have been provided in this park.

                   Replying to a question regarding electricity load-shedding, Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif said that injustice is being committed with the Punjab and people of the province. He said that the entire Punjab including provincial metropolis has been plunged into darkness, wheel of the industries has halted and hundreds of thousands of people have rendered jobless. Electricity is falling on the people like lightening. The Chief Minister said that the leadership of Pakistan Muslim League-N will evolve a strategy after thorough consideration in this regard and we will not allow injustice with the people. Earlier, Punjab Chief Minister inaugurated Fatima Jinnah Ladies Park and reviewed recreational facilities there. A large number of women were present on this occasion who were very happy on the construction of this excellent park. The women were raising slogans of Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif and Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif Zindabad.

**6:47 PM**

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore.

Ph: 99201390

No: 544/Sultan/4M

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 25:

                   Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that service to the masses is mission of Punjab government and all out resources are being utilized for the betterment and uplift of deprived segments of the society. He said that we will fight against corruption like we faced dengue, flood and other challenges. People will hold accountable to Ali Baba 40 thieves for plundering national wealth. He said that the entire nation will have to be united for ridding of plunderers and purging the country of corruption. He said that the country can be made a true Islamic welfare state by acting upon Islamic teachings and ideals of Quaid-e-Azam and Allama Iqbal.

                   He was addressing the inaugural ceremony of the office of Pakistan Muslim League-N on Raiwind Road, here today. Muslim League leaders Shahid Chaudhry, Sajid Chaudhry and a larger number of party workers were present on the occasion.

                   Addressing the function, Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif said that the Muslims of subcontinent gathered in Lahore 72 years ago under the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and passed a resolution for achieving a separate homeland. He said that after a short period of seven years, an Islamic state was carved in on the map of the world due to numerous sacrifices and great struggle. But this is not that Pakistan, the dream of which was seen by the founders. He said that elite have made the country a beggar and put it at the verge of disaster. He said that the country was not transformed according to the Pakistan resolution passed 72 years ago. He said that Quaid’s Pakistan which was achieved after numerous sacrifices integrated but no lesson was learnt from this tragedy. He said that there is a need of accountability and marching forward by learning lesson from our mistakes and sensitizing the gravity of the situation. If we did not learn the lesson, the history will not forgive us, he added. The Chief Minister said that just distribution of resources will have to be ensured for the survival and security of the country and the gulf between the poor and rich will have to be bridged. This is the universal message of 23^rd March, he added.

                   Earlier, Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif inaugurated Muslim League-N office. On this occasion, Muslim League workers raised full throated slogans. Two little children while presenting a bouquet to Shahbaz Sharif raised the slogan of Nawaz Sharif Zindabad, Shahbaz Sharif Zindabad. The Chief Minister congratulated the Muslim League-N workers for establishing the office.  

**6:52 PM**

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore. Ph: 99201390

No:538/Sultan/4M

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 24:

                   Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that Punjab government is strictly adhering to the merit. While addressing the foundation stone laying ceremony of Aashiyana Iqbal, the Chief Minister said that no quota of anyone including Chief Minister has been reserved in Aashiyana, Yellow Cab, laptop schemes and other projects and all these works are being carried out only on the basis of merit and good governance. He said that quota system in engineering universities and medical colleges has been abolished and now admissions are being made purely on merit.

**1755**

With the compliments of the

Directorate-General Public Relations,

Government of the Punjab, Lahore Ph: 99201390

No:537/Sultan/Rana

                                                   HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 24:

          Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that only elite segment has been benefiting from national resources for the last 64 years that is why the condition of the common and poor people could not be improved. He said that we have diverted the resources for the welfare of the downtrodden and poor people. He said that government of Pakistan Muslim League-N under the leadership of Mian Nawaz Sharif is giving due share to the poor through Aashiyana, laptop, Yellow Cab scheme and Daanish School and other welfare projects. He said that after the success of Aashiyana Quaid, the project of Aashiyana Iqbal has been launched on Burki Road where a new city comprising ten thousand houses would be set up for the common and poor people. He said that the Aashiyana Iqbal project will be completed at the earliest and facilities more than the residential colonies of the elite would be provided there. The Chief Minister said that he will continue to serve the poor throughout his life and make Pakistan a true Islamic welfare state. The Chief Minister announced that after a degree college, a university will also be set up in Aashiyana Iqbal so that facilities of higher education be made available to the people of the area.

          He was addressing the foundation stone laying ceremony of Aashiyana Iqbal on Burki Road, here today. Provincial Ministers Ch. Abdul Ghafoor, Haji Ehsan-ud-Din Qureshi, Members National and Provincial Assembly, Chairman Punjab Land Development Company and a large number of people were present on the occasion.

          Addressing the function, the Chief Minister said that the government of PML-N has taken an important step towards making the country a welfare state in accordance with the ideals of Quaid-e-Azam and Allama Iqbal by providing shelter to the poor and common people through Aashiyana housing schemes in the province. He said that colonies were being established for the ministers and officers till today but no one make any effort to provide shelter to the poor man. He said that for the first time in the history of the country, Punjab government is constructing residential colonies equipped with modern facilities for the poor, widows, orphans, hapless and heirs of the martyrs and those facilities have been provided in these colonies which were considered the features of elite’s colonies. The Chief Minister said that early completion of Aashiyana Iqbal would be ensured and he will visit twice a week to review the pace of work there. He said that like Aashiyana Quaid, all houses in this scheme would also be allotted through a transparent balloting. He announced that like adjacent localities of Aashiyana Quaid, basic facilities would also be provided to the adjoining localities of Ashiyana Iqbal. He said that the owners of private land included in this scheme would also be provided alternative land and free houses. Shahbaz Sharif said that he is thankful to all his political colleagues and government officers who are providing full assistance for these schemes of poor. The Chief Minister said that he is also thankful to the Army Chief Gen.Ashfaq Pervaiz Kiyani and Director General Rangers who retrieved the land from rangers taken on lease for Aashiyana Iqbal and the work on a residential project for poor has been started on this land.

          Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif said that rulers of Islamabd are plundering the national resources ruthlessly and the gang of Ali Baba 40 thieves has made the life of the people miserable by looting national wealth. He reiterated that the looted money will be recovered from the plunderers and utilized for the welfare of the masses. He said that the country will be transformed in accordance with the ideals of the founders. He said that poor people have also right over the resources and these are being spent on the welfare of the poor in Punjab. He said that we have also realized the dream of common and poor people of best transport after 64 years. He said that imported air-conditioned buses are plying in the provincial metropolis and these buses will also be plied in other big cities of the province. He said that work on the project of Metro Bus Service is also going on speedily for providing rapid transport to the people. Chairman Punjab Land Development Company Sheikh Alluddin, Member National Assembly Khawaja Saad Rafique and Chief Executive Officer PLDC Agha Momim also addressed the function. Earlier, Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif unveiled the plaque of Aashiyana Iqbal project.

***1755***

thailand's princess maha chakri calls on shahbaz sharif

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore.

Ph: 99201390

No: 517/Sultan/mta

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March  22  :

                    Princess of Thailand Maha Chakri Sirindhorn called on Punjab Chief Minister, Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif at Chief Minister’s Secretariat, here today. Matters regarding mutual interest, friendly relations, bilateral cooperation in trade, economic and cultural sectors between Thailand and Punjab province were discussed. Begum Zakia Shahnawaz, Khawaja Salman Rafique and assembly members besides members of the Thai delegation and Ambassadors of both the countries were also present on this occasion.

                   Expressing his views on this occasion, the Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif said that Thailand consisted of 65 million population and situated in South East Asia, is an important country of ASEAN which has made tremendous progress in trade, economic and other sectors. He said that Thailand being the 36^th strong economy of the world is worth emulating for developing countries. The Chief Minister expressed his gratitude to Thailand government for providing modern training to the doctors and nurses of Punjab for controlling dengue. He said that vast prospects of mutual cooperation exist in information technology, textile, energy production, agriculture and other sectors between Punjab province and Thailand. He asked Thai investors to fully benefit from investment opportunities in Punjab province.

                   Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif said that ancient civilization of Budhism and places exist in Pakistan and this cultural heritage is a source of attraction for Thailand tourists and followers of Budhism. He said that both nations believe in universal principles of peaceful co-existence, friendship and tolerance. He said that Pakistan has always been making efforts for maintenance of peace in South Asia. The Chief Minister said that the visit of Princess of Thailand would further strengthen the friendly ties between both the countries. Referring to the national services and wisdom of King of Thailand, Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif said that he is the symbol of unity and solidarity of his nation who has always displayed best leadership. Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif also threw light on the steps taken for the welfare of religious minorities, education, health, social development and welfare of the women in Punjab province. He said that provincial government is building educated and confident leadership by providing best education to the youth instead of making investment in mortar and bricks.

                   Princess of Thailand Maha Chakri Sirindhorn thanked Pakistani government and people for warm hospitality. Gifts were also exchanged between two personalities during the meeting. Later, Chief Minister Punjab, Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif hosted a diner in honour of Maha Chakri Sirindhorn and members of the delegation.

++++++

PEF chairman meet SEF delegation

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore.

Ph: 99201390

No: 923/Sultan/4M

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 21:

                   Punjab Education Foundation will provide necessary guidance in educational and professional matters to the education foundations of other provinces. Under this programme, free education will be provided to the poor children under public-private partnership by benefitting from experiences of each others.

                   This was disclosed by Chairman Punjab Education Foundation Raja Anwar during a meeting with a 5-member delegation of Sindh Education Foundation led by Programme Coordinator Sadaf Bhojani currently visiting Lahore in his office, today. MD Punjab Education Foundation, DMD (Finance) Salman Anwar Malik, DMD (Human Resource) Aamir Iftikhar and Project Officer (New School Programme) Hassan Javed were also present on this occasion. Matters regarding promotion of bilateral cooperation between Punjab and Sindh Education Foundations were discussed in the meeting.

                   Talking to the delegation of Sindh Education Foundation, Raja Anwar disclosed that Punjab Education Foundation is engaged in partnership with 200 new schools of backward areas. He said that Punjab Education Foundation will pay monthly fee and provide text books to the students of those schools being set up under new school programme.

                   Programme Coordinator of Sindh Education Foundation Sadaf Bhojani threw light on the projects for promotion of education through public-private partnership in Sindh province. She also appreciated performance of Punjab Education Foundation.

**1930**

m� u e Ѐ ̓ as possible for the benefit of the people. He said that development work on BRT project should be continued without interruption. He said that parking plazas will be constructed at suitable places on Ferozepur Road for providing safe parking facility to traders as well as general public. He said that intelligent transport project has been designed keeping in view the increasing traffic load and future requirements of the city. He said that under this project, traffic experts will maintain the flow of traffic in the provincial metropolis with the help of information and communication technology. He said that transparency, high standard and speedy completion of development projects is the hallmark of Punjab government and all public welfare projects have been executed in a transparent manner during the last four years and have benefited the common man. He said that metro bus service project will also be unique with regard to its standard and transparency.

                   Assembly members while expressing their views, paid glowing tributes to Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif for the launching of metro bus service and other public welfare projects. They said that this project will result in availability of modern transport facility to the citizens and Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif deserves all credit for this glorious project. Chairman Planning & Development Javed Aslam informed that an authority will be set up for operating bus rapid transit system and legislation will also be undertaken for this purpose.

**1815**

BRT project reviewed

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore. Ph: 99201390

No: 504/Majid/4M

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 21:

                    Punjab Chief Minister, Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that metro bus service project is of vital importance as it will bring a revolution in the life of the people. He said that launching of metro bus service will result in availability of speedy and comfortable transport facility of international standard to the masses and the passengers including elderly persons, children, women and students will be able to reach their destination in time. He directed that in view of the utility of the project, the construction work on the project should be undertaken round the clock so that it is completed as early as possible.

                    He was addressing a meeting to review the pace of implementation of metro bus service project, here today. Chairman Bus Rapid Transit System Mehr Ishtiaq Ahmed, Assembly Members Malik Saif ul Malook, Ramzan Siddique Bhatti, Dr. Saeed Elahi, Hafiz Mian Nauman, Mian Mohsin Latif, Kh. Imran Nazir, Dr. Asad Ashraf, Chairman Planning & Development, Commissioner and District Coordination Officer Lahore, Director General LDA, Chief Traffic Officer and other concerned officers were present. The Chief Minister said that 32 kilometer long track of metro bus service from Kahna to Shahadra will be of international standard and a shining example of traffic engineering. He directed that all departments concerned should work in a coordinated manner for the timely completion of the project. He said that bus rapid transit system is a gift to Lahorites from Punjab government and the project to be completed with the collaboration of brotherly Islamic country, Turkey will give a new identity to Lahore. He directed that side by side laying of track from Kahna to Kalma Chowk, planning should be made for the construction of track from Shahadra to Kalma Chowk so that this project could be completed as early as possible for the benefit of the people. He said that development work on BRT project should be continued without interruption. He said that parking plazas will be constructed at suitable places on Ferozepur Road for providing safe parking facility to traders as well as general public. He said that intelligent transport project has been designed keeping in view the increasing traffic load and future requirements of the city. He said that under this project, traffic experts will maintain the flow of traffic in the provincial metropolis with the help of information and communication technology. He said that transparency, high standard and speedy completion of development projects is the hallmark of Punjab government and all public welfare projects have been executed in a transparent manner during the last four years and have benefited the common man. He said that metro bus service project will also be unique with regard to its standard and transparency.

                   Assembly members while expressing their views, paid glowing tributes to Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif for the launching of metro bus service and other public welfare projects. They said that this project will result in availability of modern transport facility to the citizens and Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif deserves all credit for this glorious project. Chairman Planning & Development Javed Aslam informed that an authority will be set up for operating bus rapid transit system and legislation will also be undertaken for this purpose.

**1815**

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore.

Ph: 99201390

No:495/Majid/4M

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 20:

                   Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that he will not be deterred by threats or abuses and continue to strive for the return of billions of dollars from the bank accounts of Zardari which were looted from the people. He said that this wealth belongs to the people of Pakistan and will be spent on their welfare and betterment.

                   He was addressing a big public meeting at Shahkot today. The Chief Minister said that Zardari spoke the truth when he said in the parliament that he had rewritten history however he wrote this history through record corruption, worst price-hike and unprecedented load-shedding. He said that there is no institution which has not been looted and pillaged. He said that whether it is misappropriation of billions of rupees from Steel Mills, robbery at PIA, swindling of Hajis or the case of NRO, the fingerprints of Zardari are visible everywhere. He said that he had asked the Prime Minister not to shield Zardari but he paid no heed to his advice. He said that it is still time for the Prime Minister to withdraw his support to the 40 thieves and instead stand by justice. He said that implementation of the orders of Supreme Court is the constitutional obligation of every Pakistani. He said it is unfortunate that the Prime Minister had stated that he is not a peon as a peon who earns his living through honest means and respects the law, is much better than a prime minister who is a law-breaker. He further said that Pakistan Muslim League-N, after coming into power, will introduce laptops, Aashiyana, yellow cab and other schemes throughout the country. He said that a committee has been set up under the chairmanship of Chairman Chief Minister’s Inspection Team to probe into the matter of substandard construction of Shahkot to Sangla Hill Road and the services of an honest and expert professor of Engineering University are also being acquired for this purpose. He said that the elements involved in the substandard execution of the project will not escape punishment. He directed that the payment of the remaining dues of the contractors be immediately stopped and proceedings be initiated against the contractors and the concerned officials.

                   Earlier, upon arrival at Shahkot, the Chief Minister was accorded a rousing welcome by assembly members, senior officers and a large number of people. The Chief Minister laid the foundation stone besides inaugurating various projects worth billions of rupees including the new building of Government Degree College, new Tehsil Headquarters Hospital, public park, modern sewerage system and institute of special children. Senior Vice President of Pakistan Muslim League-N Punjab Raja Ashfaq Sarwar, Hanif Abbasi MNA and President Pak-German Council Berlin Riaz Gondal also accompanied the Chief Minister.

**1955**

firing accused nabbed

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore.

Ph: 99201390

No: 497/Akram/mta

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 20 :

                    The third accused involved in aerial firing at the reception of Sheikh Tariq Rashid in Multan two days ago has also been arrested and strict legal action is being taken against the offenders after confiscation of their firearms.

                    It may be mentioned that taking strict notice of the incident of firing in Multan, Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif had ordered stern action against the accused and his order has been implemented within 48 hours. Furthermore, the Chief Minister has ordered immediate arrest and strict legal action against those involved in aerial firing at any function across the province.

CM reviews law and order situation

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore. Ph: 99201390

No: 486/Sultan/Rana

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 19:

                        Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that the establishment of safe and peaceful society is a guarantee of country’s development and prosperity. He said that provision of justice and social peace restore the confidence of the people in governmental institutions and people live peacefully. He said that Punjab government is utilizing all available resources for the protection of life and property of the people and maintenance of law and order. He said that result-oriented steps have been taken for improving the performance of the police. He directed that besides curbing crimes, police should also apprehend the absconders involved in heinous crimes on priority basis. He said that the crimes of kidnapping for ransom be controlled effectively and the accused involved in these crimes should be taken to task.

                        He was presiding over a high level meeting held to review the law and order situation at Chief Minister’s Secretariat, here today. The meeting which lasted for more than four hours was attended by Member National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Member Provincial Assembly Col.(R) Shuja Khanzada, Chief Secretary, Inspector General of Police, Secretaries of Law and Information Departments, Commissioner and District Coordination Officer Lahore, Capital City Police Officer, IG Prisons, Regional Police Officers, District Police Officers and senior officers.

                        Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif directed that organized steps be taken for eliminating crimes and further improving law and order situation in Lahore, Faisalabad, Gujranwala and Sheikhupura. He said that the strict implementation of law banning aerial firing at marriages and other social functions be ensured. He said that Punjab police should take help from information technology for curbing crimes and further improving its professional efficiency. He said that on the pattern of brotherly Islamic country Turkey, a system should also be evolved for compiling computerized data of those persons staying in hotels so that a vigilant eye could be kept on suspects. He directed that necessary software system be developed for police with the cooperation of Punjab Information Technology Board which would help in saving the record of criminals. He said that computerized identity cards of the prisoners in jails be prepared to keep a vigilant eye on such persons. Shahbaz Sharif said that an effective system at government level be evolved for providing protection to the witnesses in courts. He said that a forensic science laboratory has been set up in Punjab province which is helping in investigation of crimes on scientific basis. He directed IG Prisons to take strict measures for checking the use of mobile phones in jails. The Chief Minister said that the role of investigation wing and prosecution is very important in awarding punishment to the persons involved in crimes. Therefore, these departments should be further activated so that people could be provided immediate justice, he added.

                        Shahbaz Sharif further said that such changes be brought in Thana culture as would provide justice to the people without any discrimination. He said that the police stations be made place of protection for oppressed and law-abiding citizens where common people be provided respect and he has a confidence that his grievance would be redressed sympathetically. The Chief Minister said that protection of life and property of the masses and establishment of law and order is the top priority of the government as law and order and economic activities are part and parcel of each others. He said that more concrete and result-oriented steps be taken for curbing crimes, hitting hard to gangs involved in various crimes, apprehending absconders and the accused involved in heinous crimes and creating sense of security among the people. He said that a strict accountability system should be evolved in police department and the professional efficiency of the officials be reviewed constantly through an effective monitoring system. The meeting was told on this occasion that the forensic science laboratory set up in Lahore is considered one of the most modern forensic laboratories of the world due to its equipments and computerized facilities.

                        Earlier, Inspector General Police Haji Habib-ur-Rehamn gave a detailed briefing to the meeting with regard to law and order situation and professional efficiency of Punjab police. The participants of the meeting put-forth various proposals for effectively controlling the crimes and further improving law and order.

**1850**

CM takes notice of aerial firing incident

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore.

Ph: 99201390

No:487/Sultan/4M

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 19:

                   Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has taken serious notice of aerial firing in the reception of Sheikh Tariq Rasheed, Member National Assembly of Muslim League-N in Multan and issued orders for taking strict action against the persons involved in this incident.

                   Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif said that no one would be allowed to take law in his hand. He directed police authorities to take action against police officials showing negligence in the firing incident. It may be mentioned that the Chief Minister has already issued orders to police authorities for strictly implementing the law banning aerial firing at marriages and other functions at a high level meeting held for maintaining law and order.

shahbaz sharif vows to change destiny of common man

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore.Ph: 99201390

No: 478/Sultan/Rana

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 18:

                   Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that Pakistan Muslim League-N after wining next general elections would launch welfare projects like Aashiyana housing scheme, Daanish school system and laptops scheme throughout the country so that the common man should benefit from it. He said that every person has equal right over national resources and we would utilize these resources for the betterment of the common man. He said that the welfare projects of the Punjab province are aimed at the progress and prosperity of the masses.  He said that these projects have changed the condition of common people and improved their living standard.

                   He said this while addressing the office-bearers and workers of Pakistan Muslim League-N at the Peshawar airport before his departure for Lahore. Senator Pervaiz Rashid, Deputy Speaker Punjab Assembly Rana Mashhood, Special Assistant Zaeem Hussain Qadri, PML-N leaders Pir Sabir Shah, Mehtab Abbasi, Zafar Iqbal Jagra, Farid Toofan, Shazia Aurangzeb, Rehmat Islam Kattak and Mufti Naveed-ul-Asr were also present on this occasion.

                   The Chief Minister said that after the victory of PML-N in next general elections, laptops would also be given to the talented students of Peshawar like Lahore and Rawalpindi. Shahbaz Sharif said that Punjab government is bearing the educational expenses of the students of other provinces through Punjab Educational Endowment Fund. He said that due to these steps, federation of Pakistan has strengthened and message of love from Punjab has been conveyed to other provinces.

                   Earlier talking to media, the Chief Minister said that Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani is protecting thieves, dacoits, murderers and plunderers by not obeying the orders of Supreme Court. How can the rule of law be imagined by violating the orders of judiciary, he questioned. The Chief Minister lamented that Prime Minister has made the supremacy of law a question mark. Shahbaz Sharif asked whether the Prime Minister wants to give the world this message through his statements that there is a free hand to dacoits and plunderers and there is a law of jungle in the country. Similarly, Prime Minister is providing an opportunity of laughing at Pakistan and the respect of law and judiciary is being undermined, he added. He said that the Prime Minister should think that he is the elected Prime Minister of 18 crore people of Pakistan, therefore, he should throw away the yoke of slavery of a single person. The Chief Minister said that the looted money of the nation in the Swiss banks will have to be returned at last, therefore, it would be better that the orders of the judiciary be implemented.

                   Replying to a question, Shahbaz Sharif said that thieves and dacoits have looted the national exchequer ruthlessly and this practice has been continuing for the last four years. He prayed to Almighty Allah to rid Pakistan of thieves, dacoits and violators of law and orders of judiciary. He expressed the hope that PML-N after winning next general elections will make Pakistan of Quaid-e-Azam socially and economically strong where there will be rule of law and all facilities would be available to the masses.

                   The Chief Minister during his visit to Peshawar also went to the residence of PML-N leader Anwar Kamal Marwat who died recently. He expressed his condolences with the bereaved family and prayed for the departed soul. He said that the deceased was an old and a reliable leader of PML-N and the death of Anwar Kamal Marwat is a great loss to the party.

** 1900 **

shahbaz sharif for promoting horticulture in cities

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore.Ph: 99201390

No: 479/Sultan/Rana

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 18:

                   Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that horticulture has been promoted in the province and all development projects are being made eye-catching with the flowers and plants to enhance the beauty of the city. He said that Lahore would be made the city of gardens and flowers by restoring its natural beauty. Appreciating the work of horticulture in parks in front of airport on this occasion, the Chief Minister also announced a cash prize of Rs.5000 for each gardener (Mali) and head gardener (Head Mali) of PHA working there.

                   He said this while reviewing the horticulture work in parks and fountains constructed in front of Allama Iqbal International Airport, here today. Deputy Speaker Punjab Assembly Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Senator Pervaiz Rashid and Special Assistant Zaeem Hussain Qadri were also present on this occasion. Director General PHA informed the Chief Minister about the horticulture projects.

                   Talking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that provincial government is taking solid steps for provision of best recreational facilities and clean environment to the citizens. He said that beautiful parks and landscapes are being developed in other cities including Lahore so that people should enjoy the best living style. Shahbaz Sharif said that best recreational facilities are also being provided for the children in the parks. While appreciating the excellent horticulture work in the parks at airport, the Chief Minister said that the officers and gardeners of PHA deserve congratulation for creating attractive natural scenes for the passengers. He also inspected fountain on this occasion and also praised beautiful flowers planted in the parks.  

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shahbaz sharif enquires about tortured teacher

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore.Ph: 99201390

No:476/Majid/Akram

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 17:

                   Chief Minister Punjab Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that the elements who tortured an aged teacher of Sargodha will not escape punishment. He said that it was a serious and gruesome incident and no amount of condemnation was enough.

                   The Chief Minister who enquired after under-treatment Nafees Ahmed Khan at Doctors Hospital here today, said that all expenditure on his treatment will be borne by the Punjab Government.  He announced constitution of an enquiry committee headed by Chairman Chief Minister’s Inspection Team for holding an impartial enquiry into this tragic incident and said that the committee will submit its report within 48 hours.  The Chief Minister said that all those involved in this incident would be awarded due punishment and the officials who hindered the course of justice would also have to pay. Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif further said that those who subjected an aged teacher to violence had insulted the entire humanity. The Chief Minister also presented a bouquet to Teacher Nafees Ahmed Khan.

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shahbaz sharif met with ZONG CEO

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore.Ph: 99201390

No:475/Majid/Akram

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 17:

                   Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that the government is implementing a comprehensive programme for the promotion of information technology in the province and has introduced good governance through E-government in different sectors which has benefited the masses. He said that an international standard IT university will soon be set up in Lahore for providing latest education to the students in different sectors of information technology to meet the demand of IT experts in the country.

                   He was talking to a four-member delegation led by Chief Executive Officer of cellular company Zong, Fan Yun Jun. Matters regarding development of telecom sector in the province were discussed in the meeting. The Chief Minister said that telecom sector has the status of industry in Pakistan and it is the first country of South Asia which has introduced the system of mobile number portability. He said that information technology is the key to success in 21^st century and developed nations owe their progress to successful use of computer technology in various sectors of national development. He said that new avenues in IT sector are being explored from the platform of Punjab Information Technology Board so that this sector could be developed and expanded for ensuring a prominent status to the country in South Asia. He said that Punjab government has set up computer labs in the public sector schools in the province. Similarly, various facilities have been provided to software houses and other computer companies in Arfa IT Park. He said that cooperation of world renowned company Microsoft has been acquired for the development of tourism sector in the province.

                   The Chief Minister stressed upon Chinese companies to invest in Punjab which has a wide scope of development and expansion of IT sector. He said that investment in IT sector is safe and lucrative. He said that Punjab Jiangsu Cultural Center and Punjab China Bureau have been set up for producing experts in Chinese language and strengthening of linguistic and cultural relations between the two countries. He said that setting up of these institutions will expand friendly relations between China and Punjab. He said that 110-megawatt Taunsa hydle power plant will be set up in Punjab with the cooperation of China.

                   Chief Executive Officer Zong, Fan Yun Jun while speaking on the occasion, said that his company is establishing branchless banking and endowment fund for students. He also commended the measures taken by Punjab government for the promotion of information technology and assured full cooperation in this regard.

######

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore. Ph: 99201390

No: 468/Majid/Rana

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 16:

                    Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that the provincial government is following the policy of acquiring international cooperation for promoting economic activities and bringing innovations in public welfare projects.

                    Talking to the Ambassador of South Korea in Pakistan Choongjoo  Choi during a meeting here today, the Chief Minister said that the rapid economic programme made by South Korea is enviable and the living standard of the people of Punjab can also be raised by benefiting from the economic experiences of South Korea. He said that an air-conditioned bus services was launched in Lahore at the end of the 90s and people are still benefiting from this project. He said that provincial government is providing a favorable environment to international companies and investors and all necessary facilities for investment are being provided under one-roof from the platform of Punjab Investment Board. He said that foundation of a modern transport system has been laid in the province with the cooperation of Turkey while maximum facilities are also being offered to the companies of other countries for investment. The Chief Minister said that 21^st century is the century of benefiting from economic opportunities and only those nations are changing their destiny as are fully exploiting the economic prospects. He said that Pakistan and South Korea have friendly relations and there is need to transform them into trade and economic cooperation. He said that there are vast opportunities of investment in different sectors in Punjab and excellent infrastructure is available for this purpose. He said that South Korean investors should benefit from these opportunities.

                    South Korean Ambassador Choongjoo  Choi said that South Korea has made economic progress by following the 5-year economic plan of Pakistan. Matters of mutual interest and cooperation in different sectors were also on the occasion. Provincial Minister for Transport Mian Mujtaba Shuja-ur-Rehman and Chairman Punjab Investment Board Miftah Ismail and Director South Korean Embassy Mr. Sung were also present in the meeting.

**  1735  **

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore.Ph: 99201390

No:467/Majid/Rana

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 16:

                   Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that government is endeavoring for raising the living standard of masses and an organized programme for the provision of a modern public transport system and other services to the people has been initiated with the collaboration of international companies. He said that government has introduced meaningful reforms in education, health, public transport and other sectors for the benefit of the people. He said that empowerment and easy access of the common man to government resources is essential for changing the destiny of the country.

                   He was presiding over a meeting to review the pace of progress of the projects of bus rapid transit system and intelligent transport system, here today. Chairman Lahore Transport Company Khawaja Ahmad Hasaan, Member Provincial Assembly Mehr Ishtiaq Ahmad, Chairman Planning & Development, Secretaries of Transport and Finance, DG LDA and representatives of NLC and NESPAK attended the meeting. The Chief Minister said that public welfare projects are the best form of investment as they provide relief to the common man. He said that bus rapid transit system which is fast and economical has been designed with an eye on the transport needs of the future. He said that this bus service will not result in traffic jams and also save the time of the citizens. He said that a bus will be available to the passengers after every minute on the 32-km long route from Shahdra to Kahna. He directed that besides bus rapid transit system, parking plazas should also be constructed at suitable places for the convenience of the people and business community. He said that intelligent transport system has been devised to meet the transport needs of the 21^st century. He said that this state-of-the-art computerized system will help streamline traffic in the provincial metropolis as well as provision of timely assistance in case of any accident or emergency. He directed that best human resource should be developed for operating this traffic control system.

                   The meeting was informed that development work is speedily in progress on the bus rapid transit system from Kahna to Kalma Chowk while planning has been made for the construction of 11-km long track from Shahdra to Kalma Chowk in the next phase. The Chief Minsiter also issued instructions for setting up a sub-committee for timely completion of the project. The committee will take measures for removing the hurdles in the execution of this public-welfare project.

** 1816 **

With the compliments of the
Directorate General Public Relations,
Government of the Punjab, Lahore.

Ph: 99201390

No: 469/Majid/4M

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 16:

                   A three-member delegation led by head of Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency (PILDAT) Ahmad Bilal Mehboob met Punjab Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif. Provincial Law Minister Rana Sanaullah Khan, Member National Assembly Anusha Rehman, Chairman Lahore Transport Company Kh. Ahmad Hasaan, Chairman Planning & Development, Secretary Law and Secretary Finance were also present on the occasion. Various proposals and suggestions for enhancing the role of standing committees of provincial assembly in budget making were considered in detail.

                   Talking to the delegation, the Chief Minister said that Pakistan Muslim League-N government attaches high importance to the democratic institutions and is following the policy of their stability and promotion of democratic traditions so that the benefits of the democracy should reach the common man. He said that due importance has been given to the proposals and suggestions of assembly members in the budget making during the last four years. He said that budget is reflective of economic policies and Punjab government has set the budget targets in such a manner that it should ensure rapid economic development and uplift of the common man. Setting up a committee headed by Provincial Law Minister Rana Sanaullah, he directed that the committee should submit practicable proposals regarding the role of standing committees in budget making.

                   Earlier, head of PILDAT Ahmad Bilal Mehboob gave a briefing regarding the role of standing committees in budget making. He appreciated the fact that the proposal of Anusha Rehman, MNA of PML-N for amendment in the rules of national assembly has been approved by Rules and Privilege Committee. The purpose of the proposals is to strengthen democratic role of parliamentary committees. Chairman Planning & Development, Secretary Finance and Secretary Law briefed the meeting about budget making.

With the compliments of the

Directorate-General Public Relations,

Government of the Punjab, Lahore. Ph: 99201390

No: 453/Sultan/mta

HANDOUT (A)

LAHORE, March 14:

                        ChiefMinister Punjab Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif has said that anti-people and anti-democracyforces have been making nefarious attempts to involve Quaid Muslim League-NMian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif in the ISI case but the masses have paid no heed to thesefalse and baseless allegations. He said that conspiracies are being hatchedagainst the leadership of Pakistan Muslim League-N. He said that somecharacters of this conspiracy have been exposed to the people while theremaining characters will soon come to the light. He said that if conspirators areunder the impression that we will stop raising our voice against theircorruption and malpractices they are mistaken. Mian Shahbaz Sharif said that wewill not rest content until every penny of the hard-earned money of the poorpeople is recovered from the plunderers and spent on the welfare of the masses.He said that the allegations leveled against us are a bunch of lie. He saidthat our hands are clean, therefore, we have decided to move the court againstformer President of Mehran Bank Younis Habib. He said that a suit of damageswould be filed against Younis Habib and if the case is decided in our favour,the amount received as damages would be given to some charity organizations.

                        Addressing a press conference, heretoday, Chief Minister Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif said that a campaign of characterassassination of Pakistan Muslim League-N leveling allegations against it iscontinuing for sometimes and people are fully aware of the character,background and list of the crimes who is at the center of this campaign. Hesaid that earlier efforts were being made to involve Nawaz Sharif in ISI case butnow suddenly efforts are being made to implicate him also in this 20 years oldcase. The Chief Minister furthers said that he has already stated that thisallegation is the biggest lie of this century. Everyone knows who is behindthis game and using a person who is on wheel chair, he questioned. He said thatYounis Habib has changed his statement and stance four times during the lastfour days, therefore, such a liar cannot be trusted. He said that Asif Jamshed anothercharacter in this Natak is also known for his deceit and deception. He is the personwho despite committing a fraud eight million dollars in Habib Bank, was appointedManaging Director of the Bank of Punjab in 1994 by the Peoples Party governmentfor his “Special Services” and was removed by him on coming into power in 1997had this person fled away to New York for saving himself from the clutches oflaw. Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif said that those leveling allegations against theleadership of Muslim League should keep in mind that the memory of the peopleis not short and they know fully well that it was Pakistan Muslim League-Nwhich had demanded through media and Parliament that character of Mehran Gate shouldbe exposed and taken to task. Muhammad Nawaz Sharif and his politicalcolleagues have been demanding constantly that Younis Habib who looted billionsof rupees of Habib Bank and Mehran Bank and distributed the hard-earned moneyof the people among the cronies of Asif Zardari be awarded deterrent punishment.The Chief Minister said that Nawaz Sharif, members of opposition of that eraand the journalists took out a procession to Dera Ghazi Khan for exposingcorruption while stones were pelted on the procession and it was also fired uponto stop it from exposing this corruption.

                        ShahbazSharif disclosed that Pakistan Muslim League-N had also issued a facts sheetabout Mehran Gate Scandal in which it had been demanded from the government tohold transparent investigation into Mehran Bank scandal and expose the realcharacters. He said that the matter is in the Supreme Court, therefore, as perlaw Younis Habib should produce evidence in the court in support of his allegations.The Chief Minister expressed his confidence that he could not do so as our handsare clean. He said that if some behind the scene characters and their cronies thinkthat they can damage the image of leadership of Pakistan Muslim League-Nthrough such misleading allegations and save themselves from NRO, they aremistaken. He said that we have decided to settle this issue once and for all. TheChief Minister said that we completely trust on courts and expressed his hopethat Inshallah truth will prevail.

                        Replying to a question about the loanof 20 crore rupees, the Chief Minister said that he has always raised voice againstthose who got written off loans on political basis and committed a dacoity at PunjabBank. He said that the business of Sharif family was divided in the start of 90’sand we had decided in principle that Sharif family would not take loan from governmentbanks. Therefore we did not get loan of Rs. 20 crore from Mehran Bank and thisis totally false. He said that taking loan for business is not a crime but notreturning loan is a serious crime and the elements involved in this crime shouldbe awarded exemplary punishment. The Chief Minister said that they his family hadtaken a loan of Rs. 4.80 crore for Chaudry Sugar Mills in 1992 and the amountof loan of Rs.10.21 crore was repaid with markup 15 years ago. He challengedthat if it is proved that Sharif family had got written off even a single pennyof the principle amount of the loan or its interest, he would face anypunishment. Had a voice been raised against those who got written off loans ofbillions of rupees on political basis, he lamented.  He said that it is our weakness as a nation notto raise voice against the loans got written off on political basis andplundering of billion of rupees. Replying to another question about the role ofagencies, Shahbaz Sharif said that due to this role of agencies, nationalinstitutions have weakened, rule of law has not been established and democratictraditions have not flourished. He said that this game of agencies should bestopped in the interest of bright future of the country. The Chief Ministersaid that if the court summoned him, he would prove who had taken Rs.50 crorefrom IB Fund for toppling Punjab government in 2009.  

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