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NADRA PARTICIPATES IN TRUSTECH EXHIBITION IN PARIS

EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN, PARIS, FRANCE

PRESS RELEASE

 

PARIS: NOVEMBER 28, 2023

PAKISTAN’S STORY: FROM FAMILY TREE TO DIGITAL SUCCESSION WITH PAKISTAN’S ID SYSTEM

Lieutenant General Muhammad Munir Afsar, Chairman of the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) is representing Pakistan at a 3-day exhibition of TRUSTECH 2023 which opened today in Paris and will continue till November 30, 2023.

In his speech before TRUSTECH audience, the Chaiman NADRA highlighted the evolving role of NADRA since its establishment in 2000 and briefed all about the accomplishments of the organization inclusive of ID documents (national identity card, overseas card; etc.), financial systems (mobile/branch-less banking, remittances, pension disbursement; etc.), e-governance (online visa, taxation system, e-passport, legal inheritance; etc.), health & education (vaccination system, scholarship programs; etc.) and social protection (disaster relief programs, subsidy programs; etc.).

The Chairman further briefed that numerous countries have benefitted from the services of NADRA in their journey of digital transformation. He said that NADRA’s clients are able to make use of customized solutions together with complete transfer of technology – building trust and mutual learning.

The Ambassador of Pakistan to France Asim Iftikhar Ahmad visited the pavilion of NADRA set up at TRUSTECH exhibition where he was briefed by the Chairman NADRA on the ‘solutions & services for digital transformation’ undertaken by his organization. While referring to NADRA’s work as ‘empowerment through identity” the Ambassador praised the new services being introduced by NADRA especially its mobile app facility. The Ambassador took round of the exhibition and interacted with various exhibitors from different countries.

TRUSTECH is the annual meeting place for professionals of the Cards and Digital Trust technologies industries, attracting visitors from across the globe. The 39th edition of TRUSTECH exhibition in Paris has brought in to spotlight representatives from tech, smart card and innovative payment industries, as well as financial and governmental institutions. The said exhibition provides an opportunity to the exhibitors, sponsors and startups to exchange views on their latest innovations.

During the three days – the exhibition will hold 70 conferences featuring over 100 international experts with almost 200 exhibitors and 6,500 professionals from 92 countries. It is expected that 80% of visitors will be attending TRUSTECH exhibition with specific investment projects in mind.

The participation of Pakistan in this exhibition will provide NADRA with an excellent opportunity to hold important meetings with various stakeholders and will likely open new vistas for its growth and development in future.

Earlier Chairman NADRA Lieutenant General Muhammad Munir Afsar visited the Embassy of Pakistan and appreciated its role regarding efficient delivery mechanism adopted for the online visa facility to the Pakistani diaspora and others.

The officers of the Embassy were also present at the occasion.

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29 November 2023 in Latest news, Non classé, Press Releases

Pakistan re-elected to UNESCO Executive Board for 2023-2027

Embassy of Pakistan

Paris, France

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Press Release

Pakistan re-elected to UNESCO Executive Board for 2023-2027

Pakistan was re-elected today to the Executive Board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for the term 2023-2027. Pakistan wishes to thank Member States for their support and the confidence reposed in its candidature. It is a matter of immense pride to have been entrusted with the responsibility to serve on the Executive Board. Pakistan will avail this opportunity to continue to contribute to the policymaking, development of norms, advancement of global priorities, and effective oversight of programs and activities of the Organization.

Pakistan values the ever-relevant and crucial role of UNESCO as a universal forum to promote the intellectual and moral solidarity of mankind and advancement of global peace and development through education, science, culture and communication. As an ardent advocate of multilateralism, Pakistan will endeavour to strengthen our collective efforts at UNESCO, including by building bridges across regions and forging consensus on key issues for tangible outcomes and impact on ground. As a partner, Pakistan will continue to extend proactive support for the SIDS Operational Strategy and Global Priorities – Africa and Gender Equality.

Pakistan’s re-election is a testament to its longstanding support for and constructive role at the United Nations. Pakistan will continue to work with all Member States to strengthen UNESCO’s mandate and advance our shared goals.

Paris, 15 November 2023

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16 November 2023 in Announcements, Latest news, Press Releases

Independence Day Celebrations

Embassy of Pakistan

France

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Press Release

Independence Day Celebrations

Paris: August 14, 2023

An impressive flag hoisting ceremony at the Embassy of Pakistan marked the 76th Independence Day celebrations in France. Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad raised the Pakistani flag to the tune of the national anthem in the presence of distinguished members of the community, Embassy officials, friends and families including a large number of children. The messages of the President and the Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out on the occasion.

Congratulating the compatriots on the Independence Day, the Ambassador noted that such occasions were not only joyous but momentous as they provided the link between the past, present and the future, and thus an opportunity for collective national reflection.

It was the visionary leadership and indefatigable efforts of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah that led to an independent homeland for Muslims, underlined the Ambassador while paying tribute to the Father of the Nation and other leaders of the freedom movement. He also paid homage to the immense sacrifice of our forefathers for the creation of Pakistan. That spirit of sacrifice continues to inspire the succeeding generations who have made the defence and security of Pakistan impregnable and one of the best in the world.

Appreciating the tremendous capabilities and hard work of Pakistani men and women, the Ambassador recalled how in the face of enormous challenges and lack of resources, the young nation had made great strides in all fields.

Also at the international stage, Pakistan held an important place among the comity of nations, playing its due role for the promotion of regional and global peace and development. Pakistan enjoys close cooperative relations with a wide circle of friends and partners around the world, including France.

Ambassador Ahmad emphasized that while celebrating independence, it was also our duty to reiterate our firm commitment and all out support to our Kashmiri brothers and sisters to realize their right to self-determination and freedom from illegal Indian occupation.

Going forward, the entire nation must work together – in unity, faith and discipline – for a stronger, prosperous and democratic Pakistan for our future generations to fully realize their aspirations. Pakistan was a gift of Allah for which we are thankful, and would safeguard this trust with utmost responsibility, stressed the Ambassador.

In this regard the Ambassador lauded the role and services of overseas Pakistanis and hoped that the dynamic Pakistani community in France will continue to contribute to strengthening Pak-France relations and bring more laurels to their motherland. He also praised the role of women and youth in national development.

The colourful Independence Day program included national songs, speeches and captivating tableau by children. The guests also enjoyed national songs and traditional Pakistani food.

The Ambassador also presented letters of appreciation to Pakistani poets and authors based in France in recognition of their recently published works in Urdu and Punjabi.

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14 August 2023 in Announcements, Latest news, Press Releases

Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir observed in Paris

Embassy of Pakistan

(France)

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Press Release

Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir observed in Paris

Paris; August 5, 2023

Embassy of Pakistan organized a seminar here today to observe Youm-e-Istehsal-e-Kashmir.

Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad underscored the significance of this day, commemorating four years since August 5, 2019, when India took illegal and unilateral actions, in violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions on Jammu and Kashmir and international law, with the aim of altering the internationally recognized disputed status of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

Pakistan and the international community joined the Kashmiris in raising a unified voice and unequivocally rejecting India’s attempts to change the demographic structure of the occupied territory in contravention of the UNSC resolutions and the 4th Geneva Convention. The Ambassador emphasized that India’s sinister designs and perpetration of grave human rights violations to suppress the spirit of the Kashmiri people and undermine their legitimate right to self-determination had utterly failed.

Paying tribute to the sacrifices of the Kashmiri people, the Ambassador admired their unwavering commitment and strong determination to continue their rightful struggle for self-determination and freedom from Indian occupation. He lauded that despite India’s relentless repression, including extra-judicial killings, severe restrictions on freedom of speech, fake encounters, cordon-and-search operations, custodial torture and deaths, enforced disappearances, incarceration of Kashmiri leaders and youth, use of pellet guns, destruction of homes, and other oppressive methods, the brave and resilient Kashmiri people remained resolute.

The Ambassador deliberated on the political, legal, peace and security, humanitarian and human rights dimensions of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute between India and Pakistan, that remains on the agenda of the UN Security Council since 1948. It was high time for the international community to play its role in resolving the dispute in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people. The Government and people of Pakistan stand in complete solidarity with the people of IIOJK and will continue to extend all possible support for the realization of their right to self-determination. He emphasized that India must stop human rights violations and reverse the illegal actions of August 5, 2019 and all subsequent measures to create an environment for meaningful dialogues to resolve the Jammu and Kashmir dispute.

During the seminar, various speakers strongly condemned the Indian government’s unlawful actions and the increased and widespread violations of human rights and international humanitarian law in IIOJK, particularly since August 5, 2019, and expressed their unwavering support and solidarity to the Kashmiri people in their just struggle.

A compelling documentary highlighting the atrocities committed in IIOJK was screened and messages from the President, Prime Minister, and Foreign Minister were read out, affirming Pakistan’s support for the Kashmir cause.

As part of the commemoration, an exhibition of photographs and illustrations was organized at the chancery, that showcased powerful images depicting the Kashmiri struggle against the Indian military siege and the atrocities committed in IIOJK.

Earlier a webinar was held in connection with Youm-e-Istehsal in which Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad also participated. Speakers condemned India’s illegal and unilateral actions of August 5, 2019 and  grave violations of HR in IIOJK. They expressed unanimous support for Kashmiris right to self-determination in accordance with UNSC resolutions.

Subsequently, members of the Pakistani and Kashmiri communities organized a protest rally near the iconic Eiffel Tower. During the rally, speakers strongly condemned the Indian government’s human rights violations and illegal actions in IIOJK and called for resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in line with the resolutions and wishes of the Kashmiri people.

The protestors fervently raised slogans against the forced occupation of IIOJK, while brandishing placards, banners, and Kashmiri flags, symbolizing their unwavering support for the Kashmir cause.

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5 August 2023 in Latest news, Press Releases

Press Release – 21 July 2023

Embassy of Pakistan 
France 
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Press Release 
Paris; July 21, 2023
Participants of 118th National Management Course at the National School of Public Policy (NSPP), currently on a study tour to France, visited Pakistan Embassy Paris today. 
Participants held an interactive session with Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad and were briefed about various aspects of Pakistan France relations.  
Giving an overview of bilateral relations spread over 75 years, the Ambassador said that Pakistan and France share a long-standing friendship, rooted in mutual respect and co-operation. Both nations have collaborated in various fields, including culture, education, trade, security and defense. We are committed to further enhancing our bilateral ties and exploring new avenues of partnership for the mutual benefit of our two countries, he added. 
The delegation is being led by Director General (Admn)/Directing Staff (FST), NMC Mr. Nadeem Mahbub. Participants, belonging to various service groups, included Dr. Faisal Zahoor, Mr. Irfan Javed, Mr. Muhammad Jamil Bhatti, Mr. Naseeruddin Sarwar, Ms. Nabeela Umer, Mr. K.K. Ahsan Wagan, Mr. Muhammad Amir Butt and Mr. Arshad. 
Ambassador also hosted a dinner in honour of the visiting delegation at the Pakistan House.
The delegation will have briefings at various French government departments and interactions with private sector. 
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24 July 2023 in Announcements, Latest news

Press Release- 28 June 2023

Embassy of Pakistan 
Paris
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Press Release
Paris, 28 June 2023
Pakistan was elected as a Member of the Executive Council of the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission at UNESCO headquarters in Paris today.
Pakistan attaches great importance to sustainable management of oceans, preservation of marine resources and international cooperation on effective warning systems for ocean related hazards. We hope to work with member states and the scientific community for our collective benefit and to attain Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14 of the 2030 Agenda: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development. The IOC will also coordinate the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development 2021-2030, the “Ocean Decade”.
The Executive Council of the IOC consists of 40 Member States. The Executive Council meets every year to review issues and items from on-going work plans, and make preparations for the IOC Assembly.
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29 June 2023 in Announcements, Latest news

Minister of State for Overseas Pakistanis interacts with Pakistani community in France

Embassy of Pakistan 
France 
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PRESS RELEASE 
Minister of State for Overseas Pakistanis interacts with Pakistani community in France
Paris: June 14, 2023 
Pakistan Business Forum France marked its second anniversary with an event held in Paris last night, which was graced by Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, Minister of State for Overseas Pakistanis, as chief guest. A large number of community members from all walks of life participated and availed the opportunity to discuss matters pertaining to the Pakistani diaspora. 
During his address, the Minister expressed the government’s strong commitment, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, to address any challenges faced by the overseas Pakistanis. 
The Minister appreciated the valuable contribution of overseas Pakistanis towards country’s development and recognized them as an asset for the country. He announced the establishment of a dedicated desk within his office to facilitate the needs and concerns of overseas Pakistanis. 
The Minister said that overseas Pakistanis desk at airports would be made more effective, ensuring a pleasant experience for those arriving or departing from the country. He acknowledged the issues faced by Pakistani diaspora in this part of the world due to non availability of PIA flights and assured the community that all efforts were being undertaken to resolve the issue at the earliest.
The Minister noted that the recently presented Budget for the year 2023-24 reflected the priority accorded to the needs and aspirations of the diaspora. He emphasized that all Pakistanis respect state institutions and have profound admiration for the sacrifices made by the armed forces and shuhada (martyrs).
In his remarks, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad reaffirmed Embassy’s support for the community recalling the open-door policy for all members of the community. We take pride in the remarkable achievements of the community members and acknowledge their significant contributions towards development of France and Pakistan and promotion of friendly relations. 
Sardar Zahoor Iqbal, Chairman, Pakistan Business Forum France, presented a review of the Forum’s work during last two years, highlighting its achievements and future plans. He expressed the Forum’s vision to expand its activities to other European countries, transforming it into a potent voice representing the interests of overseas Pakistanis in the field of business. 
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14 June 2023 in Announcements, Latest news

Press Release – 27 May 2023

Embassy of Pakistan, Paris 
Press Release
Paris; May 27, 2023
Senator Sherry Rehman, Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Management represented Pakistan in the High Level Event (HLE) to End Plastic Pollution hosted by the French Government at UNESCO, Paris on 27 May 2023, ahead of the second session of the Inter-governmental Negotiating Committee to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution.
Minister Rehman elaborated Pakistan’s perspective on promoting sustainable use of plastics to achieve a circular economy by minimizing waste, reducing consumption and promoting the reuse, recycling and recovery of materials.
The Minister stressed the need to create opportunities for investment in sustainable technologies to address environmental and health impacts related to plastic pollution. In this regard, she underlined the importance of transfer of technology to developing countries.
Speaking as a Panelist at Leadership Dialogue during the High Level Event, the Minister called for concrete, real and comprehensive action driven by better compliance to address plastic pollution. She underlined that recycling alone would not solve the problem. Greater focus was required on collection. There was also a need to introduce anti-dumping penalties. It was also important for the MNCs to assume responsibility. The Minister called for enhanced R&D on alternatives to retail use plastic for safe, lightweight and affordable options.
The Minister underlined a 7 R (Reduce Redesign Re-use Recycle Responsibility Research Resource) Action Agenda.
On the sidelines of the HLE, Minister Sherry Rehman also held meeting with Mr. Christophe Béchu, Minister for Ecological Transition and Territorial Cohesion of France, besides interactions with several of her counterparts including from Norway, Ecuador, Romania and Antigua and Barbuda. She also met INC Chair Mr. Meza-Cuadra Gustavo of Peru.
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14 June 2023 in Announcements, Latest news

Pakistan Day celebrated in Paris

Embassy of Pakistan
France
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Pakistan Day celebrated in Paris

March 23, 2023

This morning, the Embassy of Pakistan Paris organized a flag hoisting ceremony to commemorate the Pakistan Day. The event was attended by officials of the Embassy as well as members of the Pakistani community residing in France. Messages of the President and Prime Minister were read out.

In his remarks, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad highlighted the significance of 23rd March 1940, when the Muslim community in the sub-continent passed the Pakistan Resolution, seeking a separate homeland where they could live according to their own culture, values, and faith.

He praised the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Pakistan’s founding father, who spearheaded the freedom movement – a political, constitutional and democratic struggle, that led to the emergence of Pakistan.

He emphasized the importance of unity and persistent hard work to achieve the desired objectives of progress and prosperity.

The ceremony was followed by cultural performances by children and national songs.

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26 March 2023 in Announcements, Latest news, Non classé