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Xiaomi 12 Series Redefines Flagship Category

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Xiaomi today announced the launch of the all-new flagship Xiaomi 12 Series for local markets, featuring two groundbreaking devices: Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12. Designed to empower users around the world with a cutting-edge videography studio and entertainment powerhouse, Xiaomi 12 Series delivers impressive advancements in Xiaomi’s AI algorithm, flagship processing power, and an all-round elevated experience. 

Capture cinematic shots at any time 

Xiaomi 12 Series enables users to record studio-quality shots no matter the scenario, be it challenging lighting conditions or moving objects. Both phones boast a pro-grade triple camera array for versatile shooting, starring a massive 50MP main wide angle camera, with 8K recording capabilities on both Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12.  Xiaomi 12 Pro stands out with its state-of-the-art triple 50MP array, which features a cutting-edge Sony IMX707 ultra-large main sensor. This sensor is capable of catching large amounts of light and empowers advanced imaging capabilities with faster focus speeds and increased color accuracy. Xiaomi 12 features a 13MP ultra-wide angle camera, along with a 5MP tele macro camera, for filming life from different perspectives.  

Beyond impressive hardware, Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12 also advance Xiaomi’s proprietary AI algorithms. These innovations make it easier than ever for users to record every moment the way they want to, even in low-light or moving subjects. Xiaomi ProFocus intelligently identifies and tracks objects, preventing blurring or out-of-focus shots of moving or veiled subjects. These advancements also include eye and face auto focus capabilities. Ultra Night Video uses Xiaomi’s proprietary algorithms to record video even under extreme low-light, meaning moody, atmospheric shots are clearer than ever.  

Available on both devices, One-click AI Cinema offers numerous creative options for show-stopping video editing, such as Parallel World, Freeze Frame Video, and Magic Zoom modes. 

Flagship processing, unprecedented performance and power-efficiency  

Flagship experience requires flagship performance. Xiaomi 12 Series features advanced Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ mobile platforms. Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12 boast a Snapdragon® 8 Gen 1 processor – Qualcomm’s most advanced mobile platform. Built on a 4nm process, this processor also boosts GPU graphic rendering capabilities by 30% and energy efficiency by 25% when compared to the previous generation. Both three devices come with UFS 3.1 exceptional loading and data transfer speeds, along with LPDDR5 RAM for memory speeds up to 6,400Mbps. For optimal product experience, Xiaomi 12 Series packs a high-performing cooling system, bolstered by a super-large vapor chamber and multiple layers of graphite to offer a leadingcooling capability. 

All-around elevated entertainment experiences 

Xiaomi 12 Series not only lets users capture every moment in exquisite detail, but also allows them to relive those moments in astonishing detail via an exceptional entertainment experience.  Both devices offer vivid viewing on an AMOLED Dot Display rated A+ by DisplayMate, and with TrueColor support. For added peace of mind, the display features scratch-resistant Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus®, and supports Dolby Vision®, industry’s leading imaging technology that brings your content to life with vibrant color and details. Xiaomi 12 Series also supports HDR 10+. Xiaomi 12 Pro is SGS Eye Care Display Certified, showing care for users’ long-term visual health during marathon sessions.  

Meanwhile, Xiaomi 12 Pro redefines flagship display with incredibly smooth viewing, scrolling, swiping, and sliding. The device’s highly power-efficient 6.73-inch WQHD+ display leverages AdaptiveSync Pro to intelligently adjust dynamic LTPO display between 1Hz and 120Hz based on content. 

Xiaomi 12 delivers Xiaomi’s most colorful smartphone display to date, with more than 68 billion colors on 6.28-inch full-HD+ displays. Both feature 120Hz AdaptiveSync, for an impressively high-definition, vibrant, and flicker-free display that conveys every detail.  

 No cinematic experience is truly complete without pro-grade audio. Xiaomi 12 Series features SOUND BY Harman Kardon, and creates an immersive audio experience powered by Dolby Atmos®, delivering spatial sound with rich detail, clarity, and realism across all your favorite entertainment. Xiaomi 12 Pro’s quad speakers – in the form of two tweeters and two woofers – deliver clear details and cover an astounding range of sound. Xiaomi 12 delivers balanced stereo sound ideal for immersive gaming or video.  To optimize core user experience further, Xiaomi 12 Series incorporates MIUI 13, released globally earlier this year. The update includes faster storage, higher background process efficiency, smarter processing, and longer battery life. New features in the upgraded experience include Xiaomi’s proprietary Liquid Storage, Atomized Memory, Focused Algorithms, and Smart Balance. 

Next-generation charging 

Xiaomi 12 Series delivers pro-grade cinematic and entertainment experiences all day, the devices deliver next-level charging speed and safety.  

 Xiaomi 12 Pro features an incredibly fast 120W Xiaomi HyperCharge. With a 4,600mAh battery fully charged in just 18 minutes using Boost mode, Xiaomi 12 Pro delivers next-generation charging capabilities that keep up with user demands.  Xiaomi 12 fits a 4,500mAh battery into compact body designs. Xiaomi 12 Pro and Xiaomi 12 also support 50W wireless charging and 10W reverse charging.  Both leverage Xiaomi AdaptiveCharge, a smart charging algorithm that learns and adapts to charging habits, which prolongs battery life. 

Flagship capabilities packaged in an iconic design  

These portable pocket-sized studios fit comfortably in the palm of your hand thanks to Xiaomi 12 Series’ iconic and user-centered design. Slimmer high-capacity batteries and a narrower ridge gap save precious space within the device. Xiaomi 12 Pro’s 6.73-inch display is encased in a sleek middle frame with sophisticated 3D curves. Meanwhile, Xiaomi 12’s 6.28-inch display measures just 69.9mm in width and is accented by smooth curves for a perfect fit. Both devices are available in Gray, Purple, and Blue. 

Market Availability   

Xiaomi 12 Pro comes in one variant 12GB+256GB, and recommended retail price starts from PKR 208,999/-.

Xiaomi 12 comes in one variant, 12GB+256GB, and recommended retail price starts from PKR 179,999/-.

Purchase these devices and get a sweet bundle deal where you get a Mi Band 6 and a bag with the Xiaomi 12. Similarly with the Xiaomi 12 Pro, get a Mi Portable Bluetooth Speaker and a 10000mAh Mi Power Bank 3.  Available at top distributor partners such as Phonezo, Airlink, Smartlink etc. For those looking to purchase these online, we’ve news for you  too as these are also available on MiStore and Daraz. 

Quick Specs:

 Xiaomi 12Xiaomi 12 Pro
Display120Hz +  AMOLED DotDisplay120Hz 6.73” AMOLED Dot Display 
Rear Camera50MP main camera 13MP ultra-wide camera 2MP macro camera 5MP depth camera50MP wide angle, ultra-wide and tele macro camera
Front Camera32MP32MP in-display selfie camera
Dimension & Weight152.70mm x 69.90mm x 8.16mm – 180g163.60mm x 74.60mm x 8.16mm 205g
ProcessorSnapdragon ® 8 Gen 1Snapdragon ®r 8 Gen 1
Charging4500mAH – 67W charge4600mAH – 120W charge
Variant12GB + 256GB12GB + 256GB
Color AvailableGray, Purple & BlueGray, Purple & Blue

About Xiaomi Corporation  

Xiaomi Corporation was founded in April 2010 and listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on July 9, 2018 (1810.HK). Xiaomi is a consumer electronics and smart manufacturing company with smartphones and smart hardware connected by an IoT platform at its core.  

Embracing our vision of “Make friends with users and be the coolest company in the users’ hearts”, Xiaomi continuously pursues innovations, high-quality user experience and operational efficiency. The company relentlessly builds amazing products with honest prices to let everyone in the world enjoy a better life through innovative technology.  

Xiaomi is one of the world’s leading smartphone companies. The company’s market share in terms of smartphone shipments ranked no. 3 globally in the third quarter of 2021. The company has also established the world’s leading consumer AIoT (AI+IoT) platform, more than 400 million smart devices connected to its platform as of September 30, 2021, excluding smartphones and laptops. Xiaomi products are present in more than 100 countries and regions around the world. In August 2021, the company made the Fortune Global 500 list for the third time, ranking 338th, up 84 places compared to 2020.  

Xiaomi is a constituent of the Hang Seng Index, Hang Seng China Enterprises Index, Hang Seng TECH Index and Hang Seng China 50 Index. 

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TECNO to launch its new Spark phone in Pakistan soon

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TECNO to launch its new Spark phone in Pakistan soon

After massive success in the Pakistani Mobile market, TECNO is rumored to be preparing for a new addition to its Spark series. The globally eminent smartphone brand TECNO has been working tirelessly in Pakistan for quite some time now. The brand has brought forward some great phones over the years with advanced technologies, pocket-friendly prices, and stylish designs. 

Spark is TECNO’s famous mid-range series, bringing you quality devices at lower prices. Spark 8C is an entry mobile that is expected to be around PKR 19,499 to PKR 22,999. The price is not confirmed yet but we are expecting it around this segment. The phone is going to be a stunner in this range with Stylish Design and great Battery.

According to sources, Spark 8C will be equipped with better memory and memory fusion features than any other phone in this range. Memory Fusion Technology is specially designed to channel RAM operations by using unused read-only memory (ROM). This means it can expand the memory of 4+128GB to 7+128GB and that of 3+64GB into 6+64GB maximum. The RAM can be updated or expanded from 3GB to 6GB and 4GB to 7GB depending on the variant. If this is true, then Spark 8C shall be the only smartphone to provide such an amazing feature with 128GB in such an affordable price range.

Moreover, the phone is anticipated to provide efficient performance with a powerful processor and big battery. The 90Hz refresh rate, great display, and handy body design will make it a user-friendly device. The phone is expected to launch somewhere in mid-March 2022. Furthermore, the phone is being assembled in Pakistan to make it economical and pocket-friendly for the local consumers. 

So, fingers crossed for this new Spark device to be soon launched in Pakistan. Stay tuned for more updates and much more about tech!

Jazz appoints Atyab Tahir as CEO JazzCash

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Jazz appoints Atyab Tahir as CEO JazzCash

Jazz, Pakistan’s leading digital operator (part of VEON Group NASDAQ: VEON, Euronext Amsterdam: VEON), announces the appointment of Atyab Tahir as the CEO of JazzCash effective May 1 2022.

Atyab, currently serving as Country Manager MasterCard Pakistan & Afghanistan, has over two decades of international experience in banking and consulting. Atyab has also held senior positions at Fidelity Investments, HBL, Telenor Bank and easypaisa. He holds a BA from Dartmouth College and an MBA from Babson College.

Commenting on Atyab’s appointment Aamir Ibrahim, CEO, Jazz  said: “While mobile phones and payment solutions have accelerated financial inclusion in the country, a significant portion of Pakistan’s adult population remain unbanked. I am confident that under Atyab’s dynamic leadership JazzCash will help boost financial inclusion across the board through innovative and customer-centric products.”

JazzCash is at the forefront of Pakistan’s digital revolution processing more than 5 million transactions every day and accounting for almost 7% of Pakistan’s GDP. Our aim is to build a world-class fintech serving every single Pakistani, from youth, SMEs, freelancers, with a very strong focus on the unbanked and the underbanked. I look forward to joining the Jazz family and collaborating with our partners in the telecommunications and financial services sector to unlock the true potential of Digital Pakistan.” said Atyab.

A division of Jazz, JazzCash has grown rapidly to become a leader in the country’s marketplace for digital financial services. As shown in VEON Group’s FY21 results that were released on 28 February 2022, JazzCash has 15.2 million monthly active users (+24.9% YoY) and 130,800 monthly active merchants (up by 2.3 times YoY). 

Jazz appoints Atyab Tahir as CEO JazzCash.

vivo V23 5G — The Best in Camera, Technology, Performance and Appearance

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Due to the constant development in the technology space for smartphones, there is always hype surrounding any new ‘firsts’ in the market. There is always excitement as to what will be introduced and how well it will be accepted by the audience. 

Keeping this in mind, Vivo’s latest smartphone vivo V23 5G finds itself in a similar situation. The day it was announced, it received a lot of attention for its color-changing design. The design itself represents a significant advancement in smartphone research and design. Making smartphones not only technologically superior but also cosmetically superior is a step forward.

The continual excitement and experience since the smartphone’s launch has not only solidified its market position but also demonstrated that it is a well-balanced phone that isn’t only focused on aesthetics.

Delving more into the device, the vivo V23 5G dons a high-resolution 50MP AF Portrait Selfie camera on the front. This device focuses heavily on the selfie experience which makes it stand out in the market. The latest ISOCELL 3.0 technology helps the camera increase light sensitivity to capture a more crystal-clear picture for the user. Furthermore, the Eye Autofocus feature enables the users to be the center of attention while clicking the picture as the camera focuses on the user, even if they are in motion. 

The dual front camera system offers a much larger field of view with the help of its 8MP Super Wide-Angle Camera. Furthermore, with modes like the AI Extreme Night Portrait mode, the front camera delivers an unparalleled experience in this price range. The phone also sports a 64 MP main rear camera with an 8MP wide-angle lens and a 2MP Macro that can handle wide natural landscapes very easily. The user experience is further increased with features like the Super Night Mode, Bokeh Flare Portrait, and Ultra Stabilization. It is only right to say that both, the front camera and the rear camera together offer a device that is picture-perfect. 

When it comes to the visual and performance aspects of this phone, there’s no doubt that it’s the best of what vivo has to offer. vivo has always been on the cutting edge of device design and aesthetics. It’s also fair to say that Vivo takes pride in its technological advancements and innovations. Every device that vivo introduces exemplifies this completion.

V23 5G brings out the result of Vivo’s extensive research which is the Color Changing Fluorite AG Design. This material changes its color upon exposure to ultraviolet light and after about 30 seconds under the sun. This switch goes back to normal once the phone is out of sun exposure. Talking more about the appearance of the device, it is the combination of the Metal Flat Frame Design and the Color Changing Fluorite AG Design that gives the device the aesthetic appeal that has been the talk in the industry for a while now. 

All these powerful features that the phone flaunts are powered by the powerful MediaTek Dimensity 920 processor. This processor offers powerful performance and a fast user experience. The Extended RAM 2.0 further enhances the user experience with its versatile features to expand RAM when required. The 90Hz refresh rate display, a Liquid Cooling System, and Ultra Game Mode make it possible for users to enjoy super smooth gameplay performance. This experience is mutually assisted by the 4200mAh battery that features a 44W FlashCharge that helps in interrupted experience and performance. 

To summarise it all, the vivo V23 5G is a proud and well-balanced device that fulfills the requirements of every smartphone enthusiast whether it is for work, casual, or professional usage.

 

Tech Giant XIAOMI launches anticipated Redmi Note 11 Pro – Packing major upgraded to hardwares & software!

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Xiaomi announced the Redmi Note 11 Pro for Pakistani markets, pushing forward the legacy of the Redmi Note series with two all-new devices: Redmi Note 11 Pro and Redmi Note 11. Rising to the challenge to bring even stronger specs and features, Redmi Note 11 series packs powerful upgrades to its camera system, charging speed, display, and SoC—making flagship-level smartphone performance more accessible than before. All this available in a bundle deal, with Redmi Buds 3 completely free.

Flagship-level 108MP quad camera to deliver outstanding photography

Boasting a rear quad camera setup, Redmi Note 11 Pro delivers an outstanding photography experience with zero compromise. Its 108MP main camera captures stunning images in high-resolution and vivid colors; an 8MP ultra-wide angle camera extends your perspective with a 118-degree viewing angle; a 2MP macro camera that captures fine details up close and a 2MP depth sensor that’s for capturing more natural looking portrait shots. Accenting the front of the phone is a 16MP front camera that can capture clearer and natural-looking selfies. The 108MP pro-grade main camera utilizes the Samsung HM2 sensor with a large sensor size at 1/1.52 inch, and supports 9-in-1 pixel binning technology as well as a dual native ISO to deliver incredible images in all lighting conditions, with spectacular results especially in dim light.

120Hz FHD+ AMOLED DotDisplay packed into trendy flat-edge body

Featuring a large 6.67′ FHD+ AMOLED DotDisplay with 120Hz display refresh rate, Redmi Note 11 Pro levels up the screen experience with smooth scrolling response and lag-free transitions. The beautiful display is packed into a body with a trendy flat-edge design. Plus, with the dual super linear speakers located at the top and bottom of the phone, Redmi Note 11 offers immersive stereo sound for gaming or watching videos.

Performance powered by 67W turbo charging and MediaTek Helio G96

Redmi Note 11 Pro comes with flagship 67W turbo charging, allowing you to charge up

to 51% of its 5,000mAh high capacity battery in just 15 minutes Powered by MediaTek Helio G96, Redmi Note 11 Pro also delivers a smooth and seamless performance.

Market availability:

Redmi Note 11 Pro comes in two variants – 6GB+128GB, and 8GB+128GB and are available at top distributor partners such as Phonezo, Airlink Communication, Smartlink and Tech Sirat. For those looking to purchase these online, we’ve news for you  too as these are also available on MiStore.

Redmi Note 11 Pro

6GB+128GB: PKR 51,999/-

8GB+128GB: PKR 59,999/-

Redmi Note 11 Quick Specs:

 Redmi Note 11
Display120Hz  6.67” FHD+ AMOLED DotDisplay
Rear Camera108MP main camera 8MP ultra-wide camera 2MP macro camera 2MP depth camera
Front Camera16MP in-display front camera
Dimension & Weight164.19mm x 76.1mm x 8.12mm 202g
ProcessorMediaTek Helio G96
Charging5,000mAh (typ) battery Supports 67W wired Pro fast charging
Variant6GB+128GB, 8GB+128GB
Available ColorGraphite Gray, Polar White, Star Blue

The Redmi Note 11 Pro is available at PKR 51,999/- for the 6+128GB variant and PKR 59,999/- for the 8+128GB variant. A bundle deal with Redmi Buds 3 absolutely free!

About Xiaomi Corporation

Xiaomi Corporation was founded in April 2010 and listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on July 9, 2018 (1810.HK). Xiaomi is a consumer electronics and smart manufacturing company with smartphones and smart hardware connected by an IoT platform at its core.

Embracing our vision of “Make friends with users and be the Coolest Company in the users’ hearts”, Xiaomi continuously pursues innovations, high-quality user experience and operational efficiency. The company relentlessly builds amazing products with honest prices to let everyone in the world enjoy a better life through innovative technology.

Xiaomi is one of the world’s leading smartphone companies. The company’s market share in terms of smartphone shipments ranked no. 3 globally in the third quarter of 2021. The company has also established the world’s leading consumer AIoT (AI+IoT) platform, more than 400 million smart devices connected to its platform as of September 30, 2021, excluding smartphones and laptops. Xiaomi products are present in more than 100 countries and regions around the world. In August 2021, the company made the Fortune Global 500 list for the third time, ranking 338th, up 84 places compared to 2020.

Xiaomi is a constituent of the Hang Seng Index, Hang Seng China Enterprises Index, Hang Seng TECH Index and Hang Seng China 50 Index.

Jazz offers customers direct carrier billing for purchases on Google Play

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     Jazz customers can now purchase apps and make in-app purchases from Google Play using their mobile balance or postpaid bill. This direct carrier billing service is automatically activated for customers using Android devices.

    Through this service, the price for purchasing apps, games, and other mobile content will be automatically added to the monthly bill of the customers. Prepaid users will have the amount of the purchases deducted from their current balance.

    “We are always looking to facilitate our customerswith the latest digital offerings. Direct carrier billing provides a safe and convenient way of paying for purchases made on Google Play.” said KazimMujtaba, Head of Marketing at Jazz.

    During the initial setup of Jazz billing payment method for app purchase from Google Play via carrier billing, customerswill need to be logged on to Jazz’s 3G/4G network for authentication. Once the initial setup is done, customersmay then download the app of their choice over Wi-Fi connection or Jazz’s 3G/4G network.

    The transaction limit for all users is set to PKR 2000 per month and customers will not be charged any additional fees for using the service.

    ECCL (CMPak subsidiary) showcases its new digital payments solution, “PayMax”

    China Mobile, Parent company of Pakistan’s leading telecommunications network, Zong 4G, promoted its first digital payments solution ‘PayMax,’ during an exclusive product showcasing event at Zong HQ in Islamabad. This strategic venture aims to empower the people of Pakistan with a financial solution that is secure, unique and ensures inclusion in the unbanked sector of Pakistan.

    Enjoy the Ultimate TV Innovation with incredible QLED Value -Added Offerings

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    Enjoy the Ultimate TV Innovation with incredible QLED Value -Added Offerings

    Lahore: October 12, 2017:- Samsung ElectronicsPakistantoday announced the Samsung QLED TV Days Campaign across the country. The campaign will offer incredible value addedpackages that give consumers the opportunity to own the completeSamsung QLED TVlineup.

     

    “At Samsung, we strive to provide our consumer with the most advanced TV technology that will  deliver unrivaled viewing experiences and cutting-edge designs that complement their everyday lives. We are offering our consumers the best TV viewing experience with our new QLED TV Days Campaign, “ saidMr. Y J Kim, President Samsung Electronics Pakistan. “With state-of-the-art picture quality, design and smart features, our QLED TV lineup not only offers 100 percentcolour volume, it also features Burn-In Free technology for a longer life span. It is truly ushering in a new era ofTV innovation.”

     

    Innovation and technological advancements in the space is redefining the notion of the ultimate TV experience. The all-new QLED TV has three distinctive features – Q Picture, Q Style and Q Smart – that addresses consumer requirements when it comes to their TV consideration.

     

    Q Picture offers the perfect combination of light and color, taking quantum dot technology to the next level with advancements in light efficiency, stability and a wider color spectrum. The QLED TV can express accurate color and achieves a 100 percent color volume – the highest on the market today, earning accreditation by VerbandDeutscherElektrotechniker (VDE), one of Europe’s largest technical-scientific associations.

     

    Image retention is a phenomenon that occurs when a static image gets imprinted on a TV screen after being displayed for an extended period. When this imprint becomes permanent, it is then referred to as “burn-in”. Image retention is not an issue for QLED TVs, Quantum Dot is pushing technology boundaries to meet the new Ultra HD Premium standards which certify for the very best UHD picture quality experience and meet Hollywood mastering levels of 1500nit brightness.

     

    Elevating the home entertainment experience, the Q Smart featurehas been expanded to offer an even more intuitive and unified experience, directly via the QLED TV. The enhanced Samsung One Remote Control now supports more devices and offers voice control capabilities across more Smart TV features. Paired with the latest Smart View App – available on Android or iOS mobile devices – users will enjoy their personalized Smart Hub.

     

    This year, Samsung introduced Q Design; the moden design elements that can fit into any home – regardless of the interior aesthetics or setup. The all-new Invisible Connection cable helps manage unsightly cords and clutter with a refined, single cord system.Samsung has also introduced the No Gap Wall-mount which brings the TV flush against the wall, closer than ever before.

     

    During the Samsung QLED TV Days, consumers will be able to take advantage of exceptional value offering of Second TV FREE, that enhances the QLED TV experience. The campaign will last till31st Octoberat selected e-retailers and retailers nationwide.

     

    ”Think Globally, Act Locally” Delegates reiterate SDGs’ implementation through local government

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      ”Think Globally, Act Locally”

      Delegates reiterate SDGs’ implementation through local government

      ISLAMABAD: Heads of local governments from across Pakistan reiterated on Wednesday to bridge the gap between key nation Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) indicators and global standards through constructive dialogue and cooperation with the Government of Pakistan.

      Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi Addressing at the Closing Session of The International Conference “Think Globally, Act Locally- SDG Implementation Through Local Governments” in Islamabad on April 11, 2018

      ”We shall accelerate this journey and reach the destination by synergising our role as public representatives with our responsibilities to our voters as enshrined in the SDGs,” said a joint statement issued by mayors, chairmen, chairpersons and nazims of different cities throughout the country on the second day of international conference ”Think Globally, Act Locally – SDGs’ Implementation through Local Governments.”

      The three-day conference (April 10-12) has been organised by the United Cities and Local Government Asia Pacific (UCLG ASPAC) in collaboration with the Local Councils Associations of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab Provinces of Pakistan. The conference is supported by German Development Cooperation and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

      ”The path to a true people-centred, environment friendly and participatory national life lies through the local governments. The SDGs are milestones on this journey to national progress,” said the joint statement read out by Chairman District Council Sheikhupura and Member Local Councils Associations of Punjab (LCAP) Rana Ahmad Atteeq Anwer.

      Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Chairman Planning Commission Sartaj Aziz said achieving the SDGs was only possible with mutual cooperation between federal, provincial and local governments as well as community organisations. A parliamentary committee has been established to implement SDGs, he said. ”Federal government is striving to achieve all the 17 SDGs some of which would be implemented soon,” the deputy chairman said adding that approval to achieve national goals was acquired by National Economic Council two months back.  ”Mutual cooperation is more important than money. Provinces have also set up designated units for SDGs’ implementation. Achieving economic goals is part of federal government’s SDGs’ implementation initiatives.”

      President Local Councils Associations of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (LCAKP) and District Nazim Mardan Himayatullah Mayar said the local governments in Pakistan are still in their infancy and therefore can learn significantly from international experiences. ”Together we can carve out a strategy for us to accelerate SDGs’ implementation at local level. We hope that by the end of this conference, we will collectively be able to contribute effectively to 2030 Agenda and forge partnerships and cooperation to achieve our future vision.”

      Dr Bernadia Irawati Tjandradewi. Secretary General – UCLG ASPAC said the current development challenges facing the countries in the region are inequality, unemployment, poverty, climate change, rapid urbanisation and these require the local governments to play a more developmental role for policy-making. ‘Think Globally, Act Locally – SDGs’ Implementation through Local Governments’ is extremely relevant to the sustainable development discourse in the region, she said.

      ”Local government bodies have a critical role to play as a bridge between national governments and citizens as well as in global partnership to improve wellbeing of the citizens.”

      Country Director UNDP Mr Ignacio Artaza said the global mandate of local governments, irrespective of region and country, is to serve the people locally. ”But this cannot be done unless the local governments are provided with the necessary financial and human resources as well as the instruments and capacities to discharge their duty effectively. ”This conference can play a vital role to bridge the knowledge and capacity gaps among the local governments.”

      Later in the day, the delegates submitted their related recommendations to Prime Minister of Pakistan Shahid Khaqan Abbasi who chaired the closing session.

      On the sidelines, sessions were held to discuss the importance of SDGs implementation through local governments and map out ways and means accordingly, separately chaired by Punjab’s Finance Minister Ayesha Ghaus Pasha, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Local Government Minister Inayatullah Khan among other figures.

      More than 60 delegates from over a dozen countries worldwide including mayors of the cities of England, Russia, Turkey, China, Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Indonesia, Nepal and Afghanistan, directors of United Nations agencies, envoys of European Union and other regional and international cooperation agencies are attending the conference.

      Divided into different sessions including speeches, presentations, interactive sessions, group discussions, study tours and informal discussions, the conference discusses the important role of local governments in responding to Agenda 2030 and the challenges local governments face in the implementation, monitoring and financing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. It provides insights into best practices to serve as an opportunity to engage in constructive dialogue, form partnerships and create networks.

      GOVERNMENT OF PAKISTAN FINANCE DIVISION

      Federal Minister for Finance and revenue Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar held a meeting with a delegation of Etisalat International led by Mr. Mikhail Gerchuk, CEO e& International at Finance Division, today.

      The delegation comprised Mr. Abdulrahim Abdulla Abdulrahim Al Nooryani, CEO Etisalat Pakistan, Mr. Hatem Bamatraf President and CEO PTCL & Ufone and Mr. Kamal Shehadi Chief Strategy e& International.

      Minister of State for Finance and Revenue Dr. Ayesha Ghous Pasha, SAPM on Finance Mr. Tariq Bajwa, SAPM on Revenue Mr. Tariq Mehmood Pasha, Secretary Finance, Secretary IT & Telecom and senior officers from Finance and Privatization Divisions attended the meeting.

      Finance Minister Senator Ishaq Dar welcomed the delegation and highlighted the deep rooted brotherly relations between Pakistan and the UAE. He further said that the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the major economic partners of Pakistan. Pakistan attaches great value to the brotherly relations with the UAE.

      The Finance Minister recalled his meetings with Etisalat in Abu Dhabi and Dubai during his recent visit to the UAE and underscored the significance of resolving outstanding issues between Etisalat and the Privatization Commission and moving ahead for a mutually beneficial solution.

      The Finance Minister also highlighted prospects of foreign investment in Pakistan especially in IT and Telecom sector which is growing rapidly and said that the Government is providing conducive environment and facilitation to attract foreign investment.

      Mr. Mikhail Gerchuk, CEO e& International briefed the meeting on company’s profile and its future investments in Pakistan and expressed readiness to further invest in IT and Telecom sector in Pakistan.

      Both sides agreed to proceed ahead for resolution of all outstanding issues between Etisalat and the Privatization Commission in a spirit of goodwill.

      PTCL Holds Eco-Hike at Trail 3

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        Pakistan Telecommunications Company Limited (PTCL) organized Eco Hike for its employees with the commitment to collect garbage along the way and contribute to the cleanliness of Trail 3 in Islamabad. PTCL is proud of all the volunteers, who participated enthusiastically in this activity, and performed their civic duty diligently.

        About 400 employees of all age brackets including families participated in the activity. It was heartening to see the high spirits of hearing & speech impaired participants, who also joined this activity and made an effort to play a positive role for the betterment of our environment with equal zeal.

        Syed Mazhar Hussain, Chief Human Resource Officer, PTCL, said on the occasion, “PTCL participates in various socially responsible activities as a part of its CSR policy. There is a continuous need for preservation and protection of the environment. This hike will enable us to keep our habitat clean, build eco-friendliness and promote the need for healthy activities. Being a significant part of PTCL’s culture of ‘One Family’, such events are arranged on a regular basis for employees that help in team-building and also engage them in activities for their good health and well-being.”

        Having a number of hiking trails in the capital, this is a popular activity in Islamabad, whereby a lot of trash and garbage gathers on the trails, which is damaging to the beauty of hiking trails and injurious to humans. The day-long hiking activity provided encouragement for PTCL employees to adopt a healthy lifestyle. It was motivating to see female employees actively participate alongside other team members to make our environment clean and eco-friendly.

        Precautions Against Coronavirus!

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          Smartlink Technologies is determined to flatten the curve by taking necessary safety measures and appealing everyone to follow the safety precautions suggested by Government of Pakistan so that we can together win this war against COVID-19.

          COVID-19 is rapidly spreading in all around the world and recent stats highlight that even in Pakistan this virus is spreading. So to cater this emerging situation, Smartlink Technologies is closely monitoring the situation and till now Mistore.pk is fully operational.

          Here are some of the precautionary measure which are being practiced by Mistore.pk team every day.

          1. Packaging

          Our warehouse team is highly concerned about the cleanliness of the warehouse and recently our whole warehouse is being sprayed with anti-bacterial chemicals. Our all warehouse employees first sanitize their hands before entering the warehouse then they wear gloves and masks, and then they start their work. All the packing material and product boxes are first sanitized with wipes and then we pack them.

          1. Deliveries and Collections

          We are in continuous contact with our Logistics partners and they are already making several arrangements by providing special trainings to their staff, providing face masks and gloves to wear when delivering your orders. Warehouses and transports of our logistics partners are also being sprayed with anti-bacterial chemicals.

           

          1. Payments

          As per WHO, there is no evidence that banknotes transmit the virus. However, your safety is our utmost priority so we encourage customers to use digital options available on mistore.pk (i.e. Credit / Debit Card), Mistore.pk is offering digital payments solutions to minimize the risk of Covid-19 due to this currency exchange.  In addition if you use cash for payment then as a measure of safety, we would recommend you to wash your hands thoroughly after being in contact with banknotes.

           

          Your safety is our biggest concern so stay home and be safe!