Islamabad: The Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Neil Hawkins congratulated Pakistan on the 75th anniversary of its formation.

In a special message issued by the Australian High Commission Islamabad on Saturday, High Commissioner said: “Happy Birthday Pakistan. Just 75 years young and much to be proud of and much to celebrate:

Your ethnic diversity, rich cultural heritage, fabulous food, and spectacular scenery. But the most striking element for me is the warm and welcoming people – always ready with a smile and a ‘salaam aleikum.’

Australia was one of the first countries to recognize Pakistan in 1947, though our people-to-people ties go back to the 1800s. Camel traders from Balochistan were critical in transporting goods across our deserts. Today almost 100,000 Pakistanis call Australia home and make a critical contribution to our multicultural society, he added.

“We are also proud to host thousands of Pakistani students enjoying our great cities and world-class universities. Looking ahead, Pakistan and Australia both face challenges that require us and all nations to cooperate, particularly that of climate change.

Australian expertise in science and technology, especially water management and agricultural research will play a key role”, he maintained.

And who can overlook our common passion for cricket where we look forward to hosting the T20 later this year and Pakistan’s women’s XI in early 2023. We were heartened by the typically warm reception given to our cricket team during its Pakistan tour earlier this year.

Finally, we sincerely wish all our Pakistani brothers and sisters increased prosperity and harmony to fulfill the vision of the Quaid-i-Azam. In his words:

“My message to you all is of hope, courage, and confidence. Let us mobilize all our resources in a systematic and organized way and tackle the grave issues that confront us with the grim determination and discipline worthy of a great nation.”

Jashan-e-Azadi Mubarak

Islamabad: The Pakistan Meteorological Department has predicted more torrential rains in Sindh, Balochistan and South Punjab in coming days.

In a weather advisory today (Saturday), the Met Office informed that depression has developed in Arabian Sea which is likely to move towards the west along Makran coast.

Due to this weather system, monsoon currents are continuously penetrating in southern parts of the country.

Another low pressure is likely to approach Sindh on Tuesday.

Under the influence of this weather system rain-wind/thundershower with few heavy falls is expected in Sindh, Balochistan, Punjab, Islamabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit Baltistan and Kashmir from tomorrow till Tuesday with occasional gaps.

It said the heavy rains may generate urban flooding, advising all concerned authorities to remain alert and take necessary precautionary measures.

Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday expressed his deep grief and sorrow over the human and financial losses caused by recent flash floods in Qila Abdullah after another heavy monsoon rainy spell lashed Balochistan province.

Seeking an immediate report on the affected areas, the prime minister also directed the National and Provincial Disaster Management Authorities to expedite the rescue and relief operations in the flood-hit areas.

A directive was also issued for the submission of a complete report regarding breaches in two dams and the subsequent damages caused by flood water.

The prime minister is soon expected to visit the flood-affected areas of Qila Abdullah.

The prime minister also desired that people trapped in floods should be shifted immediately to the safer areas, besides ensuring arrangements for food and tents for the affectees.