ISLAMABAD: Minister for Information, Broad­casting, National Heritage and Culture Attaullah Tarar on Monday said the ‘Day of Development and Progress’ would be commemorated on Feb 8, when the government would complete its first year in power.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif decided to celebrate the Feb 8 as the Youm-i-Tameer-o-Taraqi because this year “we have achieved many milestones including economic growth”, said the minister while talking to the media after witnessing the final match of Media Cricket League.

Recounting the government’s achievements, including its initiatives for the economy that had restored the confidence of international institutions, he said the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) was held in Pakistan after 27 years. He said it was decided to confer awards on high achievers on Feb 8 for their achievements during the past year.

About ongoing talks with the opposition party, Mr Tarar said negotiations were crucial for political stability and expressed the hope that it would achieve positive results.

Atta Tarar says negotiations crucial for political stability, hopes for positive outcome of talks with PTI

The minister denied there was any financial constraints in PTV and vowed the revival of the past glory of the national television. Private sector anchors were recruited and it was made mandatory to invite representatives of all political parties in the talk shows, he added.

He also stressed on promoting sports-man spirit in every field to promote good behaviour and ethics. He said the consecutive victories of the Pakistan cricket team was a manifestation of the government’s commitment.

“We are going to host the International Champions Trophy after a hiatus which will restore the cricket festivity in the country and promote the game in Pakistan,” he said, adding cricket fans would also get the chance to watch the international players playing on Pakistani grounds.

He appreciated the critical role played by Interior Minister and Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi in negotiating with the International Cricket Council for hosting the international tournament in Pakistan.

Published in Dawn, January 21st, 2025