KARACHI, March 30: Prior to his 'latest' resignation, Chairman Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), Tariq Kirmani, had offered resignation to the competent authority twice - in October and January last - but it was not accepted, said a national carrier press release.

Clarifying reports that Mr Kirmani has resigned because of extraneous factors, the press release stated that the Chairman PIA offered resignation during October 2006 on account of personal considerations plus other factors concerning the corporation's financial health. "He again offered to resign in January 2007 on personal considerations but it was not accepted.’’

Mr Kirmani has again submitted his resignation to the competent authority for approval. However, he has been advised to continue incumbency till the matter is finally decided by the federal government.—Staff Reporter