Daily Times

LAHORE: Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Air Officer Commanding Central Air Command Air Vice Marshal Irfan Ahmed called on Punjab Interim Chief Minister Dr Hassan Askari on Saturday.

Professional activities of PAF and matters of mutual of interest were discussed in the meeting which was held at the Chief Minister’s office. The interim Punjab CM conveyed his best wishes to Air Vice Marshal Irfan Ahmed for taking charge as PAF Air Officer Commanding Central Air Command. He paid tribute to PAF for excellent professional capabilities and protecting the air space of Pakistan. He said PAF is considered to be among the best air forces of the world, adding that PAF has a glowing history of protecting air space of Pakistan with bravery and courage and the whole nation is proud of officers and troops of PAF who have rendered sacrifices for peace and defense of the country.

He said PAF has marked a new history in the war against terrorism. The interim CM said apart from rendering excellent services for the defense of air space of the country, PAF is also playing a wonderful role for the betterment of the society. He said PAF has rendered praiseworthy role in the sectors of education and health, and has always taken part in disaster management activities effectively.

“PAF has served the nation by taking part in rescue operations during natural calamities,” Dr Hassan Askari said.

Separately, Secretary Law Punjab Abul Hassan Najmi held a farewell meeting with Hassan Askari, who praised the official services of the outgoing secretary and conveyed him good wishes for the future.

Askari said Abul Hassan Najmi has discharged his official duties in an honest, dedicated and effective manner, adding that the outgoing law secretary is a talented officer and holds expertise in his field.

Interim Law & Finance Minister Haider Rizvi and secretary to CM were also present on the occasion.

Askari also expressed grief and sorrow over the loss of precious human lives in rain-related incidents.

He expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. He directed the administration to provide best possible health facilities to the persons injured in rain related incidents. He said in the anticipation of rain season, all departments should remain alert and best resources should be utilised to drain water from low-lying areas.

Published in Daily Times, July 1^st 2018.