75th Anniversary of Establishment of Diplomatic Relations Between Pakistan & Netherlands. November 02, 2023 (2023-15)

1. Pakistan and the Netherlands enjoy friendly relations. Bilateral diplomatic relations were established on 28th February 1948. The Dutch embassy with its seat at Karachi was established in Pakistan by a Royal decree on 14th July 1948. During the first few years a charge. d Affairs (a.i) Mr. M.P.M. van Karebeek (1948-1950) was appointed. In 1954, the Netherlands and Pakistan started to exchange ambassadors. On 11th January 1955, the first Dutch Ambassador, Dr. J. G. de Benus (1954- 1957), presented his credentials to the Governor-General of Pakistan Mr. Ghulam Muhammad. The Dutch embassy was later moved to Islamabad in 1967.

2. Meanwhile, in August 1950 Pakistan opened its Embassy in the Hague. On 21st August 1950. Mr.S. Lal Shah Bokhari arrived in the Netherlands as charge d Affairs (a.). In September 1954, the first Pakistani Ambassador Begum Ra'ana Liaquat Ali Khan came to the Hague and presented her credentials to Her Majesty the Queen Juliana on 20th September 1954.

3. In 1953, the Netherlands was inundated by sea water. Pakistan galvanized the entire nation to help the Dutch people and donated 2000 kgs of Tea to the Netherlands. Pakistan's support to the Dutch in 1953 has been widely recognized by the senior generation and in 2003, the Dutch Prime Minister officially sent a letter acknowledging Pakistan's support. During the 2010 floods in Pakistan, the Dutch Government provided US$4 million to the World Food Programme (WFP), for buying and transporting food packages to some 6 million people in Pakistan. In the wake of last year's unprecedented floods, the Dutch government has provided US$3.5 million through different streams to Pakistan and is helping through water management experts.

4. Since 2004, the Netherlands has hosted more than 150 junior diplomats from Pakistan who have received training there.

5. Pakistan and the Netherlands have institutionalized their relationship by establishing the mechanism of Bilateral Political Consultations since 2010. The upgraded 10th Session, at the level of Foreign Secretaries, was held in the Hague.

6. The Netherlands has become the second largest export destination for Pakistan's exports in the EU and major source of net Foreign Direct Investment. During FY 2022.

bilateral trade reached US$2.24 billion out of which Pakistani exports were US$1,735 million and imports. were US$507.9 million. Total Foreign Direct investment inflow from the Netherlands was US$305.8 million. In FY 2022, Pakistan's top commodities exported to the Netherlands included Textile, apparels, cotton, ethanol, leather, travel goods, beverages, cereals, sports, equipment and footwear.

7. More than 80 Dutch companies are operating in Pakistan. The major investments are in the sector of Food & Beverage, Electronics, Trade, Finance, Textile, Pharmaceuticals, and others. Engro Foods/Chemicals. Veon, AkzoNobel and Royal Vopak are some of the biggest names of Dutch FDI in Pakistan.

8. Pakistan and the Netherlands are celebrating 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations in 2023. The two countries share a rich history of bilateral co-operation in a wide range of areas including Political, Economic, Trade and investments, Climate Change, Education and Culture.

9. Pakistan Post is issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp on this auspicious occasion on 2nd November 2023. It features Tulip, the National Flower of the Netherlands which is also widelygrown in Pakistan, highlighting the beauty of the growing relations between the two Nations.

100 YEARS OF NOVO NORDISK A CENTURY OF INNOVATION IN MEDICINE (2023-14)

Novo Nordisk is the leading global healthcare Danish organization, founded in 1923. Main purpose of NOVO NORDISK is to drive change to defeat diabetes and other serious chronic diseases such as obesity, rare blood and endocrine disorders. From labs to factory floors, Novo Nordisk is discovering and developing innovative biological medicines and making them accessible to patients throughout the world. Diabetes places a great burden on health systems and Novo Nordisk is committed to work with health authorities and other partners to prevent and treat the disease.

Novo Nordisk is the leading producer of the world's insulin and 36.3 million people are sing Novo Nordisk diabetes care products across the Globe including Pakistan. Today, one in every ten people in the World has diabetes, a figure that is projected to rise to one in nine by 2045, if action is not taken. The cost and access to medical care can place a devastating burden on individuals, their families, and even whole societies. Long-term ambition of Novo Nordisk is to provide access to affordable diabetes care for vulnerable patients in every country, especially children living with type 1 diabetes, who face certain death in some parts of the world without care and medicine. Novo Nordisk aims at preventing more than 100 million people from getting type 2 diabetes by 2045.

Novo Nordisk partners with patients, policymakers, healthcare professionals and non-governmental organizations to build awareness, advance prevention and expand access to care. According to International Diabetes Federation, 33 million people are living with diabetes in Pakistan, making it the 3rd largest population in terms of number of diabetics after India and China. Novo Nordisk is committed to cure diabetes in Pakistan and in partnership with Ministry of National Health Services Regulations and Coordination through various initiatives, striving to improve the awareness on diabetes. treatment and care of people with Diabetes in Pakistan, ultimately preventing the debilitating complications of this disease. In 2022, Novo Nordisk reached to around 2.6 million people through diabetes awareness initiatives, trained 600 healthcare professionals including doctors, nurses and pharmacists on management of diabetes. Novo Nordisk also collaborated with Embassy of Denmark and Health Services Academy Islamabad to commemorate World Diabetes Day 2022 at President House Islamabad to bring Diabetes on National Agenda.

The Year 2023 marks a century of innovation in medicine for Novo Nordisk, a company founded by Nobel Laureate August Krogh and his wife Marie. One hundred years ago, a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes was a death sentence. In 1923, the founders

set out to change this reality. This determination has driven them ever since, relentlessly turning challenges into positive change for millions of people worldwide. As Novo Nordisk turns 100, it's time to renew the commitment to drive change for a healthy world today, and for generations to come.

The 100-year anniversary of Novo Nordisk is a landmark achievement in global healthcare to focus on unmet societal and individual challenges, innovation, and its value to people suffering with diabetes - including achievements over the past 100 years and a commitment to continue innovation for years to come.

Issuance of commemorative postage stamp on occasion of 100 years of Novo Nordisk is recognizing a century of innovation and service. This would highlight the burgeoning rise of Non- Communicable Diseases across the country. Saving lives must go together with improving health and wellbeing with the ultimate aspiration: a world free from the burden of disease. That is why there is a need to build awareness around these disease areas which can ultimately reduce the burden of disease and help people live healthier lives.

On 100 years of founding of Novo Nordisk, Pakistan Post is issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp, titled "100 Years of NOVO NORDISK A CENTURY OF INNOVATION IN MEDICINE", of Rs.20/- denomination on 22nd September.2023.

75 Years of Establishment of Pakistan - Turkey Diplomatic Relations. September 13th, 2023 (2023-13)

The year 2022 has a special significance for Pakistan, as we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the country's independence. It is also a special occasion in our diplomatic history, as we commemorate the 75 years of establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Türkiye.

The diplomatic relations between the two countries were established soon after creation of Pakistan in 1947. Mr. Yahya Kemal Beyatli, the first Turkish Ambassador to

Pakistan, presented his credentials to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah on 4 March 1948 and Mian Bashir Ahmed, Pakistan's first Ambassador to Türkiye, presented his credentials to President Ismet Inonu in June 1949.

The fraternal relations between the two peoples go back centuries and are embedded in a common religious, cultural, linguistic, and spiritual heritage. The legendary support provided by the South Asian Muslims to their brothers and sisters in Türkiye during its War of Independence in the early 20th Century remains immortalized in the collective memory of all Turks. Muslims of South Asia defied their colonial rulers and came out in defense of Türkiye at one of the most critical junctures of its modern history - leaving behind their homes and donating all their belongings for the Turkish cause. Pakistan's national poet, Allama Muhammad Iqbal captured in his poetry the revolutionary spirit of resistance that led to the renaissance of the Turkish nation during its War of Independence.

In fact, the diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Türkiye are the extension of the same historical spirit - often articulated in motifs like "heart-to-heart relations" and, "two countries, one nation" by leadership on both sides. Both countries come to each other's support on every occasion and platforms. Pakistan and Türkiye stand with each other in pursuit of a peace, prosperity and development and against all challenges.

In recent years, in particular after the establishment of High- Level Strategic Cooperation Council (HLSCC), bilateral relations have now been transformed into strategic cooperation. This highest bilateral mechanism between two countries at the leadership level has been instrumental in forging ever-greater ties in all sectors including trade, investment, banking, health, education, agriculture, defense, science and technology and tourism.

The milestone of 75th year of diplomatic relations provides us an opportunity not only to reinforce our unwavering ties but also transmit the tradition of unmatched fraternity and solidarity between the two nations to our future generations.

To commemorate the 75th year of diplomatic relations in a befitting manner, both countries have planned a range off events. As part of these activities; Pakistan Post is issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp to mark this historical milestone. The Commemorative Stamp bears joint logo for celebrating the year 2022 as the 75th year of establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Türkiye.

On 75 Years of Establishment of Pakistan – Türkiye Diplomatic Relations, Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.20/- denomination on September 13th, 2023.

75th Death Anniversary of Father of the Nation Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. September 11th, 2023 (2023-12)

"Few individuals significantly alter the course of history. Fewer still modify the map of the world. Hardly anyone can be credited with creating a nation-state. Muhammad Ali Jinnah did all three". Stanley Wolpert.

Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah was born on 25th December 1876. By profession, he was a lawyer but worked as a successful political leader and fought for the rights of Muslims of the sub-continent.

From 1913 until Pakistan's independence on 14th August 1947, Quaid-e-Azam worked as the leader of the All-India Muslim League: He was Pakistan's first Governor-General. He was a leader who, instead of raising swords, used the weapons of unity, faith and discipline to achieve his goal. It seems like God created him for this purpose only.

He led a meaningful life, had a multifaceted personality and had numerous achievements in other domains. In fact, he excelled in a variety of roles, including: one of the greatest legal minds India produced in the first half of the 20th century; an "Ambassador of Hindu-Muslim unity; a great constitutionalist, an eminent parliamentarian; a top politician; an unyielding freedom fighter, a vibrant Muslim leader; a political strategist and, most importantly, one of the greatest nation-builders of our time. But what makes him so exceptional is that, while other similar leaders took over traditionally well-defined nations and/championed their cause or helped them achieve freedom, he founded a nation out of an impoverished minority and provided a cultural and national home for it.

Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah inspired the World in general and South Asia in particular through his charismatic and visionary leadership. As a statesman, the Quaid led the constitutional struggle that culminated in the creation of an independent homeland for the Muslims of the Sub-Continent. The Freedom Movement is a living

testimony of the political insight and sagacity of Quaid-e-Azam who adhered to the ideals of democracy and rule of law.

Unfortunately, the Quaid left for his heavenly abode soon after the creation of Pakistan. The founder of Pakistan was laid to rest on September 11, 1948. We have to continue to strive for making our country a place where people live with freedom, dignity and honor, as envisioned by the Quaid. Let us reaffirm on this day that we will

devote our energies in individual and collective capacities for the betterment of our State and Society. The best way to pay tribute to the Father of the Nation is to adhere to the principles of Unity, Faith and Discipline, and to carry forward the Quaid's legacy in letter and spirit towards making Pakistan a developed and prosperous country.

Jinnah dedicated his entire life to the struggle for a separate homeland for Muslims. He will always be remembered for his great vision and highest standard of leadership.

On 75th Death Anniversary of Father of the Nation Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Pakistan Post is issuing the Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.75/- denomination & Souvenir sheet of Rs. 100/- denomination on September 11th, 2023.

GOLDEN JUBILEE OF RAWALPINDI MEDICAL COLLEGE & UNIVERSITY (1973-2023) September 6th, 2023 (2023-11)

Rawalpindi Medical College was established in Faisalabad in 1973 and relocated to Rawalpindi on November 5, 1974. The college initially occupied an incomplete building at Tipu Road, later transferred to Rawalpindi Medical College.

Professor Abdul Latif, the founder principal, played a significant role in establishing the institution. He oversaw the construction of student hostels, staff colony, and auditorium. The three teaching hospitals of the city namely Holy Family Hospital, Benazir Bhutto Hospital and District Head Quarter Hospital, now called Rawalpindi Teaching Hospital were attached to the college to teach and train medical students.

Subsequent principals, Professor Muhammad Nawaz and Professor Muhammad Iqbal, contributed to the college's development. Professor Iqbal collaborated with Professor Saad Rana to establish the New Teaching Block in Holy Family Hospital with assistance from the Islamic Development Bank.

Professor Mubashir Malik established the Department of Psychiatry and fostered international collaborations. Professor Musadiq Khan established the Department of Medical Education and the Institute of Allied Health Sciences in 2007. He also oversaw the creation of the new teaching block in Holy Family Hospital, Rawalpindi, along with the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and Cardiac Care Unit (CCU) In 2013, Professor Muhammad Umar (S.1) initiated improvements in the Institution. He restructured the undergraduate training program, upgraded student facilities, and organized a historical meeting to develop national guidelines for undergraduate training.

Since its establishment, over 8,600 students have graduated from RMC, achieving top positions in university examinations. The college's academic programs are accredited by various bodies, and it has gained recognition from international organizations.

Upon recognition of meritorious serves rendered by the college, the Punjab Government on 5th May 2017 upgraded it to Rawalpindi Medical University. With two main campuses and three affiliated teaching hospitals, the university provides comprehensive education and practical experiences for students. Under the leadership of Professor Muhammad Umar (S.1), the college focused on patient care initiatives, including the establishment of various departments including 12 new specialities and improving affiliated hospitals' standards. The college has also established recognized postgraduate training programs, organized international conferences, and implemented mentorship programs.

The university's alumni have contributed to its development and aligning it with the latest advancements in healthcare. For the past three years, the university has been consecutively ranked by the Times Higher Education as the top medical university of Pakistan.

To celebrate the Golden Jubilee of the Rawalpindi Medical College, the Rawalpandi Medical University has organized a series of academic and cultural events, including an International Scientific Conference, alumni dinner, social program, variety program, and inauguration of projects and programs.

The Pakistan Post Office will issue a commemorative postage stamp to honor the Golden Jubilee and the university's contributions to healthcare.

On the occasion of the Golden Jubilee Rawalpindi Medical College and University (1973-2023), Pakistan Post in issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs. 20/- denomination on 6th September, 2023.