[Style Mantra]

Flag:

Name: Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Location: Southern Asia, bordering Afghanistan 2,430 km, China 523 km, India 2,912 km, Iran 909 km

Capital: Islamabad

Population: 159,196,336 (July 2004 est.)

Major Religion Practiced: Islam (97% of Muslim population)

Ethnic Make-up: Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashtun (Pathan), Baloch, Muhajir (immigrants from India at the time of partition and their descendants)

Religions: Muslim 97% (Sunni 77%, Shi'a 20%), Christian, Hindu, and other (inc. Sikh) 3%

Language in Pakistan

Urdu is the only official language of Pakistan. Although English is generally used instead of Urdu in this regard. English is the lingua franca of the Pakistani elite and most of the government ministries.

Urdu is closely related to Hindi but is written in an extended Arabic alphabet rather than in Devanagari. Urdu also has more loans from Arabic and Persian than Hindi has.

Many other languages are spoken in Pakistan, including Punjabi, Siraiki, Sindhi, Pashtu, Balochi, Hindko, Brahui, Burushaski, Balti, Khawar, Gujrati and other languages with smaller numbers of speakers.

Pakistani Society & Culture

Pakistan's culture is very diverse. This stems from the fact that what is now Pakistan has in the past been invaded and occupied by many different peoples, including White Huns, Persians, Arabs, Turks, Mongols and various Eurasian groups. There are differences in culture among the different ethnic groups in matters such as dress, food, and religion, especially where indigenous pre-Islamic customs differ from Islamic practices.

Despite tense relations with India, Indian movies are popular in Pakistan. Ironically, Indian films are officially illegal, but they can easily be found across Pakistan. An indigenous movie industry exists in Pakistan, and is known as Lollywood, producing over forty feature-length films a year. Music is also very popular in Pakistan, and ranges from traditional styles (such as Qawwali ) to more modern groups that try to fuse traditional Pakistani music with western music.

Increasing globalization has increased the influence of Western culture in Pakistan, especially among the affluent, who have easy access to Western products, television, media, and food. Many Western food chains have established themselves in Pakistan, and are found in the major cities. At the same time, there is also a reactionary movement within Pakistan that wants to turn away from Western influences, and this has manifested itself in a return to more traditional roots, often conflated with Islam.

A large Pakistani diaspora exists, especially in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada and Australia as well as in the Scandinavian nations. A large number of Pakistanis are also living in the Middle east. These emigrants and their children influence Pakistan culturally and economically, by travelling to Pakistan, and especially by returning or investing there.

Perhaps the most popular sport in Pakistan is cricket, and large amounts of Pakistanis gather around TV sets to watch the Pakistani team play in World competitions, especially against Pakistan's rival India. Pakistan has one of the top teams in international cricket, one that won the World Cup in 1992. Field Hockey is also an important sport in Pakistan, Pakistan having won the gold medal at the Olympics a number of times in the sport. Football or Soccer is played in Pakistan as well, but is not as popular as cricket or field hockey. Polo is believed to have originated in the Northern parts of Pakistan, and continues to be an important sport there with large competitions throughout the year.

Islam

. Islam is practiced by the majority of Pakistanis and governs their personal, political, economic and legal lives.
. Among certain obligations for Muslims are to pray five times a day - at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and evening.
. Friday is the Muslim holy day. Everything is closed.
. During the holy month of Ramadan all Muslims must fast from dawn to dusk and are only permitted to work six hours per day. Fasting includes no eating, drinking, cigarette smoking, or gum chewing.

The Family Map of Pakistan

. The extended family is the basis of the social structure and individual identity.
. It includes the nuclear family, immediate relatives, distant relatives, tribe members, friends, and neighbors.
. Loyalty to the family comes before other social relationships, even business.
. Nepotism is viewed positively, since it guarantees hiring people who can be trusted, which is crucial in a country where working with people one knows and trusts is of primary importance.
. The family is more private than in many other cultures.
. Female relatives are protected from outside influences. It is considered inappropriate to ask questions about a Pakistani's wife or other female relatives.
. Families are quite large by western standards, often having up to 6 children.

Hierarchical Society

. Pakistan is a hierarchical society.
. People are respected because of their age and position.
. Older people are viewed as wise and are granted respect. In a social situation, they are served first and their drinks may be poured for them. Elders are introduced first, are provided with the choicest cuts of meat, and in general are treated much like royalty.
. Pakistanis expect the most senior person, by age or position, to make decisions that are in the best interest of the group.
. Titles are very important and denote respect. It is expected that you will use a person's title and their surname until invited to use their first name.

Etiquette & Customs in Pakistan

Meeting and Greeting

. Greetings are therefore often between members of the same ***; however, when dealing with people in the middle class, greetings may be across *** lines.
. Men shake hands with each other. Once a relationship is developed, they may hug as well as shake hands.
. Women generally hug and kiss. Pakistanis take their time during greetings and ask about the person's health, family, and business success.
. Pakistani names often include a name that denotes a person's class, tribe, occupation, or other status indicator.
. They may also include two names that have a specific meaning when used together, and the meaning is lost if the names are separated. . It is best to ask a person how they wish to be addressed.
. In general, this is not a culture where first names are commonly used, except among close friends.

Gift Giving Etiquette

. If invited to a Pakistani's home, bring the hostess a small gift such as flowers or good quality chocolates.
. Men should avoid giving flowers to women.
. Do not give white flowers as they are used at weddings.
. If a man must give a gift to a woman, he should say that it is from his wife, mother, sister, or some other female relative.
. Do not give alcohol.
. Gifts are not opened when received.
. Gifts are given with two hands.

Dining Etiquette

. If invited to a home you will most likely have to remove your shoes. Check to see if the host is wearing shoes. If not, remove yours at the door.
. Dress conservatively.
. Arrive approximately 15 minutes later than the stipulated time when invited to dinner or a small gathering.
. You may arrive up to one hour later than the stipulated time when invited to a party.
. Show respect for the elders by greeting them first.
. In more rural areas, it is still common to eat meals from a knee-high round table while sitting on the floor.
. Many people in urban areas do not use eating utensils, although more westernized families do.
. When in doubt, watch what others are doing and emulate their behavior.
. Guests are served first. Then the oldest, continuing in some rough approximation of age order until the youngest is served.
. Do not start eating until the oldest person at the table begins.
. You will be urged to take second and even third helpings. Saying "I'm full" will be taken as a polite gesture and not accepted at face value.
. Eat only with the right hand.

Business Etiquette & Protocol in Pakistan

Building Relationships & Communication Customs in Pakistan

. Third-party introductions are a necessity in this relationship-driven culture.
. Pakistanis prefer to work with people they know and trust and will spend a great deal of time on the getting-to-know-you part of relationship building.
. You must not appear frustrated by what may appear to be purely social conversation. Pakistanis are hospitable and enjoy hosting foreign guests.
. Relationships take time to grow and must be nurtured. This may require several visits.
. Pakistanis often ask personal questions as a way to get to know you as a person.
. If possible, it is best to answer these questions.
. Pakistanis do not require as much personal space as most western cultures. As such, they will stand close to you while conversing and you may feel as if your personal space has been violated. Do not back away.
. Pakistanis are generally indirect communicators.
. Always demonstrate deference to the most senior person in the group.
. In general, Pakistanis speak in a roundabout or circuitous fashion. Direct statements are made only to those with whom they have a long-standing personal relationship.
. They also use a great deal of hyperbole and similes, and go out of their way to find something to praise.
. Be prepared to flatter and be flattered.
. Pakistanis prefer to converse in a non-controversial manner, so they will say they "will try" rather than admit that they cannot or will not be able to do something.
. Therefore, it is important to ask questions in several ways so you can be certain what was meant by a vague response. Silence is often used as a communication tool.
. Pakistanis prefer to do business in person. They see the telephone as too impersonal a medium for business communication.

Business Meeting Etiquette

. Appointments are necessary and should be made, in writing, 3 to 4 weeks in advance, although meetings with private companies can often be arranged with less notice.
. The best time to schedule meetings is in the late morning or early afternoon.
. If at all possible, try not to schedule meetings during Ramadan. The workday is shortened, and since Muslims fast, they could not offer you tea, which is a sign of hospitality.
. You should arrive at meetings on time and be prepared to be kept waiting.
. Pakistanis in the private sector who are accustomed to working with international companies often strive for punctuality, but are not always successful.
. It is not uncommon to have a meeting cancelled at the last minute or even once you have arrived.
. In general, Pakistanis have an open-door policy, even when they are in a meeting. This means there may be frequent interruptions. Other people may wander into the room and start a different discussion.
. Meetings are formal.
. Business meetings start after prolonged inquiries about health, family, etc.
. Never inquire about a colleague's wife or daughters.
. During the first several meetings, business may not be discussed at all as the relationship is still being developed.
. Maintain indirect eye contact while speaking.

Negotiating

. Companies are hierarchical. Decisions are made by the highest-ranking person.
. Decisions are reached slowly. If you try to rush things, you will give offense and jeopardize your business relationship.
. The society is extremely bureaucratic. Most decisions require several layers of approval.
. It often takes several visits to accomplish simple tasks.
. If you change negotiators, negotiations will have to start over since relationships are to the person and not the company that they represent.
. Pakistanis are highly skilled negotiators.
. Price is often a determining factor in closing a deal.
. Pakistanis strive for win-win outcomes.
. Maintain indirect eye contact while speaking.
. Do not use high-pressure tactics.
. Pakistanis can become highly emotional during negotiations. Discussions may become heated and even revert to Urdu (the national language). It is imperative that you remain calm.

Business Card Etiquette

. Business cards are exchanged after the initial introduction.
. Include any advanced university degrees or professional honours on your card, as they denote status.
. Business cards are exchanged using the right hand only or with two hands.
. Make a point of studying any business card you receive before putting into your business card holder.

[Style Mantra]

Pakistan Basic Facts

Official Name Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Father of the Nation Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah

President of Pakistan General Pervez Musharraf, President

Prime Minister of Pakistan Yousaf Raza Gillani

Capital Islamabad

Area 796,095 Sq. km.
Punjab: 205,344
Sindh: 140,914
North West Frontier Province: 74,521
Balochistan: 347,190
Federally Administered Tribal Areas: 27,220
Islamabad (Pakistan Capital): 906

Pakistan Population 159,196,336 (July 2004 est.)

Ethnic composition 97% Muslims (77% Sunni, 20% Shi'a), 3% Christian, Hindu and others

Per capita income US$ 652

Currency Pak Rupee

Exports Cotton, textile goods, rice, leather items carpets, sports goods, fruits, handicrafts Sea Food (Fisheries)

Imports Industrial equipment, vehicles, iron ore, petroleum, edible oil

Languages Urdu (National language)
English (Official) & More other Languages include Sindhi, Punjabi, Balochi, Salaiki & ....

Literacy rate 45.7%

Government Parliamentary form

Parliament It consists of two Houses i.e., the Senate (Upper House) and the National Assembly (Lower House). The Senate is a permanent legislative body and symbolises a process of continuity in the national affairs. It consists of 87 members. The four Provincial Assemblies, Federally Administered Tribal Areas and Federal Capital form its electoral college. The National Assembly has a total membership of 217 elected through ***** suffrage (Muslim 207 and Minorities 10).

Pakistan National Flag Dark green with a white vertical bar, a white crescent and a five-pointed star in the middle. The Flag symbolises Pakistan's profound commitment to Islam and Islamic world.

National Anthem Approved in June, 1954
Verses Composed by: Abul Asar Hafeez Jul****hri
Tune Composed by: Ahmed G. Chagla
Duration: 80 seconds
Click here to Listen " National Anthem of Pakistan "

State Emblem The State Emblem consists of:
1. The crescent and star which is symbol of Islam
2. The shield in the centre shows four major crops
3. Wreath surrounding the shield represents cultural heritage
4. Scroll contains Quaid's motto: Unity Faith, Discipline

National Flower Jasmine

Flora Pine, Oak, Poplar, Deodar, Maple, Mulberry

Fauna The Pheasant, Leopard, Deer, Ibex, Chinkara, Black buk, Neelgai, Markhor, Marcopolo sheep, Green turtles, River & Sea fish, Crocodile, Water Fowls

Popular games Cricket, Hockey, Football

b Murree, Quetta, Hunza, Ziarat, Swat, Kaghan, Chitral and Gilgit

Archaeological sites Moenjo Daro, Harappa, Taxila, Kot Diji, Mehr Garh

Major Cities Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta, Rawalpindi, Hyderabad, Multan, Sialkot and Faisalabad

Agriculture Major crops are cotton, wheat, rice and sugarcane

Total cropped area 22.14 million hectares

Industry Textiles, cement, fertilizer, steel, sugar, electric goods, shipbuilding

Energy Major sources:
Oil, Coal, Hydel, Thermal, Nuclear and Liquid Petroleum Gas WAPDA's total installed power generating capacity: 11,246 MW

Health Hospitals: 830
Beds: 86,921
Doctors registered: 74,229
Dentists registered: 2,938
Nurses registered: 22,810

Education Primary schools: 150,963
Middle schools: 14,595
High schools: 9,808
Arts & science colleges: 798
Professional colleges: 161
Universities: 35 (10 in Private sector)

Transport & Communication Total length of roads: 228,206 km
Pakistan Railway network: 8,775 km
Railway stations: 781
Pakistan International Airlines: Covers 55 international and 38 domestic stations
Major Airports: 6 - Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Peshawar and Gwadar

Seaports International : 2 - Karachi and Bin Qasim
Domestic: 3 - Minora, Gwadar and Pasni

Communications Post Offices: 13,419
Telephone connections: 2.47 million
Public Call Offices: 10,000
Telegraph offices: 427

Employment Total Labour force: 37.15 million
Agriculture sector: 47%
Manufacturing & Mining sector: 10.50%
Others: 42.50%

Media a. Print Media
Dailies: 424
Weeklies: 718
Fortnightlies: 107
Monthlies: 553
b. News Agencies
APP (official)
PPI & NNI (Pvt)
c. Electronic Media
Pakistan Television: Five TV centres at Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta and Karachi covering 87% population
Registered TV sets: 2,823,800
Viewership:
115 million Radio stations: Total 23, Home services in 20 languages. External services cover 70 countries in 15 languages Private TV/Radio: Radio stations 3, TV transmitter channels 2, Private News Agencies 2

Banks Central Bank: State Bank of Pakistan

Other Banks: National Bank of Pakistan, Habib Bank Ltd., Muslim Commercial Bank Ltd., Allied Bank of Pakistan Ltd., First Woman Bank, Mehran Bank and the Bank of Punjab Specialised Banks: Agricultural Development Bank of Pakistan, Federal Bank for Co-operatives, Industrial Development Bank of Pakistan, The Punjab Provincial Co-operative Bank, Banker's Equity and National Development Finance Corporation

Famous Mountain Peaks K-2 (Mt. Godwin Austin): 28,250 ft./8611 m (2nd in World)
Nanga Parbat : 26,660 ft./8126 m (8th in World)
Gasherbrum-I: 26,470 ft./8068 m (11th in World)

Famous Mountain Passes The Khyber Pass
The Kurram Pass
The Tochi Pass
The Gomal Pass
The Bolan Pass
The Lowari Pass
The Khunjrab Pass

Rivers
The Indus 2896 km
Jhelum 825 km
Chenab 1242 km
Ravi 901 km
Sutlej 1551 km
Beas (tributary of Sutlej) 398 km

Famous Glaciers
Siachin 75 km
Batura 55 km
Baltoro 62 km
Deserts Thar: Sindh
Cholistan: Punjab
Thal: Punjab

Lakes
Manchar Sindh
Keenjar Sindh
Hanna Balochistan
Saif-ul-Maluk NWFP
Satpara Northern Areas
Kachura Northern Areas

Major Dams
Mangla Dam Punjab
Tarbela Dam North West Frontier Province
Warsak Dam North West Frontier Province

[Style Mantra]

[Style Mantra]

National Anthem

Latin Transliteration

Pak sarzamin shad bad

Kishware haseen shad bad

Tunishane azmealishan arze Pakistan

Markazeyaqin shadbad.

Pak sarzamin ka nizam quwate akhuwati awam

Qaum, mulk, Sultanat

Painda ta binda bad shad, bad man zele murad.

Parchame sitarao hilat

Rahbare tarraqio ka mal

Tarjumane mazishane hal jane istaqbal

Sayyai, khudae zul jalal.



English:

Blessed be the sacred land,

Happy be the bounteous realm,

Symbol of high resolve, Land of Pakistan.

Blessed be thou citadel of faith.

The Order of this Sacred Land

Is the might of the brotherhood of the people.

May the nation, the country, and the State

Shine in glory everlasting.

Blessed be the goal of our ambition.

This flag of the Crescent and the Star

Leads the way to progress and perfection,

Interpreter of our past, glory of our present,

Inspiration of our future,

Symbol of Almighty's protection.

[AQN]

Great work done :) asjad

[Style Mantra]

thnx sis :)

[AQN]

my pleasure :)