Pak-Saudi defence pact an important milestone: Ahsan Iqbal

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Sat, 20 Sep 2025, 7:08 PM

LAHORE, Sep 20 (APP):Federal Minister for Planning and Development Prof. Ahsan Iqbal said on Saturday that the defence agreement between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia is an important milestone, which has been warmly welcomed by all segments of society and people from all walks of life have expressed great joy and happiness in this regard.

Talking to media after chairing the first meeting of Members of Federation of Engineering Institutions of Pakistan here, he added that after the Marka-e-Haq (battle of truth), Pakistan received more recognition, respect and dignity from around the world, so we have to move forward keeping in mind the future plans and challenges.

Before that, Prof. Ahsan Iqbal said the launch of CPEC Phase-II was formally announced during Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s visit to China. “Now, the CPEC JCC meeting is being held in Beijing on September 26, and I am going to attend it. Insha Allah, we will make further progress.”

The success of defence for any country cannot be long-lasting unless it stands on a strong economy, he said, asserting, “I believe that success of Udaan Pakistan Project, launched by the government, depends on the cooperation and role of engineers.”

He said Pakistan’s export would increase with innovated production and improved industrial capacity through extensive use of modern technology, and all this work has to be done by engineers. Similarly, a strong export economy requires strong infrastructure, which also has to be built by engineers. About e-Pakistan, he said, if Pakistan has to build a technology-based economy, then engineers have a fundamental role in it too. Engineers also have an important role in creating a technology-based economy and they even have a key role in ensuring water and food security. He hoped that Federation of Engineers would also play a vital role in the national plan of action to combat climate change in the country.

“We cannot reverse climate change but to face it, however, we can create resilience in our economy and reconstruct better infrastructure that does not fall victim to climate change again. To do this, we will need the cooperation of engineers. Hydraulic studies should be done to see how Pakistan’s water flows work and how we can avoid floods.”

Similarly, the energy cost is also high due to huge circular debt following inefficiencies and leakages in the system and again the engineers can fix these challenges effectively and help close this black hole in which billions of rupees are being pumped. “We can spend this money on education, health and improving the infrastructure and the areas lagging behind and underdeveloped,” he maintained.

The Federal Minister said every sector in the world revolves around technology and engineers are the people who make technology useful for human development. Ministry of Planning and Development would implement their recommendations and will act as a bridge between the government and the engineering profession. “I invite every skilled person, professional and talented person in Pakistan or abroad, to become part of Udaan Pakistan, a programme of the aspirations of 240 million Pakistanis. We have set two goals to become a one trillion dollar economy by 2035, and a three trillion dollar economy in 2047.”

Pakistan has a 60 percent young population which is the axis of country’s economic planning, and for the purpose, a national convention would soon be held in which all the universities of Pakistan are launching the 47 Lab. Where Pakistan will be in 2047 should be identified by the generation of Pakistan in whose hands Pakistan will be running at that time. The Pakistan 2047 Lab, which is mentioned in Udaan Pakistan, will be inaugurated soon. We will give the main responsibility for this to the young professionals of Pakistan.

Recently, during the visit to China, the private sector signed agreements worth USD 8.5 billion dollars, as one thousand Pakistani and Chinese businesses have jointly chosen ways to invest in Pakistan. “But if we do not provide this country with a favorable environment, it will not produce its products. If we allow chaos and unrest to arise, which investor will come to Pakistan? Therefore, I am happy that at this time there is complete agreement among all the institutions of the state of Pakistan that while our national security requires that we stand behind our armed forces, it is equally important that we do not allow anyone to create chaos and uncertainty within this country so that the seeds of development that are being sown, these seeds have grown, bear fruit and a better future can be built for the people of Pakistan,” he argued.

Prof. Ahsan Iqbal congratulate the engineering community on the establishment of the Federation of Pakistani Engineering Institutions and hoped that it will prove to be the most powerful think-tank of Pakistan, which will guide us in the problems for the development process by utilizing the best engineering manpower and talent.

A large number of engineers from across the country including Engineer Amir Zameer Ahmed Khan, Engineer Muhammad Usman Farooq, Engineer Tahir Basharat Cheema, Engineer Sarosh Hashmat Lodhi and Engineer Qasim Qureshi attended the meeting.

Humidity persists in Lahore

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Kamran Muraad

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Sat, 20 Sep 2025, 7:05 PM

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LAHORE, Sep 20 (APP):Humid and partly cloudy weather persisted in the city on Saturday, with the MET office forecasting similar conditions over the next 24 hours.

According to MET officials, continental air is prevailing over most parts of the country, bringing mainly hot and dry weather to most regions. Rainfall was reported only in Sheikhupura.

The highest temperature on Saturday was recorded in Nokkundi at 42°C, while Lahore registered 34°C.

Dr. Tariq Fazal Ch. praises Pakistan’s achievements, cites unity, leadership

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Kamran Muraad

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Sat, 20 Sep 2025, 7:03 PM

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ISLAMABAD, Sep 20 (APP):Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry on Saturday expressed his admiration for Pakistan’s progress, recognition, and success, attributing it to the unity of the nation, effective leadership, and divine support.

Speaking at the second Rawalpindi Islamabad Sports Journalists Association (RISJA) Inter-Media Cricket Tournament, Dr. Tariq Fazal highlighted Pakistan’s achievements despite facing numerous challenges.

He mentioned that Pakistan’s annual defence budget is around $8-9 billion, significantly less than India’s $80 billion. Despite this disparity, Pakistan has demonstrated remarkable resilience and strength.

He lauded the government’s recent achievements, and praised the swift and decisive response of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir during Operation Bunyan Al Marsoos, describing it as a demonstration of Pakistan’s strong defence capabilities.

Dr. Tariq Fazal emphasized the importance of national unity in overcoming challenges and achieving progress. He praised the country’s armed forces, political leadership, and citizens for their collective efforts.

The minister commended efforts to promote sports in Islamabad, including the development of sports facilities by the Capital Development Authority (CDA). He also announced a cash prize of Rs 20,000 each for teams of Samaa, ARY, 92 and Public News teams who were playing their matches in the cricket tournament on Saturday.

Dr. Tariq Fazal stressed that sports should be free from politics, emphasizing the importance of sportsmanship and fair play. He criticized India’s behaviour during the Asia Cup group match (where their team did not handshake with the Pakistani players), saying that their actions reflected poorly on their nation and leadership.

The RISJA Inter-Media Cricket Tournament features ten teams divided into two groups. Group A comprises Geo TV, Dunya News, CDA, 92 News, and Public TV, while Group B includes ARY News, Hum News, Samaa News, RISJA, and Dawn News. Each team will play four matches in the group stage, with fixtures consisting of 15 overs per side.

The knockout stage and final will be played over 20 overs, with the championship match scheduled for October 1 in Islamabad.

Pakistan expands policy measures to boost citrus exports worldwide

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Kamran Muraad

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Sat, 20 Sep 2025, 6:56 PM

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APP54-050625Islamabad — APP54-050625 ISLAMABAD: June 05 - Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain in a meeting with Pakistan Automotive Industry delegation on mechanized farming. APP/TZD

ISLAMABAD, Sep 20 (APP):Minister for National Food Security & Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain on Saturday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to enhance Pakistan’s citrus exports, particularly kinnow, by introducing comprehensive facilitation measures for growers, processors, and exporters.

Speaking on the government’s vision, the minister highlighted that the Department of Plant Protection (DPP) is playing a pivotal role in aligning Pakistan’s citrus industry with international Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) standards, said a press release.

He said that the government is fully committed to ensuring that Pakistani citrus fruits not only maintain their traditional markets but also successfully enter new destinations across Central Asia, Russia, the Middle East, Africa, and the European Union.

The minister appreciated the continuous efforts of DPP in simplifying export procedures, including reducing unnecessary testing requirements for pesticide residues in kinnow consignments.

He added that registration of new exporters for Uzbekistan and other Central Asian states is a vital step towards diversifying markets and enhancing trade opportunities for local farmers and exporters.

Highlighting long-term measures, Rana Tanveer Hussain noted that DPP has accredited the Citrus Research Institute’s post-entry quarantine facilities, paving the way for the introduction of new, disease-resistant and seedless kinnow varieties with higher yields and better consumer appeal.

He further informed that a temporary outpost has been established in Sargodha, the main citrus-producing region, to provide on-the-spot facilitation to farmers and exporters, ensuring timely processing of export consignments.

The minister also mentioned Pakistan’s proactive international engagement, citing the recent meeting with the Russian delegation in Islamabad as an example of how the government is expanding cooperation with partner countries to strengthen citrus exports.

To ensure efficiency, more laboratories have also been accredited nationwide for faster testing and certification of agricultural products.

Rana Tanveer Hussain stressed that the government’s focus is not limited to fresh fruit exports. Equal attention is being given to the promotion of seedless kinnow and value-added citrus products, including juices, concentrates, and essential oils, which can fetch higher returns in global markets.

Training programs and capacity-building workshops are also being conducted to equip growers and exporters with modern techniques and compliance requirements.

“Citrus, particularly kinnow, is a symbol of Pakistan’s agricultural strength. By facilitating our farmers and exporters, introducing improved varieties, and opening new markets, the government is determined to make Pakistani citrus a globally recognized brand,” he added.

Rising textile pollution endangers marine life, blue economy; says Junaid Anwar Chaudhry

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NNPS Desk

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Sat, 20 Sep 2025, 6:51 PM

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ISLAMABAD, Sep 20 (APP): Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has warned that the rising tide of textile and fashion waste flooding our oceans poses a growing threat not only to marine life but also to economic future, climate resilience, and the well being of future generations.

On World Cleanup Day 2025, which carries the theme “Tackling Textile and Fashion Waste Through Circular Fashion,” he underscored the urgent need for sustainable practices to protect oceans and secure the future for coming generations.

World Cleanup Day is a global initiative focused on combating solid waste and marine debris, highlighting the pressing challenges posed by textile pollution, said a press release issued here Saturday.

The minister stated that the Prime Minister’s firm commitment to prioritizing climate change underscores the urgent need for sustainable policies aimed at protecting environment, economy, and citizens.

“The health of our oceans is directly linked to the well being of our people, economy, and planet. I urge industries, policymakers, and citizens to recognize the dangers of textile and fashion waste and collaborate to build a circular economy that protects both livelihoods and biodiversity,” said Junaid Anwar Chaudhry.

Pakistan’s textile and fashion sector, one of the world’s largest and responsible for nearly 60% of national exports, also generates significant waste and pollution. Studies reveal textile waste contributes heavily to microplastic contamination in rivers and seas, threatening marine life including fish, corals, and vital coastal ecosystems.

Every year, tons of textile waste end up in landfills and waterways that eventually flow into the Arabian Sea. Microfibers from synthetic fabrics are consumed by marine animals, disrupting food chains and placing additional stress on species already threatened by climate change, overfishing, and habitat degradation.

The minister emphasized that the issue extends beyond ecology to economics as Pakistan’s blue economy, encompassing fisheries, shipping, tourism, and coastal industries, suffers major losses due to polluted waters and habitat degradation.

Pollution-related losses in fisheries alone exceed USD 200 million annually, while the potential of coastal tourism remains largely untapped. If this trend continues, financial losses will escalate further. Globally, the fashion industry loses about USD 500 billion annually due to under utilization and lack of recycling. For Pakistan, adopting circular fashion is not only an environmental imperative but also an economic necessity to safeguard these critical sectors.

He also highlighted the link between textile waste and climate change, noting that the textile sector is a major water consumer and greenhouse gas emitter. Discarded textiles in landfills release methane, a potent climate pollutant, worsening global warming impacts on coastal communities already vulnerable to rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Circular fashion, which promotes longer-lasting, reusable, repairable, and recyclable products, provides a pathway to lower emissions, conserve resources, and adapt to climate challenges. This approach is especially vital for Pakistan, a frontline country in the climate crisis facing increasing environmental risks.

“The challenge is too large for government alone. We need public-private partnerships, collaboration with academia, and active citizen involvement. Simple actions like supporting sustainable brands, reducing over consumption, and recycling textiles can collectively make a significant difference,” the Minister emphasized, calling for collective responsibility to protect marine ecosystems, enhance economic resilience, and build a sustainable future for all.

IRS seminar calls for proactive climate adaptation to build resilient food systems in Pakistan

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Kamran Muraad

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Sat, 20 Sep 2025, 6:51 PM

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ISLAMABAD, Sep 20 (APP):The Institute of Regional Studies (IRS), Islamabad, on Saturday hosted a seminar on “Resilient Food Systems in Pakistan” emphasizing the urgent need for Pakistan to transition from reactive disaster management to proactive climate adaptation strategies to strengthen food security.

Addressing the seminar, Ambassador Jauhar Saleem, President IRS, noted the irony that Pakistan, contributing less than one percent to global emissions, is among the most severely impacted countries by climate change. Citing cities like Lahore ranking among the world’s most polluted, he stressed that “Pakistan’s survival hinges on a new green revolution.”

Ms. Farrah Naz, Country Director of GAIN, highlighted South Asia’s alarming nutrition crisis, pointing out that nearly half of women of reproductive age in the region suffer from anemia, one in four infants are born underweight, and stunting rates continue to rise. She urged the adoption of nutrition-sensitive policies to address these systemic challenges.

Presenting data-driven insights, Dr. Zaffar Bukhari shed light on Pakistan’s fragmented value chains, food safety concerns, and limited dietary diversity. He underlined the importance of dashboards in guiding evidence-based policymaking for a more sustainable food system.

Dr. Haroon Malik, representing the Ministry of National Food Security & Research, highlighted the struggles of Pakistan’s smallholder farmers, who make up nearly 90% of the agricultural sector. He shared that the government is providing Rs.10,000 per farmer in support, expanding mechanization and rental services, and enhancing the Kisan Package 2022.

In the aftermath of the 2025 floods, he revealed that the government is exploring canola oil imports to reduce reliance on palm oil and strengthen resilience.

Moderating the session, Talha Tufail Bhatti, Assistant Research Officer at IRS, highlighted the concept of Food Sovereignty in Pakistan. The seminar was well attended by diplomats, researchers, journalists, and students, reflecting the growing concern over Pakistan’s food security in the face of climate challenges.

President Zardari visits Kashgar Free Trade Zone

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Kamran Muraad

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Sat, 20 Sep 2025, 6:49 PM

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KASHGAR, Sep 20 (APP):President Asif Ali Zardari Saturday visited the Kashgar Free Trade Zone, the only facility of its kind in southern Xinjiang and an important hub for trade and logistics in the region.

President Zardari visits Kashgar Free Trade Zone

The President was received by Yao Ning, CPC Party Secretary of Kashgar, and was briefed on the zone’s growth since its establishment in 2015.

Spread over 3.56 square kilometres, the zone brings together bonded warehousing, logistics, processing, customs clearance, and air freight services. It has trade links with 118 countries, with exports ranging from electric vehicles and batteries to solar cells, high-tech goods, and auto parts.

President Zardari was informed that the zone is connected by road, rail and air to both Asia and Europe, with its own international airport. It is linked with Sost port in Gilgit-Baltistan, just 400 kilometres away, and with Gwadar port at a distance of 2,000 kilometres. The zone handles both imports and exports through these routes.

The President also visited stalls and kiosks representing various countries, including Central Asian states, European countries, South Korea, and Japan.

Officials further briefed the President on the digital trade centre established in 2024, now home to more than 5,400 companies, and the cross-border e-commerce exhibition centre showcasing duty-free products from across Central Asia, Europe, and beyond.

President Zardari was also updated on the “Two Countries, Twin Parks” initiative, including an authorised Uzbekistan industrial park that enables warehouse-to-warehouse delivery within 72 hours, and a Kyrgyzstan-backed park under development for automotive assembly and LED production.

Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, Sindh Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, along with the Pakistani ambassador to China and the Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, accompanied the President during the visit.

Khalid Maqbool urges Karachi’s business community to be partner on education

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NNPS Desk

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Sat, 20 Sep 2025, 6:07 PM

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APP06-180324Islamabad-1-e1710775262899-1-768x507 — APP06-180324 ISLAMABAD: March 18 - Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddique officially assumed charge. APP/MAF/FHA

KARACHI, Sep 20 (APP): Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui on Saturday called upon the business community of Karachi to adopt over 100 schools of the city and be partner on education. He said that 100 non-formal schools had been recently inaugurated in the metropolis.
While addressing the business community during his visit to Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), he said that approximately 100 companies had waived off the requirement of degrees for jobs.
The federal minister said that it was being said that one billion people would be irrelevant across the world in the future due to the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Khalid Maqbool said that they had only one thing to export that was human capital.
While criticizing Jamaat e Islami (JI), he said that the slogans, which were raised by them, were seen now on the banners of JI.
He asked why JI not worked its best to eliminate MQM-Pakistan from the city. He said that they were alleged of getting extortion.
Siddiqui said that they were willing to move on the donations of Karachiites.
The Federal Minister said that he did not see any crises in the existence of the metrpolis.
He said that Karachi was a charity capital of the world, he further said, ‘We have only one thing to export is human capital.’
Maqbool said that NAVTTC was providing education to thousands students of the city.
Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) President Muhammad Jawed Bilwani said that Karachi exported 54 percent and paid 67 percent of tax but did not get in return.
He urged that a fixed percentage be announced for the improvement of the city, where the tax was collected.
He further said that the business community was with all MNAs and MPAs of Karachi to improve life in the city.
BMG Chairman Zubair Motiwala said that a big problem of Pakistan including Karachi was education. He said that the education was a weapon against extremism and fundamentalism.
Stressing the need for transforming education and working together with the Ministry of Education and Professional Training on research and education, he suggested not to compromise on education.
He also felicitated over Pak-Saudi defence pact and also termed it an opportunity for the business community. He hoped that Pak- Saudi collaboration would further enhance.