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Chief Secretary GB Attend the Passing Out Parade at Police Training Center Gilgit

By
Samina Ch
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ASTORE, Dec 19 (APP):Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan, Mr. Abrar Ahmed Mirza, attended the passing out parade of Police and Excise Police at the Police Training Center Gilgit as the chief guest. Addressing the ceremony, he stated that the police are the backbone of peace and unity, and the government will play every possible role in establishing a strong, dignified, and professional police force.
The Chief Secretary said that the government is taking practical measures to uphold the prestige of the police and further strengthen police stations.
 Addressing the passing-out officers and personnel, he urged them to perform their official duties with integrity, rising above all biases, and through their actions bring pride to society, the nation, and the institution.
He further said that the role of the police is of key importance in establishing peace, prosperity, and a harmonious society in the country. The Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan congratulated the passing-out police officers and personnel on the successful completion of their training and extended his best wishes for their bright future.
Inspector General of Police Gilgit-Baltistan, Mr. Afzal Mahmood Butt, also addressed the ceremony and highlighted the steps being taken to enhance the professional capabilities of the police force. Commandant Police Training College Gilgit, Ms. Tahira Yousuf, in her welcome address, said that the Police Training Center is playing an important role in training police personnel in accordance with modern requirements. Later, she administered the oath to the passing-out police officers and personnel.
On this occasion, the Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan also inspected the parade. Inspector General of Police Afzal Mahmood Butt presented a traditional cap to the Chief Secretary. During the ceremony, the Chief Secretary distributed shields and cash prizes among police officers and personnel who demonstrated outstanding performance in various fields.

Final round of national anti-polio drive concludes

By
Samina Ch
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APP06-181025 ISLAMABAD: October 18 - A health worker administers polio drops to a child during the anti-polio vaccination campaign at Ghouri Town in the Federal Capital. APP/SAK/TZD
SARGODHA, Dec 19 (APP):The final round of the national anti-polio campaign for the current year was successfully completed in Sargodha district here on Friday.
A review meeting to assess the overall performance of the campaign was chaired by Deputy Commissioner Capt (retd) Muhammad Waseem.
The meeting was attended by Chief Executive Officer Health Authority Dr Saira Safdar, District Health Officer Dr Shahzad Gull, representatives of the World Health Organization and officers from the district administration and other relevant departments.
The meeting was briefed that the overall target for the campaign across the district was 709,266 children, out of which 681,134 children were administered polio drops, achieving an overall coverage of 96 percent.
It was further shared that 87 percent of not-accessible children were covered, while no serious refusal cases were reported during the campaign.
A special review of household coverage was also conducted.
Health officials informed the meeting that out of a target of 529,088 households, vaccination teams reached 518,914 households, resulting in 98 percent household coverage.
It was further reported that 23,220 children were vaccinated on catch-up day. Zero-dose children were also identified during the campaign and were subsequently covered.
DC Muhammad Waseem appreciated the efforts of polio teams, health workers, supervisors, volunteers and partner organisations. He said that despite harsh weather and challenging field conditions, both male and female workers performed their duties with dedication. He expressed hope that with the same spirit and sustained efforts, complete eradication of polio from Pakistan would be possible.

Pakistani scholar stresses multilateral cooperation at ‘Global Security Governance’ symposium in China

By
Shumaila Andleeb
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CHONGQING, China, Dec 19 (APP): Executive Director, Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future (PRCCSF) Khalid Taimur Akram on Friday emphasized the importance of collaborative frameworks, multilateral cooperation, and knowledge sharing to strengthen regional stability in a multipolar global order.

Khalid Akram expressed these views as he participated as distinguished speaker at the 4th Academic Symposium on “Global Security Governance,” jointly organized by the Baize Institute of Strategic Studies at Southwest University of Political Science and Law, Chongqing, China, and the Faculty of Political Science, Thammasat University, Bangkok, Thailand held at Chongqing, China. Around 80 scholars and experts from 27 countries participated in the event.

Pakistani scholar stresses multilateral cooperation at 'Global Security Governance' symposium in China

In his keynote speech on “Rethinking Regional Security Governance in a Multipolar World” in the forum themed “Regional Practices in Global Security Governance”, Akram analyzed emerging regional security architectures and highlighted the evolving roles of both state and non-state actors in addressing contemporary security challenges.

Drawing on practical case studies and policy insights, Khalid Akram proposed innovative approaches for integrating regional practices with global governance mechanisms. His presentation was highly appreciated for combining scholarly analysis with actionable strategies for promoting peace, security, and cooperative governance.

This year’s symposium was themed “The Contemporary Connotation and Global Significance of the Global Governance Initiative.” The keynote addresses were delivered by Prof. Ma Fang, Chairman and President at the Baize Institute for Strategic Studies, Southwest University of Political Science and Law, and Professor Hu Ergui, Vice President of Southwest University of Political Science and Law, Chongqing, China. Both speakers highlighted the importance of strengthening international cooperation, advancing rule-based global governance, and addressing the challenges posed by an increasingly multipolar world.

The symposium was structured into three thematic Forums, each focusing on a critical dimension of global governance and security.

Pakistani scholar stresses multilateral cooperation at 'Global Security Governance' symposium in China

The Forum 1 focused on ‘Promoting the Democratization and Rule of Law in International Relations’, where the discussions explored strategies to enhance transparency, accountability, and the rule of law in international relations, emphasizing the importance of democratic norms and legal frameworks in addressing global challenges.

The Forum 2 themed ‘Adhering to the Global Governance Concept of Extensive Consultation, Joint Contribution, and Shared Benefits’ discussed approaches to cooperative global governance, highlighting how multilateral engagement, mutual consultation, and equitable sharing of benefits can strengthen international stability and development.

The Forum 3 titled ‘Regional Practices in Global Security Governance’ focused on innovative regional approaches to security governance, evaluating case studies, best practices, and the role of regional institutions in promoting peace, stability, and collaborative security frameworks.

The 4th Academic Symposium brought together leading scholars, policymakers, and experts to discuss pressing issues in global security and governance successfully provided a dynamic platform for dialogue and exchange among scholars, policymakers, and practitioners from around the world.

By combining theoretical insights with practical perspectives, the symposium contributed significantly to the ongoing discourse on global security governance, emphasizing the relevance of regional practices and multipolar cooperation in addressing contemporary global challenges.

 

 

KP governor criticises governance, asks CM to sit in Peshawar and resolve public issues

By
Samina Ch
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0
LAHORE, Dec 19 (APP):Governor Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Faisal Karim Kundi on Friday visited Sundas Foundation Lahore, where he met under-treatment child patients, inquired about their health and distributed gifts among them to uplift their morale.
Upon his arrival at the Foundation, he was warmly received by Patron Sundas Foundation Sohail Warraich, Founder and President Muhammad Yaseen Khan, Director Khalid Abbas Dar and members of the foundation’s management.
During the visit, Governor Faisal Kundi interacted with children suffering from thalassemia, hemophilia and other blood-related disorders, encouraged them and reviewed the medical facilities being provided for their treatment.
Talking to the media on the occasion, Faisal Karim Kundi said that Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa was facing serious governance issues, alleging that the provincial government had set unprecedented records of corruption over the past two years. He claimed that the provincial headquarters had effectively shifted outside Adiala Jail.
He said that prisoners would eventually return after completing their sentences, but stressed that the KP government must focus on running the province effectively. He added that the chief minister should sit in Peshawar to resolve public issues.
Kundi said that following Pakistan’s victory in the war against India, the country had earned global recognition. He had requested the Punjab chief minister to transfer the PTI founder, currently imprisoned at Adiala Jail, to another province so that the governance system in KPK could function smoothly. He alleged that the PTI founder was enjoying VVIP facilities in jail.
Faisal Karim said that the imposition of governor’s rule depended on the performance of the provincial government, adding that there would be no need for such a step if the provincial government cooperated with federal institutions. However, he warned that statements against state institutions could worsen the situation.
Kundi further claimed that terrorism-related instability was linked to decisions taken during the 2008–2013 period and alleged that militants had been resettled during the PTI government’s tenure. He also alleged involvement of Afghan nationals in the deteriorating law and order situation, claiming that evidence had been presented.
Referring to accountability, the governor said action against a former DG ISI had proven that accountability applied to all, adding that accountability of the judiciary would also follow. He termed the execution of former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto a judicial killing.
The visit concluded with expressions of goodwill and appreciation for the welfare services being provided by the Sundas Foundation.

Met office predicts partly cloudy weather for Sindh

By
Samina Ch
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KARACHI, Dec 19 (APP):Pakistan Meteorological Department on Friday predicted dry and partly cloudy weather in most districts of the Sindh province during the next 24 hours.
       However, cold conditions are likely during morning or night.
     While, fog (in patches) may develop in Sukkur, Rohri, Shikarpur, Kashmor, Mohenjodaro and their surroundings during morning or night hours.
         Mainly, dry and partly cloudy weather is likely to prevail in the province.

APHC condemns CM Bihar’s shameful act of forcibly removing veil of Muslim doctor during ceremony

By
Samina Ch
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0
APHC
ISLAMABAD, Dec 19 (APP):All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC), Information Secretary, Mushtaq Ahmed Butt has strongly condemned the shameful incident of Bihar Chief Minister (CM) Nitish Kumar for forcibly removing the veil of a Muslim doctor girl when she was being handed an appointment letter, saying that this incident is not just an irresponsible act but a clear proof of the discriminatory thinking at state level against minorities, especially Muslims, in India.
In a statement issued on Friday, he said that it is a deep alarming situation that a person holding a public office does not hesitate to commit such a despicable and humiliating act in broad daylight, in the presence of the media and with complete brazenness.
This act is clear proof that the powerful classes in India have started considering themselves above the law, morality and human values.
Raising the question, he said that if this thinking and behavior of a Chief Minister is in front of the cameras, then it is not difficult to guess how minorities, especially the Kashmiri people, are being treated behind the scenes in these areas, where millions of Indian forces are deployed and who enjoy legal protection and immunity at all levels.
 He said that this is the mentality that is giving rise to atrocities like extrajudicial killings, humiliation of women, restrictions on religious freedom and collective punishments in various parts of India, including occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
He said that this incident also proves the fake claims of India that it is a secular and democratic state, emphasizing that in a true democracy, not only is the personal dignity and religious freedom of women respected, but the state representatives  guard the law and moral values there, not the means of violating them.
The Information Secretary urged the international community, the United Nations, international human rights organizations, and influential international media to remove the lens of prejudice and conduct an impartial review of the anti-minority policies and attitudes in India, and expose the ugly faces and dirty mentality of the Indian rulers to the world.

Rawlapindi wraps up year’s polio vaccination with 98pc success; Uzma Karadr

By
Samina Ch
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0
RAWALPINDI, Dec 19 (APP):Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif is personally monitoring the province’s polio campaigns, with strict instructions for mandatory polio drops at border entry points to prevent virus importation from neighboring regions.
This was told by Uzma Kardar, Focal Person to the Chief Minister on polio, during a press conference on Friday. She emphasizing Punjab’s strong performance in polio immunization campaign and said that the province was polio-free two to three years ago but saw cases emerge due to population movement from Attock and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Describing polio as a ‘cruel virus’ spread through feces and sewage, she stressed the full mobilization of Punjab’s health department. She said that Punjab has reported only one polio case in 2025 so far.
“At the national level, cases dropped from 74 in 2024 to 30 as of mid-December 2025”, she said.
Uzma informed the media reps that enhanced security was being provided to polio teams, while efforts continued to counter fake news and misinformation spread on social media by certain elements regarding vaccine and the vaccination drive. Uzma Kardar expressed optimism that Punjab could be declared polio-free by 2026.
She highlighted that in Rawalpindi, the final major drive of the year achieved strong results despite recent positive environmental samples indicating virus circulation.
The district targeted over 989,924 children aged under 5 years, with a house-to-house focus on 722,056.
Uzma informed media reps that more than 4,731 mobile teams, along with fixed and transit teams, covered 200 union councils.
According to official data, the latest NID vaccinated 719,623 children in house-to-house efforts, 97 percent coverage against a target of 744,940, with additional vaccinations at 30,163 out-of-house sites, 94,426 schools, 21,208 fixed sites, and 35,788 transit points.
Throughout the year, Rawalpindi conducted five dr8ves deploying 225 UC Supervisors, 765 Area Supervisors, thousands of teams, 262 fixed sites, and 194 transit teams. All campaigns passed post-campaign assessments, maintaining an overall 98% market survey coverage.
“Punjab health departments remain vigilant amid ongoing risks, committed to high immunization rates, effective supervision, and community engagement to secure a polio-free future”, she added.
Deputy Commissioner Rawlapindi, Dr. Hassan Waqar Cheema on the occasion informed that 46000 children vaccinated during the recent campaign were guests population. “A huge number of guest kids vaccinated during the campaign reflects the total commitment of the health authority for achieving the maximum target”, he said.
He further informed that measures were taken inside the department to address any negligence by the polio workers.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO), District Health Authority Rawalpindi, Dr. Ehsan Ghani termed the two positive environmental samples an alert for the district as well as the province, indicating circulation of the virus.
He expressed optimism, saying that due to the intensity of ongoing interventions, environmental samples are expected to turn negative in the coming month. He added that samples from another sensitive site, Taxila, have consistently remained negative.
He informed that the recent positive environment samples stemmed from Karachi and Mianwali, adding that no local sensitivity is seen in Rawalpindi.
According to the details, during the first quarter of the running year, the district remained stable but in May, WPV1 circulation came in visible mode.
Parents are urged to cooperate with vaccination teams, ensuring every child receives drops to protect against this preventable disease. Punjab’s coordinated efforts, aligned with national goals, continue to drive progress toward eradication.
Dr Shumaila Akbar, twin cities’ Co ordinator from World Health Coordination (WHO) during the presser endorsed the results while commending the efforts by the health department. WHO found 98% success rate of the recent campaign through post survey assessment (LQAS).

PM reiterates Pakistan’s commitment to strengthen multifaceted Pak-Tajik cooperation

By
NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Dec 19 (APP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday said that Pakistan was committed to multifaceted cooperation with Tajikistan, including in trade, connectivity, energy, and culture, for the mutual benefit of both nations.

The prime minister, in a meeting with Tajikistan’s Minister of Culture Sattoriyon Matlubakhon Amonzoda here,
expressed satisfaction over the ongoing positive trajectory of bilateral relations and discussed ways to deepen collaboration in the field of culture.

The prime minister extended a warm welcome to the visiting minister and her delegation, underscoring the deep-rooted historical, cultural, and civilizational ties between Pakistan and Tajikistan.

He emphasized that the shared heritage of the two brotherly nations provided a strong foundation for further enhancing people-to-people contacts and cultural cooperation.

Prime Minister Shehbaz highlighted the significance of the ongoing Pakistan-Tajikistan Cultural week, being held in Islamabad this week, as a landmark initiative to celebrate the rich traditions, arts, and heritage of both countries.

As agreed between the President Emomali Rehmon and Prime Minister Shehbaz, Tajikistan’s cultural week is being celebrated in Pakistan these days and the visit of Tajikistan’s culture minister is in the same context.

The prime minister noted that such exchanges would foster greater mutual understanding and strengthen the bonds of friendship between the peoples of both countries.

He also conveyed his best wishes to President Emomali Rahmon and hoped to welcome him to Pakistan for an official visit next year.

The Tajik Minister of Culture conveyed the warm greetings of President Emomali Rahmon and appreciated Pakistan’s hospitality and commitment to cultural diplomacy.

She expressed Tajikistan’s keen interest in expanding joint cultural programs, including artist exchanges, festivals, and exhibitions.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar, Minister for National Heritage and Culture Aurangzeb Khichi, SAPM Syed Tariq Fatemi also attended the meeting.

FOSPAH facilitates landmark settlement in 1.7b valued inheritance dispute

By
Samina Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 19 (APP):In one of the year’s most significant dispute resolution outcomes, FOSPAH successfully mediated a long standing inheritance conflict involving a commercial property in G 8, Islamabad. The complainant approached FOSPAH after being denied her rightful share in the property. While most legal heirs were willing to distribute the asset according to Sharia principles, one heir opposed the process and initially refused to participate in the proceedings. His non appearance led to ex parte action, and the property was placed for auction with a reserve price of PKR 1.6750 billion.
When the opposing heir later rejoined the proceedings and challenged the valuation. FOSPAH asked him to substantiate his claim by producing potential buyers, ensuring transparency and fairness for all heirs.
Over the following weeks, FOSPAH’s local commission worked diligently to guide the parties and verify claims. In this process, revenue authorities supported FOSPAH by verifying the status and ownership of property. Through patient facilitation and consistent follow up, the forum helped the family move from disagreement to consensus, ultimately settling at the revised valuation of PKR 1.7 billion, ensuring that every legal heir, including the widow and daughters, received their rightful share.
This case not only underscores FOSPAH’s commitment to accessible justice, it demonstrates the importance of gender sensitive mediation and persistent engagement to resolve even the most complex family disputes. FOSPAH has helped women obtain access to property worth over PKR 10 billion rupees in the past 3 years. Proceedings have often resulted in settlement between heirs, once they realise that the law is clear and the State stands behind women’s right to property.
In Pakistan, where women’s inheritance rights are clearly recognized under statutory law and Islamic principles, brothers have a legal and moral duty to ensure that sisters receive their lawful shares without delay, coercion, or obstruction. When hindrances are created, through pressure, misinformation, fraudulent transfers, or social coercion, it not only violates the law but also undermines justice and family harmony. Denial of women’s property rights perpetuates economic dependency, weakens women’s bargaining power, and deepens gender based discrimination. Conversely, when families facilitate and respect women’s rightful shares, they strengthen the rule of law, promote economic empowerment, and uphold ethical values rooted in fairness and accountability. Ensuring unhindered access to property for women is therefore not merely a private matter but a legal obligation with far reaching social consequences.

ECP notifies Agha Shahbaz Ali Durrani, Abid Sher Ali as winners of by-polls

By
Samina Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Dec 19 (APP):The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Friday declared Agha Shahbaz Ali Durrani as the returned candidate for Sindh Assembly’s PS-9 Shikarpur, while Abid Sher Ali was elected as senator.
Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians (PPPP) candidate Agha Durrani has secured victory in the PS-9 Shikarpur-III by-election held on December 14, according to the official notification. Durrani, son of former Sindh Assembly Speaker Agha Siraj Khan Durrani, emerged successful in the contest.
Meanwhile, Abid Sher Ali has been declared elected to the Senate seat left vacant following the passing of Irfan ul Haq Siddiqui.
According to a notification issued under Section 98(2), Durrani emerged as the leading candidate with 72,964 votes, the highest tally in the constituency. Out of a total of 88,017 ballots cast, 2,152 were declared invalid.
Among the other contenders, Tehreek Labbaik Pakistan managed 1,765 votes, while Jamiat Ulama-e-Islam Pakistan secured 9,489 votes.
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