ISLAMABAD
Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan chairs a meeting with PPMA delegation – discusses pharmaceutical export growth, establishment of PharmEx Pakistan, and launch of Exporter Facilitation Desk
ISLAMABAD
Mr. Muhammad Mueen Wattoo, Federal Minister for Water Resources, today chaired the 60th Annual Meeting of the Federal Flood Commission, calling for enhanced inter-agency coordination and vigilance to manage flood risks during the upcoming monsoon season, set to begin on July 1
ISLAMABAD
ISLAMABAD
A motorcyclist wades through stagnant sewerage water at Pan Mandi area
KARACHI
Aqeel Khan wins National Ranking Tennis C’ships title
ISLAMABAD, Jun 04 (APP):Aqeel Khan bagged the men’s singles title of the 1st Emerging Pakistan National Ranking Tennis Championships 2025 here at the PTF-SDA Tennis Complex on Wednesday.
Organized by the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF), this inaugural edition saw more than 200 players compete across six categories: Men’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, Ladies’ Singles, Boys’ Under-18 Singles, Boys’ Under-14 Singles, and Boys’ Under-12 Singles. A total prize pool of PKR 1.5 million was awarded to winners and runners-up, including travel allowances.
In Men’s Singles Final, seasoned tennis veteran Aqeel Khan triumphed over the formidable Muzammil Murtaza in a thrilling three-set contest: 6-2, 6-7(5), 6-3.
Aqeel started strong, quickly securing a 3-0 lead and capturing the first set 6-2 through consistent pressure and precise shot-making. Muzammil responded admirably in the second set, adjusting his game and forcing a tiebreaker, which he clinched with grit and composure. In the decisive third set, Aqeel’s experience proved vital; he tactically outmaneuvered Muzammil to claim a hard-fought 6-3 victory and the championship title.
Jam Kamal Khan, Federal Minister for Commerce, graced the ceremony as Chief Guest and distributed trophies among the winners and runners-up. Also in attendance were Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, Secretary IPC and Guest of Honor; Muhammad Atif Fayyaz, Chief Coordinator; Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi, President of the Pakistan Tennis Federation (PTF); and Col. (R) Zia-ud-Din Tufail, Secretary PTF.
During his address, Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi extended heartfelt thanks to the honorable Minister for sponsoring this landmark event. He expressed his optimism that the championship would serve as a foundation for future tournaments, including a forthcoming edition planned in Quetta, Balochistan. He also acknowledged the invaluable support of Secretary IPC, appreciating his deep passion for sports and his continued interest in the activities and progress of the Pakistan Tennis Federation.
In his remarks, Federal Minister Jam Kamal Khan commended the efforts of the PTF President for revitalizing the sport of tennis in Pakistan. He noted that, as a celebrated sportsman himself, Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi possesses a unique understanding of the game’s intricacies and is deeply familiar with the challenges faced by the tennis community.
The Minister emphasized his satisfaction in seeing an athlete of Aisam’s stature take a leadership role in shaping the future of tennis and sports more broadly in Pakistan. He assured full support from his ministry to help the PTF President realize his vision and goals for the development of the sport nationwide.
Men’s Singles (Final): Aqeel Khan beat Muzammil Murtaza 6-2 6-7(5), 6-3.
Ladies Singles (Final): Ushna Suhail beat Zunaisha Noor 6-2 6-1.
Men’s Doubles (Final): Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi & Aqeel Khan beat Abdullah Adnan & Muzammil Murtaza 6-2 4-6 10-7.
Junior 18 & Under Singles (Final): AbuBakar Talha beat Muhammad Salar 6-1 6-3.
Boys 14 & Under Singles Final: Muhammad Junaid beat Muhammad Muaz 6-7(3) 6-1 6-1.
Boys 12 & Under Singles Final: Muhammad Aayan beat Muhammad Muaz 4-2 4-2.
US Chargé d’Affaires underscores enduring Pakistan-US ties at Independence Day celebration
By Rehan Khan
ISLAMABAD, June 4 (APP):United States (US) Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker on Wednesday reaffirmed the strength of Pakistan-US relations and expressed optimism about the future of bilateral cooperation.
Marking the 249th anniversary of the United States’ Declaration of Independence here at the US Embassy in Islamabad, she said, “Tonight is not only a celebration of our independence, but a reflection of the shared values that bind our two nations – liberty, equality, self-governance, and the pursuit of happiness.”
The event was attended by a large gathering of dignitaries, including Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, senior Pakistani government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, business leaders, civil society representatives, and cultural icons, Baker paid tribute to the enduring friendship between the two countries.
Baker, highlighting the historic nature of the relationship, noted that the US was among the first countries to recognize Pakistan’s independence in 1947. “For the last 78 years, our partnership has grown in depth and dimension, rooted in mutual respect and a common vision of opportunity and prosperity,” she added.
She recalled how US development cooperation, through institutions such as USAID, had contributed to strengthening Pakistan’s education, health, agriculture, and infrastructure sectors, and lauded the long-standing people-to-people ties that have been at the heart of bilateral engagement.
Baker praised the contribution of US and Pakistani military officers who have jointly trained and served, saying their efforts have enhanced regional security and saved lives. “Our cooperation on defense and counterterrorism has brought tangible results,” she said, citing Pakistan’s recent capture and extradition of the ISIS-K operative responsible for the deadly 2021 Abbey Gate attack in Afghanistan.
She appreciated the Pakistani government and security leadership for their role in fostering regional peace and stability, particularly acknowledging the efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal General Asim Munir.
Touching upon economic engagement, she highlighted the recent Pakistan Critical Minerals Investment Forum and the growing collaboration in digital innovation and emerging technologies. She also referenced joint investments in cryptocurrency and other forward-looking initiatives that point to a ‘shared vision for sustainable growth.’
In a diplomatic nod to recent regional developments, Baker credited joint Pakistan-US efforts in helping broker a ceasefire between Pakistan and India, describing it as a testament to the power of constructive cooperation.
“Together, we are charting new frontiers – in trade, security, culture, technology, and yes, even cricket,” she remarked with a smile, referencing her engagement with Pakistani society on and off the field.
The event, featuring traditional American culinary flavors and a musical performance by the United States Air Force band, celebrated not just US national identity but also the enduring bonds between the American and Pakistani peoples.
In conclusion, Baker thanked all participants and reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to a robust, mutually beneficial relationship. “Our relationship is strong – and the best is yet to come,” she said. “May the United States and Pakistan continue to thrive together.”
The reception reflected the vibrancy of bilateral ties and the evolving nature of a partnership aimed at promoting regional peace, economic growth, and global cooperation.
Pakistan appointed to key subsidiary bodies of UN Security Council
UNITED NATIONS, Jun 04 (APP): Pakistan has been appointed to head of the UN Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1988 (2011), which oversees the implementation of the sanctions measures on the Taliban, and as the Vice Chair of the Counter-Terrorism Committee, which monitors the implementation of resolution 1373 (2001), it was officially announced Wednesday.
In a press release, the Pakistan Mission to the UN called the appointments a “significant diplomatic development”.
The press release also said that Pakistan has also been appointed as the Co-Chair of the Security Councils Informal Working Group (IWG) on documentation (working methods) and the newly established IWG on Sanctions. The IWG on documentation focuses on improving the working methods, transparency, efficiency, and inclusiveness of the UN Security Council.
The IWG on Sanctions issues aims to review and enhance the design, implementation, and effectiveness of UN sanctions regimes.
“These appointments represent an acknowledgement of Pakistan’s active engagement with the United Nations system including its constructive role as an elected member of the Security Council,” the press release said, adding, “They are also an international recognition of Pakistan’s counter-terrorism efforts”.
Pakistan, it said, remains committed to working with the United Nations and fellow member states in advancing the principles and purposes of the UN Charter as well as playing its part in the global fight against terrorism in collaboration with its international partners.
DPM Dar chairs meeting to review Pak-Iran bilateral economic ties
ISLAMABAD, June 04 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister / Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Wednesday chaired an interdepartmental meeting to review Pakistan-Iran bilateral economic relations.
The meeting focused on exploring avenues to enhance cooperation, particularly in economic and trade sectors, and reaffirmed the importance of fostering ties based on mutual respect, shared interests, and regional stability, Foreign Office Spokesperson said in a press release.
Vendors busy loading the sacrificial animal camel on delivery van at Animal Market Shahpur Kanjra in connection with Eidul Azha
LAHORE
LAHORE
LAHORE
LAHORE
Vendors making tea while waiting the customers for selling the sacrificial animal Camels at Animal Market Shahpur Kanjra in connection with Eidul Azha
LAHORE
LAHORE
LAHORE
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif chairs a meeting of the National Economic Council
ISLAMABAD
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif chairs a meeting of the National Economic Council
ISLAMABAD
ISLAMABAD
A delegation of Mutehda Qaumi Movement calls on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif
ISLAMABAD
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif addresses a ceremony organized on the eve of 249th anniversary of Independence day of United States of America
ISLAMABAD
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif addresses a ceremony organized on the eve of 249th anniversary of Independence day of United States of America
ISLAMABAD
Federal Minister for Railways, Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, Meets with the Charge d’Affaires of the U.S. Embassy, Ms. Natalie Baker, on the Occasion of U.S’s 249th Independence Day Celebration
ISLAMABAD
Govt to strengthen local pharma industry: Kamal
ISLAMABAD, Jun 04 (APP): Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, Mustafa Kamal has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthen the domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing base.
He was chairing a meeting with a delegation of Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA) to discuss a range of pressing issues within the pharmaceutical sector.
The meeting also discussed other areas included amendments to drug regulations, indigenous production of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs), and efforts to expand pharmaceutical exports, especially in collaboration with Afghanistan.
The minister said, “We must work jointly to ensure local production of APIs, not only to reduce reliance on imports and save valuable foreign exchange reserves, but also to unlock the export potential of our pharmaceutical products.”
He instructed the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) to prepare a detailed concept note on the establishment of a Naphtha Cracker facility.
This facility would produce vital raw materials needed for API manufacturing—marking a strategic step toward reducing Pakistan’s dependence on foreign chemical imports.
Tackling the issue of counterfeit drugs, the minister announced the introduction of a nationwide trace and track system.
The system will feature a unique barcode printed on each medicine package, enabling consumers to verify authenticity and retail pricing through their mobile phones.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both parties agreeing to enhance public-private partnerships, streamline regulatory frameworks, and implement strategic measures to ensure medicine quality and boost pharmaceutical exports.
PM to visit KSA on Thursday
ISLAMABAD, June 04 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif will undertake an official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on June 5–6 June, coinciding with Eid ul Adha.
The prime minister would be accompanied by a high-level delegation, Foreign Office Spokesperson said in a press release.
During the visit, the prime minister would meet with Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
“Discussions will focus on strengthening bilateral cooperation in key areas, including trade and investment, the welfare of the Muslim Ummah, and regional peace and security. The Prime Minister will also express gratitude to the Saudi leadership for its constructive role in de-escalating the recent Pakistan-India conflict,” the spokesperson said.
This visit underscores the deep-rooted, time-tested ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, anchored in shared faith, mutual respect, and strategic partnership. It reaffirms the leadership’s commitment to deepening economic and diplomatic engagement, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and Pakistan’s development priorities.
“Prime Minister Sharif’s visit is expected to further solidify Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations and open new avenues for multifaceted collaboration,” it was added.
LCCI for resolving problems of industries in Saggian area
LAHORE, Jun 04 (APP):Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) Wednesday raised concerns about the plight of industrial units operating in Saggian Lahore and surrounding areas under the jurisdiction of Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA).
In an emergency meeting held at LCCI, industrialists unanimously appealed to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to take immediate notice of the situation.
LCCI Acting President Engneer Khalid Usman, former LCCI President Muhammad Ali Mian, Convener of Standing Committee Ali Sheraz, Zafar iqbal, Akram Dewan, Muhammad Ameen, Muhammad Hanan, Muhammad Yonus, Tanveer Hussain, Muhammad Adeel and Advocate M Waqar also spoke on the occasion.
Engineer Khalid Usman and Muhammad Ali Mian highlighted that major issue is imposition of DC rate that is 10 times higher than standard rates in the jurisdiction of RUDA.
They said that over 1,000 industrial units, ranging from small workshops to large factories, are facing problems due to these inflated charges. They added that these industries employ more than 10,000 workers directly and support thousands of families indirectly.
Khalid Usman said, “If RUDA continues with this taxation, we will see massive job losses and industrial collapse.”
Business community leaders said that forcing industries to pay current DC rates will lead to shutdowns. When factories close, workers lose livelihoods, and that creates social unrest and law-and-order problems.
They demanded immediate reduction in DC rates to reasonable levels, restriction on sealing or eviction of industrial units and consultation with stakeholders before finalizing new rates.
Participants of the meeting said that industrialists have pin their hopes on CM Maryam Nawaz. They said that they believe the Chief Minister, who has prioritized economic development, will understand their plight and take necessary action.
Hot, partly cloudy weather forecast for Lahore
LAHORE, Jun 04 (APP): The city experienced hot and partly cloudy weather on Wednesday, with similar conditions expected to persist over the next 24 hours, according to the Meteorological Department.
Officials from the MET office reported that a shallow westerly wave was affecting the upper parts of the country, accompanied by moist currents entering northeastern regions.
They forecast that most parts of the country will remain hot and dry. However, isolated areas in Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, eastern and central Punjab, and northeast Balochistan may experience partly cloudy skies with light to moderate rain, wind, or thunderstorms.
Scattered rainfall was recorded in several cities nationwide. Sibbi remained the hottest spot with the mercury soaring to 47°C, while Lahore recorded a high of 37°C.
Meanwhile, Lahore’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 75, with PM2.5 levels measured at 4.4 times higher than the World Health Organization’s recommended annual limit.
Minister Social Welfare Syed Qasim Ali Shah addressing during empowering every child online safety, access, & expression at Business Incubation Center University of Peshawar
PESHAWAR