HYDERABAD
HYDERABAD
HYDERABAD
Vendors displaying sacrificial animals to attract the customers in connection with upcoming Eid-ul-Adha at Animal Market
HYDERABAD
HYDERABAD
HYDERABAD
Pre-flood mock exercise held at Indus river
LAYYAH, Jun 04 (APP): The district administration, in collaboration with Punjab Emergency Service (Rescue 1122), conducted a pre-flood mock exercise at Indus river near Jhakhar Paka.
The exercise was aimed to assess and enhance the preparedness of all relevant departments.
Rescuers demonstrated practically to tackle flood-like situation and to provide assistance to flood stranded people.
Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Shabbir Ahmad Dogar inspected the arrangements and appreciated the performance of the departments.
ADCG Shabbir Dogar said that the mock exercises were essential in strengthening coordination and improving response efficiency.
While all departments were fully prepared to tackle any flood situation,” he stated.
District Emergency Officer, Dr. Sajjad Ahmad, affirmed that Punjab Emergency Service Layyah was equipped and ready to handle any emergency or flood-related situation.
Defence Minister of Belarus Lt. General Victor Khrenin calls on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif
ISLAMABAD
Defence Minister of Belarus Lt. General Victor Khrenin calls on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif
ISLAMABAD
Pakistan defeated India on military, narrative and diplomatic fronts simultaneously: Tarar
ISLAMABAD, Jun 4 (APP): Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar said on Wednesday that Pakistan did defeat India comprehensively on multiple fronts – military, war of narratives and diplomacy.
Addressing press conference, he said that Pakistan had responded to Indian aggression in an effective and responsible manner.
He said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif advocated Pakistan’s stance on the diplomatic front in a comprehensive manner whereas team led by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar also worked diligently on this front.
Appreciating role of Pakistan media, anchors, journalists and media houses, he said they did play a vital role in projecting the narrative of war against India.
Pakistani media carried out responsible journalism with facts and figures whereas Indian media resorted to concocted and fake news, he added.
” Indian media ran a misinformation campaign and it became a subject of ridicule at international level. Global media outlets quoted how ridiculous propaganda was aired by Indian media”, he said.
On the contrary Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Inter Services Public Relations and media houses of Pakistan did play their role in an effective but responsible manner, he added.
The minister said that Maarka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyan Marsus would always be remembered as great triumph since Allah Almighty honoured Pakistan against its enemy.
In tense and critical situation, the Pakistani nation demonstrated exemplary solidarity and unity, Attaullah Tarar said adding under the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Pakistan Armed Forces acted in a coordinated manner and foiled Indian nefarious designs.
Attaullah Tarar said after defeat on every forum, India was now spreading false propaganda in an effort of face-saving. He said now even in India, questions were being raised about PM Modi’s failed strategy.
The minister said that New Delhi was involved in acts of terrorism in multiple countries including Pakistan as Indian state sponsored terrorism had reached Canada, America and Australia.
Referring to proofs on Indian involvement in terrorist activities in Balochistan, he said Indian Navy serving commander Kulbhushan Jadhav was captured from Balochistan. He said India was funding terrorist acts in Balochistan but Pakistan was determined to eliminate all types of terrorism by defeating India proxies.
The minister said terrorism in other countries was part of India’s foreign policy, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had admitted that India supported Mukti Bahini in 1971.
He said when Jafar Express train incident happened, Indians somehow celebrated hostage taking and Indian media had given special coverage to terrorists by showing their interviews live.
He said when Pahalgam incident happened, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif offered an impartial, transparent international investigation, but India did not respond as it would have exposed the false flag operation.
Tarar expressed the determination that the Fitna-ul-Hindustan will be eliminated from Balochistan at all costs.
During Attaullah Tarar’s press conference, video evidence of Indian terrorism was also shown to media. It was titled ” Terror by Design: India’s Proxy War on Pakistan”.
The video showed Narendra Modi bragging about Indian support for Mukti Bahini in East Pakistan in 1971.
Some clips of anti-Pakistan speeches of Indian Prime Minister and ministers were also shown in the video.
The video contained clear evidence of India’s involvement in terrorist incidents in Balochistan.
” Balochistan is Pakistan’s lifeline, we will take the process of peace and stability forward,” Attaullah Tarar remarked.
The minister vowed that like a conventional war, Indian proxies will also be defeated.
To a question, he said a Pakistan’s diplomatic delegation led by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari had held important meetings in New York with United Nations top brass and conveyed Pakistan’s stance very effectively.
The minister said that India’s efforts to destabilize Balochistan will fail and development works in the province will gain momentum and it would play its role in the overall development of the country.
Dr. Kazim Niaz, Secretary Ministry of Economic Affairs and Emma Fan, Country Director of Asian Development Bank (ADB) signing ‘Improved Resource Mobilization and Utilization Reform Program’ between Pakistan and ADB
ISLAMABAD
ISLAMABAD
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif chairs a meeting on matters related to Pakistan Railways
ISLAMABAD
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif chairs a meeting on matters related to Pakistan Railways
ISLAMABAD
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif chairs a meeting on matters related to Pakistan Railways
ISLAMABAD
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif in a group photo with Chief Ministers of the four provinces before the start of National Economic Council meeting
ISLAMABAD
KP annual budget for FY 2025-26 to be presented on June 13
PESHAWAR, Jun 04 (APP):The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government will present its annual budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 in the provincial assembly on Friday, June 13.
According to official statement issued on Wednesday, the session will begin at 3 p m. The budget presentation will be held in accordance with Rule 33(1) of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Rules of Business, 1985.
The upcoming budget is expected to outline the province’s financial priorities for the next year, including allocations for development projects, education, health, and infrastructure.
PSX stays bullish, gains 1,347 points
ISLAMABAD, Jun 4 (APP):The 100-Index of the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) continued with bullish trend on Wednesday, gaining 1,347.99 points, a positive change of 1.12 percent, closing at 121,798.87 points as compared to 120,450.87 points on the last trading day.
A total of 710,591,203 shares were traded during the day as compared to 578,163,611 shares the previous trading day, whereas the price of shares stood at Rs 35.216 billion against Rs 26.827 billion on the last trading day.
As many as 475 companies transacted their shares in the stock market, 264 of them recorded gains and 170 sustained losses, whereas the share price of 41 companies remained unchanged.
The three top trading companies were Sui South Gas with 51,634,991 shares at Rs 38.42 per share, Fauji Foods Limited with 51,388,381 shares at Rs 16.75 per share and K-Electric Limited with 41,397,930 shares at Rs 5.41 per share.
Supernet Technologies Limited witnessed a maximum increase of Rs 79.11 per share closing at Rs870.21 whereas runner-up was Khyber Pakistan Engineering Company Limited with Rs74.48 rise in its share price to close at Rs 819.30
PIA Holding Company LimitedB witnessed a maximum decrease of Rs 3,554.32 per share price, closing at Rs 31,988.87, whereas the runner-up Khyber Textile Mills Limited with Rs 337.68 decline in its per share price to Rs 3,039.08.
Gold prices remain unchanged at Rs.354,100 per tola
ISLAMABAD, Jun 4 (APP):The price of 24 karat per tola gold remained unchanged at Rs.354,100 on Wednesday, All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewelers Association reported.
The prices of 10 grams of 24 karat and 10 grams of 22 Karat also remained constant at Rs.303,583 and Rs.278,294 respectively.
The rates of per tola and ten gram silver were also traded at existing rates of Rs.3,586 and Rs.3,074 respectively.
The price of gold in the international market was also traded at existing rates of $3,357 from $3,347 whereas that of silver remained stagnant at $34.28, the Association reported.
CDA launches Gandhara Heritage Center to boost cultural, economic activities
ISLAMABAD, Jun 04 (APP): The Capital Development Authority (CDA) on Wednesday soft-launched the ambitious Gandhara Heritage and Citizen Center at F-9 Park, marking a new era of public-private collaboration in the federal capital.
CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa, who also serves as Chief Commissioner Islamabad and DG Civil Defense, presided over the ceremony attended by key CDA board members, leading hoteliers, investors, and renowned architect Nayyar Ali Dada.
The pioneering project will operate under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with design led by Nayyar Ali Dada & Associates.
Officials confirmed the center will be fully operational by next fiscal year, with special emphasis on heritage preservation and maintaining green spaces.
Chairman Randhawa called this a “first-of-its-kind initiative for Islamabad,” explaining that revenues generated will be reinvested in city beautification and F-9 Park upgrades.
The project aligns with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s policy of optimizing government assets.
The CDA chief guaranteed strict regulatory compliance and announced a six-month completion deadline.
He highlighted the project’s potential to create employment opportunities by activating underutilized assets.
Looking ahead, officials revealed plans for new hotel projects in premium locations starting July 2025, with more PPP ventures in the pipeline to support Islamabad’s transformation into a model modern capital.
The Authority has currently opened Expressions of Interest for investor participation, with project documents available at CDA headquarters.
Chairman Randhawa emphasized this launch marks just the beginning of Islamabad’s development journey, urging private sector participation to realize the capital’s full potential.
The Gandhara Heritage and Citizen Center will feature cultural exhibition spaces, sustainable architecture, citizen recreation facilities, and commercial zones for local businesses, creating a multifaceted public space in the heart of the city.
IRS hosts high-level discussion on “Azerbaijan-Pakistan Relations Post-Pahalgam”
ISLAMABAD, Jun 04 (APP): The Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) convened a high-level discussion titled “Azerbaijan-Pakistan Relations Post-Pahalgam: Imperatives for Regional Peace”, featuring Ambassador Jauhar Saleem, President of the Institute of Regional Studies and Dr. Fariz Ismailzade, Vice Rector of ADA University in Baku, member of the Azerbaijan Parliament, and Director of the Institute for Development and Diplomacy.
The discussion was held against the backdrop of the Pahalgam Incident, a watershed moment in South Asian security calculus, which has injected new urgency into regional diplomacy, and it explored as to how the development is likely to influence Pakistan’s regional posture and Azerbaijan’s foreign policy nuances, said a press release issued on Wednesday.
President IRS, highlighted the strengths of Azerbaijan and Pakistan’s deep rooted ties, with a particular emphasis on the ongoing energy cooperation, including Azerbaijan’s stakes in LNG supplies and potential for diversification. Ambassador Saleem also brought out India’s illegal, post-Pahalgam aggression, and underscored Pakistan’s responsible and mature stance on the issue.
Dr. Ismailzade noted that Pakistan and Azerbaijan have significantly ramped up their defense cooperation in recent years, and credited Pakistan for advancing Baku’s contemporary defense industrial needs. He also underlined Pakistan’s support in helping Baku liberate occupied lands in Karabakh, and saw substantive growth in business-to-business interactions in the aftermath of the Pahalgam incident.
“Turkiye, Pakistan and Azerbaijan are pivotal countries in Greater Eurasia,” said Dr. Ismailzade, highlighting the central support of Azerbaijan and Turkiye for Pakistan during India’s post-Pahalgam aggression.
The discussion featured a comprehensive assessment of bilateral cooperation across political, defense, economic, and cultural domains. Strategic implications of the Pahalgam Incident and the evolving security architecture in South and Central Asiawere also major points of focus, alongside bilateral opportunities for enhanced collaboration in defense technology, counter-terrorism, energy trade, investment and connectivity.
Rs 1m each given to families of 6 martyrs of Iran incident
BAHAWALPUR, Jun 04 (APP): Financial assistance of Rs 1 million by Chief Minister of Punjab were given to each family of eight individuals who were tragically killed in Iran.
The families hail from Ahmedpur East and Samasatta. Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Railways MNA Mian Muhammad Usman Najeeb Awaisi, Provincial Parliamentary Secretary for the Board of Revenue MPA Mian Muhammad Shoaib Awaisi and Deputy Commissioner Bahawalpur Dr. Farhan Farooq attended the distribution ceremony.
During the event, the Federal Parliamentary Secretary expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. He prayed for the forgiveness and elevation of the deceased, as well as patience and strength for the bereaved. He remarked, “May Allah grant the families the fortitude to bear this loss and elevate the ranks of the deceased.” Senior officials, including Assistant Commissioner Bahawalpur Saddar Quratul Ain and Assistant Commissioner Ahmedpur East Muhammad Naveed Haider, were also present. The Deputy Commissioner emphasized the district administration’s solidarity with the families during this difficult time, reaffirming their support.
Fahd Haroon attends British High Commission farewell for Zoë Ware
ISLAMABAD, Jun 04 (APP):Minister of State and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Digital Media Fahd Haroon attended a distinguished farewell reception at the residence of British High Commissioner Jane Marriott in Islamabad in honour of Ms. Zoë Ware, Political Counsellor at the British High Commission.
The event was held at the British High Commissioner’s residence and brought together members of the cabinet, members of the diplomatic corps, senior government officials, and civil society leaders to honour Ms. Ware’s distinguished service and acknowledge her significant contributions to strengthening UK-Pakistan relations.
In his remarks, Haroon expressed sincere appreciation for Ms. Ware’s meaningful engagement and the constructive partnerships she helped foster throughout her tenure.
“Zoë Ware has been a principled and dedicated diplomat. Her efforts to deepen mutual understanding and strengthen ties between Pakistan and the United Kingdom have been both effective and enduring. We are grateful for her friendship and commitment,” he said.
Haroon extended warm wishes to Ms. Ware as she embarks on the next chapter of her diplomatic career. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong commitment to further enhancing its strategic partnership with the United Kingdom across all areas of mutual interest.
The British High Commission continues to play an important role in promoting cooperation in governance, education, development, and digital innovation.
Around 1.6m pilgrims including 115,000 Pakistanis gather in Mina as Hajj begins
By Raziq Ali Shah
MAKKAH AL MUKARRAMAH, Jun 4 (APP): More or less 1.6 million pilgrims from around the world, including 115,000 Pakistanis, on Wednesday converged on the vast tent city of Mina for the five-day communion with their Creator, Allah Almighty, invoking His divine mercy and seeking forgiveness for their sins.
The sprawling tent city of Mina, situated just outside Makkah, marks the first stop for pilgrims undertaking Hajj.
They will spend the night there before departing at dawn on Thursday for the plains of Arafat, where they will observe Waqoof-e-Arafat, the Rukn-e-Azm of Hajj, in deep prayer and reflection, seeking divine blessings.
Pilgrims will listen to the Hajj sermon in their tents, with translations available in 35 languages. They will perform Zohr and Asr prayers together and spend the entire day engaged in prayers and Talbia.
Nearly 73% of Pakistani pilgrims will travel to Arafat by train, while the remaining will make the journey by bus.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Hajj Mission has urged pilgrims to adhere strictly to instructions from Saudi authorities to mitigate risks associated with overcrowding and extreme weather conditions.
Over 88,000 Pakistani pilgrims under the government Hajj scheme were transported to the world’s largest tent valley using 932 buses.
Following last year’s heatwave, Saudi authorities have mobilized over 40 government agencies and 250,000 officials to enhance measures against heat strokes, according to official sources. Shaded areas have been expanded by 50,000 square meters, with additional cooling mist systems and water fountains installed to aid pilgrims in the holy land.
Aziz Ullah Khan, Director Makkah confirmed that the total bed count in Mina has been finalized through coordination with Mission officials and Saudi Tawafa company A-Rajhi, surpassing requirements. He noted that each pilgrim’s designated sofa-cum-bed will feature their name and photograph, accompanied by a gift hamper, with verification available via wristbands issued by the Pakistan Hajj Mission.
Chief Coordinator Hajj Operation Dr Mirza Ali Mehsud said that traditional mattresses have been replaced with sofa-cum-beds. Upgraded tents now feature gypsum board walls, while air conditioners have been added alongside existing air coolers to enhance comfort for pilgrims.
He stated that elevated luggage storage racks have been introduced to enhance space and comfort. Each Maktab now features a dedicated kitchen, ensuring pilgrims in Mina receive five meals daily—three freshly prepared and two packaged. Additionally, pilgrims will have access to round-the-clock servings of juices and tea.
He stated that shoe hangers, deep freezers, and refrigerators have been installed in the carpeted corridors, which are also equipped with overhead shades.
The Chief Coordinator noted that Mina houses 34 Maktabs dedicated to Pakistani pilgrims, each staffed with a doctor and paramedics. He emphasized that inspection teams are conducting regular visits to oversee facilities managed by the Al Rajhi Company.
Additionally, each Maktab has designated coordinators tasked with continuously reviewing and maintaining arrangements.
In response to a question, he mentioned that more than 23,000 buses operate on the Mina route during the Mashair days.
Talking to APP, Arif Tabassum, a government scheme from Islamabad expressed satisfaction with the exceptional food quality and well-organized serving arrangements at their hotel accommodations, praising the neat and clean staff for their dedicated service. Similarly, Amna Bibi and Irfan from Sialkot shared positive feedback on their experience.
Additionally, the government scheme for Hajj pilgrims has received widespread appreciation for its commitment to ensuring a seamless and spiritually fulfilling journey. From well-maintained accommodations to efficient logistical support, hujjaj under the scheme benefit from thoughtfully arranged facilities that enhance their pilgrimage experience. The meticulous planning and execution of services reflect the authorities’ dedication to providing the best possible support, allowing pilgrims to focus on the sacred rituals of Hajj with peace of mind.
Eid rush triggers overcharging: ICT admin cracks down on transport fare hike
ISLAMABAD, Jun 04 (APP): As intercity travel increases and a huge rush of travellers was seen ahead of Eid, complaints are surfacing against transporters charging more than the fixed fares at some bus terminals while some passengers claimed they were being asked to pay extra in the name of “Eidi.”
Many passengers who were heading to Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and other parts of the country expressed concern about fare hikes. A few said that despite the presence of officials, some transporters still attempted to overcharge, especially during evening hours.
When contacted the Islamabad district administration, its spokesman said that the authority has taken notice of the issue and launched monitoring operations at all major bus stands. According to officials, several teams led by Assistant Commissioners are visiting terminals, including Faizabad and 26 Number stop, to prevent overcharging.
In this regard, Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Irfan Nawaz Memon has directed that all Assistant Commissioners and magistrates remain on duty at bus stands throughout the Eid rush. He stated that any transporter caught demanding more than the approved fare will face immediate action.
He also urged citizens not to pay even one rupee above the official fare. “If any driver or operator asks for extra money, report it on the spot,” he said. He added that passengers should cooperate with the administration to stop illegal practices.
The administration’s move is aimed at ensuring smooth travel and protecting passengers from fare manipulation during the busy holiday period, the spokesman added.
DC Irfan Memon also emphasized the need to ensure that the passengers treated with respect. “Providing a fair and decent journey to all travelers is our responsibility,” he said.
Operations at the terminals include random checks, inquiries from passengers about fares, and verification of fare charts displayed at ticket counters. In several instances, transporters were warned or fined for failing to follow the rules.
The Deputy Commissioner has appealed to the public to report any violations directly to the Assistant Commissioners present at the terminals. He said such complaints are being addressed immediately, with transporters either being penalized or barred from continuing their services.
The administration has also set up helpline numbers and complaint desks at major terminals to facilitate passengers. Special squads have been formed to monitor transport activities during peak hours.
The administration has also warned transport companies and terminal managers that strict action will be taken if any violations are reported. Fines and permit suspensions are among the measures being considered against those who break the rules.
Meanwhile, travelers are being reminded to verify fares before buying tickets and to immediately report any irregularities.
By increasing field presence and encouraging public cooperation, Islamabad’s district administration aims to keep transport fair and accessible for everyone this Eid.