Freedom of press essential for promotion of democratic values: Ayaz

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ABU DHABI, May 02 (APP): TRENDS Research and Advisory hosted a panel discussion Friday under the theme “Pakistan’s Vision for Future Economic Integration with Central and South Asia”, bringing together diplomats, policy experts, and regional analysts at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.
Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan’s Envoy to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), delivered the keynote address and highlighted Pakistan’s ideal geographic position as a natural gateway connecting South Asia, Central Asia and the Middle East. He emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to regional connectivity through infrastructure development, energy corridors such as CASA-1000 and TAPI, and multilateral platforms including the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).
Ambassador Tirmizi underscored peaceful coexistence and economic interdependence as the cornerstones of Pakistan’s foreign policy. He stated that Pakistan aims to transform itself into a regional trade and transit hub, leveraging initiatives like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) for regional prosperity. He also highlighted Pakistan’s national economic agenda, which places strong emphasis on empowering youth and women to drive inclusive growth.
Responding to questions on recent regional developments, Ambassador Tirmizi noted that Pakistan has been one of the greatest victims of terrorism. He reiterated that violence in any form and anywhere in the world is condemnable. “Without credible evidence and proof, no one should jump to conclusions,” he said, stressing that mere blame games do not resolve complex regional issues.
On the Indus Waters Treaty, the Ambassador reaffirmed that it is an internationally recognized agreement that cannot be unilaterally suspended. Regarding the situation in Afghanistan, he acknowledged the suffering endured by the Afghan people and emphasized that the onus is on the current administration to curb cross-border infiltration. “Peace in Afghanistan is essential for peace in the wider region,” he added.
On Pakistan’s position regarding US-China relations, he noted, “Pakistan enjoys deep and historic ties with China, while the United States has remained a long-term ally. We believe both global powers must engage in constructive cooperation for global peace and economic stability,” he said.
Addressing Pakistan’s relations with the UAE and the Gulf region, Ambassador Tirmizi highlighted the immense potential for collaboration between Pakistan’s rich natural and human resources and the Gulf’s capital and investment capabilities. He paid rich tribute to the late His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan for laying the foundation of the brotherly relations between Pakistan and the UAE, ties that continue to strengthen with time.

Pakistan’s ambassador briefs journalists on IIOJK situation

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BRUSSELS, May 02 (APP):Pakistan’s ambassador to Belgium and European Union Rahim Hayat Qureshi Friday hosted senior journalists and analysts based in the European Union for an insightful exchange on regional and international developments.

He highlighted India’s continued disinformation campaign regarding Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and shared Pakistan’s perspective on the situation.

NICVD offers free Life-Saving Heart surgeries to Pakistani siblings referred back from India

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KARACHI, May 02 (APP): In a swift and humanitarian response, the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD), Karachi, has stepped forward to take complete responsibility for the treatment of two Pakistani children, a 9-year-old boy Abdullah and his 7-year-old sister Minsa, both suffering from congenital heart conditions.

After the family’s abrupt return to Pakistan, NICVD formed a high-level medical board to assess Abdullah and his sister’s condition and offer expert medical guidance.

The board comprised a pediatric cardiac surgeon, pediatric cardiologist, anesthesiologist, and CT imaging specialist, all of whom conducted a comprehensive diagnostic review of the case.

Following the detailed assessment, the medical board confirmed that both Abdullah and his younger sister can undergo heart surgeries safely at NICVD, eliminating any further need for treatment abroad.

The children’s father was given a thorough briefing by NICVD’s senior medical team, who explained the surgical plan, recovery process, and expected outcomes. Reassured by the team’s expertise and NICVD’s infrastructure, the father expressed complete satisfaction with the hospital’s preparedness.

He noted that NICVD has given the family new hope after the emotional and financial toll of the failed attempt in India.

The father has traveled to the Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology (AFIC) in Rawalpindi for a second opinion, after which the surgery will be scheduled at NICVD.

Importantly, both pediatric cardiac surgeries will be performed entirely free of cost, in line with NICVD’s and Sindh Government’s vision to offer state-of-the-art, world-class cardiac care to every Pakistani without any financial burden.

NICVD remains the leading institute in Pakistan for pediatric and adult cardiac care, providing services that are often not even accessible abroad, and proudly continues to uphold its mission:“No cardiac patient in Pakistan should be deprived of treatment.”

India not ready to resolve Kashmir issue as per UNSC resolutions: Dr. Faisal

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LONDON, May 02 (APP): Pakistan’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Dr Mohammad Faisal Friday said Jammu and Kashmir was the root cause of the conflict between India and Pakistan and India was not honouring its commitment to hold a referendum in the disputed territory according to the United Nations Security Council resolutions.
In an interview with the television channel ITV, he said, “Let us resolve the issue of Jammu and Kashmir. The solution lies in accepting that Kashmir is disputed territory and the issue should be resolved according to bilateral agreements and the United Nations Security Council resolutions.”
He stressed that Indian allegations about Pahalgam were without any evidence.
He said, “Pakistan has already offered independent international investigation into Pahalgam and whosoever is involved, should be punished.”
“Pakistan can join the investigation to find out who did it,” he said adding Pakistan condemned terrorism in all forms and manifestations.”
Pakistan itself had been a victim of terrorism, he remarked.
He noted that there were 900,000 troops present in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, adding, “India is belligerent in its postures towards Pakistan. We do not want to escalate. India is our neighbour and neighbours can’t be changed. We have to live together. Pakistan wants peaceful resolution of issues through dialogue.”
However, the High Commissioner said Pakistan would definitely retaliate if India would launch attacks.
He said Indian Diaspora held a violent protest outside Pakistan High Commission in London.

Pakistan’s total liquid foreign reserves $ 15.25 billion

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KARACHI, May 02 (APP): The total liquid foreign reserves of Pakistan stood at US$ 15,251.8 million while the State Bank of Pakistan held reserves inched up to $ 10,214.4 million as of April 25, 2025.

The central bank, in its weekly statement on liquid foreign reserves position, on Friday reported, “During the week ended on 25-Apr-2025, SBP reserves increased by US$ 9 million to US$ 10,214.4 million“.

The breakup of the foreign reserves for the period under review depicted that net foreign reserves held by commercial banks, however, decreased to $ 5,037.4 million.

Total liquid foreign reserves held by the country, in the previous week ended on April 18, 2025, were $ 15,436 million.
Among them the central bank held foreign reserves recorded as $ 10,206 million while reserves of $ 5,230.1 million were held by the commercial banks.

ISSI huddle on India’s post-Pahalgam aggressive posturing and Pakistan’s response

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ISLAMABAD, May 02 (APP): In the wake of India’s aggressive posturing in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack in IIOJK, the India Study Centre (ISC) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) organized an In-House Discussion (IHD), titled “Pahalgam Attack and India’s Aggressive Posturing: Implications and Response Options for Pakistan.”

The aim was to critically examine the domestic and external determinants of India’s belligerent stance and the sustainability of its measures announced against Pakistan.

The other objective was to analyze Pakistan’s response in all its dimensions and suggest further measures, if any, to counter ongoing Indian moves in the diplomatic, information and security domains, said a press release issued on Friday.

The IHD was attended by diplomats, practitioners, academics, heads of think-tanks, and security experts.

Participants noted that while leveling allegations against Pakistan, India had not held any investigations, nor presented any evidence. The international media had reported that India was seeking to make its case against Pakistan without providing any credible proof of its alleged complicity.

Participants also noted that India was seeking to mischievously project condemnation of the Pahalgam attack by a large number of countries as some kind of endorsement of New Delhi’s bellicose actions.

“In actual fact, Pakistan’s reasonable offer for a neutral and transparent investigation had been viewed positively by many in the international community”, they added.

India and Pakistan were also being urged to de-escalate the situation and maintain peace and security in South Asia. There was also realization in the world community that the unresolved Kashmir dispute continued to imperil regional peace and stability.

Participants viewed India’s measures including unilaterally and illegally putting the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in “abeyance” as part of its provocative and escalatory behavior.

In this context, they emphasized that India’s present and intended actions to weaponise water were in clear violation of the Treaty and the International Law and that Pakistan was fully within its rights to take this matter to every appropriate international forum.

While lauding Pakistan’s overall response to the Indian actions as contained in the NSC statement of 24 April 2025, participants noted that Islamabad had reiterated both its ability and resolve to give a befitting response to any military misadventure by India.

Participants stressed the need for the international community to scrutinize irresponsible Indian attitude that could push the South Asian region to a dangerous conflict and humanitarian catastrophe. They also forth put ideas that could help further fortify Pakistan’s efforts in the relevant domains.

A vendor busy in selling Ice Gola to children at Foot Street Golmandi

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A vendor busy in selling Ice Gola to children at Foot Street Golmandi — APP39-020525
LAHORE

Artist is busy painting a dinosaur picture in different colors on a wall near Liberty Roundabout

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Artist is busy painting a dinosaur picture in different colors on a wall near Liberty Roundabout — APP40-020525
LAHORE

Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi’s surprise visit to Lahore Railway Station announces strict actions on cleanliness and employee absenteeism

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Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi’s surprise visit to Lahore Railway Station announces strict actions on cleanliness and employee absenteeism — APP34-020525
LAHORE

Federal Minister for Climate Change Dr. Musadik Malik meeting with Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, Qatari Minister of Environment and Climate Change, in Geneva on May 2 to advance cooperation in clean energy, carbon markets, and environmental protection

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Federal Minister for Climate Change Dr. Musadik Malik meeting with Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, Qatari Minister of Environment and Climate Change, in Geneva on May 2 to advance cooperation in clean energy, carbon markets, and environmental protection — APP36-020525
GENEVA

Farmers using a thresher machine to separate wheat from chaff at Northern bypass

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Farmers using a thresher machine to separate wheat from chaff at Northern bypass — APP43-020525
PESHAWAR

Prof. Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives during a meeting with a delegation of the Pakistan Business Council (PBC)

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Prof. Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives during a meeting with a delegation of the Pakistan Business Council (PBC) — APP15-020525
DUBAI

A vendor extracting sugarcane juice for customers at his roadside setup near Sheikh Zaid Hospital, The demand for sugarcane juice increases due to the intense heat

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A vendor extracting sugarcane juice for customers at his roadside setup near Sheikh Zaid Hospital, The demand for sugarcane juice increases due to the intense heat — APP16-020525
LARKANA

Pakistan Railways to install ATM booths at major stations

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LAHORE, May 02 (APP):The Pakistan Railways has announced plans to install automated teller machines (ATMs) of various commercial banks at major railway stations across the country.

The initiative aims to provide travelers with seamless access to financial services during their journeys.

The Pakistan Railways spokesperson confirmed on Friday that the installation process was already underway in partnership with multiple banks. The rollout will start at key stations and expand nationwide, ensuring broader coverage and enhanced convenience for passengers.

He said that this move reflects Pakistan Railways’ commitment to improving the travel experience by integrating essential amenities at stations, making journeys smoother and more convenient for all.

Pakistan seeks stronger global partnerships on climate environment

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ISLAMABAD, May 02 (APP):Pakistan has stepped up efforts to strengthen international cooperation on climate change and environmental protection through high-level talks with Qatar and the European Union (EU).

Federal Minister for Climate Change, Dr. Musadik Malik, met with Qatar’s Environment Minister, Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, and the EU’s Circular Economy Director, Ciobanu Dordea, on Friday to discuss joint initiatives in clean energy, wildlife conservation, and carbon markets.

With Qatar, Pakistan explored collaboration in petrochemical recycling and carbon trading.

“Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to mutually beneficial initiatives,” stated the press release.

During talks with the EU, Dr. Malik highlighted Pakistan’s shift toward a circular economy, urging global frameworks to better represent developing nations.

The EU and Qatar praised Pakistan’s environmental efforts and its role in advancing sustainability goals.

Dr. Malik reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to “working closely with international partners to address climate challenges and accelerate the green transition.”

The meetings emphasized Pakistan’s focus on technology-sharing and private-sector engagement in green economic growth.

SDPI hosts inaugural NAG meeting to strengthen inclusive development, youth-centered policy research

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ISLAMABAD, May 02 (APP):The Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), in collaboration with UNICEF, convened the inaugural meeting of the National Advisory Group (NAG) under the banner of “Strengthening Inclusive Development, Policy Advocacy and Research.”

This curtain raiser seminar marked a significant step in shaping a collaborative framework for evidence-based policy dialogue and inclusive development in Pakistan, with a special focus on children, adolescents, and marginalized communities, said a press release.

Chairing the event, Dr. Abid Qaiyum Suleri, Executive Director SDPI, emphasized the urgency of investing in human capital amid mounting macroeconomic pressures. “We are at a critical juncture where social investments must not be sidelined.

Our youth face severe challenges—malnutrition, illiteracy, and poor access to services—which are symptomatic of deeper developmental crises,” he remarked. Highlighting the importance of the newly established advisory group, he said the NAG will guide research, enhance credibility, and provide strategic oversight to align efforts with national and global priorities.

Dr. Razia Safdar elaborated on the initiative’s research agenda, revealing four major studies planned for the second quarter. These include projects on green skills development, misinformation’s impact on adolescents, smog’s effect on child health, and an Inclusive Learning Exchange Program to boost youth employability. “Our efforts are rooted in contextual evidence and inclusivity—addressing gender, disability, and socio-economic gaps,” she stated.

Participants underscored the importance of data integrity, cross-sectoral collaboration, and real-time policy relevance.

Baela Raza Jamil, CEO of the Center for Education and Consciousness, highlighted the need for robust data collection and evaluation methods. Sakib Sherani, CEO of Macroeconomic Insights, stressed the importance of translating ground-level findings into policy language. Dr. Lubna Naz of IBA pointed out the limitations of existing air quality data and advocated for broader environmental indicators.

Dr. Shahzad Ali Khan, Vice Chancellor of the National Health Services Academy, committed institutional support for training and capacity building, urging transparency in research protocols. Dr. Safdar Sohail echoed the government’s green transformation ambitions, advocating for case studies in manufacturing and services sectors to identify green job gaps and opportunities. He highlighted a rise in youth idleness stemming from education and employment exclusion, warning of serious mental health consequences.

Dr. Jasim Anwar from the Planning Commission emphasized the policy linkage of each study, noting the need for thorough reviews and targeted advocacy—especially during budget cycles. “We must align our knowledge products with the government’s climate agenda and privatization efforts,” he added.

A shared consensus emerged around the urgency of integrating evidence with policy, particularly in areas such as digital literacy, air pollution, green skills, and youth empowerment.

The NAG is expected to serve as a linchpin in ensuring research outputs not only inform but influence national and provincial strategies, thereby fostering an inclusive and sustainable development paradigm for Pakistan.

Indian journalist Archana Tiwari exposes shocking details of Pahalgam false flag operation

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ISLAMABAD, May 02 (APP): In a startling revelation, senior Indian journalist Archana Tiwari has uncovered shocking ground realities surrounding the alleged false flag operation in Pahalgam, in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

Tiwari’s investigation sheds light on inconsistencies in the official narrative, raising questions about the authenticity and intent behind the operation.

According to Tiwari, multiple eyewitnesses and local sources contradicted security agency claims, suggesting fabricated evidence and staged conflict scenarios.

“Archana Tiwari’s revelation of the truth proves that the Pahalgam false flag operation is nothing more than propaganda,” said a political analyst.

A Kashmiri driver revealed the facts to Archana Tiwari, stating that Indian news channels are relentlessly spreading false propaganda. Tiwari recorded the conversation as part of her effort to uncover the truth.

Archana Tiwari asked, “Was the attack on the newlywed couple and the boy’s death a lie?” The Kashmiri driver replied, “Yes, it’s all a lie—the boy is alive. It was all just a staged drama.”

The Kashmiri driver said, “Everything being spread in India is a lie.”
Archana Tiwari asked, “Is the widow’s statement and the video of the child affected by the incident also a lie?”
The driver replied, “Yes, it’s all a political game.”

The Kashmiri driver said, “How could terrorists firing from 10 kilometers away ask about the victims’ religion?”
He further stated, “If the Modi government doesn’t stop the economic genocide of Kashmiris, the people will have no choice but to take up arms.”

The Kashmiri driver told Indian reporter Archana Tiwari:
“This is all Modi’s drama.”
“All of India has played a game with Kashmir.”
“Pakistan is ready for war.”
“If war breaks out, Modi, Amit Shah, and Yogi Adityanath will be the first to run.”
He added, “Only then will Indians realize they made a mistake by trusting the Modi government.”

The narrative presented by Indian media is vastly different from the ground realities, said the political analyst, referring to the conversation with the Kashmiri driver, which highlights both the oppression under the Modi government and the true sentiments of the Kashmiri people.

FIA arrests PO in hawala, money laundering

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FAISALABAD, May 02 (APP):The FIA Anti-Money Laundering Circle has arrested a proclaimed offender (POs) Amir Manzoor from Haripur due to his involvement in hawala/hundi operations, money laundering and illegal currency exchange.

An FIA spokesman said that Amir Manzoor was a key player in illegal financial networks and had been wanted in multiple cases filed by Commercial Banking Circles in Islamabad and Sargodha.

The accused had allegedly earned millions of rupees through money laundering and unregulated currency dealings.

In 2024, the FIA authorities recovered millions in local and foreign currency from his possession during a raid but the accused managed to escape after which he was declared as Proclaimed Offender.

The FIA sent the accused behind bars and launched a detailed investigation into his financial activities. Further raids are underway to apprehend other individuals linked to his network, spokesman added.

Luxury railway saloons now open to public

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