Tuesday, December 30, 2025
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Shadab returns to Pakistan T20I squad against Sri Lanka in January

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
LAHORE, Dec 28 (APP):All-rounder Shadab Khan has returned to the T20I side as the Men’s National Selection Committee named a 15-member squad for the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka, scheduled to take place earlier next month between January 7 and January 11, 2026 in Dambulla, Sri Lanka.
The 27-year-old Shadab, who last represented Pakistan in June this year, underwent shoulder surgery earlier in the year.Following a successful rehabilitation programme at the National Cricket Academy, he is currently featuring in the Big Bash League (BBL) in Australia.
T20I top run-getter Babar Azam, ace pacers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf have not  been included in the squad as they are representing their respective franchises in the Big Bash League (BBL) in Australia.
Babar Azam, in his maiden stint at the BBL is playing for Sydney Sixers while Haris Rauf and Shaheen Shah Afridi are representing Melbourne Stars and Brisbane Heat.
Salman Ali Agha who featured in a record 34 T20I matches — the most by a Pakistan player this year – will continue to lead the side in the forthcoming series.
The other addition to the squad is uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Khawaja Nafay. The 23-year-old right-handed batter has recently been part of the Pakistan Shaheens squad. He has featured in 32 T20 matches and has scored at a strike rate of 132.81.
Pakistan side will depart for Sri Lanka in the first week of January, with all three T20Is scheduled to be played at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium (RDICS) in Dambulla on 7, 9 and 11 January.
The series will provide Pakistan an opportunity to finalise their squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, set to take place in India and Sri Lanka from 7 February to 8 March. Pakistan are scheduled to play all their matches in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
15-member squad:
Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmad, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (wk), Usman Tariq.
Series schedule:
7 January – First T20I
9 January – Second T20I
11 January – Third T20I

SNGPL disconnects three more meters, checks 65 meters

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
MULTAN, Dec 28 (APP):In a bid to curb gas theft and illegal activities, the Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) UFG Control Task Force intensified its operation and disconnected three more gas meters in various areas of the city.
According to details, two meters which were taken off by consumers cut off over violation of rules. One meter was installed upside down removed.
The door-to-door of 65 consumers was carried out.
The measures were part of the company’s commitment to combating gas theft and ensuring high-quality, uninterrupted service for all consumers.

China’s Mobile Payment Ecosystem Offers Seamless Experience to Global Visitors

By
Zaka Ullah Ch
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0
BEIJING , Dec 28 (APP):As the afternoon light bathed the ancient eaves of Nanjing’s Confucius Temple Scenic Area, Hugo from France navigated the bustling streets with remarkable ease. During his first visit to China, with scheduled visits to Wuhan and Shenyang, he spoke highly of the nation’s seamlessly integrated digital ecosystem.
The immigration process was remarkably smooth, and now my phone handles everything,” he said, displaying his Alipay app. “While we rely on cash and cards in France, here life operates through a smartphone—from shopping to subway rides. Alipay has become my essential travel companion.”
His friend Thomas shared this enthusiasm, noting, “China’s digital payment system surpasses anything I’ve encountered elsewhere—it’s fundamentally simpler and more seamlessly integrated into daily life.” Thomas rated his Chinese experience a perfect 10, a sentiment bolstered by the recent expansion of China’s visa-free policy, which has made such technological discoveries more accessible to international visitors.
This digital immersion extends beyond tourists to international students and long-term residents. Tony Cross, a British student who arrived in Nanjing four months ago, demonstrated how deeply digital tools are woven into daily life. “WeChat keeps me connected, while WeChat Pay and its mini-programs handle everything from payments to service bookings—it’s an all-in-one lifestyle platform,” he explained. “I’ve also noticed my classmates participating in major shopping events like Double Eleven through these platforms.”, CEN reported.
Nearby, Tony’s family from Britain were enjoying their first Christmas holiday in China. “Our arrival in Shanghai was effortless—from airport taxi and Didi rides to the magnificent bullet train to Nanjing,” recalled David Cross, Tony’s father, who first visited China 15 years ago. “The transformation is extraordinary. Everything is cleaner, safer and more technologically advanced.”
While acknowledging the convenience, Hugo suggested that “more multilingual restaurant menus would help international visitors better explore local cuisine.” David Cross also reflected on the scale of development: “Coming from Sheffield, Nanjing’s size and vibrancy are astounding. We hope China continues to open up through international cooperation and trade.”
Supporting these experiences, China’s mobile payment infrastructure has seen growth through diversified platforms. In 2024, the transaction volume reached 563.7 trillion yuan with a user base exceeding 1 billion—the highest global penetration rate. From urban centers to rural communities, transactions can be completed with just a smartphone and QR code, significantly reducing social transaction costs while enhancing productivity.
The ecosystem continues to evolve with innovative methods including facial recognition, fingerprinting and voice-activated payments, providing greater efficiency and security. Notably, China’s state-backed payment network has shown impressive growth. Data from January to November 2025 reveals that UnionPay QR code transactions increased by 30% compared to the same period in 2024. Interoperability between UnionPay, Alipay and WeChat Pay is playing an increasingly vital role in facilitating international exchanges and deepening economic cooperation.
This payment convenience is simultaneously accelerating the recovery of China’s inbound tourism market. As international visitors experience smoother transactions, their spending willingness increases, further driving the interconnectivity and optimization of payment networks across platforms.
As David Cross contemplated future visits, he voiced a perspective shared by many international travelers: “China’s blend of ancient culture and cutting-edge technology creates unique travel experiences. With increasing payment interoperability and international cooperation, we anticipate even more seamless journeys ahead.”

Ambassador Asim Ahmed calls demise of global diplomats – Rafeeuddin Ahmed & Shamshad Akhtar — ‘big loss’

By
NNPS Desk
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NEW YORK, Dec 28 (APP): Pakistani Ambassador to United Nations, Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, has described the passing of Rafeeuddin Ahmad and Dr. Shamshad Akhtar, two of Pakistan’s eminent international civil servants, as a “big loss to diplomacy.”

In a statement, he said they were “Outstanding leaders”, who made “Great contribution to the global objectives of peace and development.”

Rafeeuddin, a former Pakistan Foreign Service officer, who served, among other top posts, as Chef de Cabinet of ex-UN Secretary-General Kurt Waldhiem, passed away in New York on Saturday, aged 93. He is expected to be buried on Tuesday.

Ms. Akhtar, 71, a prominent economist and former State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) governor, passed away in Karachi. She also held high positions in the UN, including as the executive secretary of the UN Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), as well as in the World Bank.

“Sad day for Pakistan”, Ambassador Asim Ahmad said in his statement. “Such a loss; (they) will be deeply missed.”

Rafeeuddin’s wife, Nighat Ahmed, passed away in 2023. He is survived by his two sons — Ziauddin and Kamaluddin.

Crime drop 37pc in Islamabad in 2025; serious offences down 69pc: ICT Police

By
NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Dec 28 (APP): Crime in the federal capital witnessed a historic decline in 2025, with overall crime dropping by 37 percent and serious offences reducing by 69 percent compared to 2024, reflecting the improved law and order situation under Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police.

An ICT Police spokesperson told APP on Sunday that under the command of Inspector General of Police Islamabad Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, Islamabad Police carried out across-the-board operations against criminal elements, leading to significant improvements in public safety.

The official said that due to effective policing, a leading international journal also ranked Islamabad among the world’s safer cities, highlighting the capital’s improved peace and security situation.

During 2025, Islamabad Police traced and resolved more than 20 high-profile cases in less than 24 hours, demonstrating professional investigation and rapid response capabilities.

The official said police arrested 23,683 accused persons during the year and recovered stolen property worth over Rs2 billion. In cases of dacoity, robbery, car and motorcycle theft, 578 gangs were busted and 1,308 gang members were arrested, leading to the recovery of 375 vehicles and 851 motorcycles.

He said strong action against murder cases resulted in the arrest of 187 accused, while over 4,000 proclaimed offenders and repeat criminals were also apprehended during the year.

Islamabad Police also launched indiscriminate action against land grabbers, registering 157 cases and arresting 161 accused, while more than 200 persons involved in aerial firing were taken into custody.

Under the “Armed-Free Islamabad” campaign, police arrested 2,308 accused involved in illegal weapons, recovering 304 rifles, 92 guns, over 2,200 pistols, 294 daggers and 37,491 rounds of ammunition.

In the fight against drugs under the “Nasha Ab Nahi” campaign, 1,801 drug peddlers were arrested, including 29 accused involved in supplying drugs to educational institutions. Police recovered 323kg charas, 550kg heroin, 161kg ice, 10kg opium, narcotic pills and 8,427 bottles of liquor.

Due to improved investigation standards, courts awarded 14 death sentences and 14 life imprisonments in murder cases during 2025.

The official said Islamabad Police held over 1,270 open courts, benefiting more than 100,000 citizens, while 3,973 professional beggars were also arrested to curb organised begging.

To maintain law and order, police conducted over 465 search operations and provided security and facilitation during 2,337 law and order events throughout the year.

While ensuring public safety, four police officers embraced martyrdom and 33 were declared ghazis during duty in 2025.

New initiatives launched during the year included the establishment of the Police Response Unit, City Watch Squad, model police stations under the SIPS protocol, modern checking systems, body-worn cameras at checkpoints, e-police posts and revival of Alternate Dispute Resolution centres.

DIG Islamabad Muhammad Jawad Tariq said that protection of citizens’ lives and property remains the top priority of Islamabad Police, adding that consistent reforms and professional policing would continue to further strengthen peace in the federal capital.

APP/rzr-mkz

Muslim, Arab countries ministers unequivocally reject Israel’s recognition of Somaliland; flay it for blatant disregard for int’l law 

By
Irfan Khan
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ISLAMABAD, Dec 28 (APP): The Ministers of Foreign Affairs of Muslim and Arab countries, in a joint statement,  unequivocally rejected Israel’s recognition of the “Somaliland” region of the Federal Republic of Somalia, citing the serious repercussions of such unprecedented measure on peace and security in the Horn of Africa, the Red Sea and its serious effects on international peace and security as a whole, which they said also reflected Israel’s full and blatant disregard to international law. 

The joint statement was shared by the Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan with media on Sunday.  

The joint statement included Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, the Union of the Comoros, the Republic of Djibouti, the Republic of The Gambia, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Republic of Iraq, the State of Kuwait, the State of Libya, the Republic of Maldives, the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Sultanate of Oman, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the State of Palestine, the State of Qatar, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Federal Republic of Somalia, the Republic of the Sudan, the Republic of Türkiye, the Republic of Yemen, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. 

“Their condemnation in the strongest terms of such recognition, which constitutes a grave violation of the principles of international law and the United Nations Charter, which explicitly stipulates the imperative of protecting the sovereignty of states and their territorial integrity, and reflects Israel’s expansionist,” the statement said. 

They also reiterated full support of the sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Somalia, and the unequivocal rejection of any measures that undermine the unity of Somalia, its territorial integrity or its sovereignty over its entire territory. 

The recognition of parts of states constituted a serious precedent and threatened international peace and security and violated the cardinal principles of international law and the United Nations Charter, it emphasised. 

“The full rejection of any potential link between such measure and any attempts to forcibly expel the Palestinian people out of their land, which is unequivocally rejected in any form as a matter of principle,” it further added. 

 

Pakistan’s Seafood exports to China surge by 24% in 2025

By
NNPS Desk
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0

BEIJING , Dec 28 (APP): Pakistan’s seafood exports to China experienced a robust 24% increase from January to November 2025, reaching an approximate value of $235.7 million in the first eleven months of 2025, compared to $188.95 million during the same period in 2024, according to data from the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC).
Officials from Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce highlighted that this significant growth reflects the expanding demand for high-quality seafood products in the Chinese market. Key export categories, such as frozen fish — including varieties like anchovies, mackerel, and squid — saw a substantial rise in value. Frozen fish exports surged from $46 million in 2024 to over $57 million in 2025, contributing significantly to the overall growth. Similarly, fresh/chilled crab exports reached $31.93 million from January to November 2025, compared to $27.77 million in the same period the previous year. Frozen cuttlefish and squid exports rose to $24.7 million, compared to $23.8 million in the same period the previous year, China Economic Net stated.
“The increase in demand can be attributed to several factors. China’s growing middle class, with increasing disposable income and a rising preference for seafood, has led to higher consumption of frozen and live seafood. Moreover, enhanced trade relations between China and Pakistan, particularly under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), have streamlined logistics, reducing shipping times and ensuring a consistent supply,” officials stated.
They further noted that improvements in seafood processing capabilities in Pakistan, ensuring that products meet stringent Chinese food safety standards, have helped solidify Pakistan’s position as a reliable supplier of quality seafood. With these factors in play, Pakistan’s seafood exports are expected to continue growing, driven by strong demand and expanding trade infrastructure.

Pakistani diplomat Rafeeuddin Ahmed who served UN in top positions passes away

By
NNPS Desk
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0

NEW YORK, Dec 27 (APP): Rafeeuddin Ahmed, a distinguished Pakistani diplomat who served the United Nations for decades in high positions, passed away on Saturday after a protracted illness.

Ahmed, 93, breathed his last at a New York hospital. He will be laid to rest on Monday.

Rafeeuddin Ahmed began his career at the United Nations in 1970 following a decade in the foreign service of Pakistan.

During his time at the United Nations, Ahmed held a variety of positions, giving him a unique insight into the complexities of international affairs.

Notable posts include serving as Chef de Cabinet of Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs in South East Asia from 1982 to 1991, Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Trusteeship and Decolonization in 1983 and Under-Secretary-General for International Economic and Social Affairs from 1987 to 1991.

Other posts he held with the United Nations include Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) (1992 – 1994); Associate Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) (1994 – 1999): Special Adviser to the Executive Director of the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) (2000); and Special Adviser to the Secretary-General on Iraq (2003).

Rafeeuddin Ahmed was a brother of the late W.Z. Ahmed, the famed Pakistani film director and producer.

KP government taking practical steps to promote sports and cultural heritage in Abbottabad: Taj Muhammad Tarand

By
Asif Jalal
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0

ABBOTTABAD, Dec 27 (APP): Advisor to the Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for Sports and Youth Affairs, Taj Muhammad Khan Tarand said, “The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government is taking practical steps to promote sports across the province and provide quality sports infrastructure in every district.

He expressed these views while speaking in a major initiative to promote sports and preserve cultural heritage, a grand Jashn-e-Neza Bazi was organized at Hazara’s largest newly constructed Dautar Sports Ground in Abbottabad.
He further said that traditional games like Neza Bazi are an important part of our cultural heritage, and their promotion will not only preserve our traditions but also offer young athletes the opportunity to excel at national and international levels.”
The event was also attended by Member of the National Assembly Ali Khan Jadoon, Members of the Provincial Assembly Mushtaq Ahmad Ghani and Iftikhar Khan Jadoon, Deputy Commissioner Abbottabad Sarmad Saleem Akram, and Regional Sports Officer Abbottabad Muhammad Zaman, who jointly inaugurated the Neza Bazi competitions.
Horse riders from across the country participated in the competitions, demonstrating remarkable skill and talent. Prize money totaling Rs. 300,000 was awarded to the top-performing athletes.
The District Administration and the Regional Sports Office described the initiative as a significant step toward engaging youth in positive activities, promoting sports culture, and ensuring that traditional games continue to thrive alongside modern sporting practices.
The event was held under the joint efforts of the District Administration Abbottabad and the Regional Sports Office Abbottabad, providing a platform for youth to engage in healthy and positive activities.
The modern sports ground has been established on more than 85 kanals of land in the Dautar area, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to host various sporting events. The initiative aims to provide youth with opportunities for personal growth, physical fitness, and skill development.

Two proclaimed offenders held in Attock murder case

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ATTOCK: (APP): DEC 27:: Police have arrested two proclaimed offenders wanted in a murder case as part of an ongoing district-wide crackdown on fugitives, officials said on Saturday.
According to police, a team from Basal police station used modern tracking techniques to trace and apprehend the suspects, who had been evading arrest in connection with a murder case registered earlier this year.
Both accused were taken into custody from the Jand tehsil area.
Police said investigations were under way and further progress was expected following the arrests.
Officials reiterated that the campaign against proclaimed offenders would continue across the district to ensure that those involved in serious crimes are brought to justice.
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