Interior Minister meets British MP Afzal Khan to discuss strengthening Pakistan-UK ties

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 14 (APP):Senator Nasir Butt, a prominent leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) and Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Housing and Works, has commended overseas Pakistanis for their record-breaking $28 billion in remittances this fiscal year.

In a statement, Senator Butt stated that overseas Pakistanis’ record $4.1 billion remittances in March 2025 demonstrate their unwavering commitment to the nation, effectively countering negative narratives of Pakistani Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).

By sending record-breaking remittances, overseas Pakistanis have shown overwhelming support for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s economic policies, demonstrating their faith in the government’s policies.

Overseas Pakistanis have remitted a substantial $28 billion, showcasing their unwavering support for Pakistan’s economy and disregarding the PTI founder’s appeal to halt remittances. This remarkable contribution underscores the diaspora’s faith in the nation’s economic potential and their dedication to its progress.

Under the leadership of Nawaz Sharif, the Pakistan Muslim League (N) is delivering on its commitments to overseas Pakistanis, ensuring their trust and support.

This overwhelming response reflects their confidence in PML-N’s policies and their unwavering patriotism.

Rs19.2m fines, 1,461 held over profiteering

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LAHORE, Apr 14 (APP):The district administration stepped up its campaign against profiteering and hoarding to ensure market stability and protect consumers.

Deputy Commissioner Syed Musa Raza told the media on Monday that a total of 279,223 violations were recorded during January 1 to March 31 and a fine of Rs 19.209 million was

imposed on profiteers.

Additionally, 485 FIRs were registered, 1,461 individuals arrested, and 198 shops were sealed for non-compliance.

The district administration also released price report, indicating stable prices for several

essential items, including rice, various pulses.

DC Musa Raza reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to curbing inflation and protecting consumers. “We will not allow any one to exploit citizens through profiteering or hoarding,”

he stated.

CTD foil major terror plan, 10 terrorists arrested

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RAWALPINDI, Apr 14 (APP):The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) in Punjab province foiled a major terrorist plan by arresting 10 terrorists belonging to banned organizations during operations in different areas of Punjab.

Most wanted terrorists Suraj Singh and Badal Singh arrested from Rawalpindi along with a large quantity of explosives. Both terrorists belong to Nankana Sahib.

According to the spokesperson, CTD Punjab conducted 189 intelligence-based operations in different districts of the province to effectively deal with any untoward incident of terrorism, in which 189 suspects were interrogated resulting in 10 terrorists were arrested along with weapons, explosives and other prohibited materials.

The arrested terrorists include Badal Singh, Suraj Singh, Siraj, Hidayatullah, Deedar Hussain, Sadaqat Hussain and others, affiliated with Fitna Khawarij, Al-Zanbiyon and other organizations.

He said that these terrorists were arrested during intelligence-based operations in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Jhelum and Bahawalpur.

During the operation, 2645 grams of explosives, 16 detonators, safety fuse wire, pamphlets of banned organization, weaponry magazines, Prima card mobile phone and cash have been recovered from the possession of terrorists

The spokesperson further said that the terrorists had planned to target important buildings in Rawalpindi and other cities. He added that 9 cases have been registered against the arrested terrorists and further investigation is being carried out.

Giving details of the recent operations, the spokesman said that 2053 combing operations were also conducted with the cooperation of local police and security agencies during the current week in which 82473 people were checked, 263 suspects were arrested, 226 FIRs were registered and 163 recoveries were made.

Expressing the professional commitment, he said CTD Punjab is diligently pursuing its goal of a safe Punjab

“No stone will be left unturned in its efforts to bring terrorists and anti-state elements behind bars”, he said.

IMF mission calls on President SCBAP

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 14 (APP):A meeting between the President Supreme Court Bar Association of Pakistan (SCBAP), Mian Muhammad Rauf Atta, and the IMF mission was held today in Islamabad.

On the occasion, Mir Atta Ullah Langove and Barrister Sarfraz Metlo, Presidents of the High Court Bar Associations of Baluchistan and Sindh, respectively, were also present. The agenda of the meeting was to discuss issues such as judicial efficiency, contract enforcement, and property rights protection, etc.

The meeting, which lasted for more than one hour, covered extensive discussions on a range of issues, particularly the issue of judicial efficiency, which appears to be one of the core concerns of the mission.

The mission also shared its concerns regarding contract enforcement and property rights issues, directly affecting foreign investments. In this context, the President SCBAP provided a detailed and factual response to the mission’s queries.

President SCBAP, while recognizing the importance of judicial efficiency, viewed that for a vibrant and independent judicial system, judicial efficiency is one of the basic prerequisites.

He apprised the mission that two important efforts are currently being made to enhance judicial efficiency, one on the judicial side and the other on the legislative side.

On the judicial side, he apprised the mission of the initiatives taken by the Chief Justice of Pakistan aimed at improving judicial efficiency, such as the introduction of an e-filing system replacing the orthodox filing system, revamping the case management system, expeditious disposal of pending cases, and the introduction of video link facilities in the Supreme Court. All these initiatives are directed toward improving judicial efficiency and eliminating hurdles in the process.

Additionally, efforts are being made to introduce the same initiatives in the higher and subordinate judiciary, the President stated.

On the legislative side, he apprised the mission that the recently introduced 26th Constitutional Amendment was made with the aim of improving judicial independence, enabling the judicial system to work more efficiently and effectively.

It was reiterated that under the amendment, a constitutional bench has been formed to address more complex high-profile political and constitutional cases, so as to save more time of the court for regular work without interruption.

Besides that, an institutional system to check the performance of judges is already functioning.

The mission was also informed about other initiatives aimed at enhancing judicial efficiency, such as increasing the number of expert judges not only in the Supreme Court but also in the high courts, the introduction of a number of tribunals, especially in tax matters, and the creation of forums to resolve complex issues through Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) initiatives, ensuring that justice is served effectively at the grassroots level.

Regarding the issues of contract enforcement, the mission was apprised that, albeit delays due to procedural inefficiencies, the government is trying its level best to provide a conducive environment to attract and secure direct foreign investment, and specialized courts and benches are being introduced to adjudicate these matters.

Additionally, it was mentioned that Articles 23 and 24 of the Constitution deal with the right to own property, and efforts are being made to strengthen anti-encroachment laws and enforcement mechanisms.

The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing that the recipe to resolve all the aforesaid issues lies in economic and political stability, and good governance, with the President of SCBAP describing the rule of law as the cornerstone.

In this context, a questionnaire containing queries related to the aforesaid matters will be shared with this Association by the mission, followed by a detailed response along with proposals and suggestions to be made by the other side.

Punjabi culture day observed in Sargodha

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SARGODHA, Apr 14 (APP):Punjab Culture Day was celebrated in the division as a colorful ceremony was organized at the Arts Council Complex.

Commissioner Jahanzeb Awan and Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Waseem with other

administrative officers, students and others participated.

A painting competition was also held among university students

while school students beautifully depicted the culture of Punjab.

A Punjabi poetry competition was also organized in which poets presented their poems.

Director Arts Council Asad Rabbani and Professor Dr Haroon-ul-Rashid Tabassum also attended

the ceremony.

Earlier, Commissioner Jahanzeb Awan and Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Waseem inaugurated the painting competition at the Arts Council Gallery.

Sindh CM pays tribute to his late father on 18th death anniversary

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HYDERABAD, Apr 14 (APP):Chief Minister of Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah on Monday visited Wahur near Sehwan to attend the 18th death anniversary ceremony of his father, former Sindh Chief Minister Syed Abdullah Shah. He offered prayers at his father’s grave and recited Fateha for his soul.

Speaking to the media after the ceremony, CM Murad Ali Shah said, “I have come here to attend my father’s 18th death anniversary. I prayed for his forgiveness and also prayed for myself to follow in my father’s footsteps and serve the people selflessly.”

Highlighting the upcoming political activity, he stated, “Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has announced a public rally in Hyderabad on April 18 and we expect strong participation from the public.”

Responding to a question, the chief minister said he was unaware of who had given Azam Swati the mandate for negotiations. “We want PTI to abandon its confrontational style of politics and adopt a more constructive and serious approach in the national interest”, he added.

On the issue of canals, Murad Ali Shah maintained that Sindh has a strong case, our stance cannot be rejected, and Bilawal Bhutto has also clearly stated that he will stand with the people.

Addressing concerns over law and order, he assured improvements in the security situation in Sehwan and other areas. When asked about MQM’s recent statement, he expressed surprise and said it reminded him of the political era of the 1980s and 1990s.

Several notable officials accompanied the Chief Minister during his visit including Sindh Chief Secretary Syed Asif Haider Shah, former MNA Sikandar Rahpoto, Secretary Public Health Engineering Sindh Syed Ajaz Ali Shah, Muhammad Saleem Bajari, Amanullah Shahani, Sardar Hakim Khan Noohani, Makhdoom Zamir, Syed Asif Ali Shah, Divisional Director Information Hyderabad Shahzad Shaikh, Deputy Commissioner Jamshoro Ghazanfar Ali Qadri, Deputy Commissioner Syed Ali Murtaza Shah, SSP Jamshoro Muhammad Zafar Siddique Chhanga and other relevant officials.

Heat wave relief camps set up at 34 points

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FAISALABAD, Apr 14 (APP):The district administration has taken steps and established heatwave relief camps at 43 points in the division.

A spokesman for the administration said on Monday that 34 camps were equipped with cold drinking water and emergency medical services as staff of the camps would provide first-aid treatment and support in case of heatstroke or health issues.

He said that special heatstroke emergency rooms were also set up in all hospitals and healthcare centers across the division.

Commissioner Madam Maryam Khan also announced that rescue centers and mosques would serve as cooling points for the public to provide them relief from heat.

She also directed the district administrations to conduct regular water sprinkling on roads to help reduce surface temperatures and improve overall environmental conditions.

Condolences pour in for Professor Khurshid Ahmed’s passing

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SUKKUR, Apr 14 (APP):Prominent social and political figure Syed Shafqat Ali Shah on Monday has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Jamaat-e-Islami leader Professor Khurshid Ahmed.

Professor Ahmed was renowned for his distinctive contributions to knowledge and politics.

Syed Shafqat Ali Shah described Professor Ahmed’s services as unforgettable and extended his condolences to the bereaved family, saying, “In this hour of grief, we stand with the deceased’s family”.

Multi-stakeholder consultation proposes key amendments to Draft Bill banning E-Cigarettes in KP

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PESHAWAR, Apr 14 (APP):A multi-stakeholder consultation on the draft bill prohibiting e-cigarettes and vapes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) proposed critical amendments to strengthen the legislation before its submission to the Health Department.

Organized by Blue Veins, a civil society organization, in collaboration with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Tobacco Control Cell (KPTCC), the consultation brought together legal experts, district administration officials, representatives of the Tobacco Control Programme, social activists, and media professionals in Peshawar.

In his welcome address, Qamar Naseem, Programme Manager at Blue Veins, highlighted the absence of laws regulating newer tobacco products like e-cigarettes and vapes in Pakistan.

“The tobacco industry markets these products as harm-reduction tools, but the WHO and health experts confirm that they are more dangerous than traditional cigarettes,” he stated.

Qamar added that over 40 countries have already banned e-cigarettes due to their severe public health risks.

To address this regulatory gap, civil society organizations and public health advocates have long demanded comprehensive legislation.

Responding to this need, a draft bill titled “The Prohibition of E-Cigarettes/Vapes, E-Liquids/Flavoured Additives and Related Chemicals Bill 2025 (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa)” has been developed.

The draft is now under consideration by the Health Department and the provincial government.

Following the incorporation of stakeholder feedback, the draft will be submitted to the Technical Advisory Committee of the Health Department.

After review, it will be forwarded to the Law Department for vetting, and finally presented to the KP Legislative Assembly for approval.

During the consultation, participants discussed critical aspects of the draft bill, including sentencing guidelines (imprisonment duration, fines), enforcement mechanisms (designation of authorities), and existing legal loopholes.

Ajmal Shah, Coordinator of the KP Tobacco Control Cell, noted that in the absence of specific legislation, businesses selling e-cigarettes operate in a legal grey area.

“District authorities and police are cooperative, but current laws do not cover these products, creating enforcement challenges,” he explained.

Syed Zainab Naqvi, former Assistant Commissioner of Peshawar and Deputy Director of the Education Monitoring Authority, highlighted the administration’s difficulties in confiscating and destroying illegal tobacco products due to legal gaps.

She emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive law to protect youth.

Miss Haseena Khan, Assistant Commissioner of Hayatabad and Focal Person for Tobacco Control, praised the collaborative drafting efforts and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to implementing tobacco control regulations.

She commended Blue Veins and the Provincial Tobacco Control Programme for taking the lead on regulating newer tobacco products.

“This consultation marks a crucial step toward curbing youth vaping and aligning KP’s policies with global health standards,” she remarked.

401 shops sealed, equipments seized

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FAISALABAD, Apr 14 (APP):The civil defence department sealed 401 shops over gas decanting and confiscated equipments from 330 outlets in addition to lodging FIRs against eight violators.

According to Civil Defence Officer Rana Abbas, teams sealed 401 shops and

confiscated equipments from 330 shops, including 280 shops in Faisalabad City,

16 in Samundri, 19 in Chak Jhumra, 15 in Jaranwala and Khurarianwala.

He said that cases were also got registered against the owners of eight shops

involved in the violation of public safety laws.

Sindh Solar Energy Project launched in Shikarpur, 80 families benefited

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SUKKUR, Apr 14 (APP):A significant step towards promoting renewable energy and providing relief to poor households was taken in District Shikarpur with the inauguration of the Sindh Solar Energy Project.

The ceremony, held at the local venue, marked the distribution of 80 solar home systems to eligible Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) beneficiaries.

The event was organized by the Sindh Rural Support Organization (SRSO) and saw the participation of prominent figures, including MPA Imtiaz Ahmed Shaikh, District Council Chairman Shikarpur Zulfiqar Ali Khan Kamario, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Shikarpur Zafar Abbas, and Rais Gul Muhammad, Environmental and Social Development Officer of the Sindh Solar Energy Project.

Speaking the event, MPA Imtiaz Ahmed Shaikh highlighted the project’s objectives, stating that the Sindh Solar Energy Project aims to promote solar power generation and improve electricity access for poor households across Sindh Province.

The project aligns with the Sindh Government’s goal of promoting renewable energy and reducing reliance on traditional power sources, he added.

The Sindh Solar Energy Project, supported by the World Bank with $100 million in funding, plans to provide 200,000 solar home systems to households in rural areas with low or no electricity access.

Aror University Sukkur conducts admission entry test for fall 2025

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SUKKUR, Apr 14 (APP):Aror University of Art, Architecture, Design & Heritage, Sukkur on Monday successfully held an Admission Entry Test for the Fall 2025 academic session. Over 1,000 candidates from across the country participated, vying for admission to 14 degree programs, including BS Artificial Intelligence, Architecture, and Environmental Sciences.

The test was conducted under the leadership of Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Zahid Hussain Khand, with necessary facilities and security measures in place, including Rescue 1122 and police security. The answer key have been uploaded on the university’s website.

Usman Tariq reported for suspect bowling action

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RAWALPINDI, Apr 14 (APP):Quetta Gladiators spinner Usman Tariq was reported by on-field umpires Ahsan Raza and Chris Brown for a suspect bowling action during his side’s HBL PSL X match against Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Sunday evening.

As per the rules, Usman can continue to bowl in future matches. However, if he is reported again, he will be suspended from bowling and will need to obtain clearance from an ICC accredited lab before he can resume bowling , Pakistan Cricket Board said in a media release on Monday.

Shipping activity at Port Qasim

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KARACHI, Apr 14 (APP):Shipping activity was report at the port where two ships, Lovestakken and KK Marlin carrying Chemicals and Gasoline berthed at Engro Vopak Terminal and FOTCO oil Terminal respectively Sunday.

Meanwhile two more ships, Orchid Kefalonia and Sinar Toraja carrying Canola oil and LPG also arrived at outer anchorage during last 24 hours.

A total of seven ships were engaged at PQA berths during the last 24 hours, out of them two ships, Siya Ram and KK Marlin are expected to sail on today afternoon (.)

Cargo volume of 116,368 tonnes, comprising 116,368 tonnes imports cargo and nil export cargo was handled at the port during last 24 hours.

There are 06 ships at Outer Anchorage of Port Qasim, out of them two ships, Asia Inspire and IVS Went-Worth & three more ships, Victoria Glory, Eleni-T and MSC Roberta carrying Palm oil, Coal, Mogas and Container are expected to take berths at LCT, PIBT, FOTCO and QICT are respectively on today Monday 14th April, while four more container ships, MSC Positano, MSC Yamuna-VI and SM Kaveri are due to expected arrive at outer anchorage on Tuesday.

Daytime temperatures to remain 6-8 degrees Centigrade above normal in Sindh

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KARACHI, Apr 14 (APP):Pakistan Meteorological Department on Monday predicted hot and dry weather for most parts of the Sindh province during the next 24 hours.

Whereas, chances of gusty winds during afternoon are also predicted.

The daytime temperatures would remain between 6 and 8 degrees Celsius above normal.

Mainly, hot and dry weather is likely to prevail

IFC reaffirms support for macroeconomic reforms

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Muhammad Ashraf Wani

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 14 (APP):The International Finance Corporation’s (IFC) Global Director for Public Private Privatization & Corporate Finance Advisory, Ms Linda Rudo Munyengeterwa here on Monday expressed strong interest in supporting the country’s macroeconomic reform, investment and privatization initiatives.

Ms Linda, who is leading IFC delegation to Pakistan, said this during a high-level meeting with Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, , according to press release issued by finance ministry.

She conveyed that the IFC delegation had come here with an open mind, intending to explore the market and engage with key government stakeholders to identify potential areas for investment.

The IFC delegation reaffirmed their willingness to work closely with stakeholders in Pakistan, offering both advisory services and investment support aimed at achieving long-term and inclusive economic development.

IFC’s extensive global experience across various sectors, including infrastructure, energy, transport, public finance, and privatization, was highlighted as a valuable asset that could be leveraged to support Pakistan’s development agenda.

The delegation emphasized their readiness to partner with Pakistan in exploring viable opportunities for collaboration and investment.

The Finance Minister welcomed the IFC delegation and acknowledged the valuable technical expertise and advisory support extended by the institution in various sectors. He noted that macroeconomic stability, which forms the foundation of economic resilience, had been largely restored in Pakistan.

He further underscored the government’s commitment to maintaining this stability and ensuring long-term, sustainable economic growth.

Recognizing the fiscal challenges in managing public finances and meeting the country’s expanding development needs, the Minister stressed the importance of utilizing the expertise and financial resources of international institutions like IFC through public-private partnerships.

He affirmed that such collaborations could facilitate the implementation of essential reforms and enhance efforts to develop efficient energy, transport, and infrastructure systems in response to the demands of a growing population.

PM’s youth programme to offer Interest-Free loans for overseas employment

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ISLAMABAD, Apr 14 (APP):The government has planned to provide interest-free loans of up to Rs 1 million to 100,000 young people going abroad for work under the PM Youth Program loan scheme to help young Pakistanis seeking career opportunities abroad.

According to an official, the loan package will include all travel allowances, covering key expenses such as skills training, visa costs, and initial settlement costs.

He said that the loan will be offered with a flexible repayment plan, featuring equal monthly installments spread over a tenure of 7 to 8 years.

Eligible applicants must be between 21 and 45 years old, with a valid job offer or recruitment through licensed Overseas Employment Promoters.

He said this move was designed to empower young Pakistanis to explore global career opportunities, fostering economic growth and development.

By providing financial support, the government aimed to enhance the skills and employability of its youth, ultimately contributing to the country’s progress.

The scheme was expected to have a positive impact on the lives of thousands of young Pakistanis, enabling them to pursue better career opportunities worldwide.

“With this initiative, the government demonstrates its commitment to investing in the country’s future generations and promoting economic development”, he stated.

By supporting its youth, the government hoped to reap long-term benefits, including increased economic activity and a more skilled workforce, and this initiative was a step towards empowering Pakistan’s youth to compete globally,he added.

Exchange Companies-Opening

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KARACHI, Apr 14 (APP):Following were the Opening Rates of foreign currencies in kerb market issued by the Exchange companies Association

of Pakistan, here on Monday.

F.C. BUYING SELLING

INTER BANK 280.60 280.65

USD 280.15 282.00

EURO 318.15 321.50

GBP 367.40 370.00

JPY 1.94 1.97

AED 76.30 76.80

SAR 74.55 75.00

VC GCU meets Chairman HEC Islamabad

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