IGP Rizvi extends financial assistance to ailing head constable

ISLAMABAD, May 04 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday congratulated Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and his party on their victory in elections in Singapore.

On X account, the prime minister said, “I wish them success in advancing Singapore’s progress and prosperity. Pakistan looks forward to deepening its longstanding partnership with Singapore in all important areas of mutual interest.”

DPM Dar discusses regional developments with Malaysian FM

By

Kamran Muraad

-

ISLAMABAD, May 04 (APP):Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Sunday held a telephone conversation with Malaysian Foreign Minister Dato Seri Mohamad Hasan.

“The DPM/FM briefed him on the current regional developments. He categorically rejected India’s provocative actions, including its baseless allegations, inflammatory propaganda, and its unilateral decision to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance—an outright violation of treaty provisions and international legal obligations,” Foreign Office Spokesperson said in a press release.

He underscored Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace and security while reserving the right to safeguard its sovereignty and national interest.

Foreign Minister Hasan supported Pakistan’s position and called for restraint by all parties.

Both leaders agreed to maintain close contact on the evolving situation.

APP honoured as best supportive media partner award

By

-

ISLAMABAD, May 3 (APP):The Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) was honored with the Best Supportive Media Partner Award at the inaugural Property Conference and Realtors Awards, held at Awan-e-Quaid Hall, F-9 Park, Islamabad.

The event was graciously organized by SRH International Pvt Ltd.

Hina Durrani, reporter/ subeditor at APP, received the award on behalf of her organization.

Esteemed guests included Osama Nadeem Qureshi, Chairman of the Youth Parliament; Muhammad Murtaza Noor, National Coordinator of the Inter-University Consortium; and Muneeb, HR Manager at D. Watson, among others.

Notable speakers included Abdul Rehman Siddiqui, Senior Vice President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ICCI); Sardar Tahir Mehmood, President of the Islamabad Estate Agent Association; Syed Sadat Hussain Shah, Chairman of Lakeshore City Islamabad; Ch. Muhammad Nawaz Basra, CEO of Capital International Real Estate & Builders; Chaudhry Abdul Rauf, Chairman of Fair Deal Marketing; Shafiq Akbar from the Imarat Group of Companies; and Usman Jahangeer, General Manager Sales at Legends Enclave.

The aim of this conference was to acknowledge the services of realtors who have made outstanding contributions to the real estate sector and earned recognition in the field.

A Qawali Night was arranged at the end of the event to entertain the honorable guests.

Indian Propaganda; Pak arranges media visit to AJK

By

-

ISLAMABAD, May 3 (APP):Security sources have disclosed that Pakistan has arranged a visit for national and international journalists to several areas of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, aiming to counter recent claims made by Indian media.

According to the sources, the tour was organized in response to reports propagated by Indian outlets suggesting that alleged militants had fled from certain locations targeted by Indian forces.

India Today has made a false claim that alleged terrorists have been transferred from Kel, Dudhnial, Athmuqam, Jawar, Lipa, Forward Kahuta, Kotli, Chaman Kot, and Jan Kot.

Pakistan countered the Indian propaganda by arranging a media visit to these points.

India Today’s false claim suggests that Indian forces may attempt to stage a fabricated narrative using the names of these areas. However, Pakistan has strongly countered and exposed the baseless propaganda.

Atta Tarar, DG ISPR to convene national security briefing for all political parties on Sunday

By

-

ISLAMABAD, May 03 (APP):Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar and Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry will hold an important background briefing on the national security for representatives of all political parties on Sunday (tomorrow).

The session will primarily focus on the prevailing national security landscape, particularly concerning relations between Pakistan and India, and its broader implications, said a news statement.

The participants will be informed about the preparedness of the Pakistan Armed Forces during the briefing. Information regarding ongoing diplomatic initiatives and the official stance on the situation will also be shared.

The statement said that the briefing, in the current situation, is a prime example of national unity and consensus among all the parties.

Pakistan delivers a decisive blow to India in narrative war

By

-

ISLAMABAD, May 03 (APP):Pakistan has delivered a decisive blow to New Delhi in a narrative war by broadcasting a national song as an advertisement on YouTube in India.

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MoIB) has taken this initiative in response to a YouTube ban from India on several Pakistani channels after the Pahalgam false flag operation.

The song reflects the professional capabilities of the armed forces of Pakistan, national resolve, and the spirit of defending the homeland.

The broadcast has stirred criticism among Indians towards its own government questioning its effectiveness in the information domain.

The Information Ministry called it a “clear advantage” in the narrative war which has been imposed on Pakistan by India.

In a news statement, the MoIB said Pakistan’s voice would resonate across borders despite the nefarious Indian designs to suppress the truth.

Ayaz felicitates armed forces, scientists, engineers on successful test of Abdali Weapon System

By

-

ISLAMABAD, May 03 (APP):Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has extended heartfelt congratulations to the armed forces, scientists and engineers of the country on the successful test of the Abdali Weapon System.

In his congratulatory message, the Speaker said that the successful test of the Abdali Weapon System has further strengthened Pakistan’s defense capabilities and stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to ensuring its security.

He emphasized that the professional services of the scientists and engineers who have made Pakistan’s defense impregnable will always be remembered.

Ayaz Sadiq expressed pride in the armed forces, scientists, and engineers, acknowledging their tireless efforts in reinforcing the country’s defense.

He said the entire nation holds their talents in high regard and prays for their continued success.

Ayaz Sadiq said Pakistan’s defense is in strong and secure hands and no adversary can dare to look at the country with ill intent as long as the armed forces stand guard.

The Speaker offered his best wishes to the armed forces, scientists, and engineers, calling them national heroes and a source of pride for the country.

Islamabad Police CTD conducts seven-day combat refresher course for Jawans

By

-

ISLAMABAD, May 03 (APP):Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police, under the supervision of SSP Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) Hamza Humayun, has launched a seven-day combat refresher course aimed at enhancing the skills and professional capabilities of CTD Jawans.

An official told APP that the refresher course is equipping CTD Islamabad personnel with essential counter-terrorism training.

He said that during the course, the Jawans are undergoing physical fitness drills, weapon handling, hostage rescue simulations, operations to neutralize armed suspects, and law-and-order maintenance exercises, all designed to ensure effective responses in emergency situations.

He said the Islamabad Police CTD has consistently demonstrated a high level of preparedness in launching swift operations against terrorists and criminal elements, which reflects the effectiveness of their training.

He said the Counter Terrorism Department plays a vital role in securing the federal capital and preventing untoward incidents, adding that CTD Islamabad is fully capable of combating terrorism while protecting the lives and property of citizens.

He said the primary objective of organizing such training courses is to boost the operational competencies of police officers and help them adopt effective strategies during critical situations.

A vendor with a bicycle loaded with household items shuttles along the Expressway in the Federal Capital

By

Khuram Maryam

-

APP01-030525 ISLAMABAD: May 03 – A vendor with a bicycle loaded with household items shuttles along the Expressway in the Federal Capital. APP/SAK/FHA

A vendor arranging and displaying watermelons to attract the customers in the Federal Capital

By

Khuram Maryam

-

APP02-030525 ISLAMABAD: May 03 – A vendor arranging and displaying watermelons to attract the customers in the Federal Capital. APP/SAK/FHA

A vendor selling traditional summer drink (Shakar Cola) at his roadside setup

By

Khuram Maryam

-

APP03-030525 ISLAMABAD: May 03 – A vendor selling traditional summer drink (Shakar Cola) at his roadside setup. APP/RNK/FHA

Journalists must be safe from attacks, surveillance: UN

By

-

UNITED NATIONS, May 03(APP): UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk has said that amidst spiraling conflict, climate chaos, growing divisions, and a rapidly changing digital landscape, a free press is more vital than ever.

“A free and independent media is the lifeblood of a resilient society,” he said in a message marking the World Press Freedom Day that falls on May 3.
The theme of the day is “Reporting in the Brave New World“ The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media.”
Furthermore, the media help us understand the world around us and encourage critical thinking and dialogue.

Free and independent media are the best antidote to disinformation but press freedom is under threat in every region of the world, he warned.
States harass, detain, torture and even kill media workers, simply for doing their jobs while in some conflict zones, warring parties restrict or deny access to journalists.

He noted that since January, at least 20 people who work in media have been killed and impunity for crimes against journalists remains widespread, with more than 80 per cent of killings going unpunished.
Turk said this year’s observance of press freedom is a reminder that media repression is increasing while artificial intelligence (AI) is entirely overhauling how information is produced, distributed, and consumed.

Although AI can be a useful tool for journalists, it also carries significant risks for press freedom, he warned.
AI-based algorithms often dictate what we see, shaping our opinions and perceptions of reality. Politicians use AI to weaponize disinformation and advance their own agendas, he said.
States are also using AI tools to monitor journalists and their sources online, violating their right to privacy. This has a chilling effect on media workers everywhere. And women journalists are disproportionately targeted.

Also, a small group of corporations and individuals have almost total control over AI technology and influence on the global media landscape.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also highlighted the opportunities and risks posed by AI in his message on press freedom.
Biased algorithms, outright lies, and hate speech are landmines on the information superhighway. Accurate, verifiable, fact-based information is the best tool to defuse them, he said.
He pointed to the Global Digital Compact adopted last year by UN Member States, which includes concrete steps to strengthen international cooperation to promote information integrity, tolerance and respect in the digital space.

Turk said World Press Freedom Day is an opportunity for everyone to urgently commit to changing course now, starting with States.
They must ensure that journalists are safe from attacks, hate campaigns and surveillance, as well as physical and legal harassment.
It is crucial to have more transparency in how data is used, how content is curated, and how algorithms are designed.

Media concentration laws that is, legislation around ownership of mass media outlets – also must be updated to reflect the power of AI and tech platforms and promote a diverse media landscape that secures space for independent journalism.

Meanwhile, tech companies have a crucial role. In this regard, Turk announced that his Office and UN educational and cultural agency UNESCO are offering guidance to help tech companies assess the risks their tools pose to journalists and civil society.

A free, independent, and diverse media can help to heal the divisions in our societies. We must do everything in our power to protect it and allow it to flourish, he said.

Entire nation to stand alongside Pakistan Army if war imposed by India: Engr Amir Muqam

By

-

PESHAWAR, May 03 (APP): Federal Minister for States and Frontier Regions, Gilgit Baltistan and Kashmir Affairs Engr Amir Muqam, while strongly condemning India’s baseless accusations against Pakistan, said on Saturday that our desire was peace, but if India imposed war, the entire nation would stand alongside the Pakistan Army to defeat the enemy.

Addressing different bar associations at Shangla district, the federal minister said the people of Kashmir are full of spirit and have immense love for Pakistan and the Pakistan Army. “This spirit is invincible.”

“I salute their spirit and love for Pakistan.” Amir Muqam said, adding the entire nation is united, just as our forefathers played a role in the freedom of Kashmir.

“Whatever I am today is because of the love of the people of Shangla. My life and wealth are at their service.”

He said the people of Shangla made sacrifices for the entire country and bravely faced terrorism, writing history in the process.

“Now, whenever the integrity of the country is at stake, the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Shangla will be ready.”

He said whenever he get the opportunity, he will play his role in the development of Shangla.

He administered the oath to the newly elected body of the District Bar Association, Alpuri.

The Federal Minister congratulated the newly elected members and expressed his best wishes.

“Shangla Bar has a special status. It has always raised its voice for truth and issues, and I have supported it,” he said.

He announced a special grant for the Bar Association and expressed his gratitude for being made an honorary member of the Bar Association.

He paid tribute to Mutawakkil Khan who recently passed away in a traffic accident.

Bilawal felicitates nation on successful test of Abdali missile

By

-

ISLAMABAD, May 03 (APP): Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has extended congratulations to the entire nation and paid tribute to the engineers and scientists associated with the project on the successful test of Abdali, surface-to-surface missile equipped with modern technology that successfully hit its intended target.

According to a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House on Saturday, he hailed the successful test as a testament to Pakistan’s growing defense capabilities and the unwavering professionalism of its armed forces, and said, “we salute the brave defenders of our homeland.”

Bilawal Bhutto said that the PPP has always stood for a strong and secure Pakistan, adding that the nuclear program initiated by Quaid-e-Awam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and the gift of missile technology by Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto form the foundation of our invincible national security.

“Pakistan seeks peace, but peace cannot come at the cost of our sovereignty and dignity,” he added.

India’s allegations against Pakistan on Pahalgam incident depict Modi’s failure of governance: Chinese Scholar

By

-

BEIJING, May 3 (APP): Senior Research Fellow at Charhar Institute, Pro Cheng Xizhong on Saturday said on Pahalgam incident, India’s accusations against Pakistan without any basis is clearly an attempt by the Narendra Modi administration to evade responsibility for his governance failure.

In a statement issued here, he said that in recent days, India has used the shooting incident to create high tension in its relations with Pakistan, mainly for the following purposes.

Firstly, Narendra Modi wants to shift the domestic crisis. India is now facing many problems domestically, such as economic downturn, high unemployment rate and outdated infrastructure, he added.

“By creating external conflicts, it can incite nationalist sentiment, shift people’s attention from domestic conflicts to external threats, thereby consolidating public opinion and the political foundation of his government.

At the same time, the Indian government can also use this opportunity to showcase a tough image and enhance its domestic support.”

Secondly, Narendra Modi wants to curb cooperation between China and Pakistan. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is the flagship project of the “the Belt and Road”.

“India sees CPEC as a threat to its regional hegemony and is concerned that China’s influence may radiate to South Asia through Pakistan, thereby affecting its dominant position in the region.”

Intensifying the conflict between India and Pakistan can weaken Pakistan’s national strength and interfere with China’s strategic layout, he said.

Thirdly, he said, India has significantly expanded its military power in recent years, purchasing a large amount of cutting-edge equipment that needs to be tested for equipment performance and military combat effectiveness through actual combat.

In addition, India is attempting to reshape the power structure in South Asia by taking military action against Pakistan and controlling the water sources in Kashmir.

DPM felicitates armed forces, nation on successful launch of Abdali missile

By

-

ISLAMABAD, May 03 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar Saturday felicitated the armed forces and nation on the successful launch of Abdali missile system.
In a post on X, he said, “Heartfelt congratulations to the Scientists, Armed Forces and the Nation on the successful training launch of the Abdali Weapon System — a surface-to-surface missile with a range of 450 km. May Allah bless Pakistan with strength, unity, and infinite mercy. Amen.”

DPM, Swiss FM discuss regional security situation

By

-

ISLAMABAD, May 03 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar Saturday held a telephone conversation with the Swiss Federal Councillor and Foreign Minister, Ignazio Cassis and briefed him on the evolving regional security situation.

DPM expressed grave concern over India’s recent provocative actions, including baseless allegations, inflammatory propaganda, and its unilateral decision to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance – an outright violation of international legal obligations.

He reiterated Pakistan’s call for an independent & transparent international investigation to establish the facts. He underscored Pakistan’s commitment to exercising restraint in the interest of regional peace and security, while reserving the right to protect its sovereignty and national interests.

FM appreciated Pakistan’s commitment to peace, and endorsed its proposal for an investigation. He expressed Switzerland’s readiness to offer its good offices and explore appropriate mechanisms to facilitate an impartial investigation.

The two leaders agreed to remain in close contact on the evolving situation.

DPM reviews progress of investment initiatives

By

-

ISLAMABAD, May 03 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar Saturday chaired a high-level meeting to review the progress of investment initiatives by friendly countries across various sectors.

The meeting was attended by Special Assistant to Prime Minister Tariq Bajwa, Chairman Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, and Secretaries of Petroleum and Finance, along with other senior officials from Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant departments.

Discussions focused on foreign investments in infrastructure, energy, petroleum, and economic development. DPM emphasized the need for streamlined processes, enhanced institutional coordination, and fast-tracked implementation of investment projects.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to providing all necessary facilitation to translate these investments into tangible outcomes for economic growth and prosperity.

CM congratulates newly elected CPNE office bearers

By

-