ISLAMABAD: November 25 –
Minister of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Mikayil Jabbarov calls on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.
ISLAMABAD: November 25 –
Newly elected members of National Assembly meet with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.
ISLAMABAD: November 25 –
The Commission for the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals held its inaugural meeting under the Chairpersonship of Mr. Kamaluddin Tipu.
ISLAMABAD: November 25 –
ISLAMABAD: November 25 – The Commission for the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals held its inaugural meeting under the Chairpersonship of Mr. Kamaluddin Tipu. APP/TZD/FHA
Grand reception hosted in honour of Deputy Chairman Senate Syedal Khan
ISLAMABAD, Nov 25 (APP):A distinguished and elegant reception was hosted in honour of Deputy Chairman Senate Syedal Khan by prominent Karachi-based businessmen and investors Aqeel karim Dhedhi and Ahmed Chinoy here on Tuesday.
The gathering brought together leading figures from the country’s business and investment sectors, where detailed discussions were held on Pakistan’s economic landscape, trade and investment opportunities, and the government’s ongoing economic reforms, said a press release.
The Deputy Chairman Senate graced the event as the chief guest.
Addressing the ceremony, Deputy Chairman Senate Syedal Khan said that the government is undertaking comprehensive and effective measures for the stability of the national economy, the promotion of trade, and the enhancement of investment.
He emphasized that the government’s prudent policies, strategic decision-making, and transparent economic initiatives are steadily steering the country toward sustainable improvement.
He paid special tribute to the President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Field Marshal Asim Munir, and all national stakeholders for their tireless efforts, far-sighted decisions, and coordinated economic strategies.
He added that it is due to these integrated approaches that Pakistan is successfully emerging from challenging economic conditions and moving firmly toward recovery and growth.
Syedal Khan further stated that not only are the signs of economic stability becoming increasingly visible within the country, but Pakistan’s credibility and standing at the global level are also being restored.
He noted that international powers particularly the United States recognize the vision of Pakistan’s leadership and the professional capabilities of Field Marshal Asim Munir and highlighted that positive international developments are underway for boosting trade and investment with Pakistan, leading to several important investment agreements with various countries.
He added that Saudi Arabia, Qatar, China, and other brotherly nations are keen to invest in Pakistan.
Business leaders present at the reception expressed full confidence in the government’s economic policies and assured Deputy Chairman Senate of their complete support for the country’s development, prosperity, and economic stability.
Syedal Khan reiterated that creating a conducive business environment for traders, investors, and industrialists remains among the government’s top priorities, aimed at accelerating industrial and commercial activities and ensuring tangible improvement in the lives of ordinary citizens.
He expressed confidence that, God willing, the time is not far when Pakistan will stand among the ranks of developed nations.
He added that the growing cooperation from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, China, and other countries reflects the strong economic confidence that Pakistan’s leadership has earned through consistent hard work.
He also thanked the people of Pakistan for supporting the government during difficult times and for playing a vital role in the national recovery process.
The reception was attended by Federal Minister for Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, President Islamabad Chamber of Commerce Sardar Tahir Mehmood, National Coordinator to the Prime Minister Sardar Yasir Ilyas, and prominent business leaders, investors, industrialists, and key figures from the corporate community.
Dr Sumera emphasizes to end digital violence against women, girls
PESHAWAR, Nov 25 (APP):Chairperson Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Commission on the Status of Women (KPCSW), while addressing the launch ceremony of 16 Days of Activism 2025 at the University of Peshawar, emphasized the urgent need to combat digital violence against women and girls.
She noted that digital violence is among the fastest-growing forms of exploitation worldwide, and ensuring digital safety has become essential to achieving gender equality.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chairperson highlighted the mandate of KPCSW, which includes, reviewing laws and policies, proposing reforms, and advocating for women’s empowerment across the public and private sectors.
She noted that the Commission continues to collaborate with government departments, civil society, and academic institutions to promote women’s rights and eliminate discrimination.
She underscored the challenges that make digital exploitation difficult to curb, including weak regulatory frameworks, lack of accountability, and limited support systems for survivors. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, she added, is recognizing these gaps and prioritizing policy measures to address them.
Calling for collective action, the Chairperson stressed the need to create a safe and enabling environment for women in all spheres. She urged for more women to join professional fields and participate in politics, contributing to socio-economic development and legislative reforms aimed at ending violence against women and girls.
PM underscores broadening of Pak-Iran bilateral ties in diverse fields
ISLAMABAD, Nov 25 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Tuesday, emphasized the significance of historic and close fraternal ties between Pakistan and Iran and called for further deepening and broadening of bilateral relations across diverse fields.
The prime minister was talking to Secretary, Supreme National Security Council of Iran Ali Ardeshir Larijani who called on him at the PM House. Dr. Larijani is currently on an official visit to Pakistan, PM Office Media Wing said in a press release.
The prime minister appreciated Iran’s principled positions on regional issues and expressed his and the country’s gratitude for Iran’s solidarity with Pakistan during difficult times.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to continue working closely with Iran, for a peaceful and prosperous future for both countries.
Dr. Larijani reciprocated the sentiment and stressed upon the need for enhancing Pakistan-Iran ties in wide-ranging and mutually beneficial areas.
During the meeting, the two sides also exchanged views on major regional and international developments, while stressing on the importance of coordinated efforts to promote peace and stability in the region.
Dr. Larijani thanked the Pakistani nation and leadership for their unflinching support to Iran during its recent 12-day War and expressed deep appreciation for Pakistan’s constructive role in advocating dialogue and diplomacy for the peaceful settlement of disputes.
Availing himself of the opportunity, the prime minister conveyed his profound respect and good wishes for Iran’s Supreme Leader Syed Ali Khamenei as well as President Masoud Pezeshkian and thanked them for their support to Pakistan as well as their commitment to stronger Pakistan-Iran relations.
It was decided in the meeting that a delegation under the leadership of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will soon visit Iran to further strengthen cooperation in different fields especially agriculture and connectivity.
Pakistan-Bangladesh direct flights likely to start next month: Iqbal Hussain
LAHORE, Nov 25 (APP):Bangladesh’s High Commissioner Iqbal Hussain Khan announced on Tuesday that Mahan Air is likely to start three weekly flights between Karachi and Dhaka from next month. This would be a major step for trade between the two brotherly nations and a significant leap in strengthening connectivity.
Speaking here at Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI), the High Commissioner added that the visa process has been simplified, citing that visas are now being issued on the joint recommendation of LCCI and the Bangladesh Honorary Consulate in Lahore. He added that visas will be issued to members within three to four days, making travel between the two countries faster and easier.
The High Commissioner was warmly received by LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Saigol. Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmed Sheikh, EC Member Shouban Akhtar, former EC Member Naeem Hanif, and diplomat Mahfujol Hassan from the Bangladesh High Commission were also present.
LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Saigol emphasized the historical and cultural ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh, describing the two countries as sharing a common heritage. He said Pakistan can increase rice exports to Bangladesh and also seek guidance from Bangladesh in the garments sector. He noted that both nations have opportunities to collaborate in IT, automobiles and other industries. Currently, bilateral trade stands at approximately 700 million dollars, but there is potential to increase it to 3 billion dollars over the next few years.
Saigol added that direct flights would further enhance trade relations, and LCCI is ready to provide full support to Bangladesh High Commission in this regard.
The High Commissioner invited the LCCI President to lead a delegation to Bangladesh, to which President Saigol responded positively, stating that a delegation would visit Bangladesh soon.
Highlighting trade opportunities, the High Commissioner said, Pakistan can export rice to Bangladesh, while Bangladesh can supply fresh pineapples to Pakistan. He also pointed out significant potential in textiles and ready-made garments.
He mentioned that a direct cargo shipping service will soon be launched. While a cargo service between the two countries has been operational since last December, rising trade demand now requires a dedicated direct cargo route.
In the education sector, the High Commissioner encouraged both countries to collaborate. The Higher Education Commission of Pakistan will soon send a delegation to Bangladesh, comprising representatives from twelve universities, with the aim of attracting more Bangladeshi students to study in Pakistan.
He also highlighted Pakistan’s tourism sector as an area with considerable potential. The High Commissioner stressed the shared culture, history, and values of the two nations, describing them as closely connected and united as one community.
PWPA launches cybercrime awareness drive under “Virtual Violence is Real Violence” theme
LAHORE, Nov 25 (APP):Under the theme “Virtual Violence is Real Violence,” the Punjab Women Protection Authority (PWPA) on Tuesday organized a cybercrime awareness programme at its head office, which saw large participation from female students of various colleges.
Several NGOs also set up food and decorative stalls, while experts briefed participants on digital violence, online harassment and women’s cyber safety.
PWPA Chairperson Hina Parvez Butt formally inaugurated the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, aimed at raising awareness and enhancing protection for women and girls against all forms of violence.
Speaking at the launch, she said gender-based violence is not only a social problem but a grave violation of human rights. She emphasized that its elimination requires collective responsibility from the state, institutions and communities, adding that the campaign is an important step toward empowering women with awareness and expanding access to immediate support services.
Hina Parvez Butt also visited the Pink Van, Punjab’s mobile police station and licensing unit for women, where female police officers briefed her on the facilities being provided. On this occasion, survivor support sessions, awareness lectures and a media communication campaign against cybercrime were formally launched.
In her address, the Chairperson said violence in the digital space is real and destructive, stressing the need for strong laws, advanced technology and widespread awareness to protect women from harassment, blackmailing and cyberbullying. She said that, in line with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s vision, the Pink Van initiative is delivering doorstep access to FIR registration, complaint handling, licensing and other police services for women. She advised students to strengthen privacy settings on social media and avoid responding to suspicious messages or calls.
PWPA Director General Kalsoom Saqib said the Authority is implementing a comprehensive strategy for women’s protection through legislation, improved service delivery and community engagement. She noted that, given the rise in cybercrime cases, awareness campaigns have been expanded in universities and colleges to ensure young women receive timely and accurate information.
FIA Cyber Crime Wing Lahore Assistant Director Forensics Ali Yazdan said most cybercrime incidents stem from lack of awareness and irresponsible social media use. Warning students about common risks, he highlighted that sharing passwords, clicking unknown links, recording of video calls, and uploading personal information can expose users to hacking and blackmail. He added that FIA responds immediately to complaints related to digital blackmail, fake IDs, WhatsApp hacking and misuse of private photographs. He stressed the importance of saving screenshots, chat records and call logs as evidence in any such case.
AJK PM vows to serve people with dedication
MIRPUR (AJK), Nov 25 (APP):Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Prime Minister (PM) Faisal Mumtaz Rathore said that the immense love and trust the people of AJK and the party workers had expressed upon his election as Prime Minister of the state was a debt he could never repay in his life.
He was addressing a congregation at AJK house on Tuesday which had gathered to felicitate him on his first visit to the Kashmir House after assume the charge.
A large number of people and PPP workers, raised slogans in favour of the newly elected PM Rathore.
Speaking on the occasion, the PM thanked the people and asked them to pray that Allah, the Almighty helps him discharge his duties and serve the people of Azad Kashmir.
He vowed to continue serving the people of Azad Kashmir until his last breath.
Recalling the legacy of his father and former Prime Minister Raja Mumtaz Hussain Rathore, he said, “My father always taught me that public service is the greatest form of worship.”
“I will work for the development and progress of Azad Kashmir by making his thoughts and ideas my guiding principles,” he added.
“I will work day and night to meet the expectations of the people and will make every effort to fulfill them,” he remarked.
Punjab Police check 10,140 individuals in 24 hours
LAHORE, Nov 25 (APP): Punjab Police intensified their security efforts across the province, conducting 301 combing operations and checking 10,140 suspicious individuals during the last 24 hours.
The department’s spokesperson said on Tuesday that a total of 50 suspects were taken into custody during these operations.
Police also carried out 53 search and sweep operations, questioning 1,372 individuals and detaining two suspects.
In the ongoing crackdown against criminals, the Punjab Police arrested 241 proclaimed offenders wanted in serious crimes, along with 88 court absconders and 80 habitual criminals. A significant quantity of illegal weapons and ammunition was recovered from various accused.
The spokesperson added that seven criminals were brought to justice, while four others were arrested in injured condition during encounters.
The IGP Punjab instructed that search, sweep, and combing operations be expedited further to ensure strict accountability of anti-state and criminal elements.