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 felicitates armed forces, nation on successful launch of Abdali missile
DPM, Swiss FM discuss regional security situation
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
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
KARACHI, May 03 (APP): Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Saturday congratulated the newly elected representatives of the Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE) on their victory in the annual elections.
He congratulated Kazim Khan (President), Ayaz Khan (Senior Vice President), Ghulam Nabi Chandio (Secretary General), and Tanveer Shaukat (Deputy Secretary). He also extended his congratulations to Hameed Hussain Abidi (Finance Secretary), Zia Tanoli Information Secretary, and Vice Presidents Qazi Asad Abid, Adnan Zafar, Mian Hassan Ahmed, and Munir Ahmed Baloch. Joint Secretaries Tahir Farooq, Munazza Seham, Rafi Niazi, Arif Baloch and Waqas Tariq Farooq also received his best wishes.
The chief minister further congratulated the members appointed to the CPNE Standing Committee, which includes Dr. Jabbar Khattak, Maqsood Yousufi, Sher Muhammad Khawer, Sardar Siraj, Mudassar Iqbal, Muhammad Owais Razi, Shehzad Amin, Irfan Athar, Shakeel Ahmed Turabi, Tazeen Akhtar, Anwar Sajdi, Mumtaz Ahmed Sadiq, Faqir Munthar Mangrio, Abdul Rahman Mangrio, Dr. Zubair Mehmood, Masood Khan, Fazal Haq, Zulfiqar Ahmed Rahat, Ali Ahmed Dhillon, Aamir Mehmood, Syed Intizar Hussain Zanjani, Aslam Mian, Hamza Ali Afghan, Ayaz Memon, Mudassar Alam, and Mehmood Alam Khalid.
The chief minister noted that CPNE has upheld the cause of press freedom since its inception. He acknowledged that May 3 marks World Press Freedom Day. “Free and fair elections are the beauty of democracy and a journey toward improvement,” he stated. He also praised the CPNE’s role in defending press freedom.
CM Sindh congratulates security forces on successful operations in KP
KARACHI, May 03 (APP): Chief Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah on Saturday congratulated the security forces on conducting three successful operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He praised the elimination of five militants during these operations, calling it a commendable achievement. “The operations carried out by security forces are essential for maintaining peace,” he stated. The chief minister emphasized that such actions would continue until the elimination of last terrorist.
Sindh CM felicitates Sindh Police boxer on victory over Indian opponent
KARACHI, May 03 (APP): Chief Minister of Sindh Murad Ali Shah on Saturday congratulated Sindh Police boxer Shaheer Afridi for defeating his Indian rival via knockout.
“Shaheer Afridi has made Sindh and Pakistan proud by knocking out his Indian opponent,” said the chief minister. He expressed pride in the Sindh Police and announced rewards for Afridi on behalf of the Sindh Government.
Media advised to play responsible role amid tensions
MIRPUR (AJK), May 03 (APP): The Mirpur District Administration in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) has urged the local media representatives to exercise responsibility in their reporting, given the current situation in the country and AJK.
The administration warned that India may launch negative propaganda or even adventures following the Pahalgam false flag operation.
The administration cautioned media against spreading fake news or unverified information that could strengthen Indian propaganda or lower national morale, said reports received here Saturday.
The administration warned that the enemy might use fake cell phone numbers to spread rumors or fake news with ulterior motives.
Media and the public were advised to be vigilant and not believe information from unverified sources.
The administration’s advisory aims to ensure responsible media reporting and prevent the spread of misinformation during sensitive times.
PM felicitates new office bearers of CPNE
ISLAMABAD, May 03 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif Saturday felicitated the newly elected office bearers of Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE) on their success in election.
The prime minsiter congratulated Kazam Khan on getting elected as President, Ghulam Nabi Chandio as Secretary General, Ayaz Khan as Senior Vice President and Tanvir Shaukat as Deputy Secretary General.
He expressed hope that the newly elected office bearers of the council will continue to play their role to protect journalistic values and uphold high journalistic quality in Pakistan.
He said he was hopeful that the newly elected leadership of CPNE will perform its obligation to protect rights of journalists throught its organization.
He said it was matter of satisfaction that today on the day of press freedom, a new leadership of CPNE was elected and hopefully it will continue to play its positive and effective role for freedom of press.
Minister directs NHA to accelerate development projects on N-25, West Sector
ISLAMABAD, May 03 (APP): Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan here on Saturday visited the Headquarters of National Highway Authority (NHA) where he inspected various departments and chaired a high-level meeting.
The minister issued directives to expedite the pace of development projects in the NHA’s Western Sector including the Karachi-Quetta N-25 highway and accelerate the pace of work to complete it as early as possible, said a press release.
He emphasized the need to improve the existing procedures within the NHA to enhance efficiency and productivity. To this end, Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan assigned the task of reforming the system to the Secretary Communications and the Chairman NHA.
The meeting reviewed various institutional matters while the Federal Minister instructed that project presentations be prepared in more professional manner by National Highway Authority keeping it crystal clear and of high-quality.
Abdul Aleem Khan further directed the NHA to outsource its marketing and image-building functions to enhance public perception. He stressed that National Highways should reflect excellence and aesthetic appeal, providing a visibly improved experience for travelers. He also instructed that horticulture services be engaged by professional firms to enhance the beautification of areas surrounding of National Highways.
The minister urged upon citizens to cooperate with the NHA by contributing to cleanliness efforts.
The high-level meeting was attended by the Federal Secretary for Communications, Chairman NHA and other senior officers who briefed the Federal Minister on ongoing and proposed projects especially of West Sector while importance decisions were also approved in this session.
President congratulates newly elected CPNE office bearers
ISLAMABAD, May 03 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari Saturday congratulated the newly elected office bearers of Council of Pakistan Newspaper Editors (CPNE).
The President felicitated Kazam Khan on getting elected as President and Ghulam Nabi Chandio on becoming Secretary General of CPNE.
He also expressed best wishes for Senior Vice President Ayaz Khan, Deputy Secretary General Tanvir Shaukat and other office bearers.
He expressed hope that the newly elected office bearers will play their role in promotion of high journalistic values in the country.
The President urged the media to promote democratic values in the country.
He said he was hopeful that the newly elected members will continue their efforts for progress of the field of journalism.
He stressed that media should play its role to stop fake news and misinformation.
Media was important in making people aware about important political, social and economic issues, he added.
PM congratulates Australia’s PM Albanese on re-election
ISLAMABAD, May 03 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif Saturday warmly congratulated Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on his re-election
In a post on X, he said, “Warm congratulations to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on his
re-election. I wish him continued success in serving the people of Australia.”
“I look forward to working together to further strengthen Pakistan-Australia relations and advance our shared commitment to peace, development, and regional cooperation,” he added.
Fake encounters, extra judicial killings expose Indian forces’ endless oppression at IIOJ&K
PESHAWAR, May 03 (APP): Breaking all records of systematic state terrorism and war crimes at IIOJ&K, the Indian Occupied Forces continued unleashing terror by staging fake encounters and extra judicial killings to suppress the legitimate freedom movement of Kashmiris in the held valley but failed.
From the brutal killing of young freedom fighter Burhan Wani to the murder of Tahrik e Hurriyat political leader Hafizullah Mir in fake encounters, the Indian occupied forces have killed hundreds of thousands of Kashmiris extra judicially in IIOJ&K after India invaded it on October 27, 1947.
Mushtaq Ahmed Shah, Vice Chairman, Jummu and Kashmir Peoples League (JKPL) has claimed that over 96,000 cases of extra judicial killings and fake encounters were reported in IIOJ&K since 1989 by the Indian army and its intelligence agencies especially RAW.
He said that around 162,000 cases of arbitrary arrests and torture, over 25,000 pellet gun injuries, 11,250 women rapes, 23,000 women widowed and over 108,000 children were also orphaned by the Indian army.
The forced disappearance of over 8,000 innocent Kashmiris, 8,652 unmarked mass graves, imposition of longest curfew on some 10 million unarmed Kashmiris, communication blackout and human rights abuses especially against women and children in IIOJ&K have exposed the India’s state terrorism in the held valley where life became a night mere for the oppressed people.
The September 2021’s Pakistani dossier revealed that about 8,652 unmarked graves were identified in 89 villages of six districts in IIOJ&K where bodies of 37 Kashmiris were burnt alive.
Most recently, he said the Indian occupational forces have blown up houses of innocent Kashmiris as collective punishment after Pehalgam false flag operation at IIOJ&K.
Devised a sinister plan to kill innocent and illegally detained Pakistanis in fake encounters, Indian army and its intelligence agencies archastered a nefarious plan to stage fake encounters and kill dozens of Pakistanis—who are illegally and forcibly held in custody in various areas of IIOJK.
Security sources told APP that after killing these individuals currently held in different prisons and intelligence facilities, India plans to label them as cross-border terrorists from Pakistan.
As part of this well-orchestrated plan, Indian media will reportedly be provided with videos and images of the victims’ bodies, along with planted weapons and fabricated evidence, immediately after the staged fake encounters.
Indian media, following its typical narrative, will portray these individuals as terrorists allegedly infiltrating from Pakistan. The purpose of this malicious plan is to fabricate yet another excuse for aggression against Pakistan after the failure of the Pahalgam false flag operation.
Some of the illegally detained individuals may also be falsely presented as captured terrorists and coerced into making anti-Pakistan statements and false confessions in front of the media.
Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) had already revealed in press conferences on April 29 and 30 that 723 Pakistani citizens are being held illegally in various Indian jails.
Some 56 more Pakistani are also being held forcibly and illegally by Indian intelligence agencies, the sources added.
The DG ISPR had already shared details of these 56 individuals during his press conferences on April 29 and 30. These detainees may be used at any time for slander and hostile actions against Pakistan, the security sources warned.
On April 24, two citizens from Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Muhammad Farooq and Muhammad Deen, who had accidentally crossed the border, were brutally killed in a fake encounter by the Indian army.
Following the failure of the Pahalgam false flag operation, India is in a state of complete desperation after its media created war hysteria against Pakistan.
Professor Dr Adnan Sarwar, former Chairman International Relations Department at University of Peshawar that the 43 page report of the Office of United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) 2019 have exposed the Indian occupation forces’ systematic terrorism and war crimes at IIOJK.
The UNCHR report has testified that Indian occupied forces had used excessive force and pellet guns against peaceful Kashmiris in 2016, resulting in deaths and injuries of a large number of civilians, which was a clear violation of UN Basic Principles on Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials.
Referring to the India’s Armed Forces (Jammu and Kashmir) Special Powers Act (AFSPA) promulgated in Occupied Kashmir in 1990, he said that Indian Govt had granted full immunity to its forces from prosecution in civil courts and allowed detention of Kashmiri leadership without any charge or trial.
This black law was frequently used to detain peaceful protesters, Kashmiri leadership, political dissidents, and other activists. The puppet Indian state government of Jammu and Kashmir amended section 10 of the Public Safety Act in 2018 under which freedom fighters and separatist political leaders were transferred to prisons outside of IIOJK.
He said the India’s apartheid regime did not allow mass rituals and funeral of great Kashmiri leader, Syed Ali Gillani and his body was forcefully snatched from the bereaved family and buried at night.
Similarly, great hurriat leader, Muhammad Yasin Malik was jailed for life in a fake case in a bid to silence his strong voice for Kashmir’s freedom and terrorize other Kashmir leadership besides issues of over six million illegal domicile certificates of IIOJK to Hindus that exposed the anti Kashmir’s policies of the Hinduvata’s regime.
Mushtaq said the excessive use of snipers and cluster ammunition by India to target innocent Kashmiris along the Line of Control (LoC), use of children and women as human shields by Indian army during encounters and making them sleep at military camps forcing them to dig out minefields and tying youth on military jeeps further testified the Modi government’s direct involvement in war crimes and genocide of the Kashmiris.
He said the burning of mosques, houses and shops belonging to Muslims at BJP-led Tripura state by Hindutvta groups of RSS, VHP and Bajrang Dal have unveiled Modi’s tyranny against minorities especially Muslims.
He said mosques in Krishnagar, Dharmangar, Panisagar, Chandrapure were vandalized by the saffron-wearing youth in planned attacks on the Muslims population.
The experts urged UNO and world powers to come forward with meaningful actions to address the Kashmir dispute like that of East Taimur before it engulfed the entire region into a war.
They said resolution of the Kashmir dispute was imperative for the progress and prosperity of billions of people living in the subcontinent and ensure lasting peace in the region.
Governor KP for making collective efforts to overcome climate, social, health crises
KARACHI, May 03 (APP): Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi, on Saturday emphasized the importance of compassion, solidarity, and collective efforts in addressing the pressing challenges of the modern world, saying that serving humanity is the highest purpose.
He made these remarks while addressing the Rotary International District Conference 2025 at Karachi.
“Rotary International is not just an organization, but a global spirit dedicated to service, humanity, and the promotion of peace,” said Governor Kundi.
The conference brought together a host of prominent personalities, including Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani, Governor Sindh Kamran Tessori, MNA Dr. Farooq Sattar, Planning and Development Committee Chairman Syed Abdul Qadir Gillani, Rotary Club officials and members, as well as experts and figures from various sectors of society.
In his address, Governor Kundi praised the Rotary Club’s exemplary services at both local and international levels and stressed the need to instill the spirit of service in the younger generation.
“Introducing youth to the mission of humanitarian service is essential so that they can dedicate their lives to the well-being of others,” he added.
Highlighting the multifaceted issues faced by Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, such as climate change, social inequality, and fundamental human rights, the Governor emphasized that these challenges can only be tackled through collective awareness, sustained efforts, and mutual cooperation.
He urged the public to make service their identity and work towards creating a fairer, more peaceful world.
Governor Kundi also acknowledged the persistent threat of polio in Pakistan and especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, lauding Rotary’s relentless efforts in healthcare, peace, and community service.
He reaffirmed his full support to Rotary Club initiatives in these areas.
Serving humanity key to compassionate society: Gilani
ISLAMABAD, May 03 (APP): Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani has said serving humanity strengthens compassion and empathy in society and plays a vital role in building a better future for all.
He made these remarks while delivering the keynote address as the chief guest at the Rotary International District Conference 2025.
Gilani praised the humanitarian contributions of Rotary International in Pakistan and around the world, said a news release.
Welcoming District Governor Rizwan Adhia, ambassadors, Rotary members and other distinguished guests, Gilani said, “It is a great honour for me to be here this evening. Today, we are not just celebrating an organization, we are honoring a century-long legacy of revolutionary service. We pay tribute to those who live by Rotary’s enduring motto: ‘Service Above Self.”
He lauded the Rotary International’s extensive humanitarian work, noting that from Pakistan’s bustling cities to the remotest parts of Africa, Rotary has built a powerful network of compassion. “Rotary’s greatest success lies not only in its 1.5 million members, but in its tireless efforts to make the world a better place,” he said.
Highlighting the organization’s contribution to national development, Gilani said that Rotary’s mission aligns with Pakistan’s goals of sustainable development and inclusive growth. He especially praised its support in the fight against polio, calling it a near victory and urging continued efforts to make Pakistan polio-free. Gilani also highlighted the “Smart Villages” initiative, which is transforming lives through solar energy, clean water, and rural healthcare.
He applauded Rotary’s youth leadership programs, which are shaping future innovators among Pakistan’s large young population. He appreciated projects such as the partnership with Ziauddin Hospital to provide heart surgeries for underprivileged children.
The Chairman Senate said, “I belong to South Punjab and have seen firsthand the deep inequalities that still exist—the children without schools, mothers without healthcare, and farmers battling famine. These are not just numbers; they are our people.”
He recalled his tenure as Prime Minister, during which the uplift of underdeveloped regions and empowerment of marginalized communities, especially women, was a key priority. “I take pride in launching the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), a globally recognized initiative that has provided hope, financial assistance, and dignity to millions,” he added.
Gilani expressed interest in potential collaboration between Rotary and BISP to further enhance community welfare and sustainable grassroots development. “Together, we can create a legacy that will benefit generations,” he added.
He pledged full support for expanding Rotary’s work—whether in eradicating polio, improving education, or advancing clean energy. “Through legislation and policymaking, we will back every initiative that ensures inclusive development, women’s empowerment, digital innovation, and environmental sustainability,” he said, adding that social development is a shared responsibility.
Book Zabaan-e-Yara-e-Man Turkey by Dr. Aslam Tasawar Bhutta launched at UAE embassy
ABU DHABI, May 03 (APP): The Embassy of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi hosted a special event to launch the book Zabaan-e-Yara-e-Man Turkey (The Language of my beloved is Turkey) authored by Dr. Aslam Tasawar Bhutta.
The book is a journey through the heart of Turkey with a captivating exploration of its rich history, vibrant culture and values. The event brought together literary figures and Pakistani diaspora in a celebration of cultural exchange and literary excellence.
Ambassador Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Pakistan’s envoy to the UAE, lauded the author’s passion for history, calling the book a reflection of Dr. Bhutta’s deep appreciation for language, culture, and heritage. He remarked that “nothing enriches understanding more than travel,” and shared that the book had inspired him to revisit Turkey.
Ambassador Tirmizi also commended Sarmad Khan for his significant contribution to promoting Urdu literature by setting up the Pakistani stall at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025. He particularly praised the charitable aspect of the book, noting that all proceeds from its sales are being donated to the Akhuwat Foundation in Pakistan. The ambassador further underscored the vital role of culture, music, and art in promoting Pakistan’s soft image globally.
During the panel discussion, Dr. Hassan Khalil described the book, which became a bestseller at the Pakistan Kitab Mela, as a “heart-touching piece of literature” and “a beautiful gift to readers around the world.”
Dr. Shabeena Aslam, sister of the author, spoke about Dr. Bhutta’s compassionate personality and dedication to helping others. She said that the book’s popularity is not only due to its literary merit, but also the author’s generosity in donating its proceeds to charity.
Arif Anees praised ambassador Tirmizi for his strong connection with the community and highlighted the book’s celebration of the Muslim world’s rich historical legacy. He proudly noted that UNESCO has conferred an honorary doctorate upon Dr. Bhutta in recognition of his contribution through this remarkable publication.
The session was skillfully moderated by Salman, who guided a thoughtful discussion on the book’s impact and literary significance.
Governor KP hails successful test of Abdali missile
PESHAWAR, May 03 (APP): Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi, on Saturday congratulated the nation, armed forces, scientists, and engineers on the successful test of Pakistan’s Abdali missile, which has a range of 450 kilometers.
Calling it a “remarkable addition to national defense,” Governor Kundi said the successful launch demonstrates the operational readiness and technical proficiency of Pakistan’s Strategic Forces.
He emphasized that this achievement strengthens Pakistan’s defensive capabilities and sends a clear message to adversaries.
“Let no enemy be mistaken Pakistan’s defense is in strong hands,” he said.
Issuing a stern warning to India, the Governor added, “If India tries to impose war, Pakistan will respond with full strength and deliver a decisive response.”
DPM directs early solarization of tubewells in Balochistan
ISLAMABAD, May 03 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar Saturday directed all concerned departments to expedite efforts for the early and efficient finalization of the solarization of tubewells in Balochistan.
He was chairing a high-level meeting on the solarization of tubewells in Balochistan.
The meeting was attended by the Federal Minister for Finance, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, senior officials from the Ministry of Power, and representatives of the government of Balochistan.
DPM emphasized the need for synergy among stakeholders and urged them to ensure the efficient use of available resources to achieve the timely implementation of solarizing Balochistan’s tubewells.
DPM highlighted the significance of this initiative in promoting clean energy, reducing operational costs, enhancing agricultural productivity, and improving the livelihoods of farmers across Balochistan.