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SCO can play greater role in promoting good global governance: Chinese Premier

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BEIJING, Nov 19 (APP): The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is equipped and capable of taking the joint implementation of the Global Governance Initiative (GGI) as an opportunity to play a greater role in bringing the world under good governance, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said.

Li made the remarks when addressing the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of Member States of the SCO.

Leaders and representatives from SCO members, observers and dialogue partners, guests of the host country, as well as leaders of international organizations attended the meeting, which was chaired by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, CGTN reported on Wednesday.

Chinese President Xi Jinping solemnly put forth the GGI at the SCO Tianjin Summit in September, offering Chinese wisdom and solutions to help the international community jointly address global transformation and urgent challenges, Li said.

He underscored the SCO’s importance in building and reforming the global governance system.

Firstly, the SCO should leverage its unique strengths, Li said.

Noting that the Shanghai Spirit is highly aligned with the core concepts of the GGI, Li said that the SCO has extensive practical experience and solid institutional guarantees, and should make full use of these advantages to make greater contributions to global governance and help build a community with a shared future for humanity.

Secondly, the SCO should focus on the key areas of development and security, he said.

He urged SCO countries to promote development and security through cooperation, enhance the alignment of development strategies, promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, ensure the stability and smooth flow of global industrial and supply chains, and jointly build an open and inclusive world economy.

He said China stands ready to work closely with all SCO members to establish the SCO Development Bank as soon as possible and proposes the establishment of a China-SCO cooperation center for metabolic diseases.

Li also called for efforts to strengthen security cooperation mechanisms, give full play to the important role of the four security centers, and work with the international community to jointly uphold multilateralism and promote universal security and lasting peace.

Thirdly, the SCO should stimulate strong vitality for innovation and transformation, he said. He urged joints efforts to strengthen cooperation in science and technology as well as industrial innovation, and promote cooperation on traditional energy and renewable energy.

Li said China welcomes the active participation of all parties in the SCO Digital Economy Forum and the China-SCO Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Forum, adding that China is willing to jointly build and make good use of the China-SCO digital economy cooperation platform and the sci-tech innovation cooperation center, and steadily increase the installed capacity of photovoltaic and wind power each by 10 million kilowatts in the next five years.

Li pointed out that leaders at the SCO Tianjin Summit jointly approved the development strategy for the SCO in the 2026-2035 period.

He said China is willing to work with all member countries to pay more attention to strategic coordination, effectively promote the implementation of cooperation, optimize and improve the operation mechanism, further enhance cohesion, capacity for action, and influence, and continuously make the SCO better and stronger.

Other parties attending the meeting noted that the SCO is playing an increasingly pivotal role in promoting regional integration and facilitating the establishment of a just and equitable multipolar world.

They called on all parties to join hands to implement the outcomes of the SCO Tianjin Summit, optimize the organization’s mechanism, align with the Belt and Road Initiative, and implement the SCO’s development strategy for the 2026-2035 period.

They also urged various sides to bolster cooperation in areas such as connectivity, economy and trade, security, as well as people-to-people exchanges, implement the GGI, and safeguard multilateralism and the central role of the United Nations.

Following the meeting, Li and other leaders signed the joint communique and cooperation documents concerning economy and trade, railways, social development and security, and approved relevant resolutions on the construction of the SCO.

UN calls for ‘concrete and urgent steps’ in Gaza after ceasefire resolution

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UNITED NATIONS, Nov 19 (APP): The United Nations is prepared to play “any role” needed to advance the breakthrough Security Council resolution endorsing the United States-led Gaza peace plan, according to UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Aziz Haq

He told regular noon briefing at UN Headquarters in New York that it was “essential now to translate the diplomatic momentum into concrete and urgently needed steps on the ground.”

Although the UN has no defined role in either finalizing the Board of Peace chaired by President Trump – which will oversee the transition and reconstruction of Gaza – or the planned International Stabilization Force, Farhan Haq said the UN was “committed to implementing the roles entrusted to it in the resolution.”

It is tasked with scaling up humanitarian assistance for stricken civilians across the war-shattered following more than two years of Israeli war “and supporting all efforts to move the parties toward the next phase of the ceasefire.”

The 15-member Council endorsed the US peace plan and the international force for Gaza by 13-0 on Monday, with Russia and China abstaining.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the resolution as an important step in consolidating the ceasefire, underlining the importance of moving towards the second phase of the US plan – which includes a political process for the achieving a two-State solution, in line with previous UN resolutions.

On the ground in Gaza on Tuesday, the UN aid coordination office, OCHA, stressed humanitarians in the enclave remain committed to providing life-saving support – including shelter.

Tent distribution continues along with tarpaulins and other essential items to affected families, it was stated.

The UN said it is fast-tracking funds to bolster those efforts, said Farhan Haq, including $18 million from the occupied Palestinian territory Humanitarian Fund, as winter approaches and heavy rains begin to compound dire living conditions.

The funding has already allowed partners to move ahead with more than 30 planned projects covering everything from food and nutrition to water, health, shelter, protection and other essential support.

As of Sunday, the number of operational health service points in Gaza rose to 219, compared with fewer than 200 in October.

DPM Dar due in Brussels today for Pakistan-EU Strategic Dialogue

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ISLAMABAD, Nov 19 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar is scheduled to undertake an official visit to Brussels from November 19-21, at the invitation of the EU High Representative and Vice President for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas.

During the visit, the deputy prime minister will co-chair the 7th session of Pakistan-EU Strategic Dialogue, which is the highest level of institutionalised interaction between the two sides.

The Dialogue will review cooperation between Pakistan and the EU in all sectors under the Pakistan-EU Strategic Engagement Plan 2019.

During the visit, Deputy Prime Minister Dar will also participate in the 4th EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum. A number of bilateral meetings and engagements with the senior EU officials are also planned on the sidelines of the Forum.

DPM Dar’s visit to Brussels marks a significant milestone in Pakistan-EU relations. Pakistan remains committed to developing a comprehensive and mutually beneficial partnership with the European Union.

Winter chill fuels dry fruit demand as prices rise in Islamabad

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Tayyab Zarif

ISLAMABAD, November 19 (APP): As temperatures continue to fall in the federal capital, the demand for dry fruits has surged sharply, turning local markets vibrant with seasonal buyers seeking warmth, nutrition and flavour.

Freshly harvested winter dry fruits have begun arriving from various regions, boosting both market activity and consumer interest.

Dry fruits have become a household staple during the winter months, finding their way into traditional delicacies such as Gajar Ka Halwa and Sohan Halwa, as well as bakery products enriched with nuts. Residents say they increasingly rely on these nutrient-packed treats to stay warm and energized.

Despite a noticeable rise in prices, footfall in the capital’s dry fruit markets remains high. Vendor Pervaiz Khan told APP that demand is at its peak, adding that consumers continue to purchase dry fruits for both their taste and their natural ability to combat the cold. He said prices have climbed compared to last winter due to increased cultivation and transportation costs.

Many buyers cite the health benefits of dry fruits as the main reason for their rising consumption. Shopper Muhammad Ahmed described them as an ideal winter diet, while another customer said she primarily buys nuts to garnish and add flavour to Gajar Ka Halwa. The seasonal trend has also boosted sales of confectionery items made with dry fruits.

E-commerce platforms are witnessing a parallel uptick in sales, with online stores offering competitive rates. However, sellers say they also face challenges such as order cancellations and higher delivery charges. “Online selling is very appealing during winter,” said one online store owner, “but cancellations push operational costs up.”

Suppliers continue to source dry fruits from across Pakistan and abroad. According to supplier Wazir Hashmat, pine nuts arrive from Balochistan, walnuts from Gilgit–Baltistan and Balochistan, while peanuts come from different parts of Punjab. Rising farming inputs and transportation costs, he said, are key factors driving price increases.

Nutrition experts underscore the extensive health benefits of dry fruits, which are rich in nutrients, fibre, antioxidants and healthy fats. Regular consumption supports heart health, digestion, bone strength and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

Clinical Nutritionist Zahra Mumtaz called dry fruits a complete diet full of proteins and calories, noting they are particularly beneficial in winter for people of all ages, including children and the elderly. She recommended consuming at least one dry fruit item daily to help maintain warmth and support overall well-being.

DPM Dar winds up Russia visit after SCO CHG meeting

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MOSCOW, Nov 19 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Wednesday departed here after leading Pakistan’s delegation at the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting held from November 17–18.

While leaving Moscow, the deputy prime minister expressed gratitude to the host government for its warm hospitality and the successful organization of the meeting.

DPM Dar winds up Russia visit after SCO CHG meeting

He also appreciated the support extended by the Embassy of Pakistan in Moscow and the teams in the Foreign Office in facilitating his visit.

Man killed, two injured in a road accident

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MULTAN, Nov 19 (APP):A man was killed while two others sustained injuries when a speeding tractor-trolley rammed into an auto-rickshaw at Fazal Model Square on Bahawalpur road on Wednesday.
According to the rescuer officials, the accident occurred when a tractor-trolley took a sudden U-turn and collided with the rickshaw and causing the vehicle to overturn.
As a result, Numan(26) died on the spot while Irfan(26) and Farhan(22) sustained injuries.
Rescue 1122 and police concerned reached on spot, shifted the victims to Nishtar Hospital.
Further investigation was underway.

Pakistan, Russia FMs express satisfaction at positive trajectory of bilateral ties

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MOSCOW, Nov 19 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, wherein both sides reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations and expressed deep satisfaction at the current positive trajectory of ties.

In the meeting held on the sidelines of the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting here, the deputy prime minister also congratulated his Russian counterpart on the successful holding of the SCO-CHG meeting.

Pakistan, Russia FMs express satisfaction at positive trajectory of bilateral ties

Moreover, he noted the vital role of both countries’ leadership and bilateral institutional mechanisms in further strengthening the bilateral relations.

In addition, both leaders exchanged views on wide-ranging regional and international issues.

Taking into account the excellent coordination at multilateral fora, including the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, they pledged to deepen them further in the interest of both countries.

DPM Dar meets PMs of Russia, China, Uzbekistan, Qatar, Tajikistan

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MOSCOW, Nov 19 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar met with the prime ministers of Russia, China, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan and Qatar, on the sidelines of the meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation held here.

The deputy prime minister engaged with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and Chinese Premier Li Qiang and discussed enhancing collaboration among SCO member states.

DPM Dar meets PMs of Russia, China, Uzbekistan, Qatar, Tajikistan

In a meeting with Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Abdulla Aripov, DPM Dar appreciated the positive momentum in Pakistan-Uzbekistan relations and underscored the importance of high-level interactions and cooperation at multilateral fora, including the SCO.

They exchanged views on bilateral relations and priorities for regional cooperation.

DPM Dar meets PMs of Russia, China, Uzbekistan, Qatar, Tajikistan

The deputy prime minister also met with Tajikistan’s Prime Minister Kokhir Rasulzoda wherein he congratulated him on assuming the chair of the next Council of Heads of Government meeting, and reaffirmed to further strengthen Pakistan-Tajik bilateral ties across diverse areas, as well as deepen cooperation at multilateral fora.

DPM Dar meets PMs of Russia, China, Uzbekistan, Qatar, Tajikistan

Deputy Prime Minister Dar also had an informal discussion with Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Qatar.

DPM Dar meets PMs of Russia, China, Uzbekistan, Qatar, Tajikistan

Meanwhile, he also met Adylbek Kasymaliev, Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Head of the Presidential Administration of the Kyrgyz Republic.

Dar congratulated him on assuming the Chair of the SCO Heads of State. Highlighting the importance of regional collaboration, the two leaders exchanged views on SCO initiatives and Kyrgyzstan’s assumption of the rotating presidency.

ICT Police conduct grand search, combing operations in Industrial area & Sangjani

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ISLAMABAD, Nov 19 (APP):Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police carried out large-scale search and combing operations in multiple areas under the jurisdiction of Industrial Area and Sangjani police stations to curb crime and strengthen public safety.
An official told APP on Wednesday that the operations were conducted under the supervision of SSP Operations Qazi Ali Raza, while SP Industrial Area, SP Swan and SP Saddar monitored the field activities. Teams of ladies, police and CTD personnel also participated in the operations.
Before the start of operations, police personnel were given a detailed security briefing.
During the search operation, 627 individuals and 76 houses were checked. Police teams also inspected 17 shops, 35 hostels, 31 hotels and 7 guest houses.
Furthermore, 48 motorcycles and 28 vehicles were checked, while 30 suspicious individuals and three motorcycles were shifted to the respective police stations for verification and legal procedure.
The official said the primary objective of these operations is to curb criminal activities and enhance security in the surrounding areas.
He added that the Inspector General of Police (IGP) has issued strict directions to conduct a grand search and combing operations across the district to eliminate crime and ensure safety.

EXCHANGE RATES FOR CURRENCY NOTES

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KARACHI, Nov 19 (APP):(19-11-2025)
CURRENCY               SELLING          BUYING
USD                          282.46            279.43
GBP                          371.16            366.78
EUR                          327.09            323.26
JPY                           1.8187            1.7974
SAR                           75.32              74.44
AED                           76.92              76.00
LIBOR
LIBOR FOR CALCULATING INTEREST ON SPECIAL USD BONDS
LIBOR 1M 3.9598
LIBOR 3M 3.8890
LIBOR 6M 3.7993
US DOLLAR Indicative FBP Rates
CURRENCY SIGHT/
15 DAYS1M2M 3M4M 5M 6M
USD279.26277.98275.31 273.01270.45267.82265.44
EUR323.64322.45 319.92317.78 315.24 312.61 310.26
GBP366.93365.23361.73358.71 355.35351.88 348.77