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CPEC 2.0 enters strategic acceleration phase; Ahsan chairs preparatory meeting ahead of 14th JCC session

By
Asif Jalal
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ISLAMABAD, May 30 (APP):Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal on Friday chaired a high-level preparatory meeting of the Pakistani side of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Joint Cooperation Committee (JCC).
The meeting convened key stakeholders, including conveners of CPEC Joint Working Groups (JWGs) and Secretaries from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Communications, Maritime Affairs, Science & Technology, Railways, Commerce, and Interior, to review progress and finalize deliverables for the upcoming 14th JCC session, a news release said.
Ahsan Iqbal conducted a comprehensive review of CPEC project status across vital sectors, including Gwadar development, industrial cooperation, science and technology, transport infrastructure, agriculture, and the blue economy.
He mandated all ministries to rigorously operationalize the long-term CPEC plan by ensuring their project roadmaps are fully aligned with established sectoral priorities for effective and result-oriented implementation.
The minister instructed the Board of Investment to immediately initiate strategic outreach to 20-25 major Chinese economic zones, aiming to attract experienced companies for Special Economic Zone (SEZ) development and industrial relocation to Pakistan.
Emphasizing science and technology as the cornerstone of future export-led growth, he directed the Ministry of Science & Technology to study China’s advancements in emerging scientific fields, formulate a national scientific development agenda, and identify ten high-potential export products for targeted research and innovation support.
Ahsan Iqbal underscored Gwadar’s critical role as a blue economy hub, demanding accelerated development in coastal tourism, fisheries, and industry through enhanced engagement with Pakistani and Chinese business communities.
He also directed officials to finalize a proposal for introducing a third-party participation mechanism under CPEC to facilitate broader infrastructure projects, for presentation and approval at the forthcoming JCC session.
Concluding the meeting, the minister reiterated CPEC’s immense potential for investment, relocation, and joint ventures.
He demanded unified, proactive efforts across all government institutions to deliver tangible, actionable outcomes for the JCC. He called for intensified inter-ministerial coordination and strategic planning to ensure the 14th JCC session serves as a landmark event in advancing CPEC 2.0 vision for a prosperous and connected Pakistan.
The minister emphasized that CPEC 2.0 is now fully integrated into the broader national transformation vision under the URAAN Pakistan initiative.
As a flagship development framework aimed at turning Pakistan into a $3 trillion economy by 2047, URAAN Pakistan provides a clear roadmap through its 5Es including Exports, E-Pakistan, Environment, Energy, and Equity.
CPEC 2.0’s focus on industrialization, connectivity, science & technology, and sustainable growth directly complements these pillars.
The synergies between URAAN Pakistan and CPEC will not only catalyze economic modernization but also ensure inclusive, innovation-driven development across all regions of Pakistan.
Highlighting the need to deepen business-to-business (B2B) collaboration, Ahsan Iqbal stressed that private sector partnerships between Pakistani and Chinese companies will be pivotal in CPEC’s next phase.
B2B cooperation will unlock new avenues for industrial growth, technology transfer, and job creation.
It will empower local enterprises, attract FDI, boost exports, and drive innovation in sectors like manufacturing, logistics, energy, agriculture, and ICT.
A thriving B2B ecosystem under CPEC 2.0 will also foster entrepreneurship, upskill the workforce, and enhance Pakistan’s global competitiveness — transforming economic zones into engines of opportunity and prosperity.

EU delegation meets Secretary MoHR, discuss HR cooperation

By
Asif Jalal
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ISLAMABAD, May 30 (APP):A delegation from the European Union (EU), led by Mr. Jeroen Willems, EU Head of Cooperation in Pakistan, along with Ms. Marta Szymczyk, Programme Manager, Human Rights and Democracy, visited the Ministry of Human Rights (MoHR) and held a meeting with Secretary MoHR, Humera Ahmad.
The meeting was also attended by Muhammad Arshad, Director General (IC), and Muhammad Arif Leghari, Director (IC), MoHR.
The Secretary welcomed the EU delegation and appreciated the European Union’s long-standing partnership with Pakistan in advancing the human rights agenda.
Jeroen Willems acknowledged the progress made by Pakistan and reaffirmed the EU’s continued support for these efforts.
The forthcoming EU Monitoring Mission on GSP+, underscoring that the associated benefits are intrinsically linked to sustained improvements in human rights practices, was also discussed.
Highlighting the importance of protecting the rights of minorities, women, children, and persons with disabilities, Willems commended Pakistan’s initiatives in these areas and encouraged ongoing collaboration.
Secretary MoHR reaffirmed the Government’s strong commitment to safeguarding the rights of vulnerable groups and advancing an inclusive human rights agenda. She apprised the EU delegation of key legislative milestones, including the enactment of the National Commission for Minorities Act and the ICT Child Marriage Restraint Act 2025. She also highlighted the Prime Minister’s Women Empowerment Package 2024 as a flagship initiative aimed at addressing gender disparities.
Emphasizing the Ministry’s focus on inclusivity, she shared ongoing reforms to improve accessibility and mobility for persons with disabilities. The Secretary further noted the Government’s resolve to strengthen the National Commissions; NCHR, NCSW, and NCRC in accordance with the Paris Principles to ensure more effective protection, redress, and accountability mechanisms.
The ongoing EU-Pakistan collaboration under the Huqooq-e-Pakistan II (HeP-II) project was also discussed. Both sides emphasized the need to strengthen coordination among all stakeholders to ensure effective implementation of the 2025 work plan.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides reaffirming their shared commitment to human rights and recognizing the Ministry of Human Rights as the key focal point for advancing this agenda in Pakistan. The importance of continued coordination and regular engagement was also emphasized.

DPM Dar hails China’s leadership at launch of global mediation body in Hong Kong

By
Asif Jalal
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0
HONG KONG, May 30 (APP):Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Friday hailed the Chinese leadership at the signing ceremony of the Convention establishing the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) in Hong Kong for ushering a new era of diplomacy.
Addressing the landmark event hosted by the People’s Republic of China, the deputy prime minister praised Beijing for spearheading the creation of the IOMed, describing it as a “testament to Chinese wisdom” and a reflection of China’s continued commitment to global peace and multilateral diplomacy.
“This signing ceremony marks not only the birth of a vital global institution dedicated to mediation and conflict resolution but also heralds a new era in international diplomacy,” Dar stated.
He likened the establishment of IOMed to China’s earlier groundbreaking initiative—the creation of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)—calling it an “exceptional step in the world of mediation, as AIIB was in the world of finance.”
The Deputy Prime Minister lauded the selection of Hong Kong as the organization’s headquarters, calling it a “super-connector” where East meets West. He described the dynamic city as well-poised to steer the organization through a “transformational journey” in global conflict resolution.
Pakistan, Dar announced, is proud to be among the founding members of the IOMed. He highlighted Pakistan’s own progress in the field with the establishment of the International Mediation and Arbitration Centre (IMAC), aimed at enhancing judicial efficiency and promoting commercial dispute resolution. “We look forward to close collaboration between IOMed and IMAC,” he said.
Dar emphasized the need for adherence to the principles of the UN Charter and international law, warning against the rise of populism, ultra-nationalism, and unilateralism. “We are witnessing the erosion of international norms, with some states disregarding diplomacy and the rule of law in pursuit of narrow regional ambitions,” he said.
Referring to regional conflicts, Dar spotlighted the unresolved Jammu and Kashmir dispute and the plight of Palestinians under occupation, labeling both as critical threats to regional and global peace. He strongly condemned what he termed as “unprovoked and unjustified military aggression” by Pakistan’s eastern neighbour, including violations of the Indus Waters Treaty and international human rights law.
“These actions set dangerous precedents and undermine global peace efforts. But the creation of IOMed sends a clear message: the international community does not accept violations of the UN Charter or arbitrary use of force as normal behavior,” he asserted.
Dar also endorsed Chinese President Xi Jinping’s Global Security Initiative (GSI), citing its focus on dialogue, sovereignty, and cooperative security as reflective of the values underpinning IOMed.
As a close strategic partner of China, Dar said Pakistan remains fully committed to multilateralism and the principles of peaceful coexistence. “Our presence here is not only symbolic of our support but a reaffirmation of our commitment to justice, equity, and dialogue,” he concluded. “Pakistan will remain an active voice in this noble mission and will support IOMed in fulfilling its potential in the service of peace.”

DASTAK wins 2025 Nelson Mandela-Graça Machel Innovation Award

By
Asif Jalal
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ISLAMABAD, May 30 (APP):The DASTAK Women Rights and Awareness Foundation has been honored with the 2025 Nelson Mandela-Graça Machel Innovation Award in the Organisation Category by the CIVICUS World Alliance for Citizen Participation.
The award recognizes DASTAK’s groundbreaking work in advancing gender-responsive climate justice through its FIERCE initiative.
The FIERCE (Feminist Initiative for Environmental Resilience, Collective Care, and Well-being of Eco-Justice Defenders) initiative redefines climate action by centering the lived experiences, emotions, and knowledge of grassroots defenders, particularly women in Pakistan and the Global South.
Emerging from the devastating 2022 floods in Pakistan, DASTAK’s approach challenges extractive narratives and instead amplifies the voices of those most affected by climate crises.
In a statement, CIVICUS praised DASTAK for embodying the vision of Nelson Mandela and Graça Machel, stating: “These innovators live up to a belief in people power and justice grounded in dignity and imagination. Their work inspires new paths forward for civil society and the world.”
Hira Amjad, Founder and Executive Director of DASTAK Foundation, expressed gratitude, saying: “This award recognizes the power of care, community, and grassroots knowledge in our work. It affirms that decolonized, gender-responsive climate action is not only necessary but effective and urgent. This moment belongs to every climate defender and survivor building liberation with love.”
Presented by CIVICUS, the Nelson Mandela-Graça Machel Innovation Awards honor individuals and organizations using innovative approaches to tackle pressing global challenges.

DPM felicitates Chinese FM on successful signing of Convention establishing IOMed

By
Asif Jalal
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0
HONG KONG, May 30 (APP):Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Friday felicitated Chinese FM Wang Yi on successful signing of the Convention establishing the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed).
The DPM met with the Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, in Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region of China, a DPM’s Office news release said.
The two leaders reaffirmed the ironclad Pakistan-China friendship & ‘All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership’, reviewed ongoing bilateral engagements, and agreed to deepen cooperation on all issues of mutual interest including CPEC 2.0.
Both leaders also reiterated their firm resolve to make joint strides for regional peace and stability.

Punjab’s University of Child Health Sciences becomes Pakistan’s 1st institution to produce pediatric nurses: Minister

By
Asif Jalal
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0
LAHORE, May 30 (APP):Punjab Health Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique has announced that the University of Child Health Sciences (UCHS) has become the first medical institution in Pakistan to train and produce pediatric nurses, marking a historic advancement in the country’s healthcare education sector.
Chairing the 13th Syndicate meeting of the university, the minister emphasized the government’s commitment to expanding the university’s capacity and providing state-of-the-art facilities. He highlighted that this achievement is the result of the special interest taken by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, under whose leadership Rs 22 billion in outstanding dues for medicines at public hospitals have been cleared over the past five years.
Khawaja Salman Rafique directed the Infrastructure Development Authority of Punjab (IDAP) to ensure the timely completion of the university’s main building, a key step in strengthening pediatric healthcare infrastructure in Punjab. The meeting, held at the university, brought together leading medical academics and government officials, including Vice Chancellor Prof. Masood Sadiq, Registrar Prof. Nabila Talat, and representatives from the University of Health Sciences, Higher Education Commission, and Department of Specialized Healthcare & Medical Education.
During the session, the minister ratified all decisions taken in the 12th Syndicate meeting and reviewed the progress of their implementation. He also received a comprehensive briefing from IDAP officials on the ongoing construction of the main building.
Several key decisions were made during the 13th meeting, including the approval of appointments to key statutory positions, endorsement of recommendations from the university’s academic council, and the establishment of new academic departments. The Syndicate also approved the launch of a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program in collaboration with the University of Health Sciences, pending final approval from the Higher Education Commission. Additionally, the creation of new posts for the School of Allied Health Sciences and the College of Nursing, as well as the establishment of the Department of Human Nutrition and procurement of laboratory equipment, were also approved.
The Health minister described the progress at UCHS as a significant step towards addressing the province’s growing pediatric healthcare needs. He praised the university’s pioneering role in producing specialized pediatric nurses and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting such transformative initiatives in healthcare and medical education.

Experts call for immediate Front-of-Pack Warning Labels to combat health crisis

By
Kamran Muraad
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ISLAMABAD, May 30 (APP):Health and policy experts, government officials and civil society representatives, on Friday emphasised the urgent implementation of Front-of-Pack Warning Labels (FOPWL) on packaged foods in a bid to tackle country’s growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Experts call for immediate Front-of-Pack Warning Labels to combat health crisis
They expressed these views at a National Roundtable Consultation, co-hosted by Heartfile and the Pakistan National Heart Association (PANAH) here, said a press release.
The event brought together stakeholders from federal and provincial health and food departments, food regulators, public health organizations, and academia.
They emphasized that over 60% of all deaths in Pakistan are linked to NCDs such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and hypertension.
According to experts, poor dietary habits, particularly the rising intake of ultra-processed foods high in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats, are a major contributing factor.
Speakers at the event said that FOPWLs—simple, black octagonal warning signs displayed on the front of packaging—have shown global success, particularly in countries like Chile, Mexico and Brazil, where they have led to a decline in the consumption of unhealthy food products and encouraged food manufacturers to reformulate their products to meet healthier standards.
Dr Saba Amjad of Heartfile and Sana Ullah Ghumman of PANAH were joined by other experts in stressing the need for a scientifically grounded Nutrient Profile Model (NPM) to objectively determine which products require warning labels.
Dr Saba said, “We must not allow commercial interests to override public health. Every day we delay these reforms, more lives are lost to preventable diseases.”
Sana Ullah Ghumman of PANAH said, “This is not just a health issue; it’s a national emergency. The government must act now to protect the lives and well-being of our people.”
They urged the government to adopt a broader set of evidence-based food and health policy reforms.
These include not only the immediate implementation of FOPWLs but also increased excise taxes on ultra-processed food and beverage products in the upcoming Finance Bill 2025–26, strict regulations on marketing to children, and a ban on unhealthy food availability in public institutions, particularly schools.
The experts emphasized that the current situation represents both a public health emergency and an economic threat.
In addition to health impacts, participants highlighted the social and economic dimensions of diet-related diseases.
Poor dietary practices are contributing to the intergenerational cycle of poverty by affecting the cognitive and physical development of children, reducing educational outcomes, and increasing the financial burden on already struggling households.
Several speakers noted that the front-of-pack label system is not merely a regulatory change, but a critical health intervention that empowers consumers to make better food choices.
The event concluded with a strong note that the adoption of FOPWLs, combined with fiscal policies, marketing restrictions, and institutional regulations, could play a transformative role in reversing the tide of diet-related diseases in the country.

City’s sacrificial cattle markets bustle with buyers

By
Asif Jalal
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0
RAWALPINDI, May 30 (APP):As Eid-ul-Azha approaches, the city’s sacrificial animals’ markets have become the destination of festivity for people.
The largest market, set up at Bhatta Chowk, has become the central hub for buyers and sellers, offering a variety of sacrificial animals, including cows, bulls, camels, goats, and sheep.
The market’s capacity to hold nearly 100,000 animals, has drawn visitors from the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, to find the perfect sacrificial animals.
Located at the junction of the twin cities, the cattle market has been provided security measures jointly by  Rawalpindi and Islamabad administrations to ensure smooth operations within the market.
Visitors while talking to APP have appreciated the arrangements, observing the ease with which they can navigate through the sections to inspect animals. However, amid the excitement, they have also shown concerns about the rising prices of the animals.
Many buyers expressed that the cost of animals has gone beyond their budget this year.
Tahir Malik said he would prefer collective sacrifice where 5 or 7 people share a single animal to manage expenses.
Families, including women and children, visit through the market, particularly in evening time. The festive atmosphere is attractive, with laughter, bargaining, and the sonorous bells hanging in animals necks.
Irshad, a vendor in the market said selling was getting momentum slowly.
“I have brought here 20 animals including sheep and goats, but hardly 4 have been sold. Visitors inquire about prices and walk away”, he said.
Usman, searching for a small animal said RCB should work on standard base prices to stop overcharging. He also highlighted issues relating to animals’ health conditions.
“The overall atmosphere is good, however vet services are required in the market to certify the required health standard of the sacrificial animals”, he said.
Meanwhile, butchers have also started their preparations through advertising their contact details. The slaughtering fees starting from Rs. 5,000.0  for small animals to a staggering Rs. 20,000.0 for large ones have also been discredited by the citizens. They expressed the hope the administrative measures would be taken to regulate these charges.
On the cleanliness front, the Cantonment Board has assured special measures to manage waste during the three days of Eid.
“Besides regular activities inside the market, the RCB teams will patrol key areas, including Saddar, Lal Kurti, Tench Bhatta People’s Colony and other Cantt areas, to promptly clear animals’ offal”, said a spokesman RCB.

Romania embassy, PNCA launch Opera singing courses in Islamabad

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, May 30 (APP):The Embassy of Romania, in collaboration with the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), officially launched opera singing courses here on Friday, aiming to introduce rich Romanian culture.
Romania embassy, PNCA launch Opera singing courses in Islamabad
The event was attended by Romanian Ambassador Dr. Dan Stoenescu, Member of the National Assembly Farah Naz Akbar, PNCA Director General Muhammad Ayoub Jamali, and participating students.
Romania embassy, PNCA launch Opera singing courses in Islamabad
The courses, conducted by renowned Romanian soprano Georgiana Costea-Gluga, aim to introduce Pakistani students to the rich tradition of Romanian opera and foster cross-cultural artistic exchange.
Romania embassy, PNCA launch Opera singing courses in Islamabad
Ambassador Stoenescu emphasized the importance of cultural exchange, stating, “Through the universal language of music, we hope to build bridges between our cultures, encourage artistic collaboration, and foster mutual understanding.”
The courses are held twice a week at PNCA, and participants will gain exposure to the core principles of operatic performance, including vocal technique, stage presence, and musical interpretation.
The initiative reflects the commitment of PNCA and the Embassy of Romania to promote artistic and educational opportunities, strengthening cultural ties between Romania and Pakistan.
The courses are open to aspiring vocalists of all experience levels, and registration is now open. This cultural collaboration aims to promote mutual understanding and celebrate the expressive beauty of opera.

Experts call out tobacco industry’s tax evasion tactics on World No Tobacco Day

By
Asif Jalal
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0
ISLAMABAD, May 30 (APP):Experts from leading policy think tanks and health advocates joined forces on Friday to spotlight the manipulation and interference of the tobacco industry in Pakistan’s tax policy—just ahead of the federal and provincial budget announcements.
The seminar titled “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Tobacco Industry Interference in Tobacco Taxation,” organized by the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) in collaboration with the Social Policy and Development Centre (SPDC), Karachi was held in connection with the World No Tobacco Day 2025,said a press release.
The seminar served as a crucial pre-budget discussion on the dire need for effective and progressive tobacco taxation reforms, amid concerns over rising illicit trade, under-regulated nicotine products, and health policy sabotage by the tobacco lobby.
In his opening remarks, Syed Ali Wasif Naqvi, Senior Research Fellow at SDPI, stressed the urgency of tackling tobacco as a holistic public health threat.
Dr Abid Qaiyum Suleri, Executive Director of SDPI, in his welcome note, emphasized the importance of revisiting tobacco taxation as a vital revenue and public health issue. He called for aligning tax mechanisms with income levels and health vulnerabilities, urging the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to reprioritize tax targets.
“We’re seeing tax evasion through illegal cigarette trade and unchecked nicotine vape sales, particularly in the capital,” he said.
Muhammad Asif Iqbal, Managing Director of SPDC, delivered a technical presentation that dismantled industry narratives. According to SPDC’s nationwide survey of over 9,000 households and 6,600 smokers whereas 35% of the cigarette market is illicit, contradicting industry claims of 54%.
Despite inflation (CPI rising by 9.5%), cigarette prices rose by only 2.7% since 2023, he said.
The track and trace system has improved, he said 57% of cigarette packs now have tax stamps, up from 48% in 2023.  Illicit cigarette sales remain stagnant, debunking fears that higher taxes lead to black market growth, he added.
Iqbal recommended an increase of at least Rs 40 per pack in the Federal Excise Duty (FED) and full implementation of the Finance Act 2024, including sealing retailers selling untaxed or counterfeit products.
Waseem Iftikhar Janjua, Advisor at SDPI, highlighted that Pakistan has one of the lowest tobacco tax rates in South Asia, trailing even conflict-ridden regions like Palestine and Sudan. He advocated for a single-tier excise tax system, introduction of a health levy on all tobacco products and stronger enforcement through the Track and Trace System.
He also called out the policy ambiguity around e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches, urging a clear stance.
Dr Waseem Saleem, technical advisor on tobacco taxation at WHO, stated that Federal Excise Duty (FED) on cigarettes has remained unchanged since February 2023, even as inflation surged by 26%. “This failure to adjust FED rates in line with inflation has significantly eroded the real value of tobacco taxes,” Dr Saleem said.
He added that the tobacco industry has exploited this stagnation by shifting production toward lower-taxed economy brands. Official data shows that while overall cigarette production rose by 22% in the first nine months of FY 2024–25, production of premium brands — which are taxed at PKR 330 per pack — fell by over 53%. Meanwhile, production of economy brands, taxed at just PKR 101 per pack, jumped by 30%.
Despite the rise in cigarette production, FED revenues from the sector increased by just 7.4% — well below the rate of inflation. The average effective tax per stick dropped from PKR 6.50 to PKR 5.64 over the same period. Dr Saleem estimates that this tax erosion has resulted in a potential revenue loss of PKR 82 billion over the past two fiscal years.
Dr Saleem urged the government to reassess its tobacco tax policy, emphasizing the need for regular FED rate increases and stronger controls on production practices. “To protect both public health and national revenue, Pakistan must close these loopholes and prevent the industry from gaming the system,” he concluded.
Sania Ali Khan, a tobacco control advocate, exposed the industry’s backdoor tactics: from media manipulation and CSR stunts to interference in policy-making through front groups. She drew attention to the environmental cost—3.7 liters of water per cigarette, along with contributions to deforestation and pollution.
Dr Minhaj us Siraj, Executive Director of Syndicate Health, noted that while tobacco control efforts are already in motion, this year’s theme—focusing on taxation—presents both an opportunity and a challenge. “Taxation remains a complex but vital tool in tobacco control,” he said. Recalling past attempts by the government to seek funding for public awareness campaigns against illegal cigarette sales, Dr Siraj credited sustained advocacy and stakeholder engagement for recent improvements.
He proposed a unified front: “Federal and provincial revenue departments, along with all relevant stakeholders, must come together to establish a dedicated Tobacco Control Authority to streamline efforts and ensure effective policy implementation.”
Dr Shabana Saleem, Director General at the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination (MoNHSR&C), echoed the need for a consolidated and holistic approach. Speaking as Guest of Honour, she emphasized the value of technical collaboration with think tanks such as SDPI and SPDC, who are part of the Ministry’s technical working group on tobacco taxation.
“The Ministry has conveyed strong recommendations to the FBR and Ministry of Finance for significant hikes in tobacco taxes,” she stated. “We are pursuing the matter relentlessly with the relevant institutions to secure the outcomes needed for public health.”
Dr Shabana Saleem further revealed that the Ministry’s top authorities are convinced of the need to revive the Tobacco Control Cell, which had been inactive in recent years. She confirmed that a comprehensive proposal has already been submitted to the Ministry of Finance and FBR, urging immediate action.
“The Ministry is working closely with development partners and NGOs to deliver on its mandate,” she added. “Tobacco control demands a holistic, multi-sectoral effort—and we are ready to lead it.”
In his closing remarks, Dr Sajid Amin Javed, Deputy Executive Director of SDPI, emphasized that effective tobacco taxation boosts revenue without economic trade-offs, but political will and inter-ministerial cooperation are vital.
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