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Diamond Paints, MP Black, FG/Asean record victories in Lahore Open Polo Championship

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LAHORE, Dec 19 (APP): FG/Asean, Diamond Paints and Master Paints Black recorded victories through exhilirating contests on the fourth day of the 14th Lahore Open Polo Championship 2025 for the Patrons Cup at the Lahore Polo Club here on Friday.
In the opening match of the day, FG/Asean clinched a hard-fought 5-4 victory over BN Polo after an intense contest. Saqib Khan Khakwani delivered a standout performance for FG/Asean by scoring all five goals for his team. For BN Polo, Hamza Mawaz Khan netted three goals, while Saim Abbas added one.
The second match saw Diamond Paints overpower FG/Din Polo by 6-4 in an entertaining encounter. Raja Jalal Arsalan led the scoring for Diamond Paints with four goals, while Raja Temur Nadeem contributed two. FG/Din Polo’s resistance came through Juan Cruz Greguoli, who scored two goals, while Sheikh Muhammad Raffay and Agha Musa chipped in with one goal each.
The highlight of the day came in the third match, where Master Paints Black once again demonstrated their nerve and resilience by defeating Rijas/Sheikhoo Steel 9-8 in extra time through sudden death. Ignacio was the top scorer for Master Paints Black with four goals, followed by Mohammad Ali Malik with three and Syed Turab M Rizvi with two. For Rijas/Sheikhoo Steel, Raja Samiullah scored four goals, Mumtaz Abbas Niazi added two, while Osman Aziz Anwar and Mohib Faisal Shahzad scored one goal each.
A large number of spectators and families turned up at the Lahore Polo Club to witness the action-packed encounters. Prominent among those present were Lahore Polo Club President Malik Azam Hayat Noon, executive committee members, sponsors and patrons including Taimur Ali Malik (Director, Guard Group), Nafees Barry of Happy Cow Cheese, Babar Naseem of BN Polo, Club Secretary Major (R) Amjad Ghafoor, along with a sizeable gathering of polo players and officials.

DPM chairs meeting regarding IT exports

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ISLAMABAD, Dec 19 (APP):Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar Friday chaired a meeting regarding the export of IT services.
The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication (MoITT) gave a detailed presentation on enhancing IT exports to the world and generating substantial revenue and forex reserves for Pakistan.
The DPM/FM stressed on the importance of IT and related fields as part of the future industry.
He said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will continue to make efforts to promote IT industry and its growth.
The meeting was attended by Minister IT and Telecommunications; Secretaries of MOFA & IT and Telecommunication; senior officials of MOFA and experts of IT industry.

4 khwarij killed, 4 armed forces personnel embrace martyrdom in North Waziristan

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RAWALPINDI, Dec 19 (APP): Security Forces killed all four khwarij terrorists by foiling their attempt to breach security perimeter of camp in general area Boya North Waziristan.

4 khwarij killed, 4 armed forces personnel embrace martyrdom in North Waziristan

“On 19 December 2025, in a heinous and cowardly terrorist act, Khwarij belonging to Indian proxy Fitna al Khwarij attacked security forces camp, in general area Boya, North Waziristan District,” said a news release issued by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR).

4 khwarij killed, 4 armed forces personnel embrace martyrdom in North Waziristan

It further said that Khwarij attempted to breach the perimeter security, however, their nefarious designs were swiftly foiled by the vigilant and resolute response by own troops. In their desperation, the attackers rammed an explosive laden vehicle on outer perimeter wall, resulting in its collapse and considerable damage to adjacent civilian infrastructure including a mosque.

Besides damaging their homes this blatant act of barbarism by khwarij inflicted severe injuries to fifteen local civilians including innocent children and women.

“Displaying unwavering courage and professional excellence, own troops engaged the intruders with precision, resultantly all four khwarij belonging to Indian proxy, Fitna al Khwarij were sent to hell,” the news release said.

However, during the intense fire exchanges, four brave sons of soil Havildar Muhammad Waqas (age: 42 years, resident of District Kotli), Naik Khanwaiz (age: 38 years, resident of District Mansehra), Sepoy Sufyan Haider (age: 25 years, resident of District Vehari) and Sepoy Riffat (age: 32 years, resident of District Leyyah) having fought gallantly, paid the ultimate sacrifice and embraced Shahadat.

This hideous act of terrorism, planned and orchestrated by Afghanistan based Khwarij is in contrast to assertions made by Afghan Taliban Regime, claiming non presence of these terrorist groups operating from their soil.

“Pakistan expects from Interim Afghan Government to fulfil its obligations and deny use of its soil by Khwarij against Pakistan as the safety and security of people of Pakistan comes first and foremost. Pak reserves the right to hunt these khwarij down and eliminate their facilitators and affiliates to ensure safety of own people,” the news release said.

ATC convicts PTI leaders in May 9 unrest case

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LAHORE, Dec 19 (APP):An anti-terrorism court (ATC) has sentenced Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders, including Umar Sarfaraz Cheema, Dr. Yasmin Rashid, Mian Mahmoodur Rasheed, and Ejaz Chaudhry, to 10 years in prison each in the GOR Gate attack case during the May 9 unrest.
The PTI leaders were convicted for encouraging other party members to rebel and for resorting to violence during the May 9 turmoil.
The sentences handed down to the local leadership in Lahore indicate action against behind-the-scenes facilitators and inciting leadership.
The DG ISPR had stated at a press conference on May 7, 2024, that the May 9 case is a case of the entire nation. The DG ISPR expressed hope that all facilitators and inciting elements involved would soon be brought before a court of law.
Political analysts said that following the punishments awarded to leadership at this level, the PTI founder may also face similar cases. They said that the punishments given to the party leadership are an important step toward the restoration of the writ of the state.
After the decision in the Faiz Hameed case, political analysts have also mentioned an alleged mutual nexus between the PTI founder and Faiz Hameed behind these incidents.
The analysts were of the view that, in the ISPR press release on the Faiz Hameed decision, the reference to political collusion may point toward the PTI founder. More decisions are expected in the coming days, they said.

Pakistan to lock horns with India in Asia Cup U 19 final

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LAHORE, Dec 19 (APP):Pakistan U19 booked their place in the final of the ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup 2025 with a commanding eight-wicket win over Bangladesh U19 in the semi-final at the Sevens Stadium in Dubai on Friday. Pakistan will now face India in the final on Sunday, 21 December at the ICC Academy Ground. The first ball of the final will be bowled at 9am local time.
The rain-affected contest was reduced to 27 overs per side following overnight showers and a wet outfield, with play getting underway after a delayed start. Pakistan captain Farhan Yousaf won the toss and elected to field, a decision that paid rich dividends as the bowlers combined to restrict Bangladesh to 121 all out in 26.3 overs.
Right-arm pacer Abdul Subhan led the charge with an impressive four-wicket haul, applying the brakes through the middle overs. He was well supported by Huzaifa Ahsan, who picked up two wickets, while Ali Raza, Mohammad Sayyam and Ahmed Hussain chipped in with a wicket apiece to keep Bangladesh in check.
Samiun Basir top-scored for Bangladesh with 33 runs.
In turn, Pakistan achieved the target in just 16.3 overs, losing two wickets in process. Opener Sameer Minhas anchored the run-chase with an unbeaten 69 off 57 balls, striking six fours and two sixes to ensure there were no hiccups.
Usman Khan provided brisk support with a 27-run knock which included two fours and as many sixes, while Ahmed remained not out on 11 to see Pakistan home.
Scores in brief:
Pakistan beat Bangladesh by eight wickets
Bangladesh 121 all out, 26.3 overs (Samiun Basir 33; Abdul Subhan 4-20, Huzaifa Ahsan 2-10)
Pakistan 122-2, 16.3 overs (Sameer Minhas 69 not out, Usman Khan 27)
Player of the match – Abdul Subhan (Pakistan U19)

PPL achieves landmark valuation on PSX

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ISLAMABAD, Dec 19 (APP):Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) has achieved a landmark valuation on the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), following the successful completion of a strategic offshore exploration agreement with Turkish Petroleum Overseas Company (TPOC).
The partnership, focused on the Eastern Offshore Indus Block C, has revitalized investor confidence and established PPL as a dominant leader in the energy sector’s growth during the first week of December, said a press release here on Friday.
The transaction involved PPL transferring operatorship and a 25 percent interest to TPOC, while maintaining a significant 35 percent stake in the venture. This asset-level deal was the most significant of its kind within the local exploration and production sector, demonstrating PPL’s ability to execute complex international agreements. By integrating the technical mastery of a seasoned offshore operator like TPOC, the company has successfully reduced the execution risks associated with deep-water exploration while preserving substantial potential for future gains.
This strategic milestone is a testament to the visionary leadership of the PPL’s Managing Director whose focused approach to international collaboration and portfolio optimization has been instrumental in securing this deal. His stewardship has not only de-risked critical assets but has also reinforced PPL’s reputation as a progressive, investment-ready enterprise capable of navigating the complexities of the global energy market.
The market’s response to this leadership-driven initiative was immediate and robust. PPL’s stock price climbed to an all-time high of Rs 217, surpassing previous records and attracting massive institutional interest. On December 5, the company recorded a staggering trading volume of 19 million shares, with the total value reaching Rs 4.1 billion—the highest single-day turnover for any stock on the PSX. This performance highlights the capital market’s strong endorsement of PPL’s current trajectory and its enhanced risk-reward profile.
Beyond its financial success, the agreement fosters deeper energy cooperation between Pakistan and Türkiye, marking a critical step in PPL’s mission to diversify its assets and expand its footprint on the international stage.

RDA demolishes site office of illegal housing scheme

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RAWALPINDI, Dec 19 (APP):The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) on Friday demolished the site office of an illegal housing scheme, Qaim Mansion, and removed unauthorised infrastructure during an enforcement operation in Mouza Adyala along Adyala Road.
The RDA Enforcement Squad acted on the directions of Director General Kinza Murtaza of the Rawalpindi Development Authority and cleared unlawfully blocked pathways and access roads during the operation.
According to the RDA spokesman, the developers were directed to immediately halt all construction activities and bring the site into compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
“There will be no leniency for unlawful development,” he said, adding that strict enforcement would continue to safeguard public interest, ensure discipline in urban planning and prevent fraudulent practices.
The RDA advised citizens to refrain from investing in unauthorised projects and to verify the legal status of any housing scheme through official RDA platforms before making financial commitments. It reiterated that only RDA-approved schemes should be considered for investment.
The authority said it regularly issues public advisories and press releases to keep citizens informed and encouraged the public to consult the RDA website for updated information on approved projects.

Pakistan Study Center at Shandong University officially inaugurated

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BEIJING, Dec 19 (APP):The Pakistan Study Centre at Shandong University was officially inaugurated on Friday by Pakistan Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi, in the presence of Executive Vice President Wu Zhen and faculty members.
The Centre marks a new avenue for academic engagement between Pakistan and China, with a focus on deepening mutual understanding through research, dialogue, and educational exchanges, particularly in agriculture and fisheries.
In his remarks, Ambassador Hashmi thanked the university leadership for their strong support in realizing this initiative.
He highlighted the growing momentum in Pakistan-China relations across various sectors, particularly education and research.
The Ambassador noted that Shandong, renowned worldwide for its innovation and reforms in the agriculture and fisheries sectors, was an ideal location for such an initiative. He emphasized the importance of academic platforms in building long-term people-to-people linkages.
The Centre aims to serve as a hub for promoting Pakistan-focused studies, collaborative research, B2B activities, and student engagement. Shandong University, known for its vibrant academic atmosphere and global perspective, provides a solid base for the Centre’s success.
Prior to the inauguration, Ambassador Hashmi met with the Executive Vice President Wu Zhen of Shandong University to discuss ways to utilize the new Centre for mutually beneficial pursuits in academia, research, particularly in the area of agriculture and fisheries. Ambassador Hashmi was also given a tour of the Shandong University Museum.

JKLF (Yasin) lobbies UK govt over Yasin Malik’s “fabricated” Indian jail sentence

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MIRPUR, Dec 19 (APP):A high-level JKLF delegation led by Prof. Raja Zafar Khan presented a memorandum to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street, London, urging intervention in the case of jailed Kashmiri leader Yasin Malik. The memo highlighted the “inhuman treatment” and “politically motivated” charges against Malik, who has been imprisoned by India for nearly seven years without access to basic healthcare or fair judicial process.
The delegation included the party’s central chief organizer Sabir Gul, secretary of the diplomatic bureau Mahmood Hussain, and media manager Mahmood Faiz, a JKLF (Y) chief spokesman said on Friday.
In a detailed statement issued from the party’s central information office today, the chief spokesman informed the media that the memorandum condemned India’s use of courts to target Malik, a peaceful pro-freedom leader, and appealed to Starmer to help resolve the Kashmir issue and save Malik’s life. It drew attention to the death penalty threat Malik faces after already serving a life sentence, calling it a “political vendetta”. The JKLF leaders stressed that Malik’s case is emblematic of India’s crackdown on dissent in occupied Kashmir.
In a separate statement, JKLF welcomed a December 14 party unification meeting in Birmingham, UK, where founders vowed to unite and push for Malik’s release. They also announced a February 11 protest marking the martyrdom anniversary of freedom fighter Muhammad Maqbool Butt.
Meanwhile, JKLF spokesman Muhammad Rafiq Dar attended a memorial for Muslim Conference leader Chaudhry Ghulam Abbas, calling for Azad Kashmir to become a “true base camp” for the freedom struggle. Dar emphasized unifying around a common national Kashmir policy and highlighting India’s oppression in occupied Kashmir.
The JKLF’s diplomatic push comes amid growing international scrutiny of India’s human rights record in Kashmir. The party’s efforts aim to rally global support for Malik’s release and amplify the Kashmir movement’s demands for self-determination.

Romanian embassy hosts Christmas concert to conclude cultural days in Pakistan

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ISLAMABAD, Dec 19 (APP):The Embassy of Romania hosted a special Christmas concert on Friday, marking the conclusion of the Romanian Cultural Days in Pakistan.
The event, held at Saint Thomas Church in Islamabad, brought together culture, music, and community in a festive atmosphere, said a press release.
Renowned Romanian soprano Georgiana Costea-Gluga and pianist Sheeza Maqsood treated the audience to an enchanting evening of carols and seasonal music, featuring traditional Romanian and international Christmas classics.
The concert was attended by members of the diplomatic community, the Romanian community, friends of Romania, and music lovers, highlighting the unifying power of culture and music.
The event served as a meaningful celebration of cultural dialogue and friendship, leaving audiences with lasting memories of a special evening dedicated to harmony, tradition, and goodwill.