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Allama Khadim Hussain Rizvi passes away in Lahore

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ISLAMABAD, Nov 19 (APP): APP Digital NewsAllama Khadim Hussain Rizvi, the leader of Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan breathed his last Thursday night at Lahore, his party announced. He was 55.

No reason for his death was given. His party officials said he was rushed to a hospital after he had problem breathing and had fever for past few days. However he was pronounced dead when he arrived at the hospital.

Senior TLP leader Syed Inayat-ul-Haq Shah also confirmed the news and asked the TLP workers to proceed to Lahore to participate in his last rites. The Tehreek-e-Labbaik announced that his funeral would be held on Saturday at 10 in the morning at Minar-e-Pakistan.

Videos on several social media accounts showed large number of his followers rushing to his home and crying over his sad demise.

The fire brand clerk was known for his protest marches, that often became violent and created law and order problems. His last protest was relatively shorter at Faizabad and ended only after a two day blockade of the twin cities on Monday.

Immediately after the confirmation of the news condolences poured in from all sections of society; including the Prime Minister, the Foreign Minister, Information Minister, Chief of Army Staff, Chief Minister Punjab and political leaders of many parties.

Prime Minister Imran Khan in a tweet expressed his grief over the sad demise of Allama Khadim Rizvi and conveyed condolences to his family.

Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa also conveyed his condolences over the demise of the TLP leader.

 

Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister on Information in Punjab also expressed grief over his sad demise.

Amir Jamat Islami also expressed his grief and prayed to Allah Almighty to bless the departed soul.

Prime Minister Imran Khan’s consistent stance on Kashmir

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Prime Minister Imran Khan’s stance on Kashmir at international fora to highlight gruesome human rights violations by India

 

Indian media’s fake “civil war” in Pakistan, falls flat on face

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APP Digital Small logo
By Shafek Koreshe

In an abortive attempt to create diversion from Narendra Modi’s human rights abuses in Kashmir, the Indian media went berserk by propagating fake news about a “civil war” like situation in Karachi, triggering a hilarious response from the twitterati in Pakistan, who enjoyed every bit of the ridiculous reports.

#CivilWarInPakistan and #KarachiCivilWar were in no time the top trends, with the young twitter users going crazy by posting video clips from action movies, comics, images of the Indian MiG pilot Abhinandan Varthaman, shot down by Pakistan Air Force inside Pakistan’s territory, as scenes from the Civil War, getting an equally enthusiastic response with numerous retweets and likes.

The arrest of PML-N leader Captain (Retd) Safdar on charges of political sloganeering at Quaid’s Mausoleum and leave applications by senior police officers was exploited by the top Indian news channels, who portrayed an administrative issue as a “civil war” and went to the extent of even reporting casualties, and armed clashes.

Indian Media ditches professionalism to dip at to its lowest 

#FakeNews CNN18News
#FakeNews CNN18News

The news reports were part of a persistent barrage of fake news from Indian mainstream media and its RAW controlled assets on social media over the past few months. The trend has witnessed a sharp spike as part of India’s fifth generation war (5GW) against Pakistan.

Pakistan’s Foreign Office on the “malicious and fabricated propaganda” by Indian mainstream and social media claiming civil unrest in Pakistan, said planting such baseless stories were reflective of the “Pakistan-obsessed BJP-RSS” mindset.

“Needless to say that Indian media continues to hit new lows,” he said, when asked to respond over the series of fake news flashed as breaking news across the Indian media about a “civil war in Pakistan”.

“Indian media continues to hit new lows”: FO

The Spokesperson said through “peddling fake news and running propaganda machinery”, India could not wash away the truth about its own gross and systematic human rights violations in Indian Ilelgally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

“Rather than reporting on humanitarian crisis in IIOJK, the Indian media chooses to spread fake and sensational news about Pakistan to detract from core issues,” he said.

5th Gen War – Twitterati bust RAW’s #Fake letter attributed to COAS

 

#FakeNews - Yet another figment of imagination of Indian Media
#FakeNews – Yet another figment of imagination of Indian Media

The Indian media tried hard to appease its own consumers and to create a diversion from its human rights abuses in occupied Kashmir. However in its abortive attempt it created history by churning out fake news overpowered by the anti-Pakistan hysteria, undermining its professional ethics and credibility.

#FakeNews - India Today with its concocted news story
#FakeNews – India Today with its concocted news story

The unleashing of the Indian media did not go unnoticed, as Michael Kugelman, deputy director at the @AsiaProgram and South Asia senior associate @TheWilsonCenter in a tweet pointed that the Indian disinformation accounts were exploiting Pakistan’s current political crisis, and “falsely claiming that the country is no experiencing urban warfare.”

He described the trend as “dangerous and disturbing”, as several of these accounts were verified and had huge followings.

Minister for Human Rights Dr Shireen Mazari said the Indian media was in “hyper drive with fake news on Pakistan” and regretted that it was “unfortunate that Twitter is [deliberately ignoring it].”

All major media outlets in so-called world’s biggest democracy decimated all journalistic norms as none bothered to fact-check such a huge gaffe. India’s News18, India Today, Zee News, India.com and several others quoted the International Herald which showed old videos of bomb explosions in Pakistan and portrayed it as the ongoing civil war.

#FakeNews - Indian International Herald tweet
#FakeNews – Indian International Herald tweet

The Institute of Policy Research in a report said their data indicates a pattern of Indian propaganda against Pakistan on digital media that grew exponentially after 2018 General Elections in #Pakistan. The propaganda hovers around largely 4 key themes.

IPRI Timeline of Indian Propaganda
IPRI Timeline of Indian Propaganda

Minister for Ports and Shipping pointed that the Indian propaganda was at its peak and “sadly fueled by the PDM Circus.” He said the food inflation was artificially manufactured, but was being brought under control.

Minister for Kashmir Affairs also lambasted the “fake, fabricated and malicious propaganda campaign to malign State institutions of Pakistan. He urged @Twitter to take action against Indian accounts for #FakeNews against Paksitan.

However, this idiocy of Indian media gave the Twitterati a perfect chance to enjoy as the microblogging site was flooded with messages to ridicule the Indian media’s insanity.

“Karachi civil war has gotten so bad that my food panda delivery boy had to crawl through mine fields carrying his AK47, RPG & 9mm along with my nihari and Biryani. This thing is getting so serious. Multiple cows have been killed & people are dying of over eating. #IndianMedia,” commented renowned singer Fakhr-e-Alam.

Besides numerous other fake photos, the Indian media also used an image of a building collapsed following a gas leakage blast in Karachi earlier in the day to substantiate its fake news of civil war.

“A little investigation would have informed Zee News that it wasn’t a bomb blast in ‘civil war’ in Pakistan but the result of a  gas leak in Karachi. Whither truth, objectivity, balance and fairness in reporting?,” said Farhatullah Babr, former senator of Pakistan Peoples Party which rules Sindh province.

“An Aircraft shot during civil war in Karachi… and the pilot captured…,” commented another Twitter user Fasihuddin while sharing the images of Indian aircraft MiG-21 and captured injured pilot Abhinandan following an aerial dogfight during India-Pakistan standoff in 2019.

Ambassador of Pakistan to China, Khalil Hashmi speaking at a symposium titled “ Jammu and Kashmir : Past and Present “ to commemorate Kashmir Solidarity Day at the Embassy of Pakistan.

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Ambassador of Pakistan to China, Khalil Hashmi speaking at a symposium titled “ Jammu and Kashmir : Past and Present “ to commemorate Kashmir Solidarity Day at the Embassy of Pakistan.
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BEIJING: February 05 – 
Ambassador of Pakistan to China, Khalil Hashmi speaking at a symposium titled “ Jammu and Kashmir : Past and Present “ to commemorate Kashmir Solidarity Day at the Embassy of Pakistan.
APP119-050226
BEIJING: February 05 – Ambassador of Pakistan to China, Khalil Hashmi, along with guests, visited the photo exhibition organised by the Embassy of Pakistan in Beijing depicting the suffering of the Kashmiri people under Indian occupation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. APP/ABB

Pakistan’s diplomatic missions observe Kashmir Solidarity Day , seek self-determination right

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 05 (APP): The diplomatic missions of Pakistan abroad observed Kashmir Solidarity Day to express support for the Kashmiris in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

Pakistani ambassadors and other speakers highlighted the Indian human rights abuses and called for granting Kashmiris the right to self-determination.

The diplomatic missions held various events including seminars, photo exhibitions and showed video documentaries that depicted the decades long struggle of the Kashmiri people for their UN-guaranteed right to self-determination.

United Arab Emirates

The Embassy of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi organized an event at its premises to observe the Kashmir Solidarity Day.
A number of Pakistani and Kashmiri community members based in the United Arab Emirates attended the event.

Pakistan’s diplomatic missions observe Kashmir Solidarity Day , seek self-determination right

The event aimed at reaffirming Pakistan’s resolute support and solidarity for
the oppressed Kashmiri brethren in their just and indigenous struggle against illegal
occupation and condemning the human rights violations being committed by the
Indian forces.
Special messages of the leadership including President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime
Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, on the Kashmir Solidarity Day were read out during the event.
On behalf of Shafqat Ali Khan, Ambassador of Pakistan to the United
Arab Emirates, Ms. Fozia Fayyaz Ahmad, Minister/Deputy Head of Mission of the
Embassy, in her remarks paid rich tribute to the valiant people of the Indian Illegally
Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK) and lauded their more than seven decades long
struggle for the realization of the right to self-determination. Condemning India’s
unilateral and illegal actions in IIOJK, she said that India’s atrocities cannot deter
Kashmiri people from demanding their fundamental rights pursuant to the UN
Security Council resolutions.
Ms. Fozia Fayyaz underlined that Pakistan would continue to raise the issue of
Jammu and Kashmir at all international forums including the United Nations &
Human Rights Council and draw the attention of world leaders towards the plight of
the Kashmiri people. She reaffirmed Pakistan’s continued diplomatic, moral and
political support to the just struggle of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. She called
upon the international community to take cognizance of the plight of the Kashmiri
people who have been subjected to unabated Indian atrocities. The government and
the people of Pakistan have always raised the Kashmir issue at the international
forums and called upon the international community to play their due role in
resolving the decades old Kashmir issue in accordance with UN resolutions and the
wishes of the Kashmiris, she added.
The representatives of Kashmiri community also spoke on the occasion and
shared their sentiments on the situation in the IIOJK. They expressed their concerns
over the Indian brutalities against innocent civilians and reaffirmed their commitment
to pursue their struggle for the realization of the right to self determination.
A documentary, depicting the gross human rights violations being committed
by the Indian security forces in the IIOJK was also screened during the event.

IRAN

Ambassador of Pakistan in Tehran, Muhammad Mudassir Tipu, in
his address reiterated the commitment of Pakistan to continue to support
Kashmiris politically, morally and diplomatically.

He added that Kashmiri have been under illegal occupation since decades. He stressed on the rightful and timely solution of the conflict as per United Nation’s resolutions and
aspirations of Kashmiris.
The messages of the President and Prime Minister were also read out on the
occasion. A detailed documentary to highlight the atrocities of Indian forces
in the Indian held Kashmir and the sufferings of Kashmiri people was also
shown. A photo exhibition was also organized to highlight the message of
Kashmir solidarity day.

TURKIYE

The Embassy of Pakistan in Ankara commemorated Kashmir Solidarity Day today , reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support for the legitimate struggle of the Kashmiri people to realize their inalienable right to self-determination.

Pakistan’s diplomatic missions observe Kashmir Solidarity Day , seek self-determination right

The event was attended by Chairperson of the Pakistan Türkiye Parliamentary Friendship Group and Member Parliament Ali Sahin; former Turkish Minister of Family and Social Services and current Director General SESRIC Ms. Zehra Zümrüt; Members of Parliament Burhan Kayatürk and Mustafa Kaya; deputy governor Ankara İsmail Gültekin; President of the Geostrategic Foresight Institute, Gen. (R) Güray Alpar; Vice President of the Institute of Strategic Thinking (SDE) Alpar Tan; Ambassador (R) Mr. Numan Hazar; as well as representatives from the media, think tanks, academia, and civil society.
Speaking on the occasion, Chairperson Pakistan Türkiye Parliamentary Friendship Group, Member Parliament Ali Sahin expressed condolences over the martyrdom of Pakistani security personnel in recent terrorist attacks and conveyed Türkiye’s solidarity with Pakistan in its fight against terrorism. He emphasized that the Kashmir dispute is fundamentally a matter of conscience, human rights, and justice, noting that its resolution is essential for lasting peace and stability in South Asia. Drawing a parallel, he stated that the tears of Kashmiri mothers mirror those of Anatolian mothers, that Kashmiri children are the children of Anatolia, and that Kashmiri martyrs are the martyrs of Anatolia. He reaffirmed that Türkiye would continue to stand resolutely with the Kashmiri people in their legitimate struggle for self-determination.
Member of Turkish Parliament Burhan Kayatürk recalled that the right to self-determination was promised to the Kashmiri people by the United Nations and acknowledged by Indian leadership itself, yet remains unfulfilled even after seven decades. He reiterated that the Turkish nation would continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with its Kashmiri brethren in their just cause.
Member of Parliament Mustafa Kaya emphasized on the responsibility of the international community to play its due role in ending human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and ensuring the implementation of relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions to promote peace and stability in the region.
Zehra Zümrüt, Director General of SESRIC, stated that the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has consistently supported the resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with United Nations resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
Gen. (R) Güray Alpar highlighted that Türkiye has always supported a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir dispute in line with the wishes of the Kashmiri people and would continue to do so.
Alpar Tan noted the enduring historical solidarity between the peoples of Pakistan and Türkiye, expressing confidence that this unity would continue in the future. He reaffirmed Türkiye’s principled support for the Kashmiri struggle for the legitimate right to self-determination.
Ambassador (R) Numan Hazar underscored that the resolution of the Kashmir dispute is indispensable for regional and global peace. Referring to the continued inaction of the international community on the issues of Kashmir and Palestine, he emphasized that the Kashmiri people deserve the fundamental right to self-determination as guaranteed by the United Nations.
In his concluding remarks, Ambassador of Pakistan to Türkiye, Dr. Yousaf Junaid, expressed deep appreciation for Türkiye’s consistent and principled support for the Kashmiri cause. He reiterated Pakistan’s diplomatic, moral, and political support for the legitimate struggle of the Kashmiri people. Providing an overview of the genesis and current status of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, he drew attention to the grave human rights violations and genocidal actions in IIOJK, which have intensified since India’s unilateral and illegal actions of 5 August 2019.
Ambassador Junaid also highlighted India’s unilateral decision to hold the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, warning that any suspension of the Treaty constitutes a serious violation of international law with far-reaching humanitarian, environmental, peace, and security implications. He stressed that the protection of shared natural resources and adherence to international treaty obligations are collective global responsibilities essential for peace and stability.
Describing Kashmir issue as a litmus test of the international community’s commitment to justice and human rights, Ambassador Junaid called upon global leaders and institutions to ensure that the Kashmiri people are granted their inalienable right to self-determination.

AFGHANISTAN

“The destinies of Kashmiris and Pakistanis are intertwined, a Pakistan that is strong in its ideological conviction is essential for Kashmir’s liberation, and the realization of Kashmiris’ legitimate rights is vital for the complete fulfillment of the Pakistan ideology.” These views were expressed by Ambassador Ubaid-ur-Rehman Nizamani while addressing the solemn ceremony held to observe 5th February as Kashmir Solidarity Day.

Pakistan’s diplomatic missions observe Kashmir Solidarity Day , seek self-determination right

Reaffirming the nation’s unwavering commitment to the just struggle of the Kashmiri people for self-determination, Ambassador Nizamani framed the Kashmir cause as a fundamental pillar of Pakistan’s own spiritual and national identity. He articulated a profound vision of unity, stating that the bond between Pakistan and Kashmir is rooted in deep spiritual and ideological kinship. He emphasized that the stability, security, and very ideological foundation of Pakistan are inextricably linked to the freedom of Kashmiri brethren from Indian occupation. Attendees were reminded that the Jammu and Kashmir dispute remains one of the oldest on the UN Security Council agenda, with its resolution—a free and impartial plebiscite under UN auspices—long overdue due to Indian intransigence.

Ambassador Nizamani concluded with a call to action directed at all Pakistanis, urging them to strengthen the nation’s ideology by conscientiously dispensing their individual and collective duties. He framed solidarity with Kashmir not merely as a foreign policy stance, but as a national duty essential to Pakistan’s own moral and ideological integrity. The event concluded with prayers for the martyrs of Kashmir and for a prosperous Pakistan.

On this occasion powerful messages of President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar were also read.

LEBANON
The Embassy of Pakistan in Beirut organized a webinar to observe Kashmir Solidarity Day, reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering support for the just cause of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
The webinar highlighted the ongoing human rights situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and emphasized the need for a just and peaceful resolution of the dispute in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and international law.
Pakistan stands in solidarity with the Kashmiri people in their legitimate struggle for the right to self-determination.
RUSSIA
A ceremony was held today at the Embassy of Pakistan in Moscow, Russia, to express solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
The event was attended by people from different walks of life including members of the Pakistani diaspora, the business community, and media representatives. During the ceremony, the messages from the President and the Prime Minister of Pakistan were read out to the participants.
Pakistan’s diplomatic missions observe Kashmir Solidarity Day , seek self-determination right
Addressing the gathering, Ambassador of Pakistan to Russian Federation, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi said that the issue of IIOJK remains the oldest unresolved dispute at the UNSC. He underscored that the dispute is an obstacle to regional integration, including President Putin’s vision of North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC). He noted that the resolution of the Kashmir dispute would bring benefit to the entire region.
The ceremony concluded with a documentary screening and a photo exhibition depicting atrocities committed by the Indian forces in the IIOJK.
SAUDI ARABIA

 

Kashmiri and Pakistani community in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia observed Kashmir Solidarity Day with traditional zeal and fervor with a main event held at the Consulate General of Pakistan, Jeddah. The event featured special messages from President of Pakistan, Prime Minister of Pakistan, and Deputy Prime Minister / Foreign Minister of Pakistan. The event commenced with a recitation of Holy Quran and the national anthem of Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, stirring a strong sense of patriotism and respect among all attendees.

Pakistan’s diplomatic missions observe Kashmir Solidarity Day , seek self-determination right

Pakistan’s Permanent Representative/ Ambassador in OIC, Mr. Syed Muhammad Fawad Sher was the keynote speaker of the event and the prominent member of Pakistani and Kashmiri community in Jeddah Mr. Masood Puri, Eng. Arif Mughal and Sardar Waqas Inayat also addressed the gathering. The speakers shed light on India’s illegal and unilateral actions of August 5, 2019 and emphasized that despite turning Kashmir into a fortified prison, India could not defeat the indomitable spirit of the freedom loving Kashmiri people. They called upon India to immediately stop gross, systematic and state sponsored human rights abuses in IIOJK.
The Consul General of Pakistan Syed Mustafa Rabbani, in his remarks, expressed his sincere appreciation for the Saudi leadership for their consistent support for the Kashmir cause. He also praised the role of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in actively raising awareness about this important issue. Consul General urged international community and UN to play its due role to ensure that Kashmiris can exercise their right of self- determination.
While speaking on the occasion speakers highlighted atrocities of Indian military and India’s designs of imposing demographic changes in the IIOJK region to change the ground realities. Speakers emphasized that world community must come together to ensure justice for people of Kashmir as per UN resolutions.

A documentary highlighting the plight of those living in the Indian occupied Kashmir and gross human rights violations committed by Indian military was screened. Participants and speakers also urged international community and United Nations to address the longstanding issue of Kashmir and take urgent measures to stop genocide of Palestinians in Gaza.

The event was attended by dignitaries and members of civil society organizations based in Jeddah. Participants reiterated their commitment to continue their support for the struggle of Kashmiris for their right to self-determination. The event concluded with heartfelt prayer for the former President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhary and for the martyrs of the Kashmir cause.

TAJIKISTAN

Embassy of Pakistan in Dushanbe observed Kashmir Solidarity Day to express unwavering solidarity with the oppressed people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK).
The event was attended by Tajik friends, members of the Pakistani diaspora and community, as well as students. Messages of the President, Prime Minister, and DPM/FM were read, and participants watched documentaries on the situation in IIOJK.
Pakistan’s diplomatic missions observe Kashmir Solidarity Day , seek self-determination right
A photo exhibition highlighted the ongoing struggles and ground realities in IIOJK.
The event concluded with solemn prayers for the just cause of the Kashmiri people and their inalienable right to self-determination.
MAURITIUS
Today, the High Commission of Pakistan in Mauritius held a solemn ceremony to observe Kashmir Solidarity Day, reaffirming our steadfast commitment to the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.
Pakistan’s diplomatic missions observe Kashmir Solidarity Day , seek self-determination right
The event brought together the Pakistani diaspora, local dignitaries, and friends of Kashmir to honor the resilience of our brothers and sisters in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
We were privileged to hear from two distinguished guest speakers:
Bashir Nakchuday – A renowned Mauritian historian, author, and human rights advocate.
Dr. Sareer Ara – A respected academic and educator.
Speaking on behalf of the Government of Pakistan, the High Commissioner reiterated that Pakistan will continue its moral, political, and diplomatic support until the aspirations of the Kashmiri people are realized.
Dua-e-maghfarat was offered for the late President of AJK Barrister Sultan Mehmood who passed away on 31 January 2026.
SRI LANKA
A Seminar and Photo Exhibition commemorating Kashmir Solidarity Day was held at the Pakistan High Commission in Colombo. The event highlighted Pakistan’s continued support for the Kashmiri people and emphasized the importance of a peaceful and just resolution of the Jammu & Kashmir dispute. Members of the Pakistani community, friends of Kashmir, and local journalists attended the event.
Pakistan’s diplomatic missions observe Kashmir Solidarity Day , seek self-determination right
The seminar concluded with remarks by the High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Major General (R) Faheem-ul-Aziz, HI (M). He reaffirmed Pakistan’s principled stance on the Jammu & Kashmir issue and underscored the need for sustained international engagement. He noted that the situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir (IIOJK) has remained a matter of concern for decades and called upon the international community, particularly the United Nations, to play its role in promoting peace, stability, and respect for human rights.
The High Commissioner emphasized that the Jammu & Kashmir dispute should be resolved in accordance with international law and relevant UN Security Council resolutions, cautioning that prolonged tensions could have broader implications for regional peace and security.
The event featured keynote addresses by Mr. Shiraz Yunus and Ms. Suriya Rizvi, who highlighted the importance of dialogue, interfaith harmony, and peaceful coexistence. They also drew attention to humanitarian concerns and stressed the need for safeguarding fundamental rights in the region.
Earlier, messages from the President and the Prime Minister of Pakistan, issued on the occasion of Kashmir Solidarity Day, were read out by the Press Attaché and the Trade & Investment Attaché, respectively. In his concluding remarks, the High Commissioner thanked the keynote speakers and participants for their constructive contributions.
As part of the Photo Exhibition, photographs and digital presentations depicting the humanitarian situation in IIOJK were displayed during the seminar.
TANZANIA
Kashmir Solidarity Day was commemorated at the High Commission today. Members of the Pakistani diaspora attended the ceremony. The event underscored Pakistan’s continued support for the struggle of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.
Pakistan’s diplomatic missions observe Kashmir Solidarity Day , seek self-determination right
High Commissioner, Mr. Siraj Ahmad Khan, delivered a comprehensive overview of the historical background and significance of Kashmir Solidarity Day, while highlighting the prevailing human rights situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
Special messages from the President, Prime Minister, and Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister were read out on the occasion.
A special documentary on Kashmir was also played, providing a deeper insight into the ongoing plight and aspirations of the Kashmiri people.
The event concluded with special prayers for the freedom of IIOJK and the realization of the Kashmiri people’s right to self-determination.

Pakistani Bushra Mahnoor shortlisted for 2026 Commonwealth Youth Awards among top global change-makers

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ISLAMABAD, Feb 05 (APP): A young Pakistani activist, Bushra Mahnoor, has been shortlisted as an Asia regional finalist for the 2026 Commonwealth Youth Awards for Excellence in Development Work, marking a major international recognition of Pakistan’s youth-led efforts to advance social justice and sustainable development across the Commonwealth.
According to a statement issued here on Thursday, Bushra Mahnoor was selected for her impactful work on gender equality, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, from a highly competitive pool of 977 applications submitted from across the 56-member Commonwealth. Her selection places her among just 20 outstanding young finalists representing five regions of the Commonwealth, following a rigorous two-stage evaluation process conducted by 57 pan-Commonwealth adjudicators.
Pakistani Bushra Mahnoor shortlisted for 2026 Commonwealth Youth Awards among top global change-makers
A leading period rights activist, Mahnoor is at the forefront of Pakistan’s menstrual justice movement. In the aftermath of the devastating floods of 2022, she founded Mahwari Justice, an initiative focused on addressing period poverty in humanitarian and crisis settings. Through this platform, she has reached more than 175,000 people across Pakistan, providing access to menstrual hygiene products, education, and awareness while advocating for systemic policy reforms.
Her work has extended beyond grassroots interventions to national advocacy, including the mobilisation of more than 10,000 signatures demanding the removal of taxes on menstrual products, an issue she has consistently framed as one of dignity, health equity, and gender justice. By linking period education with policy engagement, Mahnoor has emerged as a prominent youth voice challenging long-standing taboos and structural inequalities.
The Commonwealth Youth Awards, held annually, recognise young people who are leading innovative, sustainable development initiatives and delivering tangible impact in their communities.
The 2026 edition saw a notable increase in participation, with applications rising from just over 800 in 2024 to 977 this year, underscoring growing youth engagement across the Commonwealth.
Congratulating the finalists, Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey said the awards highlight the essential role young people play in shaping global solutions. She noted that youth research, innovation and leadership are critical to building a future that tackles poverty, climate injustice, inequality and social exclusion across the Commonwealth’s diverse societies. She reaffirmed the Secretariat’s commitment to recognising and nurturing young changemakers by providing them with global platforms to amplify their work.
For more than a decade, the Commonwealth Youth Awards have supported youth-led initiatives by connecting finalists to international networks and providing access to funding to scale their projects. Building on previous editions, the 2026 awards will also spotlight the role of Commonwealth partners and accredited organisations in strengthening youth development.
This year’s programme also introduced the inaugural Patsy Robertson Award for Outstanding Communications Skills, a new category recognising young media professionals who are transforming journalism and digital storytelling through creativity, courage and a commitment to democratic values. Established by the Commonwealth Association in tribute to the late Patsy Robertson, a pioneering journalist and advocate for women in media, the award reflects the growing recognition of youth-driven media as a catalyst for sustainable development.
Six additional finalists were shortlisted for the Patsy Robertson Award, with the Commonwealth Journalists Association partnering in the adjudication process and offering complimentary membership to shortlisted candidates, providing them access to a global journalism network and professional development opportunities.
Chair of the Commonwealth Association, Max Gaylard, said the award honours Patsy Robertson’s legacy by celebrating young communicators who are shaping more informed, inclusive and resilient democratic societies across the Commonwealth. He said these emerging journalists and media practitioners are not only reporting stories but actively contributing to public life and civic engagement.
Echoing these views, the Commonwealth Secretariat’s Youth Advisor, Sushil Ram, said young people across the Commonwealth continue to demonstrate leadership, resilience and innovation in addressing complex global challenges. While celebrating the finalists, he also acknowledged the hundreds of applicants whose work is creating positive change in their communities.
The top regional winners, along with the recipient of the Patsy Robertson Award, will be announced at a special ceremony on March 11, 2026, hosted by the Commonwealth Secretary-General. One of the 20 regional finalists will also be named Commonwealth Young Person of the Year. The ceremony will be held at Marlborough House in London, the headquarters of the Commonwealth Secretariat, as part of the week-long Commonwealth Day celebrations, and will be live-streamed globally.
Each finalist will receive a £1,000 grant, a trophy and a certificate, while five regional winners will be awarded an additional £2,000. The Commonwealth Young Person of the Year will receive a total prize of £5,000. The winner of the Patsy Robertson Award will receive a trophy, certificate and a £1,000 cash prize.
Bushra Mahnoor’s shortlisting is being widely viewed as a significant achievement for Pakistan’s youth sector, highlighting the growing global recognition of young Pakistani leaders who are addressing critical social issues through innovation, advocacy and community-driven action.

President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev addresses Joint Press Stakeout held at the Prime Minister’s House.

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President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev addresses Joint Press Stakeout held at the Prime Minister's House.
APP108-050226
ISLAMABAD: February 05 – 
President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev addresses Joint Press Stakeout held at the Prime Minister's House.
APP109-050226
ISLAMABAD: February 05 – President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev addresses Joint Press Stakeout held at the Prime Minister’s House. APP/ABB

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif addresses Joint Press Stakeout.

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Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif addresses Joint Press Stakeout.
APP111-050226
ISLAMABAD: February 05 –