Tue, 21-Oct-2025

President, PM condole as LPG bowser explosion kills five in Multan

President

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condoled over the death of five people as an LPG bowser exploded in Multan which also left several others injured.

In their separately issued statements, the president and the prime minister conveyed their condolences and sympathies to the bereaved families.

They prayed to Allah Almighty for peace for the departed souls, strength for the grieved families to bear the loss, and for the recovery of those injured in the incident.

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President confers Nishan-i-Imtiaz on Asif Bashir for exemplary public service

President

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari conferred the prestigious Nishan-i-Imtiaz on Asif Bashir on Friday in acknowledgment of his exceptional contributions to public service. Senior officials and parliamentarians attended the award ceremony, held at Aiwan-e-Sadr. A citation read during the event highlighted Asif Bashir’s commendable performance as Deputy Commissioner in Peshawar and his role as a … Read more

PM, President laud Security Forces for successful operation against Fitna Al-Khawarij

PM

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday praised Pakistan’s security forces for their successful operation against terrorists of Fitna Al-Khawarij in the Tirah region of Khyber District. The operation resulted in the killing of five Khawariji terrorists, including their ringleader, Abidullah, during an intelligence-based operation. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif lauded … Read more

Security forces killed 22 terrorists in Khyber District

Security forces killed eight terrorists trying to infiltrate through Pak-Afghan border

RAWALPINDI: Security forces killed 22 terrorists in Tirah area of Khyber District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa since December 14, 2024.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), numerous terrorist incidents have occurred in general area Tirah, Khyber District against security forces as well as the innocent civilians, resulting in several casualties.

In response to these heinous acts, security forces are conducting extensive Intelligence Based Operations (IBOs) in the area against the Khwarij(terrorist).

During various IBOs conducted since 14 December 2024, Security Forces have so far, successfully neutralized 22 Khwarij(terrorists), while eighteen Khawrij(terrorists) have been injured.

The IBOs will continue till peace in the area is restored and khawrij (terrorists) are eliminated, as the security forces of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country.

On the other hand, President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to the security forces for killing 22 Khawarij terrorists in operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The president, in a press statement lauded the security forces for eliminating terrorists during intelligence-based operations in district Khyber.

He said the security forces killed 22 terrorists, and injured 18 others in different actions.

He vowed to continue operations against the terrorists till complete elimination of terrorism.

The successful operations of Pakistan’s security forces in combating terrorism are commendable, the president said adding that “Our determination to eliminate terrorist elements and defend the country will remain unwavering”.

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President, PM laud security forces for killing 8 terrorists in KP

President

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the security forces for eliminating eight Khawarij (terrorists) in two different operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Appreciating the forces for anti-terror operations in Tank and Tirah Valley, the president and prime minister reiterated the nation’s resolve to root out terrorism from the country.

“The people of Pakistan stand in support of their security forces to eliminate terrorism and are fully resolved to root out this scourge,” the president remarked.

Prime Minister Shehbaz said that the government and the security forces were pursuing the objective of eliminating terrorism.

“The entire nation feels proud of its brave security forces. We will continue to thwart the nefarious designs of the terrorists,” the prime minister added.

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President, PM pay tribute to security forces for eliminating terrorists in D.I. Khan operation

President

ISLAMABAD: On Friday, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif praised the security forces for their successful operation in Dera Ismail Khan, which resulted in the elimination of five terrorists. In separate statements, both the President and Prime Minister commended the bravery of the security forces during the intelligence-based operation (IBO). President … Read more

President, PM vow to give access to education to blind people

President

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said the government was determined to provide better access of education and other facilities to the visually impaired people.

In a message on the World Braille Day on January 4, 2025, he said, “We are observing the Braille Day to highlight the importance of access of education for people deprived of eyesight.”

He said the objective of observing the World Braille Day was to create awareness about the rights of people deprived of eyesight. He said it was imperative to provide access to education to the special people for social and economic independence.

He noted that Braille was an important medium for visually impaired people to get education and knowledge.

He underlined the need for ensuring provision of important information to the blind people and said more urgent steps were needed to give visually impaired people access to books in Braille.

Pakistan had ratified the Marrakesh agreement for ensuring access of visually impaired people to education, he said adding high quality educational and informative material should be made available to the visually impaired people.

President Zardari urged that there was a need to pay attention to all sections of people for creating a society based on justice and equality.

PM Shehbaz Sharif said the government was committed in its resolve for creating enablers in society that empowered all individuals through accessible education, equipping schools with Braille books, enhancing teacher training, and establishing specialized centres for visually impaired students.

In a message on World Braille Day on January 4, 2024, he said, “Today, on World Braille Day, we join the global community in celebrating the transformative power of Braille, a remarkable system that has opened doors to knowledge, communication, and independence for millions of visually impaired individuals worldwide.”

He said, “Braille is not just a tool for reading and writing; it is a window to inclusivity and equal opportunities, empowering individuals to lead independent and dignified lives.

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President urged nation to review successes, failures for better 2025

President

ISLAMABAD:President Asif Ali Zardari congratulated the Pakistani nation and the international community on the beginning of the new year with an exhortation to the nation urging it to review the successes and failures of the past year to learn from it and strive for a better year ahead.

In a message received from the President’s Office, the president prayed for the development and prosperity of the country and the nation at the beginning of the new year.

“May the new year bring peace, stability, progress and prosperity to the nation. I hope that the new year will be a year of progress and prosperity and peace and stability at the global level. To get the country out of the challenges, the nation has to work with unity, discipline, continuous hard work and dedication,” said the president.

He added that the youth of the country should be invested in developing their skills by providing opportunities and in order to make Pakistan strong, the focus should be on the development of the poor.

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President Zardari visits Shrine of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar

President Zardari

Sehwan: President Asif Ali Zardari visited the revered shrine of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar in Sehwan Sharif on Sunday. Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and other members of the Pakistan Peoples Party’s local leadership accompanied him. During his visit, President Zardari offered Fateha and laid a floral wreath at the shrine, a gesture … Read more

President Zardari Vows to Safeguard Provincial Rights Across Pakistan

President Zardari

GARHI KHUDA BUX: On the 17th death anniversary of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, President Asif Ali Zardari addressed Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) workers in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh, emphasizing the party’s unwavering dedication to the nation and its people. President Zardari declared that Pakistan’s true superpower lies in the strength and unity of its people. Highlighting the … Read more

BB’s legacy of courage, vision of freedom guiding light for nation: Zardari  

BB

ISLAMABAD: President, Asif Ali Zardari, on the 17th martyrdom anniversary of former prime minister, Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto eulogized her political legacy and courage as unmatched and eternal vision a guiding light for the nation.

In his message issued from the President’s Office, Asif Ali Zardari said, “Today, we are observing the 17th martyrdom anniversary of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. On this day, we honour a leader who embodied the very spirit of hope, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of democracy and justice.”

He added that she was a trailblazer who dreamt of a Pakistan where the rights of all citizens, irrespective of colour, class and creed, would be protected, and the power of the people would reign supreme.

Benazir Bhutto once said, “Democracy is the best revenge”, the President mentioned and added that these words were not just a defiant response to tyranny and dictatorship but reflected her profound belief in the transformative power of the people.

She envisioned a Pakistan, he said where every child could access education, where women could progress as equals, and where justice was not a privilege but a right. Throughout her life, she raised her voice and worked for the uplift of the downtrodden segments of society and women’s empowerment, he added.

President Zardari underlined that her life was a journey of immense courage and a source of inspiration and strength for the nation. Facing adversity and persecution, he said she remained steadfast in her struggle against dictatorships for the restoration and strengthening of democracy and the protection of people’s political, economic and social rights.

He added that Benazir famously declared, “The fight against injustice and cruelty is the fight of my life.” She lived and died fighting for this cause, and is still alive in the hearts of millions of people. She firmly believed: “You can imprison a man, but not an idea. You can exile a man, but not an idea. You can kill a man, but not an idea.”

“As President of Pakistan, I reaffirm my commitment to advancing her vision of a peaceful, progressive and democratic Pakistan. Her ideas live on, urging us to rise above differences and build a Pakistan that is united, inclusive, and just. So, let us not merely mourn her loss but commit to follow her enduring legacy.

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President, PM underline need to realize Jinnah’s vision for democratic Pakistan

President

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister  Shehbaz Sharif stressed that Jinnah’s vision for a democratic and self-reliant Pakistan called upon them to work harder by upholding the values of social justice, economic equity, and the rule of law.

“To achieve Quaid’s vision, we must invest in the education of our youth, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and skills to lead Pakistan into a brighter future. We also need to work for the uplift of downtrodden segments of society.

Jinnah’s dream of a peaceful and moderate Pakistan obliges us to promote harmony within and beyond our borders,” the president said in a message on the 148th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, being celebrated on December 25.

Today, the president said, on his 148th birth anniversary, they paid tribute to the Founding Father, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

“On this day, we honour the contributions of the Father of the Nation, who changed the course of history through a political struggle. Quaid-e-Azam’s vision, determination, and unwavering resolve led to the creation of an independent homeland for Muslims of the subcontinent,” President Secretariat Press Wing, in a press release, quoted the president as saying.

The president said Quaid-e-Azam’s leadership during the most critical phase of their history demonstrated his extraordinary qualities, adding as a lawyer, a statesman, and the leader of the All-India Muslim League, he vehemently advocated for the rights of Muslims.

President Zardari said Quaid’s landmark address to the Constituent Assembly of Pakistan on August 11, 1947, still served as a guiding light for them.

PM Shehbaz Sharif, paying tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah on his 148th Birthday, said that Quaid-e-Azam was a leader of rare caliber who believed deeply in unity, justice and equality.

“Today, as we celebrate the 148th birth anniversary of our founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, we are reminded of his extraordinary vision, unwavering courage, and unparalleled determination. He achieved what many thought impossible and gifted us our homeland— Pakistan,” the prime minister said in his message.

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President, PM pay tribute to Lance Naik Mahfuz on martyrdom anniversary

President

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to Lance Naik Mahfuz Shaheed (Nishan-i-Haider) on the 53rd anniversary of his martyrdom, recognizing his valor and sacrifice to safeguard the country.

The president and prime minister, in their separately issued statements, lauded the exemplary gallantry of Lance Naik Mahfuz Shaheed in the 1971 war when he repelled the enemy at the Wagah Border.

They prayed to Allah Almighty for the elevation of the rank of Lance Naik Mahfuz Shaheed in paradise.

“Lance Naik Mahfuz Shaheed fought the enemy with bravery. The entire nation salutes him for his exemplary valor and patriotism. The people of Pakistan recognise the sacrifices of the martyrs which they will never forget,” the president remarked.

Prime Minister Shehbaz said that Lance Naik Mahfuz Shaheed defeated the enemy despite its overwhelming strength.

“Lance Naik Mahfuz Shaheed proved to be an indomitable symbol of duty and patriotism to protect the country from the evil intentions of the enemies. His commitment to the motherland and the spirit of sacrificing his life for its defense is a model for the new generation to follow,” he said.

The prime minister said that the entire nation was proud of the Pakistan Army’s martyrs and their families and will never forget the armed forces’ sacrifices for the country’s defence.

Similarly, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), the Service Chiefs, and the Armed Forces of Pakistan solemnly commemorate the 53rd martyrdom anniversary of Lance Naik Muhammad Mehfooz Shaheed, Nishan-e-Haider, a paragon of extraordinary courage and unwavering patriotism.

“The valor and self-sacrifice displayed by Lance Naik Muhammad Mehfooz Shaheed during the 1971 war at the Wagah border epitomize the indomitable spirit of the Pakistan Armed Forces,” an Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR).

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President reaffirms commitment to promoting regional marine cooperation

President

KARACHI: President Asif Ali Zardari has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to promoting regional marine cooperation and ensuring peace, progress and sustainability in the Indian Ocean region.

Addressing the 3rd China-Indian Ocean Region Forum on Blue Economy Cooperation held in Kunming, China, via a video message, the President stressed the need for collective action to harness the ocean’s potential while addressing the pressing challenges of climate change, pollution and ecosystem degradation.

“Pakistan stands ready to partner with all stakeholders to promote marine cooperation and ensure that our region remains a bastion of peace, progress, and sustainability,” the president said.

The forum, held from December 14 to 16 in Kunming, China, is organised by the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA) and focuses on promoting collaboration among countries in the maritime sector.

The president said that the future world economic growth was going to be driven by the East due to its large population resources.

Highlighting the importance of the ocean as a shared lifeline and a source of immense economic opportunities, President Asif Ali Zardari pointed out Pakistan’s efforts to enhance its blue economy. He said that these include the formulation of the National Maritime Policy, initiatives focusing on sustainable fisheries and marine conservation and the Living Indus Project, which aims to protect ecosystems and combat pollution.

He underscored the development of Gwadar Port under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), which is being transformed into a regional connectivity hub to drive trade and maritime economic growth.

The president praised Pakistan’s partnership with China, under the Belt and Road Initiative, emphasizing its role in knowledge exchange, technological advancement, and marine conservation.

The president commended China’s Global Development Initiative and CIDCA’s efforts to embed sustainability in the Forum’s goals. He expressed appreciation for the inclusion of capacity building and island nations in the Forum’s agenda, saying that it aligned with Pakistan’s vision of transnational collaboration and environmental stewardship.

Expressing optimism about the Forum’s outcomes, the President said, “I am sure that this Forum will pave the way for greater economic cooperation among member countries.” He also called for collective efforts to protect marine resources and promote the blue economy for the benefit of future generations.

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President, PM Praise Security Forces for Successful Operations Against Khawarij

President

ISLAMABAD: On Friday, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif extended their admiration to the security forces for their successful operations against Khawarij terrorists in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In separate statements, both leaders acknowledged the significant achievement of the security forces in neutralizing 43 Khawarij terrorists across various operations in Panjgur, … Read more

President calls for greater Chinese investment in diverse sectors

President

KARACHI: President Asif Ali Zardari has called for greater Chinese investment in diverse sectors of Pakistan’s economy to boost economic and commercial cooperation between the two brotherly countries.

He also emphasized the need for enhanced interaction between the people of the two countries, especially between the investors and businesses, to increase bilateral trade and economic relations.

The President expressed these views while talking to a Chinese business delegation, led by the Chinese Consul General in Karachi, Yang Yundong, at Bilawal House, Karachi.

The delegation expressed interest in investing $1 billion to establish a medical city in Pakistan to advance the country’s healthcare sector.

The delegation also expressed interest in investing in diverse sectors of Pakistan’s economy, especially agriculture, livestock, energy, transport, and manufacturing.

Welcoming the delegation, the President said that Pakistan and China shared commonalities of interest and views on important issues, besides enjoying deep-rooted and historic brotherly ties.

“We have been close friends for decades, and it was my vision to develop Gawadar Port into a regional trade and economic hub that would not only improve regional connectivity but would also boost regional trade and economic cooperation,” he stated.

The President said Pakistan would welcome Chinese investors and preferred doing business with China.

He stated that Pakistan was committed to facilitating and supporting Chinese investors in every possible way.

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President, PM pay tribute to Major Shabbir Sharif on his martyrdom anniversary

President

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed (Nishan-i-Haider) on the 53rd anniversary of his martyrdom, recognising his gallantry and sacrifice to safeguard the country.

The president and prime minister, in their separately issued statements, lauded the valor of Major Shabbir Shaheed while fighting the enemy in the 1971 war without caring about his own life.

They said that the whole nation was proud of martyred Major Shabbir for his gallantry and sacrifice and reiterated that the people of Pakistan would never forget the sacrifices of their soldiers.

They also prayed to Allah Almighty for the elevation of Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed and other martyrs in paradise.Pakistan’s cuisine

“The entire nation is proud of brave officers like Major Shabbir Sharif who sacrificed his life for the defense of the motherland. The nation recognizes the sacrifices of all the martyrs and will not forget them,” the president remarked.

Calling Major Shabbir Sharif a model of courage and bravery, Prime Minister Shehbaz said that in the 1971 war, he held back the enemy’s advance at Sulemanki.

“Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed not only defended his position but also disabled enemy tanks with an anti-tank rifle and eliminated the enemy, including their company commander.

Despite its numerical superiority, the enemy could not withstand the effective defense of Major Shabbir Sharif,” he remarked.

He said that Major Shabbir Sharif Shaheed laid down his life to protect the motherland. His patriotism and the spirit of self-sacrifice for the country’s defense, by offering his own life, is an inspiring example for the younger generation, he added.

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President, PM, CJCSC pay tribute to Major Akarm Shaheed

President

RAWALPINDI: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif,  Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), Services Chiefs, and Armed Forces of Pakistan pay heartfelt tribute to Major Muhammad Akram Shaheed, Nishan-e-Haider on his 53rd Shahadat anniversary.

Major Muhammad Akram Shaheed was commanding a company of 4 Frontier Force Regiment at Hilli (East Pakistan) on 19 May 1971, where he defended the area of responsibility daringly and did not allow enemy to make an advance, said a news release issued by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) here.

Later on, 03 December 1971, he was ordered to attack the enemy positions and where he destroyed enemy’s three tanks while making an advance.

During fight with enemy, Major Muhammad Akram Shaheed got seriously injured and embraced Shahadat on 05 December 1971.

“Major Muhammad Akram’s martyrdom anniversary serves as a powerful reminder of the extraordinary sacrifices made by the Armed Forces of Pakistan to defend the motherland,” it further said.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to Major Muhammad Akram Shaheed (Nishan-i-Haider) on his 53rd martyrdom anniversary recognizing his patriotism and supreme sacrifice in defending the country.

In their separately issued statements, president and prime minister lauded the gallantry of Major Akram Shaheed in the 1971 war and said that the whole nation would remain indebted to the martyrs and their family members.

They said that the entire nation paid tribute to its martyrs and would never forget their sacrifices. They also prayed to Allah Almighty to elevate Major Akram Shaheed’s rank in paradise.

The president saluted Major Akram Shaheed for his great services to the nation and sacrifice for the homeland.

“Major Akram Shaheed set an everlasting example of gallantry while fighting in East Pakistan. He fought against the enemy regardless of its overwhelming strength.

He also set an example of dutifulness and loyalty to the homeland that is a role model for the young generation,” the prime minister said.

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Ex-Chief of Navy Admiral Yasturul Haq Malik passes away

Ex-Chief

LAHORE: Former Chief of Navy Admiral Yasturul Haq Malik passed away in Lahore on Wednesday.

Admiral Yasturul Haq Malik was commissioned in the Pakistan Navy in 1954 and also participated in the Indo-Pak wars of 1965 and 1971.

Admiral Yasturul Haque Malik was the Chief of the Pakistan Navy from 1988 to 1991.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed their deep grief over the death of former Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Yasturul Haq.

In their separately issued statements, the president and prime minister expressed their condolences over the passing of former Naval chief.

They lauded the late Yasturul Haq’s unforgettable services for the defence and security of the country.

President Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz prayed for peace for the departed soul and strength for the bereaved family to bear the loss.

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President reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to women’s rights

President

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has reaffirmed on the ‘International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women’, that they were united in solidarity with women and girls across the world who endured violence in many forms. “This day serves as a reminder to intensify our efforts to end violence against women and girls,” he … Read more

President, PM express grief over demise of Ex-Senator Ilyas Bilour

President

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep grief and sorrow over the death of former Senator and leader of Awami National Party Ilyas Ahmed Bilour.

The president offered his heartfelt condolences to the family members of late Ilyas Bilour.

He prayed to Allah Almighty to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant courage to the bereaved family to bear the loss with patience.

On the other hand,  Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif  expressed deep grief and sorrow over the demise of Awami National Party leader and former Senator Ilyas Ahmed Bilour.

The prime minister prayed for the departed soul and patience and strength for the bereaved family, according to a statement issued by the PM Office Press Wing.

“Ilyas Ahmed Bilour’s remarkable services for the welfare of the people are commendable,” PM Shehbaz said.

He said as a Senator, Ilyas Ahmed Bilour represented the public with excellence.

“The late leader’s political contributions will be remembered,” he said adding that the space created in the political landscape due to the death of Ilyas Ahmed Bilour will be difficult to fill.

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Justice Yahya Afridi takes oath as Chief Justice of Pakistan

Justice Yahya

ISLAMABAD: Justice Yahya Afridi was sworn in as Pakistan’s 30th chief justice of Supreme Court on Saturday.

The swearing-in ceremony of the Chief Justice of Pakistan was held in the President’s House where President Asif Ali Zardari administered the oath to him.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, chiefs of the three armed forces, Speaker National Assembly, Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz, Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ali Amin Gandapur, Governor KP Faisal Karim, Governor Punjab Saleem Haider and federal ministers also participated in the ceremony.

Besides this, Supreme Court Justice Ayesha Malik and Justice Athar Minallah also participated in the swearing-in ceremony.

After the implementation of the 26th constitutional amendment, a special committee of the parliament nominated Justice Yahya Afridi as the Chief Justice.

Chief Justice Yahya Afridi said that he will ensure the rule of law for the people of Pakistan and he will also ensure that the principle of sovereignty of the three pillars of the state succeeds.

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President appoints Justice Yahya Afridi as new CJP

CJP stresses essential role of judges, lawyers in defending rights

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday appointed Justice Yahya Afridi, a Supreme Court judge, as the next Chief Justice of Pakistan.

The president made the appointment of Justice Yahya Afridi for a period of three years with effect from October 26, 2024.

The appointment was made in exercise of the powers conferred under Articles 175 A (3), 177 and 179 of the constitution.

President Zardari also approved October 26 as the date for administering the oath of office to Justice Yahya Afridi as the next Chief Justice of Pakistan.

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PM advises president to sign 26th Constitutional Amendment Bill into law

PM

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif sent an advice to President Asif Ali Zardari for signing of the 26th Constitutional Amendment Bill into the law.

The prime minister earlier signed the advice on the said constitutional amendment bill after its passage by both the house of the parliament.

Earlier, the National Assembly and Senate passed the bill with a two-thirds majority under which the term for the Chief Justice of Pakistan has been set at three years.

A 12-member parliamentary committee will select the new Chief Justice from a panel of the three most senior judges.

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President, PM call for mass awareness about breast cancer

President

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have emphasised the countrywide public awareness and collective efforts at individual and national levels to reduce the mortality rate due to breast cancer in Pakistan.

The president, in his message to the nation on the International Day Against Breast Cancer annually observed on October 19, said that breast cancer was not only the most frequently diagnosed cancer but was also the leading cause of death among women in low and middle-income countries.

He said the incidence of breast cancer was more common in South Asian countries, majorly due to a lack of breast cancer awareness in women.

“In our country, one in every nine women is at risk of breast cancer and the late diagnosis of the disease considerably contributes to the high mortality rate. Moreover, economic obstacles deter many from receiving the required treatment,” the president added.

He said the International Day Against Breast Cancer was observed to raise awareness about the disease and to promote timely diagnosis and treatment.

He said that this year’s theme “No One Should Face Breast Cancer Alone” for Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminded us of the importance of support, solidarity, and care for every person dealing with this disease.

He stressed the need to raise awareness about the disease by addressing misconceptions and prioritizing healthy lifestyle adjustments.

He said that Pakistan needed the broader level efforts to educate women about breast cancer, regular self-examination and mammographic screening.

He urged the policymakers and health officials to plan and prioritize disease control activities, including improved treatment and individual patient care.

On the other hand, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of raising awareness and promoting early detection of breast cancer, particularly among women.

Highlighting the global prevalence of breast cancer as the most common form of cancer affecting women, he noted that a significant number of deaths occur in low and middle-income countries, including Pakistan.

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President Zardari calls for enhanced focus on regional connectivity

President

ASHGABAT: President Asif Ali Zardari addressed an international forum held here in the Turkmen capital, where he emphasized an enhanced focus on the promotion of regional connectivity as well as cultural and economic collaboration in the region.

The president, addressing the forum on “Interrelation of Times and Civilizations- Basis for Peace and Development” said that Pakistan and Turkmenistan shared a deep-rooted bond of brotherhood which was built on mutual respect and commonalities of faith and a shared vision for a better and peaceful future.

The event, held to mark the 300th birth anniversary of Magtymguly Faragi, a great Turkmen thinker, poet and philosopher, was also attended by several regional leaders including Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Tajik President Emomali Rehmon, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov and others.

President Zardari, who arrived here on Thursday on a two-day visit, called Magtymguly Faragi a “towering figure” of Turkmen literature and a “beacon of spiritual enlightenment.”

The great Turkmen poet and Pakistan’s national poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal shared several commonalities in their poetry and thoughts on Sufism and nationalism, he added.

He lauded the Turkmen government and people for organizing the event to promote understanding of peace and dialogue among different cultures which also provided him an opportunity to interact with leaders of regional countries to help strengthen mutual friendship.

President Zardari said that his participation in the Forum reflected his country’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.

He said Magtymguly Faragi was not only a poet but also an aspiration and symbol of the Turkmen people’s love for their homeland.

“His works continue to resonate with us today providing guidance, inspiration and sense of unity,” he said.

Magtymguly Faragi was born in the times of great political and social unrest when the Turkmen tribe was scattered and divided, yet despite this challenge, he dedicated his life to the dream of seeing Turkmen people united, the president added.

He expressed the hope that the discussions and deliberations in the Forum would not only honor the memories Magtymguly Faragi but also help explore new avenues for cultural collaboration.

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President recommends Nishan-i-Imtiaz for Late Nawabzada Nasrullah 

President

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has recommended the conferment of Nishan-i-Imtiaz (Posthumous) upon late Nawabzada Nasrullah Khan in recognition of his unwavering dedication to democracy, unity and justice.

The President has directed the Cabinet Division to initiate the process for the conferment of the Award.

Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq paid a rich tribute to Nawabzada Nasrullah Khan on his 21st death anniversary.

He commended Nawabzada Nasrullah Khan as a dedicated and honourable political leader whose life was devoted to strengthening parliamentary democracy and ensuring Pakistan’s political integrity.

The Speaker underscored  Nawabzada Nasrullah Khan’s cardinal role in upholding the supremacy of the Constitution and Parliament, emphasizing his lifelong dedication to fostering democratic values in Pakistan.

“His 70-year political struggle is a testimony to his unwavering commitment to tolerance, democratic ideals, and political harmony,” Sardar Ayaz Sadiq remarked, acknowledging Nawabzada’s key role in Pakistan’s political history and his passionate participation in the Pakistan Movement.

Sardar Ayaz Sadiq further added that Nawabzada Nasrullah Khan worked tirelessly for political and economic stability in the country. His principles and integrity set high standards for future generations, encouraging them to be committed to democratic principles and national integrity.

The Speaker said that his ability to create political consensus on important political issues across political parties is praiseworthy.

He also stated that the late Nawabzada had been the 1st Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee on Kashmir and his services to globally highlight the Kashmir cause would always be remembered.

The Speaker offered prayer for granting Nawabzada Nasrullah Khan’s soul with the highest ranks in paradise.

It is worth mentioning that Nawabzada Nasrullah Khan was a distinguished statesman whose life was dedicated to the advancement of democracy and political integrity of Pakistan.

His legacy as a leader of unparalleled integrity, tolerance and democratic values will continue to inspire future generations.

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Pakistan committed to promote environment-friendly transportation system: President

President

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to promoting the development of a safe, sustainable, efficient and environment-friendly transportation system in the country.

The president, addressing the Global Sustainable Transport Forum-2024, through a video message, being held in Beijing from September 25-26, 2024, said that Pakistan would work closely with China to achieve the goals of sustainable development to usher in an era of peace and prosperity.

He emphasized that the world needed resilient infrastructure for efficient, environment-friendly and low-carbon transport solutions to fulfill the needs of the people.

He appreciated China’s lead role in promoting and advancing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly recognizing the critical importance of the transport sector.

Highlighting the initiatives taken by the government, President Zardari apprised the Forum that Pakistan had introduced pink buses specifically for women to provide a safe, comfortable and accessible mode of public transportation.

He underlined that rural accessibility to all-weather roads in Pakistan witnessed significant improvement, reaching 92%. Improved rural accessibility could potentially contribute to promoting sustainable development as well as providing essential services to the rural population, he added.

The president apprised the participants that Pakistan was facing the challenges of sustainable maintenance of its infrastructure and the effects of climate change.

He highlighted that over the last five years, devastating floods, heavy rainfall and extreme weather conditions had severely damaged Pakistan’s transport infrastructure including roads, rails, bridges and other critical transport networks that isolated millions of people, particularly in rural areas.

President Zardari stated that Pakistan deeply valued China’s role in promoting sustainable development and its contribution to regional and global economic prosperity.

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