‘DEEPLY TOUCHED BY GRAND RECEPTION’, PM REACHES UZBEKISTAN TO BOOST BIL ATERAL TIES
g PM SHEHBAZ WILL MEET UZBEKISTAN PRESIDENT TO ‘DISCUSS ALL AREA S OF BILATERAL COOPERATION’
g UZBEKISTAN’S PM, FM, TA SHKENT’S MAYOR, UZBEK ENVOY TO PAKISTAN AND HIS PAKISTANI COUNTERPART WELCOME PM SHEHBAZ AT AIRPORT
g FO SAYS ‘A NUMBER OF’ BILATERAL AGREEMENTS/MOUS EXPECTED TO BE SIGNED BETWEEN TWO COUNTRIES DURING PM’S STAY
ture, the press release quoted the prime minister as saying On the occasion, the prime minister was also briefed about the 3000 year history of Uzbek nation and its heroes The visit to the monument would follow a series of high-level meetings with Uzbek officials, focusing on enhancing trade, energy cooperation, and cultural exchanges Both nations are committed to bolster regional connectivity and economic integration Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif s visit to Uzbekistan marks a significant step in strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries P M p a y s
The Independence Monument stands as a testament to the courage and determination of the Uzbek people Pakistan and Uzbekistan share a common vision for peace prosperity and regional connectivity This visit is a reminder of our shared values and the need to work together for a brighter fu-
and cultural ties between Pakistan and Uzbekistan, while reaffirming the commitment to deepening bilateral relations ” PM Office Media Wing said in a press release Accompanied by a high-level delegation, the prime minister laid a floral wreath at the monument, a symbol of Uzbekistan’s rich history and its journey toward sovereignty He also expressed his admiration for Uzbekistan’s progress and resilience drawing parallels with Pakistan s own struggle for independence and development
Aurangzeb emphasizes impor tance of well-regulated digital asset framework
appropriate frameworks, laws, and incentives to ensure transparency and facilitate digital business growth
greater efficiency in capital markets It was noted that various stakeholders, including foreign and domestic investors, have already developed product-ready digital asset solutions that could be explored within a regulatory sandbox Pakistan currently has over 20 million active users in the digital asset market who face significant challenges, including high transaction fees The Finance Minister reaffirmed his commitment to regulating and encouraging this industry by adopting
The Finance Minister directed relevant stakeholders to formulate a comprehensive framework that ensures security, transparency, regulatory compliance, and economic viability while safeguarding against financial crimes and illicit activities He also stressed the need for a balanced approach one that encourages innovation and investment in digital assets while maintaining strict regulatory oversight in line with international standards To enhance this initiative, the government will consider establishing a National Crypto Council which
BISP ANNOUNCES NEW BANKING PROJECT TO COMBAT FRAUD AND ENHANCE TRANSPARENCY
ment of a Joint Trading Company in Singapore, which will enhance Pakistan’s access to global energy markets Until the joint venture is operational, PSO will leverage SOCAR’s existing network in Singapore to optimize energy procurement In addition to the trading collabo-
ration, PSO and SOCAR alongside the Frontier Works Organization (FWO) inked an MoU to expand Pakistan’s oil pipeline network addressing the country s current reliance on road-based fuel transport Currently less than a third of oil movement in Pakistan takes place via pipelines The new infrastructure aims to improve efficiency and supply chain resilience A separate tripartite agreement between PSO Pakistan Refinery Limited (PRL) and SOCAR outlines cooperation in refinery modernization project management, and technical services The partnership will cover feasibility studies, risk assessment, and procurement strategies to enhance Pakistan’s refining capabilities
Additionally, PSO and SOCAR have signed a Government-to-Government (G2G) Strategic Partnership Agreement (SPA) to further deepen bilateral energy ties The agreements were formalized during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif s visit to Azerbaijan, underscoring Pakistan s commitment to regional collaboration in the oil and gas sector Industry sources highlight that these agreements mark a pivotal step in Pakistan s energy security strategy attracting foreign investment into the country s infrastructure PSO has officially notified the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) regarding these developments, emphasizing its plans for pipeline expansion and long-term energy trade partnerships
DHABI B y M o N to r i N g D e s k Khaifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi (KEZAD Group) a leading operator of integrated economic zones, has officially entered into a 50-year land lease agreement with Bisconni Middle East Manufacturing This landmark deal will pave the way for the establishment of a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility at KEZAD Al Ma mourah (KEZAD A) Bisconni, a subsidiary of Ismail Industries, Pakistan s largest confectionery, bis-
cuit, and snack food manufacturer, has been making strides in innovation and global expansion As part of its international growth strategy Bisconni is committing AED 110 million (approximately $30 million) to build a 37 000-squaremeter facility within KEZAD focused on producing biscuits and confectionery products This investment is a key part of Bisconni’s efforts to strengthen its presence in the Middle East region Mohamed Al Khadar Al Ahmed CEO of KEZAD Group expressed his excitement about the partnership saying We are thrilled to welcome Bisconni to KEZAD, and we are committed to providing world-class infrastructure and strategic opportunities for leading manufacturers This collaboration significantly enhances Abu Dhabi s standing as a regional hub for the food and confectionery industry Maqsood Ismail, Managing Director of Bisconni Middle East Manufacturing, shared his gratitude for the support received from KEZAD and the UAE authorities noting We are thankful to
LOCAL COTTON MARKET SEES DECLINE IN TRADING
Y DUE TO PRICE FLUCTUATIONS
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province This discovery marks a major breakthrough in the region s hydrocarbon potential and could bolster Pakistan s efforts to reduce its energy deficit Spinwam-1, the second exploratory well in the Waziristan Block was spudded on May 28 2024 and drilled to a total depth of 4 400 meters Initial testing of the Samanasuk Formation has yielded promising results, with a flow rate of 12 96 million standard cubic feet
per day (MMSCFD) of gas and approximately 20 barrels per day (bbl/day) of condensate at a 32/64-inch choke The wellhead flowing pressure was recorded at 2 127 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) Mari Energies Limited operates the Waziristan Block with a 55% working interest, while joint venture partners Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) and Orient Petroleum Inc hold 35% and 10% interests respectively OGDCL Pakistan s largest exploration and production company brings extensive expertise to the project, while Orient Petroleum Inc adds strategic value as a minority stakeholder The discovery has opened a new hydrocarbon play within the Waziristan Block signalling potential for further exploration and development in the region
Testing is ongoing, including post-acid job assessments and evaluations of additional targeted formations, to fully determine the well’s production capabilities
This discovery is a significant development for Pakistan s energy sector which has long struggled with energy shortages and reliance on imports The Waziristan Block, located in a historically under-explored region, now emerges as a promising frontier for hydrocarbon exploration
The announcement was made through a notice to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX), as per regulatory requirements
As testing progresses, stakeholders will closely monitor the results to determine the commercial viability of the Spinwam-1 well and its implications for future exploration in the Waziristan Block
and
COMMENT
IMF negotiations
Apaid from loans, which will be repaid by backbreaking taxation of the Third-World peoples Pakistan is eager, even anxious, to get this loan, but this does not constitute climate justice The West, through such Bretton-Woods organisations as the IMF, is merely throwing money at the problem in the hope that it will go
M A Niazi Editor
Comparing Trump’s first and second terms
AM O N G the significant differences between Donald Trump s first term as president in 2017 and his return to the White House in 2025, this time around he appears more in control and better prepared And despite the drastic measures of his first weeks in office, the opposition he is facing appears more subdued and less focused Though he won the presidency in 2016 Trump was not yet master of the Republican Party The party s old guard found him not conservative enough a personal embarrassment, and too erratic to lead the Grand Old Party His Make America Great Again movement, though substantial, had not yet demonstrated its capacity for mobilizing its ranks to sway members of Congress to fully embrace Trump and his agenda That has clearly changed Trump s control of the Republican Party its apparatus and congressional cohort are complete His opponents have been silenced or faded into the background In 2017, to bolster confidence in his administra-
in their assigned posts than the 2017 appointees The number one qualification is being a longtime Trump devotee or having made amends and groveled sufficiently for any past opposition
The most significant difference between Trump 2017 and Trump 2025 is that he now has a more clearly defined agenda and is more prepared to impose it When Ronald Reagan won in 1980, he arrived in Washington with a well-developed conservative game plan designed by the Heritage Foundation to transform the federal government according to conservative principles In 2017 Trump entered the Oval Office with an array of ideas complaints and actions to be taken, but without a plan to implement them
In 2025 many of the ideas complaints and ac-
tions are the same as 2017 but they are now bigger bolder more thought-through and backed up by extensive plans for implementation developed by the very same Heritage Foundation that helped guide Reagan’s time in the White House And just as Heritage helped populate Reagan’s administration with hundreds of staff in agencies to help implement the conservative agenda this year Heritage boasts of having tens of thousands of vetted individuals waiting to serve in the new Trump administration President Donald Trump and Elon Musk, his “hatchet-man,” are running roughshod over the federal government’s institutions and workforce Entire agencies have been shuttered and tens of thousands of workers have been fired or placed on indefinite leave setting the stage for the kind of Trump takeover in 2025 that he was unable to accomplish in 2017 There s one final difference to be noted Donald Trump s election in 2016 was greeted by an eruption of mass protests They came in waves with advocates for women’s rights and immigrants and those calling for more restrictive gun laws and an end to police brutality each in turn making their mark While there have been protests
In the end, it will most likely be Mr TrumpÊs own hubris and the contradictions between his promises and his policies that will prove to be his undoing Just one example: polls show that while his suppor ters love his bold actions, what they most want to see is the drop in prices and inflation that Trump promised during the campaign. But his use of tariffs and the mass depor tation of migrants (who perform essential tasks in the agricultural and ser vice sectors) will inevitably cause prices to rise , without the results that Trump voters were promised. If the improvements in the daily lives of his suppor ters donÊt come , Trump2 could end worse than Trump1.
Trump’s shift: Bully to Peacemaker
Salman (affectionately known as MBS) t hat was entrusted with this critical role The role assigned to Saudi Arabia is also arguably the most suitable one Due to the acumen of Saudi leadership all stakeholders in the conflict have a high level of trust and confidence in the Kingdom, as it is seen as a neutral, non-controversial, and fair mediator This stands in contrast to other global powers, many of whom are perceived as biased or having vested interests in the conflicts factors that jeopardize both regional and international peace In pursuit of peace his speech emphasized the unimaginable destructive power of nuclear weapons, urging serious negotiations with President Putin of Russia and President Xi of China to curb nuclear proliferation before it spirals out of control Trump underscored his philosophy of peace through strength arguing that without military strength, peace remains unattainable However, he made it clear that nuclear weapons are a force so powerful that their use would mean the end of civilization He referenced the devastation of Hiroshima and Nagasaki warning that today s nuclear weapons are 500 times more powerful than those that obliterated the two Japanese cities
In his speech, Trump revealed that he had engaged in serious discussions with both Putin and Xi on denuclearization, recognizing that while the USA and Russia currently possess the largest nuclear arsenals China is rapidly closing the gap and will reach parity within a few years
He emphasized that these three superpowers hold the key to preventing a nuclear apocalypse and that negotiations must extend beyond just the USA and Russia to include China and other nuclear-armed nations
Trump described his direct talks with Putin as very successful and highlighted his discussions with Xi signaling that China was open to negotiations He emphasized that the world must come together to prevent new nations from acquiring nuclear weapons not just Iran, which is often at the centre of nuclear concerns, but other emerging nuclear powers as well
The urgency of Trump s message was clear: if nuclear war occurs the world as we know it will disintegrate His words reflected a
deep understanding of the devastating consequences of uncontrolled nuclear proliferation He positioned himself as a leader who recognizes the dire necessity of preventing nuclear war not through weakness but through diplomacy backed by strength
By taking bold steps to initiate serious negotiations with both Russia and China, Trump reaffirmed that denuclearization is not just a political strategy but a moral imperative to save humanity from a future of unimaginable destruction His approach marks a shift in global power dynamics where instead of escalating arms races, leaders must engage in dialogue to prevent the ultimate catastrophe nuclear annihilation
President Trump has repeatedly claimed that his party believes in common sense Surprisingly he is now taking steps that had long seemed unimaginable to many nations steps that challenge the conventional, often destructive, approaches of global powers For decades, nation after nation has abandoned the path of common sense, indulging in wars and conflicts that have wreaked havoc on humanity bringing untold misery to the vanquished
Despite knowing that wars are inherently destructive and bring no real benefit to humanity, even in this age of advanced knowledge, intense diplomacy, technological innovation, and supposed political maturity, nations have continued to subject hundreds of thousands of innocent people to suffering in the name of their convictions ideologies and misguided geopolitical ambitions Instead of prioritizing diplomacy and peace, wars have been fueled by religious extremism, ethnic divisions, and racial animosities, pushing common sense to the back seat and leaving the world reeling under the weight of irrationality and destruction Now President Trump is reversing this trend steering the world away from senseless conflict and back toward common sense with full force His approach aims to restore fairness, logic, and practical diplomacy as the foundation for global peace If successful, this shift could lead the world to embrace a renewed commitment to reason cooperation and shared prosperity ushering in an era of stability development and growth across the board
Now, President Trump is reversing this trend steering the world away from senseless conflict and back toward common sense with full force His approach aims to restore fairness, logic, and practical diplomacy as the foundation for global peace If successful, this shift could lead the world to embrace a renewed commitment to reason, cooperation, and shared prosperity ushering in an era of stability, development, and growth across the board
Severe AQI Aler t
Freelancer suppor t
A test of justice
A vision of world at peace Wa
James J ZOGBy
Not as much opposition this time
Qamar Bashir
Efforts to create chaos and division
of corruption, nepotism, and manipulation
AZ A D Jammu and Kashmir is famous for its picturesque landscape stunning valleys and rich cultural heritage AJK is celebrated for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, but beyond the breathtaking views, it is home to a unique culture of love peace and unity deeply rooted in its history people and traditions
Despite the region s political complexities and its proximity to the disputed Kashmir region, AJK has remained a symbol of harmony and mutual respect among its diverse communities AJK’s history has been integral in shaping its current culture of peace and unity Its strategic location nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and bordering Indian occupied Kashmir has made it a focal point of political conflict However, despite being located in one of South Asia’s most politically sensitive areas, AJK has managed to maintain a relatively peaceful atmosphere In 1947 Partition led to the creation of both Pakistan and India leaving the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir to accede to one The choice to join Pakistan triggered the first Kashmir war from 1947-1948, resulting in the division of the region and the formation of AJK as a self-governing entity under Pakistan
Despite facing political challenges AJK has successfully preserved a unique identity centred around the well-being and unity of its people AJK is home to a diverse population, with various ethnic, religious, and linguistic communities living together in harmony The region is primarily uinhabited by Punjabis Paharis Mirpuris and Gujjars with Islam being the dominant religion
This diversity is embraced through festivals ceremonies and daily interactions fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect Eid and other religious festivals are celebrated with enthusiasm across all communities, promoting interfaith harmony and solidarity For
example, during Eid celebrations, it is common to see people from different communities coming together to share meals and celebrate Family and community play a central role in shaping individual values and social norms in AJK The concept of Izzat (honor) is deeply ingrained, and maintaining peace and unity within the family and community is of utmost importance Families in AJK often live in close-knit units with strong bonds between extended families and neighbours
The strong network of social support helps individuals navigate personal loss, economic challenges, or even natural disasters like earthquakes and floods The tradition of “bhaiwali” (a code of honor and hospitality) is also common where kindness respect and helping others in need are essential values This sense of hospitality extends to visitors and strangers reinforcing the ideals of love, compassion, and peace
Education plays a vital role in promoting peace and unity in AJK The region has made significant investments in improving educational infrastructure and ensuring access to quality education Schools and colleges not only focus on academics but also emphasize moral values, community service, and social cohesion Educational institutions make young minds understand and appreciate diversity tolerance and peaceful coexistence
Students from different backgrounds learn to collaborate respect differences and participate in activities that promote social harmony This inclusive education system nurtures a generation that prioritizes unity over division and peace over conflict Additionally, AJK has seen the growth of several universities and institutions that attract students from all over Pakistan enhancing cultural exchange and mutual understanding The peaceful atmosphere of the region creates an ideal environment for educational and personal growth, contributing to the overall peace and progress of society
The region’s stunning landscapes also contribute to fostering a culture of peace
The beautiful valleys of Neelum, Rawalakot, and Bagh along with serene lakes rivers and forests have long been a source of inspiration Nature is not just a backdrop but a source of spirituality and tranquility
The natural environment plays a key role in shaping the cultural values of the people, who view their surroundings as symbols of harmony and balance The people often describe their region as a “paradise on earth ” with the tranquility and serenity of the natural surroundings mirroring their approach to life This strong bond with nature cultivates inner peace, reflected in the community s collective behaviour The residents are recognized for their hospitality, calm demeanour and peaceful attitude all of which are deeply rooted in their connection to the natural world Furthermore the tourism industry in AJK has thrived due to the region s breathtaking landscapes The warm hospitality extended to tourists reflects the peaceful nature of AJK society, where visitors are welcomed with kindness and respect
Regrettably some elements in AJK aim to undermine this remarkable culture In recent months the Awami Action Committee (AAC) has emerged as a pressure group and a potential threat to the region s peace and harmony The AAC has become a controversial entity, facing allegations of contributing to social unrest and spreading hate within the region Its activities have raised concerns about its impact on the political and social fabric of AJK
The AAC has shifted towards more extreme tactics, alarming both citizens and political observers It has been criticized for destabilizing AJK by exploiting divisions for political gain The committee is often accused of backing one political faction over another which has led to increased friction and institutional breakdowns By aligning itself with specific political factions, the AAC has created an environment of mistrust and competition rather than cooperation exacerbating the political climate with accusations
The AAC has been blamed for inciting protests boycotts and destabilizing campaigns against its political rivals The group is accused of orchestrating efforts to destabilize the AJK government, using inflammatory rhetoric to rally resistance and portray the government as controlled by external forces
Observers have also taken note of the AAC’s role in destabilizing the region for personal political gain The AAC s controversial activities are largely driven by its tendency to incite hate and violence It has been accused of using hate speech and promoting divisive rhetoric to fuel animosity between ethnic and religious groups within AJK
The group’s leaders often adopt nationalist rhetoric mixing anti-Pakistan sentiments in ways that portray Pakistan as an oppressor of Kashmiris While advocating for the rights of Kashmiris is important, such divisive rhetoric only weakens constructive dialogue, fostering violence and enmity
The AAC has played a key role in leveraging modern media particularly social media to disseminate its divisive ideology Its presence on digital platforms has significantly expanded its reach, allowing it to influence a wide audience By manipulating information, spreading misinformation, and using provocative images and videos, the AAC has stirred emotions and created widespread chaos
The group s use of social media to target political rivals and advance its own agenda has sparked online disputes resulting in verbal abuse and even physical confrontations This manipulation of the media undermines the ability of citizens to distinguish between truth and falsehood jeopardizing the region s peace and security
The political agenda of the Awami Ac-
The people of AJK deser ve leadership that fosters social harmony, peaceful dialogue , and a united push for self-determination Acknowledging the destructive consequences of extremist and nationalist actions, including those of the groups like BLA and AAC, is essential to counteracting their negative impact on the peace and prosperity of both AJK and Pakistan Only by addressing these divisive forces can AJK and Pakistan begin to heal and build a more unified future
Tanyone and anything They could be any of the armies of 73 million single women in the world s largest democracy who had freed themselves, putting themselves first, reclaiming their lives piece by piece, sometimes broken shard by broken shard, like Ramya They could be Roma a lawyer in her mid-forties based out of NCR who like every married Indian woman had tried hard to fit into the roles of wife daughter-in-law mother Domestic violence strangulation, physical and sexual assault by her husband ended it all Mind you, the husband was a doctor Yet, he showed little empathy and demanded sex from her throughout her pregnancy periods and even a couple of days after she was discharged from the hospital after a C-section surgery to deliver their baby He had abused her and said she was crazy mental that something was wrong with her because she did not want to have sex It was a classic form of shaming and blaming, as old as time, which countless women are put through all over the world in their marriages Most “adjust” as women are taught to in every role and area of their lives most perhaps as wives and daughters-in-law So of course Roma adjusted as well But he took the decision for her and threw her out After eleven years of marriage, at the age of 35, Roma found herself homeless She has since then built her life from scratch as a single mother, sustaining herself and her child for over seven years It has been no walk in the park and in spite of her being a lawyer the legal process and the patriarchy involved which Banshee too had to face were no less torture than her eleven years in hell My husband had made me swargwasi (a dead person), and now, as a single working mom, I am living in heaven,” she says with a smile Single women resulted from all kinds of situations Some were divorced having escaped from abusive marriages and relationships some were widows and then there were those who were single out of choice perhaps due to abusive childhood patterns repeating or even as a result of a happy childhood (psychological patterns addressed in a later chapter on therapy jargon and childhood enmeshment playing out in adult relationships) In her early thirties now Iva a social media professional was sexually abused as a child the trauma of which remains unresolved Opening up sexually to anyone is an incredibly big deal for her Two out of her three relationships were abusive, induced by sexual demands All of her exes had demanded sex from her and only one had ever made her feel safe “And I did feel safe enough to get intimate with him but the relationship ended ” says Iva
or grief Iva was baffled When her employer gave her a break she called up her then boyfriend He responded three hours later saying Let s have sex you will feel better Sensitivity, mutual support and basic dependence were always absent In an India of extramarital affairs, it is not uncommon for single women like Iva or my feminist friend (or the ones mentioned in the later chapters) to have flings full-blown affairs or casual sex with married men with no guilt But without the human connection or true intimacy the point is lost Sex is not the real need Peel the layers, as we saw in Mumbai or in Iva s case, and intimacy or human connection is the core human need More and more women like Iva are realising this, thanks to their bodies that were unable to orgasm Even in relationships where women are not abused men often tend to demand certain sexual acts without making the partner feel safe enough to proceed When the women refuse, their consent, or lack of it, is respected, but there is pouting, uncomfortable silence and painful, passive-aggressive behaviour, making both partners feel betrayed rejected and hurt and ultimately destroying relationships All of this can be resolved with heartfelt healthy communication Several women prefer to avoid the whole drama and choose to remain single
According to the International Academy of Sex Research s journal, Archives of Sexual Behaviour, 59 per cent of women in America have faked orgasms That so many women in the world’s most developed country feel the need to fake what is supposed to be joy and liberation tells a lot Are they safe to be themselves anywhere?
In a society like India where women are constantly slutshamed and made to feel unsafe irrespective of whether they are covered from head to toe or not; where the woman is seen as property, especially after marriage; where it is her job to serve her husband and be an object to be controlled and moulded Her sense of safety so that she does not feel she is walking on eggshells in the relationship and her freedom to even know who she is so that she can try to be that self are rare luxuries How then, can she feel free in bed?
According to the National Family Health Survey (2019–21) by the Ministry of Health and Welfare, 83 per cent of sexually abused married women were abused by their husbands In other words they have suffered marital rape something that is still not considered a crime in India
Radha had to have an abortion because on their wedding night, the husband decided to have unprotected sex without her consent She says that while she was pained and felt betrayed, he is otherwise “a wonderful man and a caring
Abdul bAsit Alvi
China calls for fair global human rights governance
S TA F F C O R R E S P O N D E N T Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Monday that China is willing to work with all countries to uphold a correct view of human rights and push for the reform and improvement of global human rights governance Wang also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks while delivering a video address at the high-level meeting of the 58th session of the United Nations Human Rights Council
He emphasized the importance of remembering the original mission of human rights governance, which should be people-centered Wang stressed that China firmly rejects actions that interfere in the internal affairs of other countries under the pretext of human rights, and that disregard national sovereignty, security and the safety of people’s lives
Fairness and justice must be upheld and the right to subsistence and development should be prioritized as fundamental human rights, Wang said He also added that double standards – or even multiple standards – on human rights issues must be firmly
and
and preferences on others, or
tries to realize a modern world characterized by peaceful development mutually beneficial cooperation and shared prosperity China is committed to the future and well-being of humanity and all nations, Wang said It will promote international cooperation and civilizational exchange and be a builder of a community with a shared future for
tional community
CUI
Balloting held for CDA-DHA Joint Venture Margalla Enclave
ISLAMABAD
DHA Islamabad-Rawalpindi (DHAI-R) and the Capital Development Authority (CDA) proudly present Margalla Enclave an exclusive housing project that promises a modern and serene living experience The much-anticipated balloting ceremony is being held at Jacaranda Family Club DHAI-R Phase 2, with thousands of applications received from within the country and abroad for allotment Chairman CDA, Muhammad Ali Randhawa Acting Administrator DHAI-R Brig (Retd) Ghulam Murtaza SI (M) and officials from CDA and DHAI-R are gracing the occasion marking another milestone in the real estate development of the twin cities Strategically located at the foothills of the scenic Margalla Hills, Margalla Enclave offers sustainable infrastructure, world-class amenities, and a meticulously planned community lifestyle Inspired by DHAI-R's successful developments in its first seven phases this project will introduce state-of-the-art facilities high-end commercials lush green landscapes a lake, parks, educational institutions, mosques, and modern healthcare centers
KIU and Universit y of Chinese’s Academy of Sciences Agree to Enhance Research Collaboration
Karakoram International University and the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS) have agreed to enhance their research collaboration in the region According to KIU's Public Relations Department, the agreement was reached during a meeting between UCAS Executive Vice President Professor Wan Yunfen and KIU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Attaullah Shah During the meeting Professor Wan emphasized the importance of cooperation and long-standing friendship between China and Pakistan He also praised KIU s role in promoting sustainable development in the region KIU Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Attaullah Shah who also serves as the Chair of the Steering Committee for the Himalayan Universities Consortium (HUC) presented a detailed overview of KIU s academic and research endeavors He also shed light on the research conducted by KIU s Cryosphere and Climate Team in 16 unsecured valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan The Vice Chancellor expressed interest in collaborating with UCAS on climate research The China-Pakistan Joint Research Center (CPJRC) is expected to facilitate this collaboration
From left to right: Saqib Zeeshan, CEO of Pak-Qatar General Takaful; Mujtaba Ahmed Lodhi, Commissioner Insurance SECP; Muhammad Kamran Saleem, Board Member, Pak-Qatar Group; and Waqas Ahmad, CEO of Pak-Qatar Family Takaful, at the
of
BA JWA’S EXTENSION REFERENCED AS EX AMPLE OF CHANGES DRIVEN BY COURT’S INTERVENTIONS
TH E Supreme Court of Pakistan on
remarks, maintaining his focus on the case’s legal aspects During arguments, references were made to India’s military trial system Justice Aminuddin Khan noted that Indian law allows appeals to independent tribunals questioning whether such rights were legislated by Parliament or mandated by the courts Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar pointed to the case of Kulbhushan Jadhav an Indian national tried under Pakistan s military justice system
Pakistan, Russia to establish counter terrorism dialogue
growing partnership is also evident in the upcoming Pak-Russia freight train service set to begin operations on March 15 2025 The project aims to boost regional trade by connecting Pakistan with Iran, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Russia This latest step marks a significant move towards stronger diplomatic and security ties between the two nations
MQM-H chief granted bail in dumper arson case
S TA F F R E P O R T
The Additional District and Sessions (West) court on Tuesday granted bail to Muhajir Qaumi MovementHaqiqi (MQM-H) Chairman Afaq Ahmed in torching of a dumper case in Surjani Town
The court approved the bail against surety bonds worth Rs1 million ordering his release if he is not wanted in any other case Advocate Javed Chattari the counsel for MQM-H chief, argued that the allegations were baseless and that the police failed to provide evidence linking his client to the incident
The prosecution, however, maintained that the case was registered at the Surjani Town police station following the alleged arson The court observed that the prosecution had not presented sufficient evidence to oppose bail Earlier this month, Afaq was arrested in connection with arson
further stated that if the case lacked sufficient evidence, it could be dismissed outright The court also took a critical stance on political arrests noting that imprisoning politicians often enhances their popularity
A gentleman is already in jail and not being controlled, now another one is being asked to go out, and he is refusing to do so, the
The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC)
Sargodha on Tuesday indicted Leader of Opposition in National Assembly Opposition Omar Ayub Khan in Mianwali judicial complex s attack case related to May 9 riots
ATC Judge Muhammad Naeem presided over the proceedings of the case and indicted various leaders including Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Malik Ahmad Khan Bhachar
All the accused however pleaded not guilty Later, the court summoned the witnesses on the next hearing and adjourned the hearing till February 28
As many as 57 people are named in the case along with 150 unknown individuals the police said in a statement
The indictment comes weeks after the Faisalabad ATC issued non-bailable for Ayub and Senate
Opposition Leader Shibli Faraz, and others in a case related to their alleged involvement in the May 9 riots
The arrest warrants issued over failure to appear before court in a case registered at Civil Lines
Police Station have also been issued against PTI s Kanwal Shauzab as well as former party leader Fawad Chaudhry
The latest addition to the NA opposition leader ’s legal challenges comes as the PTI s leadership including its founder Imran Khan along with senior leaders such as Shah Mahmood Qureshi and others, remains embroiled in a plethora of legal cases owing to the May 9 incident which saw military installations being vandalised by an angry mob following Khan s arrest in a graft case
The riots have since been blamed on the PTI by both the then-Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) government, the care-
taker government and the current Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif s administration an allegation vehemently denied by the former ruling party
Speaking to the media earlier Ayub censured the federal and provincial government for destroying the country and called for fresh elections in the country
The opposition leader further complained of the party’s legal woes and claimed that the PTI founder s wife Bushra Bibi was not being allowed to meet the incarcerated prime minister
The delay in our cases is due to the lack of the supremacy of the Constitution in the country,” he remarked
Addressing the martyrdom of security forces personnel and officers in terrorist attacks the politician further called for the formation of a commission to probe the factors and reasons behind them
Punjab sets up panel to ‘update’ centuries-old criminal laws
LAHORE S TA F F R E P O R T
The Punjab government has constituted a Law Reforms Committee to review and amend outdated criminal laws to meet contemporary legal challenges According to a notification issued by the Home Department on Tuesday the committee would draft amendments to key laws including the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) 1898, the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) 1860, and the Qanun-e-Shahadat Order 1984 Additionally, it will work on drafting a National Security Law to address evolving security concerns
The amendments aimed at im-
proving crime prevention, law enforcement effectiveness and maintaining public order with focus on protection of women and children
The committee will also review laws related to counter-terrorism, cybercrime, and cybersecurity, ensuring they align with modern scientific techniques and contemporary legal requirements
The Law Reforms Committee will be headed by DIG Kamran Adil Other members include Deputy Director Law Department M Yunus, Additional Advocate General Punjab Hassan Khalid, and a representative from the Prosecutor General Punjab’s office The committee has been directed to submit its recommendations to the Home
Department within three months
Earlier in December 2024 the Punjab Cabinet under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had approved a series of significant reforms and projects aimed at improving governance, agriculture, and social welfare across the province Significant approvals included the formal establishment of the Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority under the Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority Rules 2024
The cabinet also approved the delegation of hearing powers to Assistant Commissioners for the Punjab Environment and Regulatory Authority
SHC ‘ finds ’ ATC judge of ‘ irregularities ’ in Mustafa Amir murder c ase
KARACHI S TA F F R E P O R T
The Sindh High Court on Tuesday stripped the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) Judge handling the Mustafa Amir murder case of administrative powers and ordered his removal from his role
A two-member Sindh High Court bench, led by Justice Zafar Rajput, issued a detailed verdict, finding irregularities in his decision to deny police remand of the accused The ruling follows allegations of record tampering and judicial overreach sparking concerns over the integrity of the proceedings According to the SHC ruling the court found significant procedural violations including improper handling of remand requests and unauthorized changes to official documents It said that the ATC judge exceeded his authority by denying po-
lice custody of the accused, Armaghan, despite investigators presenting evidence The decision was particularly controversial as the judge initially approved police remand but later altered the order to judicial custody by using correction fluid
The high court ruling highlighted serious lapses in case management, stating that Judge Hussain kept the investigating officer waiting for three hours before verbally instructing him to conduct a medical examination of the accused
