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Funeral prayers of three victims who were martyred in a terrorist attack in Gawadar were offered in Mohsin Wal area of Mian Channu here on Friday

Funeral prayers were held for three victims who lost their lives in a terrorist attack in Gwadar, at the Mohsin Wal area of Mian Channu on Friday. A significant number of individuals, including DC Hamid Waaim Sindhu and DPO Rana Umer Farooq, attended the funeral.

The DC and DPO extended their condolences to the grieving families. Subsequently, the deceased were laid to rest in their respective hometown graveyards.

It’s worth noting that seven individuals were tragically martyred in the Gwadar terrorist attack, with three of them hailing from Khnaewal District.

PML-N leader, Muhammad Hanif Abbasi has dismissed any possibility of forming a judicial commission on the tragedy of May 9, terming it as unjustified

PML-N leader Muhammad Hanif Abbasi has rejected the possibility of establishing a judicial commission to investigate the events of May 9, describing it as unjustified. He stated that the perpetrators behind the incidents were moving freely within the country. Abbasi emphasized that a judicial commission is necessary when matters are concealed, but in this case, those responsible for the chaos have not faced consequences and continue to operate freely.

He stressed the importance of bringing the culprits and planners of the May 9th events to justice to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Speaking at a press conference alongside local party leaders on Thursday, Hanif Abbasi labeled May 9th as the darkest day in the country’s history and emphasized the need to prevent its recurrence. He lamented the damage inflicted upon the country, unprecedented in its 76-year history.

Abbasi condemned the attacks on GHQ, Corps Commander House, martyrs’ sculptures, and metro bus stations as acts against the state, calling for the strictest actions against the perpetrators. He warned that pardoning them would set a dangerous precedent for future acts of similar nature. Abbasi accused former PTI Chairman of attempting to separate politics from attacks on the state, characterizing such actions as part of a global agenda. He asserted that enemies of Pakistan, residing abroad, are engaged in negative propaganda against the state.

Highlighting PTI’s involvement, Hanif Abbasi claimed that the group has strained diplomatic relations with countries like Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, and China. Sardar Naseem, Haji Parvez Khan, and local Members of the Punjab Assembly (MPAs) were also present at the press conference.

President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday approved the Tax Laws (Amendment) Bill 2024 under Article 75 of the Constitution

President Asif Ali Zardari approved the Tax Laws (Amendment) Bill 2024 on Friday under Article 75 of the Constitution. The bill’s objective is to amend laws related to taxes and duties, as stated in a news release from the President House.

The amendments included in the bill entail changes to sections 30DDD, 43, 45B, 46, and 47 of the Sales Tax Act 1990. Similarly, amendments to sections 29, 33, 34, and 38 of the Federal Excise Act 2005, and sections 122A, 124, 126A, 130, 131, 132, 133, and 134A of the Income Tax Ordinance 2001 have been made through this bill.

The Tax Laws (Amendment) Bill 2024 received passage in the National Assembly on April 29, 2024. The president’s approval of the bill was based on the prime minister’s advice.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Thursday stressed the imperative for joint action to counter Islamophobia, particularly in the context of Israel’s aggression against Palestine, which had resulted in a rise in Islamophobic and xenophobic acts around the world

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar emphasized the critical need for collaborative efforts to address Islamophobia, particularly in light of Israel’s aggression against Palestine, which has led to a surge in Islamophobic and xenophobic incidents worldwide.

These sentiments were expressed during a meeting with Hissein Brahim Taha, the Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), on the sidelines of the 15th Islamic Summit held in Banjul, The Gambia.

In the meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister commended the Secretary General for the successful convening of the 15th OIC Islamic Summit, as per a statement from the Foreign Office.

Dar shared Pakistan’s deep concerns regarding the escalating Islamophobia, evidenced by a growing number of discriminatory acts, violence, and provocations against Muslims globally. He briefed the Secretary General on the situation in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu & Kashmir, highlighting the excessive use of force by Indian security forces.

Recognizing the OIC’s historical support for the just struggle of the Kashmiri people, Dar appreciated the role of the OIC Contact Group on Kashmir and the Special Envoy on Kashmir, as well as the OIC’s regular monitoring of human rights conditions in IIOJK.

The OIC Secretary General reiterated the organization’s support for the Kashmiri people’s legitimate right to self-determination, as reflected in various OIC resolutions.

Expressing grave concern over the ongoing genocide in Gaza and the dire humanitarian crisis, the Deputy Prime Minister called for an immediate ceasefire and unimpeded delivery of humanitarian assistance to Palestinians. He reiterated Pakistan’s principled stance, advocating for the complete withdrawal of Israel from all occupied Arab territories, including Jerusalem, and the restoration of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, including their right of return to Palestine. Dar also emphasized the establishment of an independent homeland for Palestinians with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

Dar commended the OIC’s peace efforts and initiatives in the Middle East, expressing Pakistan’s full support for them.

Mohsin Naqvi emphasizes upon the need to modernize the force to bolster its efficiency and effectiveness in fulfilling its duties.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi commended the Pakistan Coast Guards on Wednesday for their remarkable efforts in combating illegal trade and smuggling during a meeting held at their Karachi headquarters.

Naqvi stressed the importance of modernizing the force to enhance its efficiency and effectiveness in carrying out its duties.

He also recognized the dedication shown by coastal guards despite resource constraints.

Additionally, in recognition of World Labor Day, Naqvi extended his heartfelt wishes to all laborers, highlighting their essential role in national development.

He also reiterated his commitment to their upliftment.

The judges of the Balochistan High Court ask Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa to investigate the matter of the agencies’ interference into the judicial matters.

The Balochistan High Court (BHC) has recommended taking legal action against individuals involved in the unauthorized telephone tapping or video recording of judges and their families.

During a Supreme Court hearing related to allegations made by Islamabad High Court (IHC) judges regarding ‘interference’ by security agencies in judicial affairs, the BHC judges submitted these recommendations.

The BHC judges suggested that the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) should conduct an investigation into the matter. They recommended that the complainant judge provide a sworn statement, which should be exempt from cross-examination once submitted.

Additionally, the judges recommended initiating contempt of court proceedings against any agencies found to interfere with or blackmail district or other judges.

They further advised that the Chief Justice, session judges, or others collect CCTV footage of any interventions. Session judges should report such incidents to the high court, which would then form a five-judge bench to address the matter.

The judges stressed that if a high court judge reports interference, it should be brought to the attention of the Chief Justice, emphasizing that judges should not face repercussions for lodging complaints.

In their recommendations, judges from the Peshawar High Court (PHC) proposed prohibiting the entry of intelligence agency representatives and maintaining the confidentiality of complaints.

They urged the judiciary to establish a mechanism for engagement with other branches of the state.

Furthermore, they advised judges to refrain from meeting with agencies or their representatives and to avoid using social media platforms such as WhatsApp, Instagram, or Facebook.

Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa remarked during the hearing that there are limits to what recommendations can achieve.

A six-member bench of the Supreme Court, led by CJP Qazi Faez Isa, including Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail, Justice Athar Minallah, Justice Musarrat Hilali, and Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan, heard the case.

The Chief Justice of Pakistan took suo motu notice on April 1 of the IHC judges’ letter, which alleged interference by intelligence agencies in judicial matters.

The letter, written by six IHC judges following the Supreme Court’s March 22 ruling on Shaukat Aziz Siddiqui’s dismissal case, sought guidance from the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) on the duty of a judge to report and respond to actions by the executive, including operatives of intelligence agencies, that interfere with the discharge of their official duties and constitute intimidation.

The Embassy of the Netherlands in Islamabad on Monday hosted a reception to celebrate the birthday of King Willem-Alexander

On Monday, the Embassy of the Netherlands in Islamabad held a reception commemorating the birthday of King Willem-Alexander.

Federal Minister for Industries and Production, Rana Tanveer Hussain, served as the chief guest. Together with Ambassador Henny de Vries, he participated in cutting a cake to honor the Dutch King’s birthday.

The event convened a distinguished audience, comprising high-ranking government officials, notable figures from civil society, and members of the diplomatic corps.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Henny de Vries remarked, “Today, as we come together to mark King Willem-Alexander’s birthday on King’s Day, we underscore the lasting partnership and friendship between the Netherlands and Pakistan amidst global turbulence.”

“In moments like these, it becomes increasingly vital for us to pause and recognize and celebrate the commonalities that unite us, rather than the differences that separate us.”

The event not only marked the King’s birthday but also served as a platform to bolster the longstanding bond between Pakistan and the Netherlands.

Over the past year, the Embassy, in conjunction with partners in Pakistan, has orchestrated a range of fruitful projects and events across multiple domains, encompassing human rights, water management, and climate initiatives.

Showcasing the cultural richness and artistic prowess of both countries, the event showcased a captivating performance by two Dutch artists collaborating with talented Pakistani musicians. Together, they presented a medley of national anthems and traditional melodies, emblematic of the unity and mutual values shared between the two cultures.

Advisor at the Royal Court and General Secretary of Saudi-Pakistan Supreme Coordination Council Mohammed bin Mazyad Al-Tuwaijri called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif here on Saturday and discussed the ways to strengthen economic ties between the two countries

Advisor to the Royal Court and General Secretary of the Saudi-Pakistan Supreme Coordination Council, Mohammed bin Mazyad Al-Tuwaijri, met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday to discuss enhancing economic ties between their nations.

Both parties expressed strong enthusiasm for bolstering economic relations. They assessed the advancements in Saudi investment in Pakistan, particularly in light of the recent visit by a Saudi delegation led by the Foreign Minister to Pakistan.

Al-Tuwaijri and his delegation conveyed significant interest in Saudi investments by both the government and companies in Pakistan. Following the visit of the Saudi Foreign Minister to Pakistan, they emphasized that work had commenced promptly on prioritized Saudi investments in the country.

Al-Tuwaijri highlighted that the investment efforts in Pakistan were proceeding swiftly, involving contributions from both the public and private sectors. Additionally, he mentioned that a delegation comprising members of the Saudi business community and investors would imminently visit Pakistan.

As the overseer of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, Al-Tuwaijri provided the Prime Minister with a comprehensive overview of the project during their discussion.

He expressed, “We aim for the economic relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia to progress in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030.”

Under Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is committed to offering assistance for training the Pakistani workforce and government officials.

A thorough briefing was provided to the Prime Minister regarding Saudi Arabia’s reform agenda.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif affirmed Pakistan’s interest in leveraging the successful reform policies of Saudi Arabia to modernize Pakistan’s governance structure.

He emphasized that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia share fraternal relations, which are steadily strengthening over time. Furthermore, he highlighted that the economic ties between the two countries have entered a new phase.

He noted significant advancements in Saudi investment across various sectors in Pakistan, particularly following the visit of the delegation led by the Saudi Foreign Minister.

“We are progressing rapidly following the developments made during the Saudi delegation’s visit to Pakistan,” he remarked.

The Prime Minister expressed the immense respect and regard that the people of Pakistan hold for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, His Excellency King Salman Bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud.

He extended gratitude to the Saudi Crown Prince and the Prime Minister for their warm reception and exceptional hospitality.

Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister for Petroleum Musadiq Malik, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Minister for Power Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, Deputy Chairman Planning Commission Jehanzeb Khan, and other high-level officials were also in attendance.

The National Curriculum Review Committee (NCRC) has reviewed the curricula of undergraduate and graduate degree programmes in the discipline of Environmental Science

The National Curriculum Review Committee (NCRC) has assessed the curricula of both undergraduate and graduate degree programs in Environmental Science.

The draft, aligned with the Higher Education Commission’s (HEC) policies on undergraduate and graduate education, incorporates the most recent advancements and trends in Environmental Science. A press release issued on Friday stated that the draft will undergo consideration by the HEC management before being circulated to universities for implementation.

Mr. Muhammad Ali Baig, Deputy Director of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and Secretary of the National Curriculum Review Committee (NCRC), emphasized various initiatives undertaken by the HEC to enhance the quality of education and develop curricula. He underscored the importance of promoting environmental education to equip Pakistani youth with the necessary skills to address and mitigate significant environmental challenges, both at the local and global levels.

He emphasized the significance of creating thorough curricula for degree programs in Environmental Science, which would include interdisciplinary courses, capstone projects, and internships. He stated that the aim of such comprehensive curricula is to ensure that graduates possess the ability to understand theoretical concepts, apply practical methods, and lead initiatives vital for preserving the ecological balance of the Earth.

The NCRC comprises representatives from higher education institutions across Pakistan. Notable participants included chairpersons, heads, and representatives from institutions such as Quaid-i-Azam University, University of Karachi, University of Peshawar, University of the Punjab, Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences, Abdul Wali Khan University, Sindh Agriculture University, University of Swat, University of Sindh, Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Sciences, COMSATS University Islamabad, Government College University Lahore, and Government College University Faisalabad.

Superintendent of Police (SP) Headquarter, Shahzeb Chachar on the directives of SSP Hyderabad Amjad Ahmed Shaikh to hold a ‘Khuli Katchery’ on Thursday Baldia Police office to address grievances of the people

Superintendent of Police (SP) Headquarters, Shahzeb Chachar, under the directives of SSP Hyderabad, Amjad Ahmed Shaikh, organized an open court, known as ‘Khuli Katchery,’ at the Baldia Police office on Thursday. The purpose was to address the grievances of the people.

A police spokesperson stated that residents of the Baldia Police station and surrounding areas were invited to attend the open court and voice their concerns. This initiative aimed to ensure that their issues could be promptly addressed.