Kashmir marks ‘Black Day’ as India celebrates …

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has arrived in Madinah during his visit to Saudi Arabia and paid his respects at Masjid-e-Nabawi ﷺ. The prime minister was accompanied by members of his delegation during his visit to the holy mosque. Prime Minister Shehbaz offered Nafl prayers at Riyaz-ul-Jannah. He also prayed for the peace, progress and prosperity of Pakistan and the well-being of its people. During his visit, the prime minister also had the honour of visiting Roza-e-Rasool ﷺ. He offered prayers and paid his respects at the sacred site. The visit to Madinah is part of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s ongoing engagement with Saudi Arabia. His visit also reflects the close and longstanding ties between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The prime minister’s presence at Masjid-e-Nabawi ﷺ was marked by prayers for the country’s stability, development and prosperity. He also prayed for the safety and well-being of the Pakistani nation. Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has described the signing of the Makkah Agreement for Joint Defence between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye as a historic step towards strengthening peace, security and regional stability. In a post on X, the prime minister said he had the honour of signing the agreement alongside Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said that, in his personal opinion, Karachi and Gwadar should be directly administered as part of the federation, stressing that his remarks are intended to serve the national interest rather than any political or personal agenda. Speaking in a television interview, Asif clarified that the proposal reflects his own views and has not been discussed or approved by his party. He acknowledged that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) may agree with some of his opinions while differing on others. “I am expressing my personal opinion. I have not sought my party’s approval for these remarks,” he said. “Some of my views may be supported by the party, while others may not.” The defence minister stressed that he has no personal interest in either Karachi or Gwadar and that his comments were made solely from the perspective of what he believes is best for the country. Asif also spoke about the importance of local government systems in modern democracies. He said effective local governments play a key role in governance, public service delivery and political development. He noted that local government institutions were revived during the 1980s and argued that many leaders currently serving at the provincial and federal levels began their political careers through the local government system. According to Asif, strengthening local governance remains essential for improving democratic institutions and ensuring better administration across the country. Commenting on the country’s administrative structure, the defence minister said provinces should not be created on the basis of provincial or ethnic identities. He suggested that national unity and effective governance should remain the guiding principles in discussions on administrative reforms.

ISLAMABAD: Heavy rain lashed Islamabad and Rawalpindi, while several parts of Lahore also received showers, providing relief from hot and humid weather. The rainfall lowered temperatures in many areas, although it also caused traffic disruptions and water accumulation on some roads. The downpour began in the morning and continued intermittently in the twin cities. Residents experienced cooler weather after several days of warm and humid conditions. In Lahore, rain was reported from different localities, bringing pleasant weather to the provincial capital. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), a weak monsoon system is currently affecting parts of the country. The weather department said the monsoon winds are interacting with a westerly weather system, which is influencing the northern regions and increasing the chances of rainfall. The PMD has forecast that Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir are likely to receive rain at isolated places during the day. Some areas may experience moderate to heavy showers accompanied by gusty winds. The weather department has advised the public to remain cautious during periods of heavy rainfall, particularly in low-lying areas where water may accumulate. Motorists have also been urged to drive carefully on slippery roads and avoid unnecessary travel during intense downpours. Authorities are monitoring the weather situation and have asked relevant departments to stay prepared for any emergencies caused by heavy rain. Citizens have also been encouraged to follow official weather advisories and take precautionary measures where needed.