تازہ ترین

  Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has emphasized the need to improve the efficiency and performance of government institutions by adopting modern technology and enhancing the professional training of public sector employees. He made these remarks while chairing a high-level meeting on the federal government’s rightsizing initiative and measures aimed at improving the overall efficiency and effectiveness of state institutions. The meeting reviewed the progress made under the government’s administrative reform agenda, which seeks to reduce the size of the public sector, eliminate unnecessary expenditures, and ensure more efficient delivery of public services. Addressing the participants, the Prime Minister said that technological innovation and skill development are essential for transforming the public sector into a more responsive, transparent, and efficient system. He stressed that government institutions must embrace modern digital solutions while ensuring that employees receive the training required to adapt to new technologies and administrative practices. Shehbaz Sharif said the government’s rightsizing policy is already producing positive results by reducing unnecessary spending and improving the utilization of public resources. He noted that several major reforms have been implemented under the initiative, including the closure of the Utility Stores Corporation, Pakistan Public Works Department (Pak PWD), and the Pakistan Agricultural Storage and Services Corporation (PASSCO). According to the Prime Minister, these decisions were taken after careful consideration to streamline government operations, eliminate overlapping functions, and reduce the financial burden on the national exchequer. He said the objective of the reforms is to build a leaner and more efficient public sector capable of delivering better services to citizens while ensuring fiscal discipline. The Prime Minister stated that the savings generated through the rightsizing initiative would help strengthen the country’s financial position and allow the government to allocate more resources toward priority sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development. To ensure transparency and accountability, Shehbaz Sharif directed that all positions and institutions abolished under the rightsizing programme should undergo an independent third-party audit. He said the audit would assess whether the reforms had been implemented effectively and whether the expected financial and administrative benefits had been achieved. The Prime Minister also instructed the relevant authorities to accelerate the implementation of all remaining rightsizing measures. He emphasized that administrative reforms should be carried out efficiently while maintaining transparency and ensuring that public services are not disrupted during the restructuring process. During the meeting, officials briefed the participants on the progress achieved so far. They informed the Prime Minister that vacant positions across various federal ministries and government departments have been abolished as part of the government’s effort to reduce unnecessary staffing and improve administrative efficiency. The meeting was further informed that work is also underway on the privatization of several state-owned enterprises. Officials said the government is taking practical steps to transfer selected public sector entities to the private sector in accordance with its broader economic reform programme. The privatization process aims to reduce the financial burden of loss-making enterprises on the national budget while encouraging greater investment, improved management, and enhanced productivity. Participants also reviewed the overall progress of the government’s institutional reform agenda and discussed future steps to further improve governance and public sector performance. The Prime Minister reiterated that administrative reforms are essential for ensuring sustainable economic growth, strengthening public finances, and delivering better services to the people. Concluding the meeting, Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continuing structural reforms aimed at creating a modern, efficient, and accountable public sector. He said that through the adoption of technology, improved training, transparent governance, and responsible financial management, Pakistan’s government institutions can become more effective in meeting the needs of citizens and supporting the country’s long-term development goals.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar and Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi held a telephone conversation on Tuesday to discuss the worsening humanitarian and security situation in the Palestinian territories, expressing deep concern over the continued escalation of violence in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. According to Pakistan’s Foreign Office, the two leaders reviewed the latest developments, focusing on the ongoing Israeli military operations, intensified airstrikes, ground offensives, and the deteriorating conditions faced by Palestinian civilians. They emphasized the urgent need for international efforts to reduce tensions and prevent further loss of life. During the discussion, both foreign ministers strongly condemned repeated incursions by Israeli settlers and far-right groups into the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied East Jerusalem. They also criticized restrictions imposed on Palestinian worshippers, describing such measures as a violation of the sanctity and religious significance of one of Islam’s holiest sites. Dar and Safadi agreed that actions affecting the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound not only inflame tensions on the ground but also undermine regional stability and diminish prospects for a peaceful resolution to the long-standing conflict. They stressed the importance of respecting the historical and legal status of the holy site and ensuring freedom of worship for Palestinians. The conversation also focused on diplomatic efforts aimed at addressing the crisis. The Jordanian foreign minister briefed Ishaq Dar on Jordan’s proposal to convene a meeting of Arab and Islamic countries to review the rapidly evolving situation and coordinate a collective diplomatic response. The proposed gathering is expected to explore ways to strengthen international engagement, promote humanitarian assistance, and support efforts to achieve a peaceful settlement. Both leaders agreed that close coordination among Muslim and Arab countries remains essential in responding to the ongoing crisis. They emphasized the importance of maintaining diplomatic momentum to encourage dialogue and prevent further escalation in the region. Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi acknowledged Pakistan’s consistent role in advocating for regional peace and stability. He appreciated Islamabad’s diplomatic efforts and expressed hope that ongoing international initiatives would contribute to reducing tensions and creating conditions conducive to lasting peace. During the call, Ishaq Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people. He reiterated Pakistan’s long-standing position that a just, comprehensive, and durable peace can only be achieved through a negotiated political solution based on international law and relevant United Nations resolutions. Dar once again emphasized Pakistan’s support for the two-state solution, calling for the establishment of an independent, sovereign, contiguous, and viable Palestinian state based on the pre-1967 borders. He said East Jerusalem, referred to by Muslims as Al-Quds Al-Sharif, should serve as the capital of the future Palestinian state. The deputy prime minister also stressed the need for the international community to intensify diplomatic efforts to end the violence, protect civilians, and facilitate humanitarian assistance for those affected by the conflict. He underscored that meaningful dialogue and respect for international law remain essential for achieving lasting peace and stability in the Middle East. The telephone conversation reflected the close cooperation between Pakistan and Jordan on issues concerning Palestine and highlighted their shared commitment to supporting diplomatic initiatives aimed at ending the conflict. Both countries reaffirmed their determination to continue working with regional and international partners to promote peace, safeguard holy sites, and uphold the rights and aspirations of the Palestinian people.

  Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, Hafiz Naeem Rehman, held separate meetings with the ambassadors of Iran and Afghanistan in Islamabad, where the leaders discussed regional developments, bilateral relations, and the importance of strengthening cooperation among neighboring countries. Iranian Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam and Afghan Ambassador Sardar Ahmad Shakeeb separately visited Hafiz Naeem Rehman to offer their condolences on the passing of Amir-ul-Azeem, a senior Jamaat-e-Islami leader. The ambassadors expressed sympathy with the party leadership and prayed for the departed soul. During his meeting with the Iranian ambassador, Hafiz Naeem Rehman highlighted the close historical and religious ties between Pakistan and Iran. He said the two neighboring countries share deep-rooted cultural, religious, and social bonds that have strengthened their relationship over the years. According to him, Pakistan and Iran are closely connected and should continue to work together in promoting peace, stability, and mutual prosperity in the region. While meeting Afghan Ambassador Sardar Ahmad Shakeeb, the Jamaat-e-Islami chief said the people of Pakistan and Afghanistan are linked by centuries-old religious, historical, and cultural relations. He emphasized that the two countries have common interests and should continue to strengthen cooperation for the benefit of their peoples. Hafiz Naeem Rehman stressed that differences between Pakistan and Afghanistan can be resolved through sustained dialogue, mutual trust, and regular communication. He said constructive engagement and confidence-building measures are essential to overcoming misunderstandings and creating a stable relationship between the neighboring countries. Speaking about the broader regional situation, the Jamaat-e-Islami chief called for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire in Iran, Gaza, and Lebanon. He said ending hostilities is essential to preventing further humanitarian suffering and restoring peace in the region. He emphasized that dialogue and diplomatic efforts should take precedence over military confrontation. Hafiz Naeem Rehman also expressed solidarity with Iran in the face of what he described as American and Israeli aggression. He stated that the Iranian government and people deserve support during the current regional crisis and reaffirmed his party’s backing for Iran against external military actions. The Iranian ambassador, Reza Amiri Moghadam, underscored the importance of closer cooperation among Pakistan, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Türkiye. He said stronger collaboration between these influential Muslim countries is essential for ensuring lasting peace, stability, and economic development across the region. He noted that collective efforts and constructive dialogue could help address regional challenges and promote greater unity among Islamic nations. During the separate meeting, Afghan Ambassador Sardar Ahmad Shakeeb also emphasized the significance of bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan. He said meaningful collaboration between the two neighboring countries is vital for achieving sustainable peace, regional stability, and economic progress. According to the ambassador, both countries have a shared responsibility to work together on issues of mutual interest and maintain regular engagement to strengthen their longstanding relationship. The meetings reflected a shared commitment to enhancing regional cooperation and maintaining dialogue at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions. Both ambassadors and the Jamaat-e-Islami chief agreed that peaceful engagement, mutual respect, and stronger ties among neighboring countries remain essential for addressing common challenges and ensuring long-term stability in South and West Asia. The discussions concluded with a renewed emphasis on promoting peace through diplomacy, strengthening regional partnerships, and fostering closer cooperation among Muslim countries to contribute to stability and prosperity across the wider region.

  Senior Sindh Minister and Provincial Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon on Tuesday launched a sharp criticism of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), accusing the ruling party of coming to power through a “fake mandate” and challenging it to contest fresh elections in Punjab to prove its public support. Speaking to the media in Islamabad, Sharjeel Memon alleged that the PML-N government lacked genuine electoral legitimacy and was holding office on the basis of what he described as “Form 47.” He claimed that the party did not secure the mandate of the people in the 2024 general elections and questioned its popularity, particularly in Punjab. Addressing recent political developments, Memon alleged that serious electoral irregularities had taken place during the Azad Jammu and Kashmir elections. He claimed that the polls were marred by extensive rigging and criticized the conduct of the electoral process. Referring to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s recent remarks, he said her statements reflected what he described as “theft followed by defiance,” accusing the ruling party of attempting to justify its actions instead of addressing concerns raised by the opposition. The senior Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader said the PML-N government was surviving on what he termed a “charity mandate” rather than genuine public support. He reiterated his claim that the party’s government was a product of “Form 47,” a reference frequently used by opposition parties in connection with allegations regarding the 2024 general election results. Memon argued that the people of Sindh had clearly expressed their confidence in the Pakistan Peoples Party during the 2024 elections by voting in its favor. He contrasted the PPP’s electoral performance with that of the PML-N, claiming that the ruling party had suffered a significant political setback despite ultimately forming the federal government.   Continuing his criticism, the Sindh minister challenged the PML-N leadership to dissolve the Punjab government and seek a fresh public mandate. He claimed that if elections were held again in the province, the ruling party would fail to secure the support it claims to enjoy. According to Memon, public opinion in Punjab does not reflect the electoral outcome that brought the PML-N to power. He further alleged that the leadership of the PML-N had repeatedly left the country after reaching political agreements, contrasting that with the Pakistan Peoples Party’s political history. Memon maintained that PPP leaders had remained in Pakistan during difficult political periods and continued to face challenges rather than leaving the country. The provincial minister also accused federal ministers belonging to the PML-N of attempting to influence the electoral process in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. He claimed that several federal ministers remained present in Mirpur Division until the morning of polling day and sought to influence the local administration. According to Memon, the actions of the federal ministers amounted to a violation of the Election Commission’s code of conduct. He alleged that government officials were pressured during the election process, raising concerns about the fairness and transparency of the polls. The remarks come amid continuing political tensions between the Pakistan Peoples Party and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz over electoral legitimacy, governance, and recent elections in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Opposition parties have repeatedly raised concerns regarding the conduct of elections, while the ruling coalition has rejected allegations of irregularities and maintained that the electoral process was conducted in accordance with the law. Sharjeel Memon concluded by reiterating his challenge to the PML-N leadership, insisting that a fresh election in Punjab would provide the true test of the party’s public support and determine whether it genuinely enjoys the confidence of the electorate.

A young woman lost her life in an alleged poisoning incident in Kot Momin, a town in Punjab’s Sargodha district, after reportedly consuming a toxic drink. Police have launched an investigation following allegations by the victim’s family that she was deliberately poisoned by a classmate after refusing his marriage proposal. According to police officials, a case has been registered against two suspects on the complaint of the deceased’s father. Authorities said the investigation is underway, and efforts are being made to arrest the accused. The victim’s father alleged that his daughter had been invited to a local pizza shop by the suspects, where she was allegedly served a poisonous juice. He claimed that the accused resorted to the act after she refused a marriage proposal made by one of them. According to the complaint, the young woman consumed the beverage during the meeting and shortly afterward began experiencing severe health complications. Her condition rapidly deteriorated, prompting those present to rush her to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. Despite the efforts of doctors and medical staff, the young woman could not be saved and later succumbed to her condition. Her death has shocked the local community and sparked concern over violence linked to rejected marriage proposals. Police officials confirmed that a First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against the two nominated suspects based on the allegations made by the victim’s father. Investigators are collecting evidence and recording statements from witnesses to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident. The victim’s body was shifted to a hospital for a post-mortem examination to determine the precise cause of death. Following the completion of the medico-legal formalities, the body was handed over to her family for burial. Law enforcement authorities said raids are being carried out at multiple locations to arrest the suspects, who are currently at large. Police expressed confidence that the accused would be taken into custody soon and assured the family that the investigation would be conducted in accordance with the law. Officials also stated that forensic evidence, including the alleged beverage and other material collected from the scene, will be examined as part of the investigation. The findings of the post-mortem report and laboratory analysis are expected to play an important role in determining whether poisoning was the cause of death. The case has drawn attention due to the serious nature of the allegations. However, police emphasized that the investigation is still in its early stages, and the claims made in the FIR will be examined through available evidence before any conclusions are reached. Authorities have urged anyone with information related to the incident to cooperate with investigators to help establish the facts. They reiterated that all aspects of the case, including the motive behind the alleged crime, are being thoroughly investigated. The tragic incident has once again highlighted concerns about crimes allegedly linked to rejected marriage proposals and personal disputes. Police have assured the victim’s family that every effort will be made to bring those responsible to justice, while the investigation continues to establish the full circumstances surrounding the young woman’s death.