تازہ ترین

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    Teachings of Hazrat Pir Makki Sharif (RA) promote divine love, service to humanity and social harmony: Bilal Yasin & Dr. Ehsan Bhutta

    LAHORE: Provincial Minister for Housing Punjab Bilal Yasin has said that the spiritual and religious teachings of Hazrat Pir Makki Sharif (RA) are a timeless source of guidance, inspiring people towards divine love, devotion to the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), humility, compassion, brotherhood and service to humanity. He said that the saints and spiritual leaders devoted their lives to the propagation of Islam, purification of the soul, moral reform and the promotion of a peaceful, harmonious and exemplary society. He expressed these views while inaugurating the Urs Mubarak of Hazrat Pir Makki Sharif (RA) and participating in the traditional chadar poshi ceremony. Secretary/Chief Administrator Auqaf Punjab Dr. Ehsan Bhutta, Director General Religious Affairs Hafiz Anees ur Rehman, Director Administration Shakir Sandhu, officers of the Auqaf Department, and a large number of devotees and followers were also present. Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ehsan Bhutta said that Hazrat Pir Makki Sharif (RA), whose real name was Hazrat Sheikh Syed Ali Qadri (RA), also known as Sheikh Syed Ali Makki, is regarded among the prominent and earliest renowned Sufi saints associated with Lahore. He said that the title “Makki” reflects his traditional association with Makkah Mukarramah, from where he is believed to have travelled to Lahore. His association is traced to the Ghaznavid era, around the 11th century CE/5th century AH. Hazrat Pir Makki Sharif (RA) devoted his life to the propagation of Islamic teachings, purification of the soul, social reform and service to humanity, and his spiritual and moral legacy continues to guide and inspire devotees in Lahore and across Pakistan. Dr. Ehsan Bhutta further emphasized that the teachings of Hazrat Pir Makki Sharif (RA) underscore a strong relationship with Allah Almighty, righteousness, humility and compassion for His creation, and that their practical implementation can help build a peaceful, morally upright and exemplary society. He said that the Khanqahs and shrines of the saints are an integral part of Pakistan’s rich religious and spiritual heritage, serving as centres for the dissemination of peace, love, tolerance, brotherhood and service to humanity. He stressed that transmitting the noble teachings of Hazrat Pir Makki Sharif (RA) to the younger generation is a collective responsibility so that youth remain connected with their spiritual heritage and incorporate its positive and reformative message into their daily lives. He added that the Government of Punjab, in accordance with the vision of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, is taking effective measures to provide devotees visiting the shrines of saints with the best possible facilities, cleanliness, security and other essential arrangements. On the occasion, a 50-pound cake was cut, while a large-scale Langar distribution was also formally inaugurated for devotees and visitors. The ceremony concluded with special prayers for the security, peace, prosperity and stability of Pakistan, the safety of the Armed Forces of Pakistan, and the unity, solidarity and progress of the Muslim Ummah.

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    Freight costs surge manifold as industry faces logistics strike aftershocks

    Pakistan’s export sector has been hit by a fresh logistics shock after the nine-day goods transport strike, with exporters now facing an extraordinary increase in sea freight rates, a shortage of shipping space and mounting costs on delayed cargo, according to economists and trade experts. Experts said the strike may have ended, but its consequences are now being felt at ports, factories and in export markets. Containers that could not reach Karachi Port and Port Qasim during the disruption missed scheduled vessels, leaving exporters scrambling to secure space on subsequent shipments at sharply higher freight rates. According to information shared by exporters, freight charges to the US West Coast have surged from around $1,800 to as high as $8,500 per container, while rates to the US East Coast have reportedly risen from $1,800 to $8,000 per container. Additional General Rate Increases, surcharges and other carrier charges have further increased the burden. Experts said these developments have placed Pakistani exporters in an extremely difficult position. Freight charges rising by more than 300 percent cannot easily be absorbed by exporters and could wipe out the profit margin on entire export orders, they added. They said the disruption in domestic transport created a serious bottleneck in the export supply chain. Thousands of containers remained stuck at factories and warehouses and could not reach the ports within terminal cut-off times. As a result, exporters faced missed bookings, vessel rollovers, cancellations, detention, demurrage and storage charges. Economists said the reported loss of around Rs450 billion during the nine-day strike shows the scale of the disruption, but the real damage could be much greater if delayed shipments lead to cancelled orders and the loss of overseas buyers. International buyers expect certainty and timely delivery, experts noted. A buyer waiting for goods does not necessarily distinguish between a transport strike, port congestion or any other domestic problem in Pakistan. If deliveries are repeatedly delayed, the buyer may simply shift future orders to another country. Pakistan is competing with countries that have invested heavily in efficient ports, transport networks and export logistics. Pakistani manufacturers already face high energy prices, expensive financing, taxation pressures and rising input costs. Adding an unpredictable freight and shipping crisis to these problems further weakens their ability to compete. Experts pointed out that exporters operating under C&F, CFR and other freight-inclusive arrangements are directly exposed to the increase in shipping costs. Even FOB exporters are suffering because the shortage of vessel space and missed sailing schedules can delay shipments and damage business relationships. “Export growth is not possible without a dependable logistics system,” experts said. “It is not enough to announce export incentives if containers cannot move smoothly from factories to ports and from ports to international markets.” They urged the government to immediately hold consultations with shipping lines, port authorities, terminal operators, freight forwarders, transporters and export associations to restore adequate vessel space for Pakistani cargo and address the sudden escalation in freight rates. Experts said exporters whose shipments were delayed because of circumstances beyond their control should not be left to bear excessive penalties and charges. A mechanism should be developed to facilitate stranded cargo and minimise avoidable detention, demurrage and storage costs. They also called for a permanent coordination mechanism between the government and the private sector to deal with transport and logistics disruptions before they turn into national economic crises. Experts said Pakistan needs to treat logistics as a core part of its trade and export policy. Road transport, ports, terminals, shipping services and customs clearance are all parts of the same export chain, and a breakdown at one point can affect the entire system. Economists stressed that Pakistan urgently needs greater export earnings to strengthen its economy and foreign exchange reserves. Every unnecessary increase in freight costs means more money leaving the country and less income remaining with Pakistani manufacturers and exporters. They urged the authorities to take immediate and practical steps to help exporters clear delayed shipments, recover lost shipping schedules and retain the confidence of international buyers, warning that predictable freight rates, available shipping space and an uninterrupted logistics system are essential for Pakistan to remain competitive in international markets.

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    Field Marshal Asim Munir to visit Tehran tomorrow

    Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei has said Pakistan’s Field Marshal Asim Munir will visit Tehran tomorrow. According to a statement issued by the Iranian Foreign Ministry, Baghaei said the visit is part of Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to promote peace and security in the region. He said the visit aims to further strengthen relations between Iran and Pakistan. During his stay, Field Marshal Asim Munir is expected to meet with senior Iranian officials. Baghaei also said Pakistan is playing a mediating role in efforts to end the ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States. The Iranian Foreign Ministry said Pakistan continues to pursue diplomatic efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability in the region. Meanwhile, an Iranian news agency reported that Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Asim Munir, held a telephone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi yesterday. During the call, the two officials discussed the regional situation and developments in the ongoing conflict. Earlier, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said that Iran’s enemies had sought to turn the country into another Venezuela, but their plan had failed.

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    Pakistan records $6.24 billion net FDI since SIFC …

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has attracted approximately US$ 6.24 billion in net Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) from FY24 to July-April FY26 since the establishment of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), according to data from the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP). The Minister Incharge of SIFC stated that gross FDI inflows during the same period stood at approximately US$ 10.41 billion, highlighting investor confidence in Pakistan’s investment regime. April 2024: Highest Monthly FDI in 51 Months   According to SBP data released in May 2024, FDI inflows surged 172% year-on-year (YoY) to $358.84 million in April 2024, compared to $131.9 million in April 2023. This marks the highest monthly FDI inflow in 51 months. On a month-on-month (MoM) basis, FDI jumped 39%, up from $258.04 million in March 2024. For the first 10 months of FY24 (July-April), total FDI inflows reached $1.46 billion, compared to $1.35 billion in the same period of FY23. Top Investors & Sectors Country-wise:   1. China: Largest investor with $177.37 million net FDI in April 2024 2. UAE: $51.93 million 3. Canada: $51.89 million Sector-wise:   The Power sector attracted the highest inflows with $194 million in April 2024, followed by other key sectors. Officials say the rise in FDI reflects the impact of SIFC’s facilitation for foreign investors in priority sectors including energy, infrastructure, and technology. Pakistan FDI: $6.24Bn Since SIFC* | April Hits 51-Month High Key points: 172% YoY surge to $358.84M in April 2024, China leading with $177.37M, Power sector top recipient. $6.24Bn net FDI since SIFC launch. Pakistan’s FDI jumps 172% YoY to $358.84Mn in April 2024 – highest in 51 months. China leads with $177Mn. Pakistan’s FDI surges 172% in April. $6.24Bn net inflows since SIFC. Power sector top recipient. _”Pakistan FDI: $6.24Bn Since SIFC | April Hits 51-Month High”_

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    Senator Abdul Qadir calls for urgent action agains…

    Senator Muhammad Abdul Qadir has expressed serious concern over the rising cost of living in the country. He said inflation is increasing at a rate of 9.66 percent, while ordinary people are struggling to meet their daily needs. In a statement, the Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Defence Production said the continued rise in the prices of essential commodities was creating additional pressure on households. He said prices of 23 basic items had increased, making it difficult for people to manage their monthly expenses. According to the senator, the rising prices of food and other necessities are directly affecting families with limited incomes. Senator Abdul Qadir urged the government to take immediate steps to control inflation. He said effective measures were needed to provide relief to the public and prevent further increases in the prices of essential commodities. He also raised concerns over the role of profiteers and powerful market mafias. He alleged that some groups were artificially increasing the prices of essential goods for their own benefit. The senator said such practices were adding to the financial difficulties faced by ordinary citizens. He stressed that there should be strict monitoring of markets to identify those involved in illegal profiteering and price manipulation. Senator Abdul Qadir called for effective and indiscriminate action against profiteers and mafias. He said no individual or group involved in artificially increasing prices should be allowed to exploit consumers. He further emphasized that controlling inflation required coordinated efforts from the government and relevant authorities. Regular market inspections, effective price monitoring and strict enforcement of laws, he said, were essential to protect consumers. The senator maintained that immediate action was necessary to ease the burden on the public. He urged the government to make controlling inflation a priority and take practical measures to stabilize prices across the country.

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    Gohar rejects reports on Imran-Noreen meeting

    PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan has rejected reports about the meeting between party founder Imran Khan and Noreen Niazi. He said several fabricated reports were being circulated about what was discussed during the meeting. Speaking about the matter, Barrister Gohar said he contacted Noreen Niazi by phone after her meeting with Imran Khan. However, he said she did not share details of the conversation or explain what had taken place during the meeting. According to Barrister Gohar, Noreen Niazi had made it clear that she would not discuss the meeting outside. She had also decided not to speak publicly about the details of her interaction with Imran Khan. Barrister Gohar said there was no truth in reports claiming that Imran Khan had spoken against PTI leadership. He specifically clarified that the PTI founder had not made any remarks against Sohail Afridi or other members of the party leadership. He said the reports being circulated about the meeting were misleading and should not be treated as factual. Barrister Gohar maintained that the details being attributed to the meeting did not reflect what had actually been discussed. The PTI chairman also said Noreen Niazi appeared to be happy after meeting Imran Khan. However, he noted that there were certain matters discussed during the meeting that could not be shared publicly. He said some information remained private because of the nature of the meeting. Barrister Gohar therefore urged people not to rely on unverified reports or speculation regarding the interaction between Imran Khan and Noreen Niazi.

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    Aseefa Bhutto urges thorough probe into Hina Javed…

    First Lady Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari has called on the Punjab government to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation into the murder of Hina Javed in Rawalpindi. Aseefa expressed deep sorrow over the killing and conveyed her condolences to Hina’s family. She said those responsible for the crime must be identified and brought to justice. Hina Javed was found dead inside the bathroom of her apartment in Askari Apartments, Lal Kurti, on Thursday evening. Police said the initial examination indicated signs of violence and a mark around her neck. Aseefa urged the provincial authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the case. She stressed that the circumstances surrounding Hina’s death must be fully established and that no aspect of the investigation should be overlooked. She said the perpetrators must face the law and called for strict action to ensure that such incidents are not repeated. The First Lady also expressed concern over increasing incidents of violence against women in Pakistan. She called for stronger measures to protect women and prevent violence against them. According to the first information report registered at Civil Lines Police Station on August 20, Hina’s brother, Fahid Javed, accused her husband, father-in-law and a domestic servant of being involved in her death. Fahid told police that he received a call from Hina’s father-in-law at around 6:53pm on Thursday. He was informed about an emergency at the apartment. He then reached the residence with other family members at around 7:23pm. The complainant said he found his sister’s body in the bathroom. He alleged that Hina had been subjected to severe violence and mistreatment. He also raised suspicion that she may have been given a poisonous substance before her death. The FIR was registered under Sections 302 and 34 of the Pakistan Penal Code. The complaint states that Hina married the main suspect in November 2025. An initial postmortem examination reportedly found a strangulation mark around her neck, an injury below her right lip and bleeding. Police have detained Hina’s husband and a domestic servant in connection with the murder. Her father-in-law is also being questioned as part of the investigation.

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    Sydney Sweeney channels Wonder Woman at camp

    Hollywood actress Sydney Sweeney and businessman Scooter Braun have given fans a glimpse into their playful summer getaway, dressing up as Wonder Woman and Superman during a camp trip. Sweeney, known for her role in Euphoria and The Housemaid, shared a collection of photos and videos from the couple’s 2026 summer camp experience on Instagram. She captioned the post simply, “camp ’26.” The photo series opened with a mirror selfie featuring Sweeney and Braun dressed as the iconic DC superheroes. Sweeney appeared in a Wonder Woman-inspired costume, while Braun posed as Superman. The couple continued the superhero theme in several Polaroid-style photographs. Sweeney smiled for the camera while Braun recreated Superman’s familiar hands-on-hips pose. The getaway was not limited to costumes and photographs. The couple and their friends also took part in several outdoor activities. Videos shared by Sweeney showed the group singing karaoke, taking part in obstacle-course challenges and enjoying jet-skiing on a lake. The relaxed trip comes as Sweeney and Braun continue their summer travels together. The pair recently spent time in Mallorca, Spain, where they enjoyed a sunny yacht outing. Before their European getaway, the couple was also seen in New Zealand, where they reportedly took part in a bungee-jumping experience. Their recent travels have continued to attract attention from fans and entertainment followers. The couple were previously spotted together in New York City while attending Game 4 of the NBA Finals. Their public appearances have fueled continued interest in their relationship. Sweeney’s latest social media post also received a warm response from fans. Several followers praised the actress for sharing ordinary moments of fun and friendship rather than focusing solely on her Hollywood career. Some fans described the camp experience as an example of enjoying life away from the pressures of fame and social media. Others said they appreciated seeing Sweeney participate in simple recreational activities with friends and loved ones. Sweeney and Braun’s relationship Sweeney and Braun reportedly began dating in September 2025, several months after meeting at the wedding of Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez in Italy. The relationship became more public in April 2026, when the pair shared photographs from their time together at the Stagecoach Music Festival. Since then, the couple has increasingly been seen together at public events and during holidays. Their latest camp outing offers another glimpse into their relationship, with the pair appearing relaxed and enjoying a range of recreational activities away from the spotlight.

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    Duki road renamed after acid attack survivor Dr Ma…

    Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti has announced that a major road in Duki district will be renamed after Dr Mahnoor Nasir, a female doctor who survived a severe acid attack earlier this year. The decision has been taken to honour Dr Mahnoor’s courage, resilience and dedication to her profession. The chief minister said her determination and commitment to duty had made her an example for women across Balochistan. Under the notification issued by the provincial government, Haji Amanullah Masjid Road near Damani Chowk in Duki will now be known as Dr Mahnoor Nasar Road. The new name will take effect immediately. Dr Mahnoor, a 29-year-old doctor at Civil Hospital Quetta, was seriously injured in an acid attack in June. She suffered extensive burns to her face, chest, legs and other parts of her body. According to police, the alleged attacker was a hospital employee identified as Humayun Shah. Law enforcement officials later traced him while he was attempting to escape on a bus. Police said he was killed during an encounter. Chief Minister Bugti praised Dr Mahnoor for continuing to demonstrate courage despite the severe injuries she suffered. He said recognising citizens who show bravery and remain committed to their responsibilities was a duty of the government. The acid attack triggered strong condemnation across Balochistan. Members of the medical community, government officials and other sections of society called for strict action against those responsible. Doctors in Quetta also staged a strike following the incident. They demanded a transparent investigation and stronger measures to ensure the safety of medical professionals, particularly women working in hospitals. The case also came amid wider legal and social concern over acid attacks in Pakistan. In a significant ruling issued days after the incident, the Supreme Court described acid violence, or vitriolage, as a particularly heinous offence and said its gravity could exceed that of homicide. The renaming of the road is being presented by the Balochistan government as a public tribute to Dr Mahnoor’s resilience. Officials said the initiative is also intended to highlight the importance of recognising women who continue to serve their communities despite facing serious challenges.

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    World No. 1 Sinner withdraws from US Open

    NEW YORK: World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from the US Open after failing to recover fully from a right knee injury, dealing a major blow to the tournament just days before the final Grand Slam of the season. The five-time Grand Slam champion confirmed on Friday that he would not compete at Flushing Meadows despite making every effort to return to competitive tennis. “Even though I have been working hard with my team and my medical staff, we have now had to make the difficult decision that I will not be able to compete at the US Open this year,” Sinner said in a statement. The 24-year-old Italian explained that he had recently returned to court in Monte Carlo with his team but realised that his knee still required additional recovery time. “I’m very sad and disappointed, as New York has a special place in my heart,” Sinner said, adding that he had been eagerly anticipating the tournament and the atmosphere created by its fans. Sinner has not played competitively since lifting the Wimbledon trophy on July 12. His injury had already forced him to withdraw from the US Open preparation events in Cincinnati and Montreal, raising doubts about whether he would be fit enough to defend his position among the tournament favourites. His absence will be particularly significant given his remarkable 2026 campaign. Sinner has recorded 44 victories against just three defeats this season and has collected six titles, including his Wimbledon triumph. The Italian was also expected to arrive in New York with strong motivation after winning the US Open in 2024. However, his title defence will now have to wait. Sinner’s withdrawal also changes the dynamics of a tournament that had been building toward another chapter in his growing rivalry with Carlos Alcaraz. Alcaraz, Sinner’s biggest contemporary rival, announced on Thursday that he would return to competition at the US Open after spending more than four months on the sidelines with a wrist injury. The Spaniard lost last year’s US Open final to Sinner, making his return one of the most anticipated storylines of this year’s tournament. With Sinner now absent, Alcaraz will have an opportunity to strengthen his position in the Grand Slam race. Sinner’s 2026 season has not been without setbacks. At the French Open, he arrived as the overwhelming favourite but suffered a surprise second-round exit while struggling in a severe heatwave. For now, the Italian will remain in Europe and concentrate on rehabilitation. His target is to return for the Asian swing, with tournaments in Beijing and Shanghai among his planned objectives. For the US Open, however, one thing is certain: the defending 2024 champion and current world No. 1 will be watching from afar, leaving the Grand Slam field wide open for a new champion.