National

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    PPP workers’ convention in Lahore faces hurd…

    ByJustpaste.in

    LAHORE: Preparations for the Pakistan Peoples Party’s (PPP) workers’ convention at Greater Iqbal Park were halted on Friday after the Lahore district administration said the party had not secured formal written permission to hold the event. The party had already set up a stage and made extensive arrangements for the convention, which is scheduled for July 25. The gathering was also expected to be followed by celebrations marking President Asif Ali Zardari’s birthday on July 26. District authorities questioned the use of the public venue without official approval and asked the PPP leadership to explain why preparations had begun before the necessary permission was obtained. Lahore PPP President Faisal Mir insisted the party had moved forward after receiving verbal assurances that there was no objection to the event from the Punjab Chief Minister’s Office. According to him, the preparations were launched in good faith based on those assurances, but officials later intervened and stopped the work. Mir criticized the administration’s actions, claiming access to the venue had been restricted and vehicles carrying chairs and other equipment had been prevented from reaching the site. He maintained that the party remained committed to holding the convention peacefully and said he was prepared to face arrest if necessary. The Chief Minister’s Office did not comment on claims that approval had been communicated through the chief minister’s principal secretary. PPP leaders also shared videos on social media showing workers at the venue, along with the stage and seating arrangements prepared for the convention, reaffirming the party’s determination to proceed with the event. Party sources acknowledged that written permission had not been obtained but argued that verbal approval was sufficient to begin preparations. They added that local police had been informed in advance about the gathering. The convention was expected to feature a large stage, with PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari scheduled to address workers via video link. Senior party leaders, including Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, Hassan Murtaza, and Qamar Zaman Kaira, were also expected to attend. Officials indicated that permission could still be granted if the required formalities were completed. However, they noted that approving the PPP event without following standard procedures could complicate decisions on similar requests from other political parties, including the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which has sought permission for a public gathering in Lahore next month.

  • Pakistan holds first National Self-Care Dialogue on health

    ByJustpaste.in

    On International Self-Care Day, Pakistan’s first national dialogue on self-care brought together Joint Secretary, Ministry of National Health Services Regulations and Coordination, Syed Salahuddin Ahmed; Alison Blackburne, British Deputy High Commissioner to Karachi; and senior representatives from government, healthcare institutions, academia, development organisations, business, civil society and the media. Convened by Haleon Pakistan, the dialogue highlighted the importance of advancing self-care as a public health priority to improve health outcomes, strengthen health literacy and support a more resilient healthcare system. The inaugural Pakistan Self-Care Dialogue, titled “Self-Care as a Public Health Imperative,” was led by Haleon Pakistan Limited, makers of leading consumer health brands including Panadol, Sensodyne and CAC-1000 Plus, as part of the global observance of International Self-Care Day on 24th July. Marked annually around the world, the day raises awareness of self-care as an essential pillar of public health, promoting prevention, health literacy and empowering individuals to take greater ownership of their health. The event featured a welcome address by Qawi Naseer, CEO and General Manager of Haleon Pakistan Limited, a keynote address by the Joint Secretary, Syed Salahuddin Ahmed, and remarks by Alison Blackburne, British Deputy High Commission. This event also included a dialogue-based panel discussion featuring Dr. Ahson Qavi Siddiqi, CEO Sindh Healthcare Commission, Qawi Naseer, Dr. Samar Fatima, Associate Director of Aga Khan University’s Centre of Clinical Best Practices and Dr. Humaira Jamshed Associate Professor of Bioscience at Habib University, Dr. Zulfiqar Ahmed Siddiqui (MD, MBBS, MPH), Health Specialist at UNICEF. “A healthier Pakistan cannot be built through treatment alone. Prevention, health literacy and responsible self-care must become part of everyday life. By working together across sectors, federal and provincial, we can empower people to make informed health decisions and build a stronger, more resilient healthcare system,” said the Joint Secretary, Syed Salahuddin Ahmed, sharing the Ministry’s perspective during his keynote address.

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    Sharif promises motorways, international airport f…

    ByJustpaste.in

    MIRPUR, Azad Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N) President and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif announced a series of major development promises for Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) while addressing a large public gathering in Mirpur. He said the PML-N would focus on improving infrastructure, healthcare, education and public transport if it returned to power in the region. During his speech, Nawaz Sharif also made a light-hearted political remark directed at Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. He said Bilawal should not take his comments personally, adding that political rivalry should remain limited to healthy debate rather than conflict. Referring to the venue of the rally, he jokingly said Mirpur should not be confused with Kashmore or Mirpur Khas, stressing that it is Mirpur in Kashmir. The former prime minister said Kashmir has always held a special place in his heart and described Azad Kashmir as his “first home” rather than a second home. He said he shared a strong emotional bond with the people of the region and had always worked for their welfare during his time in office. Nawaz Sharif said Mirpur is one of the most beautiful cities in Azad Kashmir but added that its development had slowed after his government left power. He questioned what later governments had done for the people of Azad Kashmir and claimed that most major development projects in the region were initiated during the PML-N government. He said he had come to Mirpur with a clear development agenda and a comprehensive manifesto for Azad Kashmir. According to him, every major project completed in Pakistan and AJK carries the stamp of the PML-N’s performance and commitment. Speaking about future plans, Nawaz Sharif said education would remain the party’s highest priority. He stressed that young people must be provided with quality educational opportunities so they can contribute to the country’s progress. He also announced plans to strengthen the healthcare system in Azad Kashmir. He said more specialised hospitals for cancer treatment and heart diseases should be established to ensure patients receive advanced medical care without travelling to distant cities. Highlighting ongoing initiatives, Nawaz Sharif said Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had arranged to provide modern electric buses for the people of Azad Kashmir. He added that 10 mobile hospitals would also be sent to improve healthcare services, especially in remote and underserved areas. The former prime minister promised that if the PML-N formed the government in Azad Kashmir, it would launch large-scale infrastructure projects. These include the construction of new motorways and an expressway linking Murree with Muzaffarabad to improve regional connectivity, boost tourism and support economic growth. Nawaz Sharif also pledged to personally visit every part of Azad Kashmir if his party received the public’s mandate. He promised to expand natural gas facilities to homes across Mirpur, saying better public services were essential for improving the quality of life.

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    Maryam’s big election pitch: roads, homes, hospi…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has claimed that the public response at the PML-N rally in Mirpur shows that her party will secure a strong victory across Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Addressing a public gathering in Mirpur, Maryam Nawaz praised the enthusiasm of the participants despite the intense heat. She said the large turnout reflected growing support for the PML-N in the region. She said that people in Muzaffarabad also attended the party’s gathering despite heavy rainfall, adding that she had not come to Mirpur as a political visitor but as someone returning to her ancestral home. Maryam Nawaz said Mirpur has beautiful houses and significant potential, but its roads and infrastructure require major improvement. She added that the time had come to begin a new phase of development in the city. Recalling her visit with Nawaz Sharif, she said the former prime minister repeatedly admired the beauty of the region during their journey and appreciated its natural landscape. The Punjab chief minister said Kashmir has abundant resources and talented people, but it lacks modern infrastructure. She stressed the need for better roads, advanced hospitals and improved facilities to promote tourism and economic growth in Azad Kashmir. She claimed that the PML-N would provide the same facilities in Azad Kashmir that it has introduced in Punjab if it wins the upcoming elections. She announced that even before the elections, she was bringing a gift of 10 electric buses for Mirpur. Maryam Nawaz highlighted Punjab government initiatives, saying that around 200,000 people had received homes under the “Apni Chhat Apna Ghar” housing project within two years. She said Azad Kashmir could surpass Punjab in development within five years if honest and effective governance was ensured. She also called for introducing projects such as a Safe City system and housing schemes in Azad Kashmir to improve public security and living standards. Criticising rival political parties, Maryam Nawaz said no other party could point to major development work carried out in Kashmir. She challenged opponents to identify even a single major infrastructure project completed by them. She urged voters to make a careful decision, warning that choosing the wrong leadership could delay development opportunities. She said people from other provinces often praise Punjab’s progress and wish for similar governance. Maryam Nawaz said that removing Nawaz Sharif’s contributions from Pakistan’s development history would leave behind “only ruins.” She promised that if people supported the PML-N, the party would bring changes in Azad Kashmir beyond public expectations and work to transform the region’s future.

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    Medical students mark UHS VC Rathore’s retirement

    ByJustpaste.in

    On the occasion of ‘Rathore Liberation Day,’ the Public-Private Medical Students Union Pakistan organized a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony outside the University of Health Sciences (UHS) to mark the retirement of former Vice Chancellor Ahsan Waheed Rathore. The ceremony was led by the Union Vice President, Dr. Azan Afzal. Dr. Azan Afzal stated that Ahsan Waheed Rathore’s tenure was the darkest chapter in the history of UHS. His authoritarian approach, anti-student policies, administrative incompetence, and decisions that undermined merit placed the future of thousands of students at stake. Rathore’s retirement marks a day of liberation for students. It is hoped that the government will appoint a competent, honest, and student-friendly Vice Chancellor this time instead of making another political appointment.

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    PM, Field Marshal inaugurate Sky47 Karakoram One D…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir have inaugurated the Sky47 Karakoram One Data Centre, marking a major step towards strengthening Pakistan’s digital infrastructure. During a briefing at the facility, the prime minister was informed that the data centre would provide a strong foundation for cloud computing, data hosting and advanced digital services. Officials said the project would help Pakistan move towards technological self-reliance. The Sky47 Data Centre has the capability to support emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and high-performance computing. It is expected to play an important role in meeting the country’s growing digital and technological needs. Addressing the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the modern data centre as an impressive and remarkable achievement. He praised the completion of the project in a short period, saying it reflected strong commitment, expertise and determination. The prime minister appreciated the leadership of Field Marshal Asim Munir and the contribution of technology partner ZTE in making the project possible. He said the country’s achievements during difficult times showed that challenges could be overcome through unity, determination and hard work. Shehbaz Sharif said projects like Sky47 represent Pakistan’s future and would contribute to national progress. He thanked all stakeholders involved in delivering the facility and said such initiatives would enhance the country’s digital security and technological capabilities. Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja said the inauguration of the Sky47 Data Centre marked the beginning of a new era of artificial intelligence in Pakistan. She said the project would open doors to new economic opportunities and allow Pakistan to better utilise its resources, data and skilled workforce. The minister added that transforming data into practical solutions and converting artificial intelligence into economic value would be crucial for future growth. She said the global AI race would depend on secure, affordable and effective use of technology.

  • 15 security personnel martyred, 15 militants killed in Tank suicide attack

    ByJustpaste.in

    DI Khan/TANK: At least 15 security personnel were martyred and more than 20 others injured after terrorists carried out a devastating suicide attack on the Manjhi Khel Joint Check Post in Tank district on Thursday night, followed by a prolonged gun battle with security forces. According to security and police sources, the attackers rammed an explosives-laden Datsun/Mazda vehicle into the check post at around 9:30 p.m., triggering a massive explosion that caused extensive destruction. The blast was so powerful that several nearby houses were also damaged. Sources said the suicide bombing was immediately followed by an intense exchange of fire between the attackers and security personnel, which continued for several hours. The martyred personnel included two police constables, 12 Pakistan Army soldiers, and one Forest Guard. More than 20 personnel sustained injuries, including six police officials and over two dozen security personnel, who were shifted to the District Headquarters Hospital in Tank for treatment. Police identified the martyred policemen as Constable Bilal Khan and Driver Constable Tala Muhammad. The injured police personnel include Constable Ismatullah Akbari, Constable Jasim Khan, Constable Muhammad Daud, and Constable Pir Ghulam. The explosion completely destroyed seven to eight rooms of the joint check post, causing severe structural damage. Security forces immediately cordoned off the area and launched a comprehensive search and clearance operation. According to security sources, all 15 terrorists involved in the attack were killed during the operation. Sources further claimed that two of the attackers were wearing Pakistan Army-style uniforms. Investigators are collecting evidence to determine the planning and execution of the assault. Initial investigations indicate that the suicide vehicle was carrying approximately 1,500 kilograms of explosives. Sources also revealed that a white Toyota Corolla GLI was allegedly used by the attackers to facilitate movement during the operation. Meanwhile, the funeral prayers of Constable Bilal Khan, Constable Tala Muhammad, and Forest Guard Noor Azam were offered with full state honours at the Tank Police Lines. The funeral was attended by Inspector General of Police Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Zulfiqar Hameed, Chief Secretary Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Shahab Ali Shah, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister on Home and Tribal Affairs Tariq Saeed Marwat, Additional IG CTD Jawad Qamar, RPO Dera Ismail Khan Ghulam Mubashir Mekan, Commissioner Dera Ismail Khan Daud Khan, DPO Tank Abdul Samad Khan, Deputy Commissioner Tank Jamshed Khan, senior civil and police officials, relatives of the martyrs, and local elders. Floral wreaths were laid on the coffins, while a smartly turned-out police contingent presented a guard of honour. Special prayers were offered for the departed souls, the speedy recovery of the injured, and lasting peace in the country. Later, the IGP and Chief Secretary visited the injured police personnel at the hospital, appreciated their bravery, and announced financial assistance for the wounded officers. The officials assured them that their concerns would be addressed on a priority basis. Following the attack, the district administration imposed curfew across Tank district due to security concerns, with all entry and exit routes remaining closed. Later, during a joint press conference in Dera Ismail Khan, Special Assistant Tariq Saeed Marwat, Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah, and IGP Zulfiqar Hameed stressed that terrorism could only be defeated through close cooperation between the government, security institutions, the media, and the public. Tariq Saeed Marwat said the provincial government was utilizing all available resources to eliminate terrorism and restore peace across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in the southern districts. He stated that anti state elements would never succeed in their objectives and urged citizens to remain united against terrorism. Chief Secretary Shahab Ali Shah described the recent terrorist incidents in Tank and other southern districts as a serious challenge but reaffirmed that security agencies were conducting coordinated and intelligence based operations. He emphasized that counter-terrorism is a national responsibility and urged the public to report suspicious activities promptly while refraining from providing any form of support or shelter to terrorists. He also called on the media to practice responsible journalism by avoiding the spread of unverified information and contributing to strengthening the national narrative against terrorism. Inspector General of Police Zulfiqar Hameed said close coordination existed among the police, security forces, and intelligence agencies, adding that intelligence based operations were being further strengthened. He announced that the police force was being equipped with modern weapons and enhanced capabilities to effectively counter terrorist threats. The senior officials reiterated their commitment to continue the fight against terrorism until its complete eradication and emphasized that the government, law enforcement agencies, media, and the public must remain united to ensure lasting peace in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in the southern districts.

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    IHC reserves decision on Imaan Mazari, Hadi Chatth…

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Islamabad High Court on Friday reserved its decision on whether petitions seeking the suspension of prison sentences awarded to lawyers and human rights activists Imaan Zainab Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chattha can proceed. The petitions relate to the couple’s convictions in a case involving alleged controversial social media posts under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). The hearing was conducted by Justice Muhammad Azam Khan, who considered preliminary arguments from both the prosecution and the defence before reserving his ruling on the maintainability of the petitions. During the proceedings, lawyers representing the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) argued that the requests for suspension of sentence had been filed too early. They maintained that the court should first decide the prosecution’s objection challenging the admissibility of the petitions before considering any request for relief. The prosecution submitted that hearing the suspension petitions before deciding its objection would make its legal challenge ineffective. It therefore requested the court to first determine whether the petitions were legally maintainable. Counsel for Imaan Mazari and Hadi Chattha opposed the objection and said he was ready to argue the prosecution’s application immediately. He suggested that both the objection and the suspension requests should be heard together to avoid unnecessary delays in the proceedings. The judge advised the defence to fully prepare its arguments, observing that doing so would better protect the legal rights of the convicted lawyers. However, the defence maintained that it was prepared to proceed without delay and formally waived any request for additional preparation time. After hearing submissions from both sides, Justice Azam Khan stated that the court would first determine whether the petitions seeking suspension of sentence were legally maintainable. Only after resolving that issue would the court consider the merits of the requests for suspension of the sentences. At the end of the hearing, the Islamabad High Court reserved its decision on the prosecution’s objection. The ruling will determine whether the petitions can move forward for further consideration. Imaan Mazari and Hadi Ali Chattha were convicted by a sessions court earlier this year and received a combined sentence of 17 years’ imprisonment on multiple charges under PECA

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    Pakistan enters AI era with inauguration of larges…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan has taken a major step towards becoming a regional digital technology hub with the inauguration of Sky47 Karakoram-01, the country’s largest AI-ready data centre and cloud platform, at Capital Smart City near Islamabad. The facility was jointly inaugurated by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, during a ceremony attended by federal ministers, senior government officials, business leaders, technology experts and representatives of the IT sector. Developed by Sky47 in collaboration with the Habib Rafiq Group, the state-of-the-art facility has been designed to deliver artificial intelligence computing, cloud services, secure data hosting, cybersecurity and high-performance computing infrastructure. The project is expected to strengthen Pakistan’s digital economy by enabling businesses, financial institutions, government organisations and technology companies to securely host and process data within the country while supporting the rapid growth of AI applications. The project also reinforces Capital Smart City’s ambition to become Pakistan’s premier destination for data centres, cloud computing and advanced technology investment. With its modern infrastructure, strategic location and dedicated technology zones, the city is positioning itself as a future hub for digital innovation and AI-led development. Addressing the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described Sky47 as a landmark project that would help shape Pakistan’s future and strengthen the country’s digital capabilities. He said the successful completion of the project within a short period reflected extraordinary commitment, professional expertise and determination. The Prime Minister said projects such as Sky47 were essential for building a dynamic, progressive and technologically advanced Pakistan. Referring to Pakistan’s recent achievements, he said that when the nation confronts challenges with determination, optimism and resilience, it is capable of accomplishing historic milestones. He described the project as an important guarantee for Pakistan’s future and said it would provide robust digital security for the country. He also paid tribute to Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for his visionary leadership and acknowledged the support of technology partner ZTE, Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja, the Ministry of IT and all stakeholders involved in making the project a reality. The Prime Minister announced that similar state-of-the-art facilities would also be developed in Karachi and Lahore and called for government institutions to make full use of the new infrastructure. The Habib Rafiq Group, under the leadership of Zahid Rafiq, has played a pivotal role in delivering the project and expanding Capital Smart City’s vision beyond real estate into technology-led infrastructure. Industry observers believe the initiative will help attract further domestic and international investment in artificial intelligence, cloud computing and digital services. Speaking at the ceremony, Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja said the inauguration of Sky47 marked the beginning of a new era of artificial intelligence in Pakistan. She said the project would open the door to a new phase of economic growth by enabling the country to make better use of its digital resources, skilled workforce and data-driven innovation. She added that the future global AI race would depend on the secure, efficient and intelligent use of data. Sky47 Chief Executive Officer Hassan Abbas said there are around 12,000 data centres worldwide but only 22 in Pakistan, highlighting the country’s significant growth potential. He said Pakistan’s e-commerce sector is expanding by around 25 to 30 per cent annually and that Sky47 would provide a strong foundation for the country’s digital economy. The Sky47 data centre has the capability to support artificial intelligence, machine learning and high-performance computing while providing cloud computing, secure data hosting and enterprise digital services. It is also expected to play an important role in safeguarding sensitive national and commercial information. The inauguration is being viewed as one of Pakistan’s most significant technology milestones in recent years, reflecting the country’s ambition to build sovereign digital infrastructure and reduce reliance on overseas data hosting. Supporters of the initiative describe it as a major breakthrough achieved under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, with the support of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, and an important step towards positioning Pakistan as a regional hub for artificial intelligence, cloud computing and next-generation digital technologies.

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    PTI changes venue for August 5 rally in Peshawar

    ByJustpaste.in

    Peshawar: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has changed the venue for its August 5 public rally, with party leaders announcing that the gathering will now take place at an open ground near the Peshawar Motorway instead of the previously planned location. The decision was made during a PTI parliamentary party meeting held at the Chief Minister’s House in Peshawar. The meeting was chaired by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sualeh Afridi and attended by members of the National Assembly and the Provincial Assembly. Addressing the meeting, Afridi said preparations for the rally were in full swing and responsibilities had been assigned to party lawmakers to ensure the event’s success. He described the August 5 rally as a “semi-final” and a decisive gathering, saying the party would present its future political strategy to the public. According to the chief minister, the venue was shifted to an open ground near the Peshawar Motorway to improve public access and accommodate a larger number of participants. Afridi also reviewed the party’s political efforts since October 15, 2025, stating that PTI had pursued constitutional and legal avenues to resolve political issues through dialogue. He said the party leadership had sought meetings with PTI founder Imran Khan through legal channels, including approaching the Islamabad High Court and the Supreme Court, but those efforts had not produced the desired outcome. He reiterated that PTI remained committed to peaceful political activity and maintained that peaceful protest was the party’s final constitutional option. Afridi also called for better access to Imran Khan by his family, sisters, and personal doctors, while urging authorities to ensure he receives appropriate medical care. The meeting, however, was not without internal disagreements. According to party sources, several lawmakers expressed concerns over the timing of the rally and suggested holding a workers’ convention before launching the movement. Some members argued that the main protest should be organized in Punjab rather than Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to increase political pressure on the federal government. The reported differences led to a heated exchange during the meeting, with some dissatisfied lawmakers leaving before it concluded. Party sources said the chief minister assured members that their concerns would be addressed. The August 5 rally is expected to be one of PTI’s most significant political events in recent months as the party seeks to outline its next phase of political action.