key diplomacy erdogan
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For key diplomacy Erdogan urges Trump to keep Iran…

ANKARA: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has urged US President Donald Trump to keep diplomatic channels with Iran open, stressing that continued dialogue could help ease regional tensions.

During a telephone conversation, Erdogan and Trump discussed bilateral ties as well as the ongoing conflicts involving Iran and Gaza, according to the Turkish presidency.

The two leaders also exchanged views on defence agreements involving Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, amid growing regional security concerns.

Erdogan told Trump that diplomacy should be given every opportunity and said Turkey was prepared to contribute to efforts aimed at maintaining dialogue with Iran.

The Turkish president also raised concerns over the situation in Gaza, saying Israel’s military actions against Palestinians were continuing at a time when the second phase of a proposed peace plan was expected to begin.

The call comes as Ankara continues to advocate diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation and promote political solutions to conflicts across the region.

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    Tanweer Ahmed champions human-centred AI at UN you…

    Tanweer Ahmed, a technology and artificial intelligence professional, has called for a human-centred approach to AI adoption, stressing that emerging technologies should support people rather than replace them. Speaking at the Youth and AI Summit at United Nations Headquarters in New York on International Youth Day, Ahmed delivered a presentation titled “Keeping Humanity in AI Adoption.” He focused particularly on how nonprofit organisations can use artificial intelligence responsibly while protecting human judgment and accountability. Ahmed said his professional background in technology consulting, data analytics and AI had given him experience in understanding the opportunities created by emerging technologies. However, he said his passion for the nonprofit sector was rooted in his earlier experiences working with communities and young people. He recalled working on a community farm and participating in cultural education activities in Cuba during 2007 and 2008. In 2010, he travelled to South Africa, where he taught mathematics to fifth-grade students. Ahmed said these experiences shaped his long-term desire to contribute to communities and help children around the world. He described his appearance at the UN event on International Youth Day as an honour and an opportunity to reconnect with those early aspirations. During his presentation, Ahmed discussed the rapid growth of artificial intelligence and its increasing use by individuals, businesses and nonprofit organisations. He explained that AI adoption should not simply mean occasionally using chatbots or other AI applications. Instead, organisations should strategically integrate AI into their daily workflows, operations and decision-making processes. Ahmed highlighted several areas where nonprofits can use AI, including internal productivity, communication, fundraising, grant writing and administrative tasks. He presented the Ugandan Water Project as an example of how AI can support a nonprofit organisation. The project works to improve access to clean water in Uganda and reduce the impact of waterborne diseases. According to Ahmed, the organisation uses AI to assist with grant applications and donor outreach. Previous grant applications and organisational information can be analysed to help prepare targeted applications for new funding opportunities. Ahmed stressed that AI-generated material is not simply submitted without human involvement. Staff review, edit and verify the content before applications are sent to funders. He said AI had also helped the organisation identify new grant opportunities and improve internal processes, including contract drafting and project-management workflows. Ahmed emphasised that the purpose of such technology should be to make employees more efficient rather than eliminate their jobs. He also discussed AI-powered voice-to-text technology used in social work and community services. Such systems can allow workers to record information while they are in the field and transfer it into required software, reducing the amount of time spent on administrative duties. Ahmed said reducing paperwork could give nonprofit workers more time to interact directly with the people and communities they serve. However, he warned that AI adoption also presents challenges. These include financial costs, limited access to technology, concerns over job losses, inaccurate information, privacy issues, bias and difficulties in understanding cultural and linguistic nuances. He also highlighted concerns about the environmental impact of the infrastructure required to operate increasingly powerful AI systems. Ahmed urged organisations to develop responsible AI policies covering privacy, security, fairness, transparency, human oversight and accountability. He encouraged nonprofit organisations to learn from one another and share successful experiences with AI, saying organisations working for social causes can benefit from cooperation rather than competing over technological approaches. A key message of his presentation was that humans must remain responsible for AI-assisted decisions. Ahmed warned organisations against blindly accepting AI-generated content and urged them to review outputs carefully, correct errors and ensure that technology does not replace human judgment. Who is Tanweer Ahmed, the Pakistani-American philanthropist? Pakistani-American businessman and philanthropist Tanweer Ahmed has attracted renewed attention in Pakistan following his reported $9 million contribution to the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) and his recent appearance alongside senior Pakistani officials in the United States. Ahmed, who is based in Houston, has built a diverse business portfolio in the United States while also becoming involved in philanthropy, education, healthcare and cricket. His recent contribution to NUST is aimed at supporting talented students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. The endowment is expected to provide scholarships to deserving students each year, with a particular focus on fields such as artificial intelligence, information technology, science and other emerging technologies. Ahmed has said his objective is to ensure that talented Pakistani students are not deprived of quality education because of financial difficulties. He has also expressed plans to expand similar scholarship initiatives to other educational institutions. The businessman has also supported infrastructure and technology-related initiatives at NUST, including the development of facilities intended to strengthen research and innovation. His philanthropic activities extend beyond education. Ahmed has been associated with healthcare initiatives in Pakistan and has supported efforts aimed at providing assistance to communities affected by natural disasters. He also drew attention for his role in relief efforts following the devastating floods that struck Pakistan in 2022. He has been credited with helping mobilise substantial humanitarian assistance for flood-affected communities. Ahmed’s business journey began after he moved to the United States as a student. According to accounts of his career, he initially worked in restaurants and at gas stations while trying to establish himself. He later moved through several positions in the American fast-food industry. His career accelerated after he joined Jack in the Box as a shift manager. His performance and business approach helped him move into senior management positions, eventually leading to opportunities in the Taco Bell franchise system. Ahmed later expanded into franchising and developed a large portfolio of food outlets across several US states. His business interests have also extended into insurance, energy, transportation and other sectors. Over the years, he has developed a reputation as an entrepreneur who combines commercial ventures with philanthropic activities. Ahmed is also closely associated with the development of cricket in the United States. A passionate cricket enthusiast, he established the Prairie View Cricket Complex near Houston after acquiring a large tract of

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    Margot Robbie’s Barbie sequel hits roadblock

    The highly anticipated Barbie sequel has hit a major roadblock, leaving fans uncertain about the future of the blockbuster franchise. Negotiations between Warner Bros. and the key creative team behind the 2023 hit have reportedly stalled over compensation. Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, director Greta Gerwig and co-writer Noah Baumbach are all involved in discussions about returning for a potential sequel. However, the sides have not yet reached an agreement. (Variety⁠) The issue reportedly centers on salary demands and backend compensation. Robbie and Gosling are seeking larger financial packages for their returns, while Gerwig and Baumbach are also negotiating their deals. Reports indicate that the creative team wants stronger upfront pay along with a greater share of the film’s potential profits. The negotiations are particularly significant because the original Barbie became a massive worldwide success. Released in 2023, the Greta Gerwig-directed film earned more than $1.4 billion globally and became Warner Bros.’ highest-grossing movie. Its success also turned Robbie and Gosling’s versions of Barbie and Ken into major pop-culture figures. (EW.com⁠) Despite the enormous success of the first film, Warner Bros. reportedly underestimated how valuable the project and its talent would become. The studio has made several offers to bring the original creative team back, but an agreement has yet to be reached. (Page Six⁠) The situation could become more complicated as a deadline approaches. Reports say Warner Bros. needs to secure agreements by December 2026 to retain the rights connected to a potential sequel. If the negotiations fail, the rights could return to Mattel, potentially opening the door for the property to be developed with a different studio and creative team. (The Guardian⁠) There is still hope for fans. Gerwig and Baumbach reportedly have an idea for a follow-up story, but they are keeping details private while contract discussions continue. Gerwig has also previously indicated that she would only return if there were a meaningful creative reason to revisit the world of Barbie. For Robbie, the situation is especially notable because she was not only the film’s star but also a producer on the original movie. Her involvement helped bring Gerwig’s ambitious version of Barbie to the big screen. For now, Barbie 2 remains uncertain rather than officially cancelled. Until Warner Bros. and the creative team settle their financial and contractual differences, fans may have to wait before knowing whether Barbie and Ken will return to the big screen

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    Counter-terror operations in Balochistan neutralize 12 militants

    Security forces in Pakistan have eliminated 12 high-risk terrorists during two separate operations across the southwestern province of Balochistan. According to official statements issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the media wing of the Armed Forces of Pakistan, the targeted anti-terror engagements took place in the districts of Washuk and Mastung as part of an intensified campaign against extremist elements operating within the region. The military reported that these synchronized Intelligence-Based Operations (IBOs) were initiated following precise tracking and surveillance of insurgent networks. The operations represent a significant operational success for law enforcement and defense personnel working to dismantle armed groups attempting to compromise regional stability. Key Highlights of the Counter-Terror Operations District Washuk: Initial tracking detected hostile movement in the area, leading to a swift operational response that resulted in six terrorists being neutralized. District Mastung: A subsequent targeted raid triggered an intense exchange of gunfire, during which six additional terrorists were eliminated and a major militant hideout was completely dismantled Total Impact: 12 terrorists killed, operational infrastructure destroyed, and significant cache of weapons and logistics seized. Breakdown of the Intelligence-Based Raids The first phase of the counter-terrorism effort unfolded in Washuk district, where security agencies identified suspicious tactical movements by a group of armed insurgents. Acting on real-time intelligence, military units deployed swiftly to intercept the suspects. Upon confronting the militants, a heavy firefight ensued, ending with the death of six terrorists before they could execute planned sabotage activities in the district. Shortly thereafter, a second high-stakes operation was executed in the Mastung district. Intelligence agencies pinpointed an active sanctuary utilized by militants as a staging ground for planning attacks against civilians and security personnel. As forces surrounded the hideout, the cornered insurgents opened fire in a desperate attempt to break through the security perimeter. The security forces responded with decisive tactical force, eliminating six militants on the spot and neutralizing the immediate threat. Following the gun battle, search teams thoroughly cleared the facility, recovering military-grade weaponry, ammunition, and explosives, while destroying the infrastructure used to harbor illegal insurgents. Strategic Significance and Broader Context The ISPR emphasized that these successful engagements reflect the unwavering commitment of the armed forces to cleanse the country of foreign-funded terrorism. Military officials reaffirmed that anti-terror operations will persist relentlessly until all hostile networks, their safe havens, and their local facilitators are completely eradicated across Pakistan.   Authorities have urged local communities to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies as comprehensive intelligence gathering and mop-up activities continue throughout the region.

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    Experts call for gender-responsive water policies …

    LAHORE: The growing impact of water insecurity and climate change on women took center stage at a dialogue titled “Women and Water,” jointly organized by Women in Struggle for Empowerment (WISE) and the University of Home Economics, Lahore. The event brought together academics, development professionals, and civil society representatives to advocate for inclusive and gender-responsive water governance in Pakistan. Addressing the gathering, Vice Chancellor of the University of Home Economics, Prof. Dr. Zaib-un-Nisa, underscored the urgent need to tackle water pollution, plastic waste, and inadequate water treatment systems. She stressed that sustainable solutions require greater investment in scientific water management, wider adoption of rainwater harvesting, improved household water storage, advanced recycling technologies, and university-led awareness campaigns to encourage responsible water use. Executive Director of WISE, Bushra Khaliq, said that Pakistan’s water challenges cannot be effectively addressed without recognizing their disproportionate impact on women and girls, who often bear the greatest burden of water scarcity. She emphasized the importance of drawing lessons from organizations working directly in urban water management and called for stronger collaboration among government institutions, academia, civil society, and local communities. She also urged policymakers to ensure women’s voices, experiences, and leadership are fully integrated into water governance at every level. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Iram Rubab, Head of the Sociology Department at the University of Home Economics, described water as a multidimensional issue linked to health, agriculture, family welfare, livelihoods, sociology, and environmental sustainability. She encouraged interdisciplinary dialogue and collaborative research, noting that adopting a gender perspective in water management leads to more effective identification of challenges and practical solutions, particularly as women remain the primary managers of household water resources. The participants agreed that addressing Pakistan’s growing water crisis requires policies that not only strengthen water management but also recognize the vital role of women in ensuring sustainable and equitable access to this essential resource.

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    UK opens fully funded scholarships, startup fellow…

    The United Kingdom has invited applications from Pakistani students, professionals and entrepreneurs for its fully funded Chevening Scholarships, Chevening Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies (OCIS) Fellowship and Commonwealth Startup Fellowship. In a statement issued on Tuesday, the British High Commission said the programmes aim to help talented Pakistanis gain access to world-class education, strengthen professional skills and build international networks. The Chevening Scholarship offers fully funded one-year master’s degree programmes at leading UK universities for individuals who demonstrate leadership potential, professional achievements and a commitment to creating positive change in their communities. The Chevening Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies Fellowship is designed for mid-career academics and professionals. It provides an opportunity to conduct independent research at the University of Oxford while engaging with scholars from around the world. The Commonwealth Startup Fellowship targets promising entrepreneurs, helping them develop innovative businesses through mentorship, expert guidance and training in the UK. The programme also supports participants in preparing their ventures for future growth and expansion. British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott said Pakistan has an abundance of talented individuals, and these programmes are designed to equip them with the skills, knowledge and global connections needed to lead organisations, expand businesses and address major global challenges. She advised applicants to submit original applications based on their own experiences, ambitions and ideas, warning that the use of AI-generated responses could lead to disqualification during the selection process. The High Commission said all three programmes cover major expenses, including airfare, tuition fees, visa costs and living allowances, allowing selected candidates to focus entirely on their studies or professional development. Beyond academic and career opportunities, participants will also gain international exposure, experience different cultures and establish long-term professional relationships with leaders and experts from across the globe. According to the British High Commission, Pakistan has produced more than 2,000 Chevening alumni who are serving in government, business, academia, media and civil society. Worldwide, the Chevening network includes numerous influential leaders, including several current and former heads of state and government. Applications for the Commonwealth Startup Fellowship opened on August 3 and will remain open until September 1, while applications for the Chevening Scholarship and the OCIS Fellowship are also currently being accepted through their respective official application portals.

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    Lionel Messi mourns father Jorge, his lifelong pillar of support

    Jorge Messi, father of football icon Lionel Messi, has passed away at the age of 68. He had reportedly been battling a long-term illness and was receiving treatment in Rosario. Jorge wasn’t just Messi’s father, he also served as his long-term agent throughout much of his career. He played a central role in guiding Messi’s rise into one of the greatest footballers of all time. Lionel Messi shared an emotional tribute following his father’s passing. He said his father had always been his biggest support in life, and that everything he’d achieved was built on that belief. Messi added that football had given him everything, but family would always come first for him. He described himself as a son before anything else, no matter how far his career had taken him. He went on to say that he had lost the man who stood behind him at every step of his journey. Messi called his father his biggest supporter and the person who believed in him from the very beginning. Jorge largely avoided the public spotlight throughout his life, choosing instead to work quietly behind the scenes. He represented his son in commercial negotiations and handled much of the business side of his career. His health had reportedly declined around the time of the last World Cup. Messi had hinted then that things were difficult at home, without going into further detail publicly. Years earlier, Jorge had played a key role in Messi’s early football journey. He sought out treatment options that would allow his son to keep playing during childhood, and later moved with him to Barcelona to begin their life in Europe. That move would go on to shape the course of football history, launching Messi’s rise from a young academy prospect into a global superstar. Tributes have poured in from fans and figures across the football world following news of Jorge’s passing.

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