JICA delegation visits Literacy Centres in Lahore

Two US lawmakers met Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir at General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi on Monday. Ryan Keith Zinke, a member of the US House of Representatives from Montana, and Michael James, a member of the House of Representatives from Washington state, held talks with the military leadership. The meeting covered several areas of mutual interest. Regional security, defence cooperation and economic ties between Pakistan and the United States were also discussed. The talks focused on ways to strengthen bilateral relations. Both sides explored opportunities for closer cooperation in the defence and economic sectors. Field Marshal Asim Munir highlighted Pakistan’s economic potential during the meeting. He said long-term regional stability depends heavily on economic growth, increased trade and stronger regional connectivity. The army chief also briefed the visiting lawmakers on Pakistan’s ongoing economic reforms. He said the reforms are aimed at creating a business-friendly environment and encouraging foreign investment. The Pakistani military leadership also stressed the importance of expanding economic cooperation. Greater trade and stronger links between the private sectors of both countries were discussed as potential areas for future collaboration. The US delegation acknowledged Pakistan’s importance in maintaining regional stability. The lawmakers also recognised the country’s role in promoting economic resilience in the region. Both sides discussed opportunities for increasing bilateral trade. They also considered greater private-sector partnerships and broader economic engagement between Pakistan and the United States. The visiting lawmakers thanked Pakistan’s military leadership for the hospitality extended to them during their visit. The meeting concluded with a shared emphasis on strengthening relations between the two countries. Both sides expressed interest in developing deeper economic, commercial and institutional links. The discussions come as Pakistan continues efforts to attract foreign investment and expand international trade. Strengthening economic cooperation with the United States could provide further opportunities for businesses and investors in both countries

Polling has begun for the by-election in Sindh Assembly constituency PS-30 Khairpur. Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) candidate Barrister Asfandyar Khan Kharral is contesting the election against seven independent candidates. The constituency has a total of 254,980 registered voters. The Election Commission has established 164 polling stations for the by-election. Officials have classified several polling stations as sensitive due to security concerns. A total of 64 polling stations have been declared highly sensitive. Another 68 polling stations have been classified as sensitive. Security arrangements have been strengthened at these locations. Around 2,500 police personnel have been deployed across the constituency. They have been assigned duties at polling stations and other important locations. Security personnel are also monitoring the polling process to prevent any untoward incident. Authorities have directed officials to ensure a peaceful environment for voters. The by-election was necessitated by the death of PPP MPA Naeem Kharral. His death left the PS-30 Khairpur seat vacant. The contest is being closely watched because the PPP candidate is facing multiple independent candidates. Voters in the constituency will decide who will represent them in the Sindh Assembly. Polling officials have been instructed to facilitate voters and ensure that the electoral process remains orderly. Security personnel will remain deployed throughout the polling process. Authorities have also taken measures to protect polling staff and voters.

ISLAMABAD: Authorities in Islamabad have finalised foolproof security arrangements for the peaceful observance of Eid Milad-un-Nabi ﷺ. Security measures have been strengthened across the federal capital ahead of the religious occasion. Special arrangements have been made to protect citizens and ensure the smooth conduct of religious gatherings and processions. Law enforcement agencies have been directed to remain alert and closely monitor sensitive areas. Security personnel will be deployed at key locations, while additional measures will be taken around mosques, worship places and routes of Milad processions. Authorities have also stressed the need for effective coordination among the relevant departments. Police and other security officials will remain vigilant throughout the celebrations. The arrangements aim to prevent any untoward incident and provide a safe environment for people participating in Eid Milad-un-Nabi ﷺ events. Officials have urged citizens to cooperate with security personnel and follow the instructions issued by the administration during the celebrations.