Pakistan sets record with 5,438 companies registered in July

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has expressed serious displeasure over the use of a ceremonial horse-drawn buggy by Islamabad’s chief commissioner and inspector general during the August 14 Independence Day celebrations. An official advisory issued by the Establishment Division said the incident had attracted widespread public criticism and prompted the Prime Minister to take a serious view of the conduct. The advisory was issued to Islamabad Chief Commissioner Lt (retd) Sohail Ashraf and Inspector General of Police Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi. According to the advisory, the prime minister believed that the display of pomp and show created an impression of privilege, ostentation and personal glorification, which was contrary to the principles of public service. It stressed that government officials entrusted with public offices were expected to demonstrate humility, restraint, dignity and sound judgment. The Establishment Division warned that such conduct could weaken public confidence in government institutions and fall short of the standards expected from senior officials. The two officials were advised to exercise greater care in carrying out their duties and ensure that similar incidents did not happen again. The controversy emerged after images and videos of the officials travelling in the ceremonial buggy during the Independence Day event circulated widely on social media, drawing criticism from the public. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi subsequently defended the officials, saying they were not responsible for the decision to use the buggy. He explained that the vehicle had originally been arranged for the chief guest, while he and the chief guest were delayed because of a meeting involving the president and prime minister. Naqvi said the two officials had initially been reluctant to begin the programme in the absence of the chief guest and the minister but were instructed to proceed to avoid inconvenience to the public. Despite the clarification, the incident continued to attract attention, ultimately leading to the formal advisory from the Establishment Division.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening national security through advanced technology, stating that the country’s armed forces relied on autonomous systems and cybersecurity capabilities to protect its borders during what he described as “Marka-e-Haq.” His remarks came while addressing the Indus Robotics and Autonomous Systems Expo in Islamabad. Speaking at the event, the Prime Minister said Pakistan is making significant progress in modern technology and innovation, adding that initiatives such as the robotics and autonomous systems exhibition will help position the country among leading technology-driven nations in the 21st century. Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that the use of advanced technologies in the security sector is a matter of national pride. He noted that Pakistan has achieved important milestones in the development of indigenous defense capabilities, particularly in drone technology. According to the Prime Minister, more than 60 percent of the country’s drone production is now being carried out locally, reflecting continued efforts to reduce reliance on foreign technology and strengthen domestic manufacturing. The Prime Minister also praised the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, saying the armed forces successfully adopted modern technological solutions during Marka-e-Haq. He acknowledged the contributions of the Chief of Air Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff, stating that their coordination and leadership played an important role in strengthening Pakistan’s defense preparedness. Highlighting the growing importance of digital security, Shehbaz Sharif said autonomous systems and cybersecurity have become essential components of modern warfare and national defense. He stressed that Pakistan will continue investing in emerging technologies to enhance its security capabilities and protect its sovereignty in an increasingly technology-driven world. The Prime Minister added that innovation in robotics, artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, and cyber defense is not only important for military preparedness but also for the country’s broader technological and economic development. He encouraged collaboration between government institutions, the private sector, and academic organizations to accelerate research and promote local innovation. The Indus Robotics and Autonomous Systems Expo showcased advancements in robotics, autonomous technologies, and indigenous defense solutions, highlighting Pakistan’s growing focus on technological self-reliance. Government officials believe such initiatives will help strengthen the country’s industrial base while supporting long-term national security objectives. Shehbaz Sharif concluded by reaffirming that Pakistan will continue to adopt modern technologies to safeguard its borders and enhance its defense capabilities, ensuring the country remains prepared to address evolving security challenges in the years ahead.