seeks broader jica
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PM seeks broader JICA partnership in skills, miner…

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday called for expanding Pakistan’s cooperation with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), identifying skills development, mineral exploration and support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as key areas for future collaboration.

The prime minister made the remarks during a meeting in Islamabad with a nine-member JICA delegation led by its President, Dr Tanaka Akihiko. He said Pakistan deeply values its decades-long partnership with Japan and expressed confidence that the latest engagement would further strengthen bilateral development ties.

Highlighting the government’s economic agenda, Shehbaz said Pakistan had emerged from a challenging economic period through coordinated reforms and was now focused on achieving sustainable and inclusive growth. He noted that fiscal reforms had significantly improved revenue collection over the past three years, creating greater capacity for national development.

The premier stressed that equipping young people with modern skills, expanding technical and vocational education, creating employment opportunities and empowering women remain among the government’s highest priorities. He said Pakistan is keen to benefit from JICA’s expertise in these sectors.

Shehbaz also identified the country’s vast mineral resources as a major area of economic potential and invited JICA to provide technical assistance to help develop the sector and attract greater investment.

Discussing support for businesses, the prime minister said reforms at the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) had strengthened the institution. He expressed hope that enhanced cooperation with JICA would help improve SME productivity, encourage entrepreneurship and boost Pakistan’s exports.

During the meeting, Shehbaz also conveyed condolences over the recent earthquake in Japan. Dr Tanaka thanked the prime minister for his message of sympathy and appreciated the warm hospitality extended to the Japanese delegation during its visit.

The JICA president reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Pakistan in healthcare, education, urban and rural development, industrial growth and technical training. He said future projects would be designed in line with the development priorities of both the federal and provincial governments. Dr Tanaka also acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts to promote peace and stability in the Middle East.

Separately, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema met the JICA delegation to discuss future development initiatives. He invited the agency to participate in financing the Main Line-1 (ML-1) railway project alongside the Asian Development Bank and other development partners, describing the railway upgrade as vital for improving trade, transportation and industrial connectivity across the country.

Cheema also sought JICA’s support for expanding internet connectivity in rural areas to promote freelancing and digital commerce. He requested technical assistance for feasibility studies of major infrastructure projects, an area in which JICA expressed readiness to cooperate.

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    Pakistan SMA symposium 2026 held in Islamabad, bri…

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      Islamabad: The Pakistan SMA Symposium 2026, organised by STRIVE – Strive Eradication of Disability Foundation, was held at Serena Hotel Islamabad, bringing together leading doctors, professors, researchers, medical experts, academics, civil society representatives, volunteers and families affected by Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). The symposium focused on raising awareness about SMA, promoting early diagnosis, discussing modern treatment options, genetic screening, medical research and the challenges faced by patients and their families. The gathering also provided an important platform for medical professionals and researchers to exchange views on the future of SMA care and research in Pakistan. Chief Health Sector Reforms Unit (HSRU) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Dr Syed Ejaz Ali Shah, Chairman Zakat and Ushr Council Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Imtiaz Khan, and Chairman STRIVE Muhammad Yasir Khan were among the prominent participants. Doctors, medical specialists, researchers, representatives of civil society, SMA-affected families and people associated with different walks of life also attended the event. A notable feature of the symposium was the participation of professors, heads of departments and academic experts from various universities in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. The experts shared their views on SMA, genetic disorders, medical research, recent developments in treatment and the future direction of medical science. Researchers working on SMA at the international level also participated in the symposium. Experts and researchers from Poland, the United Kingdom and other European countries joined the gathering, giving the Pakistan SMA Symposium an international academic and research dimension. The participation of foreign researchers provided an opportunity to strengthen links between ongoing efforts in Pakistan and international research and developments in the field of SMA. Participants stressed the importance of greater cooperation between Pakistani institutions and international research communities to improve knowledge, diagnosis and care for people living with rare diseases. Addressing the gathering, Chief HSRU Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Dr Syed Ejaz Ali Shah paid tribute to parents and families of SMA patients for their continued struggle and resilience. He said the efforts of families working for the better lives and futures of their children deserved recognition and appreciation. Dr Shah emphasised that awareness about complex and rare diseases such as SMA must be accompanied by effective support for patients and their families. He highlighted the importance of collective efforts involving healthcare professionals, families, government institutions and other stakeholders. Chairman STRIVE Muhammad Yasir Khan said SMA was not merely a medical condition but had become a wider struggle requiring the combined efforts of patients, parents, doctors, researchers, government institutions, media, civil society and social organisations. He said STRIVE was working to take awareness about SMA to different parts of the country, promote early diagnosis, encourage research and help create better pathways for patients to access treatment and necessary healthcare facilities. Yasir Khan also announced that STRIVE would organise a major SMA Summit on October 30 and 31, 2026, at Tulip Marquee Islamabad. He said the proposed summit would be one of the largest gatherings of its kind in Pakistan and would bring patients, parents, doctors, medical specialists, national and international researchers, policymakers, universities, civil society organisations, volunteers and other relevant stakeholders together under one roof. During the symposium, speakers discussed the symptoms of Spinal Muscular Atrophy, the importance of timely diagnosis, genetic screening, modern treatment, patient care, research and future strategies for addressing SMA in Pakistan. Doctors and researchers emphasised that early diagnosis, proper medical guidance and access to modern treatment can play an important role in improving the quality of life of children and individuals affected by SMA. They also stressed the need for greater public awareness so that families can recognise the condition and seek appropriate medical advice at an early stage. Participants observed that Pakistan requires further efforts in public awareness, medical facilities, genetic diagnosis, research and policymaking related to SMA. Strengthening these areas, they said, could help provide better support to children living with the condition and their families. The symposium also highlighted the importance of building stronger cooperation between universities, healthcare institutions, researchers, policymakers and international organisations. Such collaboration, participants said, could help Pakistan benefit from global scientific developments while encouraging local research into rare diseases. At the conclusion of the event, participants expressed their commitment to expanding awareness, research and advocacy for the rights and needs of people affected by SMA. They stressed the importance of developing stronger links between government institutions, universities, the medical community, media, civil society, patients and their families. The organisers said the Pakistan SMA Symposium 2026 was more than a single event, describing it as an important step towards creating a collective voice and sustained movement for greater awareness, research, early diagnosis and improved support for SMA patients in Pakistan. The gathering also reflected growing efforts by medical professionals, researchers, families and civil society organisations to place rare diseases on the national health agenda and to promote a more informed, inclusive and supportive healthcare environment for affected individuals and their families.

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    King Felipe and Queen Letizia break silence after …

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    King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain have expressed their solidarity with Colombia following the devastating 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck the country, leaving at least 132 people dead and more than 570 injured. Rescue teams continue searching for survivors as authorities assess the extensive damage across western Colombia. In an emotional message shared by the Spanish Royal Household, the King and Queen conveyed their deepest sympathy to the Colombian people during what they described as an extremely difficult time. They offered their support to families who have lost loved ones and to everyone affected by the disaster. The Spanish monarchs also expressed concern for people who remain missing following the powerful earthquake. Among those unaccounted for are 164 Spanish citizens, according to Spain’s foreign minister. Spanish authorities have said there are currently no reports of Spanish nationals being injured or killed. The earthquake struck on Monday near San José del Palmar in Colombia’s Chocó department. The powerful tremor was felt across a wide area and caused serious damage in several cities, including Cali, Pereira, Quibdó and Manizales. Emergency crews have been working through damaged buildings and rubble in an urgent effort to locate survivors. King Felipe’s connection to the country is particularly notable because he was in Colombia only days before the disaster. He traveled to Cali to attend the inauguration of newly elected Colombian President Abelardo de la Espriella. His visit formed part of a long-standing tradition in which the Spanish monarch has represented Spain at presidential inaugurations across Latin America. The Royal Household said Felipe also sent a telegram to President de la Espriella, conveying condolences to the families of those who died and wishing injured victims a full recovery. The King also offered support to Colombian authorities as they begin the difficult task of reconstruction. The disaster has triggered an international response as rescue operations continue. Authorities are facing the dual challenge of finding people who may still be trapped while providing shelter and assistance to thousands affected by the destruction. For Colombia, the immediate priority remains saving lives and supporting survivors. The Spanish royals’ message underscores the international solidarity surrounding the country as it confronts one of its most serious recent natural disasters.

  • Thailand to Transform Cannabis Shops into Medical Clinics

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    BANGKOK — Thailand’s new administration is steering the country’s cannabis industry tightly toward a medical framework, with ordinary cannabis shops set to disappear as operators renewing their licences will be required to transform their businesses into medical facilities, the Bangkok Post reported. Krabi Police Raid Israeli-Linked Cannabis Farm Operated Through Thai Nominees The policy shift […]

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    PSX faces heavy selling as KSE-100 index drops over 1,300 points

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    KARACHI: Selling pressure intensified at the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Tuesday as investor sentiment weakened amid growing uncertainty over the prospects of a peace agreement between the United States and Iran and the reopening of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. The benchmark KSE-100 Index came under pressure during the trading session, losing more than 1,300 points as investors remained cautious and reduced exposure to major stocks across several sectors. At around 2pm, the KSE-100 Index stood at 179,996.62 points, showing a decline of 1,313.66 points, or 0.72%, from the previous close. The market witnessed broad-based selling, with several major sectors contributing to the decline. Automobile assemblers, cement companies, commercial banks, fertiliser manufacturers, oil and gas exploration firms and oil marketing companies (OMCs) remained under pressure. Several index-heavy stocks also traded in negative territory. Prominent companies including HUBCO, Mari Petroleum (MARI), Oil and Gas Development Company (OGDC), Fauji Fertilizer Company (FFC), Habib Bank Limited (HBL), MCB Bank, Meezan Bank (MEBL) and United Bank Limited (UBL) were among the stocks weighing on the benchmark index. Previous session also ends lower The latest decline follows a weak close in the previous trading session. On Monday, the PSX initially moved higher but lost momentum during the second half of the session as investors opted to book profits in heavyweight shares. The KSE-100 Index eventually closed at 181,310.28 points, down 119.74 points, or 0.07%. The continued weakness suggests that investors are closely monitoring developments in international markets, particularly the situation surrounding oil supplies and the Strait of Hormuz. US-Iran tensions keep markets on edge Global financial markets remained unsettled on Tuesday as hopes for an agreement between Washington and Tehran appeared to fade. Negotiations aimed at ending the conflict and restoring normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have encountered fresh difficulties. US President Donald Trump on Monday responded to Iran’s conditions for a possible peace agreement by putting forward his own demands, including calls for compensation related to deaths and losses associated with wars, attacks and protests. The tougher rhetoric has raised concerns that diplomatic efforts could take longer, potentially prolonging disruptions around the crucial maritime route. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy corridors, and prolonged disruption to shipping through the waterway could have significant consequences for crude oil supplies and global energy prices. Oil prices climb to highest level since July 31 The uncertainty surrounding the situation was reflected in international oil markets. Brent crude futures climbed to around $88 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude futures rose to approximately $82.45 per barrel. Both benchmarks reached their highest levels since July 31 after recording gains of roughly 5% during Monday’s trading session. Higher oil prices are a major concern for economies that depend heavily on imported energy. For Pakistan, sustained increases in global crude prices could increase the country’s import bill and place additional pressure on external accounts, inflation and domestic fuel prices. The rise in energy prices is also being closely watched by investors because higher input costs can affect corporate profitability and influence monetary policy expectations. Asian markets remain cautious The uncertainty was not limited to Pakistan. Asian equity markets moved within a narrow range as investors assessed the potential impact of rising energy prices on inflation and economic growth. MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan moved between gains and losses before trading modestly higher. South Korea’s Kospi also recorded a slight increase. However, the escalation in tensions around the Gulf kept overall market sentiment fragile, with investors remaining wary of further developments that could affect energy supplies and global trade. US stock futures were also slightly positive on Tuesday. Nasdaq futures rose around 0.28%, while S&P 500 futures gained approximately 0.1%, following a weaker session on Wall Street on Monday. Inflation data in focus Investors are also awaiting the latest US consumer price data, which could provide further clues about the direction of interest rates and inflationary pressures in the world’s largest economy. The increase in crude oil prices has added another element of uncertainty ahead of the inflation report. A sustained rise in fuel and energy costs could complicate efforts to bring inflation closer to central-bank targets. For Pakistani investors, the combination of geopolitical uncertainty, higher global oil prices and pressure on heavyweight shares is likely to remain a key factor influencing trading sentiment in the near term.

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    Demi Lovato returns as Mitchie Torres in Camp Rock 3

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    Demi Lovato is officially returning to one of her most beloved Disney roles, bringing back Mitchie Torres for the highly anticipated Camp Rock 3. The singer and actress will reprise the character nearly two decades after the original Camp Rock introduced her to audiences around the world. The news has generated excitement among longtime Disney fans, many of whom had been hoping to see Lovato return for the third instalment of the popular musical franchise. Lovato’s comeback also marks a major reunion with the Jonas Brothers, who will once again portray their iconic characters from the franchise. Joe Jonas is returning as Shane Gray, while Nick Jonas will reprise his role as Nate Gray and Kevin Jonas will once again play Jason Gray. Maria Canals-Barrera is also set to return as Connie, Mitchie’s mother and the director of Camp Rock. The upcoming film will see Lovato take on another important role behind the scenes as well. In addition to appearing on screen, she is serving as an executive producer alongside the Jonas Brothers, making her involvement in the project even more significant. The original Camp Rock premiered in 2008 and quickly became one of Disney Channel’s most popular original movies. Lovato’s performance as aspiring singer Mitchie Torres helped establish her as a major Disney star, while the film’s music and performances became a memorable part of the channel’s pop culture history. Following the announcement of her return, Lovato shared her excitement with fans on social media. She posted about Mitchie’s comeback and used the hashtag “#thisisme,” referencing one of the franchise’s most recognisable songs. Camp Rock 3 will also introduce a new generation of characters and performers. The story focuses on Connect 3 as the band prepares for a reunion tour. However, their plans are disrupted when their scheduled opening act drops out. Faced with the unexpected situation, the group heads back to Camp Rock in search of new talent who could potentially join them on their tour. The new cast includes Liamani Segura and Malachi Barton in leading roles, along with Lumi Pollack, Sherry Cola and Hudson Stone. Their addition is expected to bring a fresh energy to the franchise while allowing the returning stars to reconnect with the world that made them famous. For fans, the return of Lovato and the Jonas Brothers represents a major throwback to the early days of Disney Channel’s musical era. With the original stars returning alongside a younger cast, the film aims to combine nostalgia with a new storyline for today’s audience. Camp Rock 3 is scheduled to premiere on Disney Channel on August 13. Fans will then be able to watch the movie on Disney+ from August 14, giving viewers multiple ways to experience the long-awaited reunion.

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    Ukraine submits peace proposals to US as Zelenskiy warns of autumn Russian draft

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    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy announced that Kyiv has delivered fresh peace proposals to American negotiators aimed at ending the conflict with Moscow. He simultaneously warned that Russia intends to use its upcoming parliamentary elections to launch a new, large-scale military mobilisation. Speaking in his nightly address, Zelenskiy stated that the proposals handed to the United States focus on bolstering Ukraine’s defence capabilities, particularly air defence, while urging Washington to exert diplomatic and economic pressure on the Kremlin to halt the war. The movement in negotiations comes as U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner prepare for potential visits to both capitals, following a period where diplomatic efforts had largely stalled. Kyiv continues to press for an immediate ceasefire after nearly four and a half years of fighting, whereas Moscow insists any agreement require Ukraine to permanently cede four claimed regions. Zelenskiy also cited Ukrainian intelligence reports indicating that Russian President Vladimir Putin plans to exploit September’s parliamentary polls to orchestrate a rapid autumn draft. “They are preparing for mobilisation in the autumn, immediately after the imitation of parliamentary elections,” Zelenskiy said, estimating that Moscow aims to draft several hundred thousand additional personnel by the end of the year, alongside ongoing voluntary contract recruitment. The electoral warning follows a decision by Russia’s Supreme Court on Monday to bar the liberal Yabloko party, the country’s sole registered anti-war political group, from contesting the upcoming election. Kremlin officials have denied plans for a mandatory draft, pointing to 200,000 voluntary sign-ups recorded in the first half of the year.

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