Thailand and Cambodia to Hold Ceasefire Talks This Wednesday

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has extended her greetings to Muslims on the occasion of Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH). In her message, she said the blessed occasion is a source of happiness and spiritual fulfilment for every Muslim. She said the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) brought immense blessings and guidance to humanity. Maryam Nawaz said the arrival of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) transformed the course of human history. His message provided people with a clear path based on faith, justice and compassion. She said the Holy Prophet (PBUH) gave dignity and respect to the weak and vulnerable members of society. He established principles of equality and justice and taught people to treat others with kindness and fairness. The chief minister said the birth of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) brought an end to ignorance and false beliefs. It spread the message of monotheism and strengthened the belief in the oneness of Allah Almighty. She said the teachings and character of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) remain a source of guidance for Muslims and humanity as a whole. Maryam Nawaz urged people to reflect on the life and teachings of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and follow his example in their daily lives. She said the true spirit of Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH) lies in promoting peace, compassion, brotherhood, justice and respect for humanity. She prayed that Allah Almighty bless the country and its people and enable everyone to follow the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

ISLAMABAD: A federal cabinet subcommittee has approved the prices of 52 newly registered life-saving medicines, including treatments for cancer, diabetes, haemophilia and Parkinson’s disease, in a move aimed at improving access to essential medicines across Pakistan. The meeting was chaired by Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb in Islamabad. The committee reviewed pricing proposals for newly registered medicines and approved the prices for all 52 products. Officials said the approved medicines include several advanced treatments for serious and chronic illnesses. Among them is Keytruda, a modern immunotherapy drug used globally to treat more than 20 types of cancer. Other approved medicines include Nivolumab, Dasatinib, Meropenem and insulin, which are widely used to treat cancer, severe infections and diabetes. The pricing decision will now be sent to the federal cabinet for final approval. Once endorsed, the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP) will issue an official price notification, allowing the medicines to be legally marketed and sold in the country. Health Ministry officials said early approval of medicine prices was necessary to address the difficulties faced by patients. Delays in pricing had prevented several newly registered medicines from entering the local market, forcing many patients to rely on unregistered, smuggled or costly imported alternatives. Authorities believe the approval will improve the availability of high-quality medicines and reduce dependence on illegal supply channels. They said the move will also help ensure that patients have access to safe and regulated treatments through authorised healthcare providers. During the meeting, the finance minister stressed the importance of transparency and protecting the public interest in decisions related to medicine pricing. He called for a fair pricing mechanism that balances patient affordability with the availability of essential medicines.

A woman who was allegedly brought to Pakistan from Bangkok on the promise of marriage has accused a man of sexually assaulting her in Rawalpindi. Police said a case was registered at the Rawat police station on the woman’s complaint. The allegations have been included in the first information report (FIR) registered against the nominated suspect. According to the FIR, the woman met the suspect in Bangkok about two years ago. The two reportedly developed a friendship after their meeting. She later alleged that the suspect continued to remain in contact with her and promised to marry her. The woman stated that around four months ago, she came to Pakistan after being assured of marriage. She said the suspect arranged a rented apartment for her in a private housing society in Rawalpindi. She then began living at the apartment. According to her statement, the suspect allegedly sexually assaulted her on several occasions. She claimed that whenever she asked him to marry her, he avoided giving a clear response and continued to delay the matter. The woman also alleged that the suspect restricted her movement. She claimed that she was not allowed to leave the apartment freely. She further accused him of physically assaulting her during her stay there. The complainant also alleged that the suspect took her money when he left the apartment. She approached the police after the alleged incidents and requested legal action against the man. Police confirmed that the nominated suspect has been arrested. After the FIR was registered, the investigation was handed over to the relevant specialised investigation unit. Officials said the case is under investigation. Police are collecting evidence and examining the allegations made by the complainant. Further legal action will be taken in accordance with the findings of the investigation.