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INDIA TRYING TO KEEP PAKISTAN ENGAGED ON TWO FRONTS: KH ASIF

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Sunday, 2 November, 2025 | 10 Jamadiul Awwal, 1447

WE HAVE EVIDENCE OF INDIA’S INVOLVEMENT IN TERRORISM AND HOW IT WANTS TO KEEP US BUSY ON EASTERN AND WESTERN FRONTS: DEFENSE CZAR

Rs 20.00 | Vol XVI No 116 | 8 Pages | Lahore Edition

SAYS ‘MODI SILENCED AFTER MAY DEFEAT,’ VOWING TO STOP CROSS-BORDER TERRORISM FROM AFGHAN SOIL

g INFORMATION MINISTRY SAYS PAKISTAN PREFERRED ‘A CIVILISED RELATIONSHIP’ REBUTS AFGHAN TALIBAN BETWEEN TWO NEIGHBOURS, EXPRESSING HOPE SPOKESMAN’S REMARKS ONGOING TALKS WOULD YIELD A REASONABLE OUTCOME

Pakistan foils india’s attempt to bribe fisherman for anti-state propaganda: talal Ch ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

EFENSE Minister Khawaja Asif on Saturday accused India of trying to keep Pakistan “engaged on both eastern and western fronts” amid renewed tensions with Kabul and New Delhi, warning that Indian involvement in terrorism inside Pakistan was “no secret.” “We have evidence of India’s involvement in terrorism in Pakistan and how it wants to keep us busy on two

fronts—the eastern and the western,” the defence minister said while speaking to a TV channel. He added that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had been “silenced” after India’s defeat in the May conflict, which ended under a United States-brokered ceasefire. His remarks came a day after Pakistan and Afghanistan agreed in Istanbul to extend the ceasefire reached last month, following a brief but intense border conflict that saw Pakistani airstrikes on Oct 9 against Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) sanctuaries in Afghanistan

Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry on Saturday disclosed that India’s intelligence agency had attempted to recruit a Pakistani fisherman, Ijaz Mallah, for espionage by bribing him with Rs95,000—a plot Pakistan has termed yet another failed attempt in New Delhi’s “information war” against Islamabad. Addressing a joint press conference with Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar, Chaudhry said the foiled recruitment attempt was part of “India’s new prop-

and retaliatory clashes on Oct 11. The truce, first formalised in Doha on Oct 18– 19, was salvaged in Istanbul after days of deadlock that nearly collapsed the talks. The minister said Pakistan’s position on Afghanistan remained consistent: “Everyone—the politicians, the establish-

aganda operation, which has now been fully exposed.” He said Mallah, apprehended by the Indian Coast Guard in September, was coerced into anti-Pakistan propaganda after being offered money. “This is part of a continuous psychological and informational war being waged by Indian intelligence agencies against Pakistan,” he stated, adding that the country’s security institutions remain fully alert to such efforts. Chaudhry praised Pakistan’s media and security institutions for “ensuring the triumph of truth” and countering “yellow propaganda” with responsibility and professionalism.

ment, and the nation—agrees that terrorism from Afghan soil must be completely stopped.” Asif said Pakistan preferred “a civilized relationship” between the two neighbours and expressed hope that ongoing talks would yield a reasonable outcome.

Continued on PaGe 03

President eulogises GB’s sacrifices, calls for turning region into model of development GILGIT

PM hails GB’s valour

Staff RepoRt

President Asif Ali Zardari on Saturday paid rich tribute to the unwavering love, sacrifices and loyalty of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan for Pakistan, calling them the “guardians of the nation’s northern frontiers” who stood firm in every test of time. He urged that this deep bond of sacrifice and service be matched with a collective resolve to make Gilgit-Baltistan a model of development, justice and equality. Addressing a ceremony to mark the 78th Independence Day of GilgitBaltistan from Dogra rule, the president said that for more than seven decades, the valiant people of the region had marched shoulder to shoulder with the rest of Pakistan—defending its borders, contributing to its progress, and carrying its flag to the world’s highest peaks. “This region is not only the crown of Pakistan but also our northern gateway—a symbol of lasting friendship with China,” he said, adding that the Karakoram Highway was a living testament to this partnership while the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) had opened new doors of trade,

LAHORE

Staff RepoRt

connectivity, and livelihoods for the people of GB. He emphasized that it was their shared responsibility to ensure that the dividends of these development projects reached every valley and village, creating prosperity and opportunity for all. The president said that the freedom of Gilgit-Baltistan’s people also reminded the nation of the unfinished journey of their Kashmiri brothers and sisters in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). “While you enjoy liberty and rights under the flag of Pak-

istan, they continue to face occupation and repression. We stand with them till they achieve freedom in accordance with the UNSC resolutions,” he affirmed. Calling Gilgit-Baltistan his “second home,” President Zardari recalled that the people of the region had won their freedom through their own struggle and voluntarily chose to join Pakistan, proving their eternal attachment to the motherland. Paying glowing tribute to the 1,700 martyrs and 30,000 wounded of the 1947 liberation movement, he said their sacrifices were immortal in the nation’s history.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday extended heartfelt felicitations to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and the entire nation on the 77th anniversary of the region’s historic liberation from Dogra rule, paying tribute to the courage and patriotism of those who chose to join Pakistan on November 1, 1947. In his message marking Gilgit-Baltistan’s Independence Day, the prime minister said the day commemorates the unparalleled bravery, unity, and love for Pakistan shown by the people of the region, whose sacrifices and resolve reshaped the course of history. “The people of Gilgit-Baltistan displayed remarkable courage and unwavering faith in Pakistan by freeing their land from the Dogra regime and making the historic decision to accede to our motherland,” the prime minister stated.

Babar azam leads Pakistan to series clinching over South africa LAHORE

Staff CoRReSpondent

Babar Azam’s stylish half-century powered Pakistan to a confident four-wicket victory over South Africa in the final T20I at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday, sealing the three-match series for the hosts. Chasing a modest target of 140, Pakistan reached the mark with six balls to spare, despite early hiccups in

their innings. The chase began shakily as opener Saim Ayub departed for a six-ball duck in the second over with only eight runs on the board. Babar then joined Sahibzada Farhan to stabilize the innings with a 36run stand before Farhan fell for 19 off 18 balls, hitting two fours and a six. At 44/2 in seven overs, Babar found a solid ally in captain Salman Ali Agha. The duo added a brisk 76-run partner-

ship for the third wicket, putting Pakistan firmly in control. However, South Africa struck back as Lizaad Williams removed Agha for 33 (26 balls, two fours) and Corbin Bosch dismissed Babar shortly after for a well-crafted 68 off 47 balls, featuring nine boundaries. Pakistan briefly stumbled, losing Hasan Nawaz (5) and Mohammad Nawaz (0) in quick succession, but Faheem Ashraf (6*) and Usman Khan (4*) guided

them home calmly. For South Africa, Williams and Bosch claimed two wickets each, while Andile Simelane and Donovan Ferreira picked up one apiece. Earlier, Agha’s decision to bowl first paid off handsomely as Pakistan’s attack restricted South Africa to 139/9. Shaheen Shah Afridi made an immediate impact on his return, removing Quinton de Kock and Lhuan-dre Pretorius for ducks to leave the visitors reeling early.

PM lauds record 5.9m tax returns as proof of public trust, reform success ISLAMABAD

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday lauded the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) for achieving a record 5.9 million income tax returns and adding nearly a million new taxpayers this year, describing it as a sign of growing public confidence in the system, according to a statement circulated by his office. The FBR, which is responsible for revenue generation and meeting tax targets, announced a “significant increase” in income tax return filings a day earlier, saying 5.9 million tax returns had been submitted by the end of October compared to five million in the same period last year, a 17.6 percent rise. Out of these, 3.6 million taxpayers filed returns with tax payments, reflecting an 18.6 percent increase over 2024. “The addition of 900,000 new tax filers to the network reflects citizens’ confidence in the government’s policies,” the statement quoted the prime minister as saying. “By the grace of God, the reforms in the tax system are yielding positive results.” Sharif said merit had been prioritized within the FBR, adding that capable officers were being encouraged while poor performers were discouraged under a new performance-based culture. He maintained that tax procedures had also been simplified, and automation at ports had helped curb corruption and improve efficiency. “I personally chaired weekly meetings to oversee the FBR’s digital transformation,” he said, adding that efforts to formalize the economy through an expansion in point-of-sale registrations had curbed sales tax evasion. The prime minister also pointed to a Rs9 billion ($31.8 million) year-on-year increase in tax revenues, calling it “clear proof” of the government’s reform agenda. In a string of social media posts a day earlier, the FBR said the rise in return filings marked “a new milestone in voluntary compliance and taxpayer awareness.” It added that individual taxpayers had paid nearly Rs69 billion ($244 million) in income tax this year, up from Rs60 billion ($212 million) in 2024, a 15 percent increase. The FBR attributed the surge to a nationwide outreach campaign involving robocalls, WhatsApp messages, and targeted reminders encouraging citizens to file on time. It also reiterated its commitment to creating a fair, transparent, and inclusive tax system.

Dar to visit Turkiye on Monday to discuss Gaza peace plan ISLAMABAD

Staff CoRReSpondent

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar will represent Pakistan at a meeting of the foreign ministers of eight major Muslim countries in Turkiye next week, to discuss the next steps in the Gaza peace plan. All preparations regarding Ishaq Dar’s visit have been put in the place which is being taking place on the invitation of Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. According to diplomatic sources, Ishaq Dar will leave for Turkiye on Monday (November 3). Besides Ishaq Dar and Hakan Fidan, foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE, Egypt, Indonesia and Jordan will be in attendance. The sources further said Ishaq Dar is expected to strongly condemn Israel’s resumption of attacks on Gaza while reiteration full support to the Palestinian people. “Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan invited the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar to Turkiye for the forthcoming meeting next week of the eight Foreign Ministers of partner countries who were engaged on the sidelines of UNGA8o in the iplomatic process on Gaza,” the Foreign Office said in a statement on issued last Tuesday. The FO said Dar and Fidan discussed the evolving situation in Gaza, and the next steps and modalities for achieving lasting peace in Palestine. In September, eight Arab and Muslim-majority countries had formed a group to work with US President Donald Trump to end the Israel-Hamas war. Convened on Sept 23 on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, the group built on the 2023 Arab-Islamic Contact Group to align with Trump’s 20-point peace plan.

Militants suﬀer decade-high losses as counterterror operations killed 355 in october: report ISLAMABAD

Staff RepoRt

Militants in Pakistan suffered their heaviest losses in a decade during October as security forces intensified nationwide counterterrorism operations, killing 355 militants in a single month—the highest toll since 2015—according to data compiled by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS). The Islamabad-based think tank reported that the surge in militant deaths reflected a decisive shift in Pakistan’s countermilitancy campaign, even as sporadic attacks continued in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and the tribal belt. PICSS data showed that while militant attacks rose from 69 in September to 89 in October, representing a 29 percent increase, overall human losses in these attacks fell by

19 per cent. The report noted that 72 security personnel and 31 civilians, including a peace committee member in Bannu, were killed last month, alongside the 355 militants neutralized by security forces. Another 92 security personnel, 48 civilians, and 22 militants were injured, the think tank said, while militants kidnapped 55 people—the highest monthly figure of abductions in ten years. Security forces also arrested 22 suspected militants in various intelligence-led operations. In Balochistan, 23 militant attacks were recorded compared to 21 in September, but casualties dropped sharply, with 16 security personnel and three civilians killed. PICSS reported that 67 militants were eliminated in the province—the highest monthly toll in Balochistan since 2002—marking what it called a “significant improvement in the province’s security environment,” with civil-

ian deaths declining by 92 percent and security personnel fatalities by 52 percent. In the former tribal areas, 22 militant attacks were recorded—the same number as in September—but casualties spiked. Thirty-one people, including 18 security personnel and 13 civilians, were killed, while 45 others were injured. Militants also kidnapped 18 people from the region. Security operations there killed 209 militants, the highest single-month figure since November 2014, including the TTP’s former deputy emir and shadow defense minister, Qari Amjad—one of the group’s most senior leaders eliminated since its formation in 2007. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 37 militant attacks left 48 dead, including 21 security personnel, 10 civilians, 16 militants, and one peace committee member. Security forces killed 55 militants in retaliatory operations, while 42 people, mostly security personnel, were injured.

02 NEWS

MINISTER EMPHASISES AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH AND QUALITY SEEDS TO BOOST PRODUCTIVITY

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goveRnment assuRes Financial suppoRt FoR agRicultuRal ReseaRch and initiatives to Reduce ediBle oil impoRts PROFIT

STAFF REPOR

EDERAL Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, addressed the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) on Saturday, stressing the importance of improving agricultural productivity through increased investment in agricultural research from both the public and private sectors. He assured the business community that the government would financially support those engaged in research to strengthen the agriculture sector. The minister emphasized the fundamen-

tal role of better-quality seeds in agricultural progress and announced the introduction of a Track and Trace system for certified seeds. He also highlighted the growing national need to reduce imports of edible oil. LCCI President Faheem-ur-Rehman Saigol, Vice President Khurram Lodhi, SAARC Chamber Vice President Mian Anjum Nisar, former LCCI President Muhammad Ali Mian, and other executive members were present at the event. Rana Tanveer Hussain acknowledged food security as a global priority and noted that Pakistan’s economy, primarily agriculture-based, contributes 25% to the GDP, with the sector being the second largest ex-

Petroleum industry incurs Rs3/litre loss on oil imports due to exchange rate discrepancies: report

cnergyico pk urges govt to revise product pricing formula to mitigate losses from currency fluctuations PROFIT

Pakistan’s listed banks report Rs170 billion profit in 3Q2025, up 8% YoY g

gRowth dRiven By higheR net inteRest income (nii) FRom key Banks despite challenges in the economic landscape PROFIT

STAFF REPORT

Pakistan’s petroleum sector has reported a loss of Rs3 per litre on the import of crude oil and finished products for the period between July and September 2025. The loss is attributed to a discrepancy in the exchange rates used for pricing petroleum products and the actual rates applied during settlement for imports, BR reported, citing a report by Cnergyico Pk. The report highlighted that the exchange rate used in the product pricing formula was considerably different from the rate applied during payment settlements for imported oil, leading to substantial unrecovered exchange losses. The discrepancy resulted in an average loss of Rs3 per litre during the quarter, translating into considerable financial strain for oil importers. The petroleum industry has raised concerns with the government, urging authorities to amend the product pricing formula to prevent further losses. In addition to the exchange rate issue, the report also noted that the petroleum sector has faced increased production costs due to changes in tax policy. The government reclassified petroleum products from taxable supplies to exempt supplies for the purpose of sales tax, disallowing input tax adjustments on crude oil purchases from July 2024. To address this, the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet approved the recovery

Tariff board to rationalise duties on non-cotton materials to boost textile diversification

policy aims to support transition toward man-made fibre apparel, attract investment, and expand value-added exports PROFIT

STAFF REPORT

porter after textiles. He referenced previous achievements, including resolving the power and gas crises between 2013 and 2018, which helped stabilize the economy. The minister informed the audience about the establishment of the National Seed Regulatory Authority to combat the sale of counterfeit seeds, and emphasized the introduction of a Track and Trace system to ensure certified seed availability. He also mentioned that banks had been directed to enhance agricultural financing and improve SME financing facilities. In his speech, Rana Tanveer Hussain discussed efforts to control fertilizer shortages and prices while also addressing the

The Tariff Policy Board (TPB), chaired by the Minister for Commerce, is preparing to rationalise customs duties on non-cotton yarns and fabrics as part of efforts to transition Pakistan’s textile sector toward man-made fibre (MMF)-based apparel and high-value exports, Business Recorder reported. The move follows the Ministry of Commerce’s recommendations to encourage production and investment in synthetic and artificial materials such as polyamide, polyolefin, polyethylene, and polyurethane. The ministry said greater domestic availability of these inputs would help reduce reliance on imported raw materials while enabling diversification into segments like sportswear, performance wear, and children’s apparel. Cotton remains the backbone of Pakistan’s textile economy, yet declining yields and rising costs have eroded competitiveness. The Ministry of National Food Security and Research is finalising the National Cotton Plan 2025 to improve productivity and quality through new seed varieties and better farming practices.

high global demand for agri-based industries, especially halal meat and rice exports. Despite being a top producer of livestock and milk, Pakistan still imports 89% of its edible oil, a dependency he said needs to be reduced. The minister underlined the need to accelerate industrialization, boost exports, and reduce unnecessary tax burdens. He mentioned the immense potential in IT, agriculture, and mining, noting that reducing production costs is key to improving exports. LCCI President Faheem-ur-Rehman Saigol, in his address, highlighted the critical role of the Ministry of National Food Security in addressing food security challenges. He noted that crop yields in Pakistan remain lower than in neighboring countries, and production of key crops like wheat, rice, and cotton has declined.

Pakistan’s listed banks posted a combined profit of Rs170 billion in the third quarter of 2025 (3Q2025), reflecting an 8 percent year-on-year increase and a 2 percent rise from the previous quarter. This steady growth demonstrates resilience in the banking sector despite the ongoing challenging economic environment. According to Topline Securities, the Net Interest Income (NII) for the banking sector improved by 6 percent year-on-year, although it remained largely flat compared to the previous quarter. The year-on-year growth was largely driven by significant increases in NII at United Bank Limited (UBL), National Bank of Pakistan (NBP), and Bank of Punjab (BOP). UBL saw a remarkable 78 percent rise in NII, up Rs40 billion to Rs92 billion, while NBP and BOP reported growth of 74 percent (Rs26 billion to Rs61 billion) and 61 percent (Rs9 billion to Rs23 billion) respectively. However, excluding these three banks, the NII for the sector showed a 10 percent decline on a yearon-year basis. On a quarter-on-quarter basis, NII remained relatively unchanged, as growth in some banks was offset by declines in others. Notably, Askari Bank (AKBL) saw an 11 percent increase (Rs2 billion), BOP’s NII rose by 9 percent (Rs1.9 billion), and MCB Bank (MCB) experienced a 3 percent increase (Rs1.3 bil-

lion). Conversely, Bank Islami (BIPL), Habib Metropolitan Bank (HMB), and Meezan Bank (MEBL) saw a decline in NII, with decreases of 16 percent, 9 percent, and 2 percent respectively. Non-interest income for the sector rose by 13 percent year-on-year and 1 percent quarter-on-quarter, reaching Rs146 billion in 3Q2025. This slight improvement was attributed to capital gains realized by some banks and higher fee and foreign exchange (FX) income. On the expense side, non-interest expenses increased by 19 percent year-on-year and 5 percent quarter-onquarter, totaling Rs329 billion in 3Q2025. This was primarily driven by higher remittance-related costs. As a result, the sector’s Cost-to-Income ratio rose to 47.9 percent, compared to 45.9 percent in the previous quarter and 43.3 percent a year earlier. The sector recorded a provisioning reversal of Rs3.1 billion in 3Q2025, a sharp contrast to the Rs26.9 billion provisioning charge in the same quarter of the previous year. This reversal indicates that banks are less concerned about loan book risks following a decline in interest rates. The effective tax rate for the quarter stood at 53 percent, in line with 3Q2024 but down from 56 percent in 2Q2025, following changes in government taxation policies. Despite facing challenges, Pakistan’s banking sector showed a resilient performance in 3Q2025, positioning itself for continued growth in the coming months.

Govt mulls options for reducing high income and sales tax rates: report g

FBR tasked with pRepaRing models aligning pakistan’s tax stRuctuRe with Regional economies to pRevent capital Flight and BRain dRain; move could inject Rs1.1 tRillion in Revenue PROFIT

STAFF REPORT

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to explore options for reducing high income and sales tax rates after the government missed its four-month revenue target by Rs274 billion, The Express Tribune reported, citing official sources. The FBR has been tasked with preparing models that align Pakistan’s tax structure with regional economies to prevent capital outflows and discourage skilled professionals from moving abroad. The proposal under consideration could inject up to Rs1.1 trillion into the economy through tax relief for businesses and individuals. Preliminary proposals include cutting the corporate income tax rate from 29% to 25%, reducing the maximum individual tax rate from 45% to 25%, abolishing the 10% super tax, removing the 15% inter-corporate dividend tax, and lowering the general sales tax from 18% to 15%. Officials estimate that these changes would carry an annual fiscal impact of Rs1.1 trillion, with Rs600 billion arising from the reduction in sales tax alone. The plan remains in the early stages and will be reviewed by multiple government forums. However, officials said it is unlikely to be implemented before the conclusion of the current International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout programme, as the Fund is expected to op-

Sunday, 2 November, 2025 | LAHORE

He called for urgent reforms in seed quality, food processing, and the halal food industry to strengthen the economy. Saigol also urged the government to compensate farmers for their losses, increase the wheat support price, and modernize the agricultural sector.

PRCL board served show cause notice over CEO appointment, Rs355m pay package: report Regulator alleges state-run reinsurer violated companies act and insurance ordinance in hiring process and benefits approval PROFIT

STAFF REPORT

The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has issued a show cause notice to Pakistan Reinsurance Company Limited (PRCL), its board of directors, and former chief executive officer for alleged irregularities in the CEO’s appointment, qualifications, and remuneration package, The News reported. According to the SECP’s Adjudication Department, PRCL’s board violated provisions of the Companies Act, 2017, the Insurance Ordinance, 2000, and the Public Sector Companies (Corporate Governance) Rules, 2013, by appointing the CEO without government concurrence and approving benefits exceeding the sanctioned package. The Commission noted that the CEO received Rs355 million in 32 months—well above the compensation approved by the federal government. The board appointed him as acting CEO on September 27, 2021, without following the “fit and proper” criteria, despite his having only about three years of relevant experience instead of the required five. Although the government later confirmed his appointment in August 2022 under the SPPS-III pay scale with a salary of Rs500,000 per month, the board approved several additional allowances and bonuses at its 169th meeting the next day. These included ten fixed annual bonuses equal to one month’s salary each, a performance bonus, severance pay of four gross salaries per year of service, gratuity equivalent to two months’ pay per year, and yearly increments of Rs249,500. Other perks included official housing, vehicle and fuel, paid club memberships, children’s education reimbursement, home furnishing, and medical coverage.

Pakistan to import 263,000 tonnes of diesel in November to meet rising seasonal demand PROFIT

STAFF REPORT

pose measures that significantly reduce revenue. According to the Tribune’s report, government officials acknowledged that despite higher tax rates, revenue collection remained below target, while companies and salaried workers continued to face financial strain. They added that excessive taxation — particularly advance income tax payments — has discouraged investment and contributed to capital flight. According to FBR data, withholding tax collection from salaried individuals rose 55% in the last fiscal year to Rs605.6 billion, the highest after contract payments. The increase came after the number of income tax slabs was reduced and rates raised across most income categories. Officials said the government’s objective is to make the tax system competitive and growth-oriented, while ensuring fiscal stability once the current IMF programme ends.

Pakistan will import 263,000 metric tonnes (MT) of high-speed diesel (HSD) in November 2025 to ensure adequate supply amid higher agricultural activity and a crackdown on smuggling. According to officials, the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) approved the import plan during the latest Product Review Meeting after reviewing the demand and supply outlook. Pakistan State Oil (PSO) has been allowed to import four cargoes totalling 225,000 MT, while Gas & Oil Pakistan (GO) will import 38,000 MT. Data shows that the country imported 291,654 MT of HSD in the first quarter of FY26, with 45,030 MT arriving in July, 162,000 MT in August, and 85,000 MT in September. HSD sales during this period increased by 15%, driven by higher transport and agricultural consumption.

Pakistan eyes BRICS+ platform to expand textile exports beyond Western markets g

countRy’s textile and Fashion sectoR is leveRaging the BRics+ Fashion summit 2025 in moscow; industRy leadeRs call FoR stRongeR tRade links with euRasia, pRopose pak-Russia Business council to Boost appaRel outReach PROFIT

STAFF REPORT

Pakistan’s textile and fashion sector is leveraging the BRICS+ Fashion Summit 2025 in Moscow to diversify its export markets and build cultural and commercial ties beyond the West, industry representatives said on Friday. As per reports, the summit — endorsed by over 50 leading global fashion weeks — offered Pakistan a platform to highlight its craftsmanship and textile innovation to emerg-

ing markets across Central Asia and Russia. The Pakistan Readymade Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PRGMEA) welcomed the summit’s success, noting that it could help reposition Pakistan as a supplier to non-traditional markets. Industry representatives said the summit’s BRICS+ framework could serve as a bridge for economic and cultural exchange while helping Pakistan strengthen its presence in the Eurasian region. They emphasised that participation in such

global forums would reduce the country’s dependence on Western buyers and promote sustainable market diversification. The summit also saw the establishment of the BRICS International Fashion Federation (BRICS-IFF), an alliance aimed at encouraging collaboration, sustainability, and innovation in the fashion industry through technology and design exchange. According to Pakistan Bureau of Statistics data, textile exports totalled $17.88 billion in FY2024–25, with nearly two-thirds shipped to the

United States and the European Union. Expanding into new markets, stakeholders said, could improve resilience against global demand fluctuations and currency pressures. Industry experts noted that Pakistan’s geographical position gives it the potential to act as a trade corridor linking South Asia, Central Asia, and Europe. They called for initiatives such as the formation of a Pak-Russia Business Council under the BRICS+ framework, streamlined banking channels for exporters, and visa facilitation to enhance trade ef-

ficiency. Participants at the summit highlighted the growing role of Fashion Tech — including 3D design, smart textiles, and virtual fitting tools — as key to improving productivity, cutting costs, and meeting global sustainability standards.

Analysts said Pakistan’s textile industry could significantly boost exports by adopting new technologies and expanding into non-traditional markets, potentially moving closer to the longstanding goal of achieving $25 billion in annual textile export revenue.

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Sunday, 2 November 2025 | LAHORE

GOVT PROJECTS PUBLIC DEBT RATIO TO FALL TO 70% IN FY26, 63% BY FY28

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Economic Affairs Division admits no clear audit mechanism for IMF loan utilisation PROFIT

Monitoring Desk

The Economic Affairs Division (EAD) has acknowledged that no transparent system currently exists to verify how loans obtained from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) are used — whether for budgetary support or balance of payments — a Senate committee was informed on Friday. According to a news report, when asked about the Extended Fund Facility worth SDR 3.334 billion, the Finance Division’s representative was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation. Committee members expressed concern that while aggregate figures were available, there was no audit trail confirming how IMF inflows were spent. The chairman noted that successive governments’ claims to reduce IMF reliance had not translated into transparent reporting on repayments and liabilities. This revelation came during a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Senator Saifullah Abro, which reviewed the utilisation and repayment of IMF funds, along with year-wise disbursements, interest payments, and external debt data. Senator Hidayatullah Khan asked whether IMF funds categorised as balance of payments support or grants were utilised for structural reforms, while Senator Syed Waqar Mehdi questioned whether the utilisation targets had been met. Officials replied that although such targets existed, data visibility and system transparency remained limited. Responding to queries, they stated that budgetary inflows were received from the IMF in 2010, 2019, and 2020. According to the briefing, as of June 30, 2025, Pakistan’s total external debt and liabilities stood at around $126 billion, including $82.5 billion in external public debt and $43.5 billion in governmentguaranteed debt. The committee directed the EAD to provide complete year-wise data of external debt and IMF obligations from 2008 onwards, including project allocations, creditor categories, and the year of contracting. It stressed that verified data was essential for effective parliamentary oversight.

India trying to keep Pakistan engaged on two fronts: Kh Asif CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

The second round of negotiations in Istanbul produced a three-point understanding: continuation of the ceasefire, establishment of a monitoring and verification mechanism, and penalties for violations. Operational details of the mechanism are expected to be finalised when senior representatives from both sides meet again in Istanbul on Thursday. Earlier in the day, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar revealed that a Pakistani fisherman had been coerced by India’s intelligence agency after being detained by the Indian Coast Guard—part of what he called a broader disinformation and espionage campaign by New Delhi. Only days earlier, Asif had accused India of waging a “low-intensity war” against Pakistan from Afghan territory to “settle scores” after its setback in the May conflict. Ministry rejects Afghan Taliban spokesperson’s claim Meanwhile, the Ministry of Information rejected Afghan Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid’s claim that Pakistan had declined an offer to deport individuals deemed security threats during the Istanbul talks. “Pakistan had demanded that terrorists in Afghanistan posing a threat to Pakistan be controlled or arrested,” the ministry said in a statement. “When the Afghan side said they were Pakistani nationals, Pakistan proposed they be handed over through designated border posts. Any claim to the contrary is false and misleading.” Asif also denounced Mujahid’s remarks as “malicious and misleading,” adding, “There exists complete unanimity among Pakistan’s political and military leadership regarding the country’s security policies and its comprehensive approach toward Afghanistan.”

FINANCE MINISTRY REPORT PUTS TOTAL PUBLIC DEBT AT RS80.52 TRILLION OR 70.8% OF GDP IN FY25 AMID RUPEE DEPRECIATION AND HIGH INTEREST RATES PROFIT

Monitoring Desk

HE Ministry of Finance has projected Pakistan’s public debt-to-GDP ratio to decline to nearly 70% in the current fiscal year and further to 63.3% by FY28, after recording a 3.6% increase to 74.5% in FY25. According to the Debt Sustainability Analysis Report 2026–28, total public debt stood at Rs80.52 trillion, or 70.8% of GDP, up from Rs71.24 trillion (67.7%) a year earlier. The ministry noted that domestic borrowing accounted for the major share, reflecting a strategy to reduce exposure to exchange rate volatility and external refinancing risks. The ministry said the country’s public and publicly guaranteed (PPG) debt remains sustainable in the medium term, supported by fiscal consolidation and macroeconomic stability, though facing moderate risk from gross financing needs (GFN).

The report stated that as of June 2025, total PPG debt stood at Rs84.79 trillion, equivalent to 74.5% of GDP, compared to Rs74.62 trillion or 70.9% in June 2024. The increase was attributed

to the rupee’s depreciation against major currencies and high real interest rates amid easing inflation. In contrast, an improvement in real GDP growth and primary surplus slightly

offset the debt ratio. The domestic PPG debt rose to 49.8% of GDP in FY25 from 46.2% in FY24, while external PPG debt remained stable. Publicly guaranteed debt increased to Rs4.27 trillion in June 2025 from Rs3.38 trillion in June 2024, largely due to the inclusion of commodity operation guarantees as contingent liabilities. The report forecast that by FY28, total public debt will fall to 60.8% of GDP, and PPG guarantees to 2.5% of GDP from 3.8% in FY25. The ministry said the improvement would stem from prudent fiscal management, debt diversification, and macroeconomic reforms. It added that stronger exports, remittances, and foreign investment, coupled with stable energy prices, are expected to strengthen reserves and stabilize the exchange rate. Under the baseline scenario, the PPG debt-to-GDP ratio is forecast to decline from 74.5% in FY25 to 63.3% in FY28, while the GFN-to-GDP ratio is expected to fall from 26.1% to 15.6% — slightly above the 15% benchmark.

Weekly inflation edges up 0.12% amid SBP injects Rs12.26t into market through rise in onion, egg, and chicken prices conventional and Shariah-compliant OMOs

PROFIT

news Desk

Weekly inflation in Pakistan inched up by 0.12% for the combined consumption group during the week ending October 30, 2025, according to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). The Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI) rose to 335.53 points from 335.14 points a week earlier, reflecting a 5.05% year-on-year increase. The SPI, based on the 2015–16 base year, tracks price movements of 51 essential commodities across 17 urban centres. The PBS data showed that the lowest income group — with monthly spending up to Rs17,732 — saw a 0.28% rise in weekly inflation. Other consumption brackets recorded smaller increases, ranging from 0.08% to 0.16%. During the week, prices of 14 items increased, 10 items declined, and 27 remained unchanged. The

PROFIT

news Desk

largest increases were observed in onions (59.54%), eggs (3.24%), chicken (2.40%), garlic (1.72%), firewood (0.93%), cooking oil (0.64%), and wheat flour (0.36%). Meanwhile, major declines were recorded in tomatoes (47.02%), pulse gram (1.66%), pulse masoor (1.20%), pulse moong (0.65%), LPG (0.60%), and potatoes (0.23%). On a yearly basis, notable price

surges were seen in ladies’ sandals (55.62%), sugar (42.44%), tomatoes (31.56%), and gas charges (29.85%). In contrast, items such as garlic, potatoes, and pulses showed annual declines of up to 30%. Economists said food-related volatility continues to drive weekly inflation trends, with prices of perishable goods fluctuating sharply amid seasonal supply changes.

Pakistan awards 23 offshore exploration blocks to four consortiums, including partners from Turkey g

SUCCESSFUL BIDDERS INCLUDE OGDCL, PPL, MARIENERGIES AND PRIME ENERGY, WITH TURKEY’S TPAO SECURING A 25% STAKE AND OPERATORSHIP IN ONE OFFSHORE BLOCK; CONSORTIUMS PLEDGE $80M INITIAL EXPLORATION WORK, TOTAL INVESTMENT PROJECTED BETWEEN $750M AND $1B IF DRILLING ADVANCES PROFIT

reuters

Pakistan said it has awarded 23 offshore exploration blocks to four consortiums led by local energy companies, some partnered with foreign firms including Turkey’s national oil company TPAO. In Pakistan’s first such bidding round in nearly two decades, its energy ministry said on Friday that bids were awarded for 23 of 40 offshore blocks offered, covering around 53,500 square kilometres. The energy ministry listed staterun Oil and Gas Development Co. Ltd (OGDCL), Pakistan Petroleum Ltd (PPL) and MariEnergies, along with privately-owned Prime Energy,

which is backed by Pakistan’s Hub Power Company (Hubco), among the successful bidders. TPAO secured a 25% stake in one of the awarded blocks and the right to operate it after signing a joint bidding agreement with Pakistan Petroleum Ltd (PPL) earlier this year to explore the country’s offshore prospects. Other partners include Hong Kong-based United Energy Group, Orient Petroleum, a major local independent producer, and Fatima Petroleum, part of Pakistan’s Fatima Group conglomerate. The four winning consortiums, led by OGDCL, PPL, Mari Petroleum and Prime Energy, collectively pledged about $80 million in

exploration work over the initial three-year period, the energy ministry said. Total investment could rise to between $750 million and $1 billion if drilling proceeds, it added. Pakistan’s 300,000 square kilometre offshore zone, bordering energy-rich Oman, the United Arab Emirates and Iran, has seen just 18 wells drilled since the country’s independence in 1947, too few to fully assess its hydrocarbon potential. Pakistan, which imports about half its oil, is seeking to revive foreign interest after the failure of the 2019 Kekra-1 well led to the exit of U.S. major Exxon Mobil.

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) on Friday injected Rs12.26 trillion into the money market through a combination of conventional and Shariah-compliant open market operations (OMOs) to maintain liquidity across the financial system. According to data from the central bank’s Domestic Markets and Monetary Management Department, the SBP accepted Rs11.99 trillion under its conventional reverse repo operation at a uniform rate of 11.01% per annum. The injection included Rs675 billion for a seven-day tenor and Rs11.32 trillion for a 14-day tenor. The operation attracted 31 bids, with the seven-day portion partially accepted on a pro-rata basis. The accepted bids carried rates ranging between 11.01% and 11.05%. In a separate Shariah-compliant Mudarabah-based OMO, the central bank injected Rs277 billion for seven days at a return rate of 11.05%, accepting all three received bids. No offers were submitted for the 14-day tenor in the Islamic window. Market analysts said the large-scale liquidity injection aims to stabilise interbank rates and ensure smooth functioning of the financial system amid ongoing fiscal settlements.

LHC clears way for CCP inquiry into Honda Atlas over alleged anti-competitive practices: report PROFIT

Monitoring Desk

The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) will resume its investigation into alleged monopolistic practices by Honda Atlas Cars after the Lahore High Court (LHC) dismissed the company’s petition challenging the inquiry, The Express Tribune reported. Justice Raheel Kamran ruled that the CCP has clear authority under Sections 36 and 37 of the Competition Act, 2010 to collect data and investigate anti-competitive behaviour. The court directed the CCP to make “best endeavours” to complete its inquiry within six months. The inquiry, launched in November 2018, focuses on issues such as “own-money” charges, delayed deliveries, and price increases on booked vehicles. Between 2018 and 2022, the CCP issued five notices seeking details on production, pricing, localisation ratios, and dealership arrangements. Honda Atlas had initially cooperated before questioning the CCP’s jurisdiction and later obtained a stay order in June 2023, halting the probe for nearly three years.

FBR misses October target by Rs76b as four-month shortfall widens to Rs274b g

TAX RECEIPTS REACH RS3.84 TRILLION IN JULY–OCTOBER; GOVERNMENT PLANS NEW REVENUE MEASURES UNDER IMF PROGRAMME IF LAG PERSISTS PROFIT

news Desk

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) missed its monthly revenue target by Rs76 billion in October, collecting Rs950 billion against the projection of Rs1.026 trillion. The shortfall pushed the cumulative gap for the first four months (July-October) of FY26 to Rs274 billion. According to provisional data, total revenue during July–October stood at Rs3.84 trillion against a target of Rs4.11 trillion. Despite the shortfall, collections grew 12% compared to Rs3.43 trillion recorded in the same period last year. FBR officials attrib-

uted the shortfall mainly to slower domestic sales tax growth. As part of its agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the government has pledged to introduce contingency tax measures from January 2026 if revenue performance remains below target. These may include raising GST on solar panels from 10 to 18%, higher taxes on telecom services, and an increase in the Federal Excise Duty on fertilisers and pesticides. The IMF’s proposal for a onepercent general sales tax increase, however, was rejected by the government. In October, the FBR collected Rs430 billion from income tax, Rs345 billion from sales tax, Rs70 billion from Federal Excise

Duty, and Rs109 billion from customs duty. Refunds of Rs48 billion were issued during the month — more than double the Rs19 billion refunded a year earlier. Regional tax offices showed mixed performance. Large Taxpayer Units (LTUs) in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad underperformed, while some Regional Tax Offices (RTOs) in Lahore, Karachi, and Gujranwala surpassed their goals. The FBR reported a record 5.9 million income-tax returns filed by October 31 — a 17.6% increase from last year. Of these, 3.6 million filers submitted returns with tax payments, generating Rs69 billion, up 15% year-on-year.

04 COMMENT

Sunday, 2 November, 2025

Destabilizing South Asia Region through Proxy Wars

Troops for Gaza?

The contrasting stands between Ch Daniyal Aziz and Kh Asif may reflect PML(N) infighting

A myth or reality?

HE unseemly sight of Cabinet ministers expressing opposing views has been witnessed. Information and Broadcasting Parliamentary Secretary Ch Daniyal Aziz has said if Pakistani troops formed part of the proposed International Stabilization Force for Gaza, they would obviously have to disarm Hamas forces in order to provide security to the Gaza Strip. Defence Minister Kh Asif has described these remarks as “irresponsible”, “personal views” that did not reflect the government’s stance, or the country’s foreign or defence policies. This came on the heels of an Information Ministry statement describing as false an Indian TV channel’s report that Pakistani troops were to be deployed to Gaza as part of the proposed ISF, and that Israelli approval was needed for this. It would be presently impossible for such a deployment to occur, as long as the validity stamp on the Pakistani passport, ‘for ;all countries except Israel’, continued. At the same time, it has been confirmed that Pakistan has been asked to contribute troops, which it has not agreed to do, and which it wants to do under the UN flag. Basic issues such as operational control, command and control structure and rules of engagement have also to be settled. While Pakistan is willing to help its fellow Muslims in their time of need, it also needs to be sure that it is wanted. So far, Pakistan has carefully refrained from any entanglements in the Arab world, such as in Iraq or earlier in Kuwait during the First Gulf War. While there is an obvious desire to curry favour with the USA, such a step might provoke a visceral anti-Israel sentiment within the country. However, it seems that the debate on recognizing Israel, and thus winning US favour, is being revived. It seems that the debate is dividing the ruling PML(N), but the coming out into the open of these differences mean that either Kh Asif or Ch Danyal must be sacked by the PM. //while there is nothing in theConstitution obliging collective Cabinet responsibility, and while there have been previous episodes of ministerial dissension without consequence, there is a constitutional convention demanding unity.The only way of keeping both in office would be for one to back down publicly. Members of the ministry must know that they do not have the right ot personal views, at least not in public.

Zoha aZiZ

HE UN is the world’s most representative forum for multilateral dialogue, built upon the ideals of peace, cooperation and respect for international law. Pakistan has consistently upheld these principles through its peacekeeping contributions, peace diplomacy and repeated calls for dialogue with its neighbuors. In contrast, India’s aggressive postures followed by state-sponsored terrorism across the world in general and particularly in the region reveal a troubling contradiction to the very aspirations the UN seeks to advance. “Pakistan is one of the most consistent and reliable contributors to peacekeeping efforts around the world.” _ Antonio Guterres (UN Secretary General) Pakistan is the one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions. Since 1960, over 200,000 Pakistani peacekeepers have served in 46 UN missions across 28 countries. Pakistani troops have laid their lives for global peace, earning recognition from the UN for their professionalism, discipline and humanitarian approach. Beyond peacekeeping, Pakistan has consistently advocated for regional harmony, whether it was opening the Kartarpur Corridor for Indian’s Sikh pilgrims or offering to resume bilateral dialogue without preconditions to hosting 4.5 million Afghan’s refugees over four decades. It has repeatedly reiterated that peace in South Asia is not only necessary but possible, if all parties commit to dialogue and justice. New Delhi has been involved in global and regional state-sponsored terrorism. In 2023, Canadian PM Justin Trudeau openly stated that the Indian government was linked to the assassination of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen advocating for Khalistan. This marked one of the most serious allegations ever made against India by

a Western democracy. The US Department of Justice in late 2023 then revealed a plot to assassinate Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a US citizen and leader of the Khalistan movement. According to official statements, the conspiracy was traced back to individuals connected to the Indian state. The Sikh diaspora in the UK and Australia have also accused Indian agencies of intimidation, surveillance and harassment. During the 1980s, India’s Intelligence agency RAW trained and supported Tamil militant groups, including LTTE, under the excuse of protecting Tamil minorities. Later, India shifted its policy, but its early involvement contributed to a prolonged civil war in Sri Lanka. Nepalese officials and analysts have often accused India of interfering in its internal affairs by backing political factions or movements aligned with New Delhi’s strategic interests. India has also been accused of covertly pressuring Kathmandu by supporting groups during border disputes. The Times of India reported that Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Younus had alleged Indian hegemony and conspiracies to undermine Bangladesh. Muhammad Younus also blamed India for interfering in the internal matters of Bangladesh through misinformation on the India media. Rather than reciprocating peace efforts, India has adopted a confrontational and accusatory stance. It repeatedly blames Pakistan for acts of terrorism without presenting credible evidence, whether it be the Pulwama incident (2019) or the killing of 26 civilians in April 2025 in Indian Occupied Kashmir at Pahalgam, and launched a series of strong retaliatory actions against Pakistan. The international community responded with concern, criticizing the escalation and urging both nations to de-escalate tensions. As India denied the ceasefire, US mediation diffused the escalation. On the bight of October 11/12, Afghanistan’s coordinated aggression along the Pak-Afghan border coinciding with Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi’s India visit, exposes a synchronized Kabul– Delhi game plan to destabilize Pakistan through proxy warfare and propaganda while Pakistan’s forces hold the line with discipline and precision.

Pakistan, despite being a frontline state in the fight against terrorism and a dedicated UN peacekeeping contributor, remains a victim of Indian aggression and misinformation. As a responsible member of international community, Pakistan has not only promoted global peace through its peacekeeping missions but has also paid a heavy price in blood and resources while combating terrorism on its own soil. No other country has suffered as much, nor shown as much resilience, in the face of hybrid warfare, cross-border terrorism and political hostility as Pakistan has. The contrast between Pakistan’s call for dialogue and India’s repeated provocations illustrates a serious deviation from the UNGA’s aspiration for a peaceful and cooperative world order

Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami

Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor

Maiden visit to Malaysia M. A. Niazi

Babar Nizami

Editor Pakistan Today

Editor Profit

The writer is a freelance columnist

Editor’s mail

Send your letters to: Letters to Editor, Pakistan Today, 4-Shaarey Fatima Jinnah, Lahore, Pakistan. E-mail: letters@pakistantoday.com.pk Letters should be addressed to Pakistan Today exclusively

Quetta library reflects city’s neglect

Continuing the PM’s policy of productive engagement

MuhaMMad Zahid Rifat

AKISTAN continues to earnestly pursue its well-planned and forward looking policy of strengthening and promoting bilateral relations with regional and friendly countries, calling for boosting trade and investment instead of aid in bilateral deliberations with all and aiming at further stabilizing the upward trajectory of the national economy in a positive and productive manner. It was good to note that none else but Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif Is quite appreciatively and committedly heading this campaign marked by greater national interests more than anything else. The PM started October, in this regard, by paying a maiden three-day visit to Malaysia at the invitation of the Malay PM Anwar Ibrahim. The invitation was extended by the Malaysian PM to PM Shehbaz Sharif during their bilateral interaction on the sidelines of the SCO Summit 2025 in Tianjin, China. Earlier the PM had planned to visit Kuala L:umpur in May but it was postponed owing to the short conflict with India.This was the PM's first official visit since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two islamic regional countries in 1957. Both Malaysia and Pakistan have since built a partnership premised on mutual respect and shared values which was duly elevated to a Strategic Partnership in March 2019. Both the guest and the host PMs had one-

on-one bilateral discussions prior to the delegation level talks during which Malaysia-Pakistan bilateral ties were reviewed at some length and new areas of collaboration in multiple sectors were also reviewed. During their bilateral discussions, the two leaders exchanged views regarding geopolitical issue, particularly the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and the grave and deteriorating humanitarian situation in the Rakhine State, Myanmar, which was adversely affecting the Rohingya Muslim community. Both leaders also strongly condemned the ongoing genocide in Gaza and reiterated their unwavering support for the Palestinian people's right to self-determination and the establishment of a sovereign, viable, contiguous , and independent Palestinian state, based on pre-June 1967 borders with Al-Quds as its capital. The two sides also called for an immediate , unconditional and permanent ceasefire, an end to the blockade on Gaza, the protection of all civilians and for unimpeded flow of direly needed humanitarian assistance to those affected immediately and also commended the international community's efforts for finding pragmatic measures for resolving the question of granting a Palestinian statehood. The two leaders also agreed to reconvene, at mutually convenient time the Joint Commission at the Foreign Ministers level and also reaffirmed their commitment for promoting balanced and sustainable ties through enhanced market access, business facilitation, and the effective utilization of the Malaysia-Pakistan Closer Economic Partnership Agreement. Both the PMs, while addressing a joint press conference afterwards vowed to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in trade, education, and regional peace , they reiterated their resolve to continue working together for achieving the desired goals. PM Shehbaz Sharif said that relations between the two countries have been strengthened over time, Malaysia was like a second home to Pakistanis, and during the bilateral discussions they had reviewed Pakistan-Malaysia bilateral ties and explored new avenues for cooperation

The PM's visit to Malaysia was a positive indication of the country's committed and improved diplomatic stature and increased focus on forging economic and trade relations with more and more friendly and regional countries to the mutual advantage. As already mentioned above, it was indeed commendable that PM Shehbaz Sharif was heading this campaign of great national importance dedicatedly and enthusiastically while also looking after the required important domestic engagements at home Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965

Karachi – Ph: 021-32640318 I

Pakistan alleges that diplomatic activity in New Delhi coincided with kinetic operations along the frontier, a timing Islamabad interprets as providing political cover to hostile actors. Afghan forces’ simultaneous engagements from multiple provinces suggest centralized coordination, likely influenced by regional actors seeking instability. India’s concurrent diplomatic outreach to the Afghan regime during active hostilities reinforces perceptions of a two-front pressure tactic against Pakistan. Ironically, while India accuses Pakistan of cross-border terrorism, there is mounting evidence of India’s state-sponsored terrorism in Pakistan. Indian intelligence operators have been linked to the funding, training and arming of terrorist organizations such as the Balochistan Liberation Army and Tehrik Taliban Pakistan. On August 11, the Department of State designated BLA and its alias, the Majeed Brigade, as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, and added the Majeed Brigade as an alias to the BLA’s previous Specially Designated Global Terrorist designation. The arrest and confession of Cdr Kulbhushan Jadhav, a serving Indian Navy officer captured in Balochistan, revealed India’s covert operations to destabilize Pakistan. He admitted working on behalf of RAW to support terrorism in Balochistan and disrupt CPEC projects. This duplicity– accusing Pakistan of terrorism while allegedly funding insurgent groups on Pakistan soil– makes a mockery of India’s claims to be a responsible regional power. Continued militarization of India’s occupied Kashmir, human rights abuses in the region and unwillingness to engage in meaningful dialogue are obvious violations of both international law and the UNGA’s vision. Moreover, supporting proxy groups to provoke unrest in neighbouring countries is a severe breach of the UN Charter Article 2(4), which prohibits the use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state. For South Asia to achieve lasting peace, the international community must recognize and address the root causes of instability– chiefly, India’s aggressive postures and its covert interference in her neighboring states. It’s imperative that the UN and its members states take a consistent and unbiased approach, holding all states accountable to the same standards of peace, dialogue and non-aggression. Pakistan, despite being a frontline state in the fight against terrorism and a dedicated UN peacekeeping contributor, remains a victim of Indian aggression and misinformation. As a responsible member of international community, Pakistan has not only promoted global peace through its peacekeeping missions but has also paid a heavy price in blood and resources while combating terrorism on its own soil. No other country has suffered as much, nor shown as much resilience, in the face of hybrid warfare, cross-border terrorism and political hostility as Pakistan has. The contrast between Pakistan’s call for dialogue and India’s repeated provocations illustrates a serious deviation from the UNGA’s aspiration for a peaceful and cooperative world order.

THE Quaid-e-Azam Library in Quetta serves hundreds of students every day. Students access the library from different areas of the city, especially for preparing competitive exams. However, the library has chairs that are broken and uncomfortable, and a Wi-Fi facility that is not efficient, and which is only available in certain sections. Besides, there is no designated parking area for the visitors. The government needs to address these problems to make the library a comfortable and a peaceful place. SALAL AHMED AWARAN

Learning and living in China across multiple sectors. He also welcomed Malaysia's decision to to import halal meat worth $200 million from Pakistan, describing it as a major step towards expanding the economic engagements between the two brotherly regional countries, He said that Pakistan wanted to join hands with Malaysia for mutually beneficial projects that allowed for expertise from both the countries to come together. The visiting Pakistani PM said that Pakistan would continue to expand halal meat trade with the passage of time and also pointedly stated that Pakistan was keen to pursue joint ventures in order to benefit from Malaysia's technological and industrial expertise. On his part, host PM Anwar Ibhrahim stressed the importance of peace between neighbouring countries India and Pakistan and emphatically stated that durable stability in South Asia was crucial for the entire region and assured his country would continue to extend full cooperation in combating terrorism in all its manifestations. Mr Sharif has described his bilateral discussions as very productive. It is also worth mentioning here that about 150,000 Pakistanis are in Malaysia contributing to Malaysia's national building efforts in different fields. The PM's visit to Malaysia was a positive indication of the country's committed and improved diplomatic stature and increased focus on forging economic and trade relations with more and more friendly and regional countries to the mutual advantage. As already mentioned above, it was indeed commendable that PM Shehbaz Sharif was heading this campaign of great national importance dedicatedly and enthusiastically while also looking after the required important domestic engagements at home.

The writer is Lahore-based Freelance Journalist, Columnist and retired Deputy Controller (News) , Radio Pakistan, Islamabad and can be reached at zahidriffat@gmail.com Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545

WHEN I first decided to pursue my higher education in China, I was drawn by the country’s rapid development and rich history. I never imagined that my journey would have innovation and tradition walking hand-in-hand. My time at Yanshan University in the beautiful coastal city of Qinhuangdao is a dream come true. Known as a cradle for budding, success-ful engineers, students actually feel the pulse of innovation every single day on the campus. The university is part of China’s Plan 111, a high-level programme to create world-class research bases, which means the students learn from leading professors and have access to state-of-the-art laboratories. For any international student, especially from a country like Pakistan, the practical, hands-on education is invaluable. The skills the students gain here are directly applicable to the real-world challenges of tomorrow. What truly makes things special here, however, is the overall environment. The university actively fosters a vibrant and inclusive community, encouraging international students to step out of the classroom and engage with communities. The city of Qinhuangdao itself is a gem; a picturesque coastal city where, quite incredibly, people can explore a section of the legendary Great Wall of China on weekends. This perfect blend of natural beauty and profound history provides an unparalleled living and learning experience. From celebrating Eid with friends from different cultures and exploring the local cuisine to achieving a breakthrough in a research project, international students earn academic points, and, simultaneously, build practical bridges of understanding between China and the world at large. MUHAMMAD USMAN QINHUANGDAO, CHINA

Neglecting special education

INSTITUTIONS of special education in the federal capital are suffering due to lack of resources, inadequate assistive technology, insufficient teaching staff, and specialised teaching material. The allocated funds often do not reach schools and training centres, leaving students with special needs deprived of basic facilities, such as proper classrooms, teaching aids, and transportation. Due to shortage of teachers, the existing teachers have been overburdened, and they feel frustrated because they have already been waiting for promotions since 2007. Besides, many positions have remained vacant, directly affecting the quality of education and care. Parents of children with disabilities face constant struggles because of delays in services, limited vocational training opportunities, and lack of modern re-habilitation facilities. The situation has worsened in recent years due to misuse of funds, mismanagement and negligence. Children with disabilities are the responsibility of the whole society. They deserve equal opportunities to grow, learn and contribute to the nation’s progress. The relevant ministry and other relevant authorities should prioritise this sector by ensuring transparency in budget utilisation, recruiting qualified staff, providing modern training for teaching and staff, and upgrading the infrastructure of special education institutions in the capital. Only through sincere efforts can we provide these children with the dignity, respect and education they deserve. ASHFAQUE HUSSAIN CHANDIO ISLAMABAD

Web: www.pakistantoday.com.pk

Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk

The Protest That Tested US Democracy Sunday, 2 November, 2025

The USA on the cusp

M A HossAin

HEN millions of Americans flood the streets chanting “No Kings,” it is not merely a protest— it is a civic sermon. On October 18–19, nearly seven million people gathered in more than 2,700 locations across the USA, in a coordinated act of dissent against what they described as President Donald Trump’s slide toward authoritarianism. From Times Square to the National Mall, the message was unmistakable: the republic’s founding idea— that no one man is above the law— remains alive, though sorely tested. The “No Kings” movement, borrowing its name from the moral lexicon of the Revolution, is less about partisan anger than about constitutional anxiety. Its slogan— “No thrones. No crowns. No kings.”— invokes 1776 not as nostalgia, but as warning. What the participants fear is not tyranny in its classical sense— the knock on the door at midnight— but the subtler corrosion of institutions, the slow normalization of unchecked executive power, and the spectacle of populism eroding civic restraint.

The sheer scale of the protests— seven million people, nearly two percent of the population— is itself an indictment of political complacency. It marks one of the largest mobilizations since Trump’s return to office, and one of the few moments in recent history when the language of liberty found mass expression outside the ballot box. The rallies were disciplined, largely peaceful, and meticulously organized. Civil-rights groups like the ACLU, Indivisible, MoveOn, and teachers’ unions provided logistical backbone and de-escalation training. For all the carnival colours and creative signs— the inflatable frogs, the giant “We the People” banners, and the diapered Trump balloon— there was a serious constitutional heartbeat beneath the festivity. Participants cited concerns ranging from ICE’s masked detentions to federal overreach in Democratic-led states, the militarization of cities, cuts to healthcare, and the ongoing government shutdown caused by partisan paralysis. This was not, as some critics claimed, a left-wing tantrum. It was a civic warning flare. The protesters’ contention is that the Trump administration’s approach to power— its disdain for oversight, its flirtations with martial imagery, its use of federal agents as domestic enforcers— represents not a temporary deviation but a pattern. What made the “No Kings” protests remarkable was not only their breadth but their framing. Protesters did not gather around identity politics or isolated policy grievances; they rallied around the principle of constitutional balance. This shift matters. It suggests that the USA’s cultural left, long preoccupied with social justice and environmental causes, has rediscovered the language of classical liberalism: rule of law, separation of powers, and limits on executive authority. One protester, a veteran from Virginia, captured the essence: “I fought for a repub-

For one weekend in October, America remembered that truth. Whether it can sustain that memory— through elections, through legislatures, through civic renewal— will determine whether this movement becomes a footnote or a foundation. The genius of the American experiment was never in its leaders. It was in its refusal to crown them

lic, not a dynasty.” That sentiment bridges ideological divides. Indeed, what makes “No Kings” potent is its moral inclusiveness. It invites both progressives and conservatives— anyone who fears the cult of personality— to rally under a shared banner of institutional integrity. And yet, it is telling that the most theatrical response came not from the streets, but from the Oval Office. President Trump mocked the movement with an AI-generated video of himself wearing a crown, piloting a fighter jet over the protesters— a characteristic blend of bravado and irony. His public statement— “I am not a king”— was meant to defuse the charge but only reinforced the perception that he relishes the comparison. The administration’s reaction, and that of Republican allies, was predictable. Texas and Virginia deployed National Guard units; House Speaker Mike Johnson dismissed the demonstrations as “hate America rallies.” Trump’s defenders invoked law and order, framing the protests as a threat to civic peace. The political right, long attuned to street unrest as a symbol of chaos, seemed unwilling to acknowledge that this particular crowd— peaceful, disciplined, and multigenerational— embodied not disorder but democratic vitality. To be sure, the movement’s critics raise a fair question: can protest alone restore faith in democracy? Street energy often dissipates when confronted with the slow grind of institutions. The Women’s March of 2017, the Black Lives Matter wave of 2020— both moved hearts, yet translated unevenly into legislative change. The “No Kings” organizers know this. Their strategy appears twofold: to dramatize the erosion of norms and to sustain voter mobilization through the 2026 midterms. The political implications of the protests are already visible. Democrats, sensing the power of the message, have folded “defending democracy” into campaign language. Figures like Chuck Schumer and Pete Aguilar have endorsed the movement’s spirit, linking its energy to efforts to expand voting rights and strengthen executive oversight. Yet Democrats also face a paradox: while “No Kings” animates their base, it may harden Republican loyalty around Trump, who thrives on confrontation. For Republicans, the calculus is simpler but no less cynical. By framing the protests

COMMENT 05

as radical, they consolidate the narrative of a besieged administration defending “real America” from urban elites. Polarization, after all, is Trumpism’s oxygen. Every march, every chant, becomes another proof to his supporters that the establishment— academia, media, the coastal intelligentsia — is conspiring against him. The tragedy, then, is not that the USA is protesting too much, but that it is listening too little. “No Kings” is both a rebuke and a reflection of the country’s democratic anxiety. It reveals a public more willing to mobilize against authoritarian symbols than to reckon with the cultural and economic despair that fuels their appeal. The real test for “No Kings” lies ahead. If it remains a moral spectacle without institutional follow-through, it risks fading into the long archive of righteous but futile protests. But if it becomes a disciplined political force— channeling outrage into civic participation, local organizing, and electoral turnout— it could shape the 2026 midterms and redefine the opposition’s strategy. The stakes are high. The USA’s political system is not collapsing; it is corroding. Not through coups or tanks, but through cyni-

cism, exhaustion, and the slow substitution of loyalty for law. Against this backdrop, the sight of millions marching peacefully for the preservation of constitutional norms is profoundly reassuring. It suggests that even amid the noise of populism, the civic immune system still functions. Yet democracy’s survival depends on more than protest. It depends on citizens who translate passion into prudence, who recognize that saving institutions requires inhabiting them— through voting, advocacy, and reform. “No Kings” may be a slogan, but beneath it lies a proposition older than the republic itself: that liberty demands not only resistance to tyranny, but restraint in the exercise of power. For one weekend in October, America remembered that truth. Whether it can sustain that memory— through elections, through legislatures, through civic renewal— will determine whether this movement becomes a footnote or a foundation. The genius of the American experiment was never in its leaders. It was in its refusal to crown them. The writer can be reached at: writetomahossain@gmail.com

Trump now plays by China’s rules

The US wins through openness and innovation, not tariffs and centralized planning WASHINGTON POST FAreed zAkAriA

HE Trump-Xi meeting in South Korea Thursday produced something worthwhile — a ceasefire in the trade war. But that is not the same as a peace deal — a longerterm framework to manage the world’s most consequential relationship. It paused escalation and bought time for both sides. The crucial question now is how America will use that time. The danger is that for some years now, Washington, under both Democrats and Republicans, has been playing by China’s rules. Over the past 10 years, Washington’s response to China looks like an effort to beat Beijing by becoming Beijing — restricting trade, directing supply chains, politicizing investment and wielding tariffs as instruments of presidential will. Some targeted derisking is sensible. But pushed too far, these measures play to China’s strengths and corrode America’s.

According to one study, 9 of 10 Southeast Asian nations have grown more aligned with China in recent years

President Donald Trump loves playing by China Rules. He seems to admire Xi Jinping’s power — personal, discretionary, centralized. In his second term he has threatened blanket tariffs, personally intervened in the semiconductor supply chain, demanded a government stake in Intel, carved out special permissions for selling Nvidia chips in China (while taking a 15 percent cut for the U.S.) and acted as the banker on TikTok’s sale. To some, this looks like strong dealmaking. In truth, it is dangerously naive. China’s system is built for state intervention. A recent analysis in The Washington Quarterly shows how Beijing has developed a “hybrid coercion model”: a mix of formal export controls and blacklists with old-fashioned opaque pressure — customs slow-rolls, safety bans, whispered orders to firms. Its sanctions are deliberately vague with no clear off-ramps and can be dialed up or down without explanation. Beijing weaponizes ambiguity. It has built a system calibrated for state leverage and political durability, not rule-of-law predictability. If the contest becomes one of arbitrary and centralized control — subsidies,

threats and discretion — China holds natural advantages. It fears neither constitutions nor markets nor elections. If America makes this a test of centralized control, it is not likely to prevail. China can absorb pain; it can mobilize industry by fiat; it can impose costs without legal constraint. The United States cannot — and should not — govern that way. No democracy wins by imitating autocracy. America’s strength lies in rules, predictability and openness. When the U.S. confronted Japan’s technological challenge four decades ago, it did not win by building a national industrial ministry or picking corporate champions. It backed competition, welcomed talent, deepened alliances, protected antitrust and unleashed venture capital. America did not beat Japan by becoming Japan. It out-innovated Tokyo. Yet today, remarkably, the U.S. is drifting toward the opposite conclusion. Trump’s tariffs now cover all Chinese goods and increasingly sweep in products from friendly nations as well. The goal seems less to shape a rules-

based trading system than to assert presidential control — to show that markets move when Washington snaps its fingers. That may delight a leader who enjoys dealmaking and dominance. But it corrodes the very norms that once made America the world’s magnet for talent and investment. The results are already visible in the region most central to the long-term balance with China: Southeast Asia. These nations want U.S. investment and presence to balance Beijing — and instead see tariffs, reduced aid, and episodic diplomacy. Trump’s time in Malaysia illustrated the pattern: he was focused on staging a ceasefire photo op between Cambodia and Thailand (achieved through tariff threats) and left before a major security summit took place. Meanwhile China arrived offering trade upgrades and infrastructure investments and stayed through the final day. It is no surprise, according to one study, 9 of 10 Southeast Asian nations have grown more aligned with China in recent years. America wins when it builds, not bludgeons. It should deepen ties with Europe and

Asia, integrate the economy more closely with democratic partners, invest broadly in semiconductor capacity and not specific companies, and maintain an open system that attracts the world’s brightest minds. America should reshape, not restrict, the global trading system. Strategic decoupling of the U.S. and China in critical technologies is necessary; national security demands it. But there is a world of difference between prudent guardrails and a presidency that treats the U.S. economy like the president’s personal portfolio. We have spent a century proving that innovation thrives in free societies more than in managed ones. If we make this rivalry a test of who can be more punitive, more closed, more centralized and more state-directed, China will feel right at home. If we make it a test of dynamism, open competition and free alliances, the outcome need not be in doubt. The way to win is not to become China but to remain America, in fact to double down on what has always made America great. Fareed Zakaria writes a foreign affairs column for The Post. He is also the host of CNN’s Fareed Zakaria GPS.

The Epstein file claimed its first grand victim: Prince Andrew fell. Who’s next — Trump? MIDDLE EAST MONITOR JAsiM Al-AzzAwi

HE Epstein scandal was never a sordid story of sex and power alone. An indictment of how proximity to money and influence once guaranteed impunity in a decaying global order, it is a mirror held up. Those guarantees are crumbling. Prince Andrew was the first grand domino to fall. His fall from royal grace was swift, humiliating, and irreversible. Now, with the Epstein files stuffed with names and cross-referenced phone logs, one question looms: Who’s next? Is it Donald Trump? A ROYAL COLLAPSE For years, Prince Andrew’s friendship with Jeffrey Epstein was written off as an unfortunate association, but when newly unsealed emails came to light – including one from February 2011, in which he wrote, “Keep in close touch and we’ll play some more soon,” months after claiming to have severed ties – it was clear the rot went deeper. His catastrophic BBC Newsnight interview sealed his fate. Confronted with Virginia Giuffre’s allegations, Andrew blurted, “It didn’t happen.” Then came his ridiculous defense — that he couldn’t

The best-documented — and most politically explosive — connection is the one with Trump. In a 2002 interview, Trump said, “I’ve known Jeff for fifteen years. Terrific guy. He’s a lot of fun to be with. It is even said that he likes beautiful women as much as I do — and many of them are on the younger side”

have been sweating because he had “a peculiar medical condition.” British columnist Marina Hyde called it “a masterclass in self-immolation,” and she was right. It was the performance of a man convinced that his titles could still shield him from accountability. King Charles quickly stripped him of his honours. A Buckingham Palace statement was curt and brutal: “The Duke of York’s military affiliations and royal patronages have been returned to the Queen.” The oncesacrosanct royal system had finally thrown one of its own under the bus. THE EPSTEIN WEB Epstein’s world was not an aberration; it was an ecosystem-a place where power courted depravity. His private jet, the infamous “Lolita Express,” ferried scientists, billionaires, politicians, and princes to his private island —a pleasure dome built on silence and complicity. Among those who ended up in Epstein’s orbit were Bill Clinton, Alan Dershowitz, and Donald Trump. The best-documented — and most politically

explosive — connection is the one with Trump. In a 2002 interview, Trump said, “I’ve known Jeff for fifteen years. Terrific guy. He’s a lot of fun to be with. It is even said that he likes beautiful women as much as I do — and many of them are on the younger side.” The quote, now viewed through the lens of Epstein’s crimes, glows like a radioactive warning. Photographic records show Trump and Epstein laughing together at Mar-a-Lago, surrounded by young women. Trump later claimed they had a “falling out,” though the timeline is opaque. Unsealed court documents this year revealed that Epstein had fourteen phone numbers linked to Trump, including one labelled “Donald Trump, Mar-a-Lago.” In the age of digital footprints, that kind of proximity is hard to erase. CRACKS IN THE SHIELD Once, wealth and status provided a kind of judicial armor. Now, they attract the sharpest blades. “There aren’t many more mistakes the Trump administration can make in its cover-up of the president’s close rela-

tionship with sex trafficking magnate Jeffrey Epstein,” American legal scholar Marci Hamilton wrote. Epstein’s world was never about sex alone; it was about access. Those who drew near him did so because he was a portal to capital, to power, to secrets. The deeper the investigation goes, the clearer it becomes that the scandal was less about the crimes of one man than about the moral decay of a class. Journalist Carole Cadwalladr put it starkly: “Prince Andrew was the first. He won’t be the last. The Epstein network was vast, and it didn’t operate in a vacuum.” That vacuum was filled with enablers — politicians, lawyers, financiers — all too happy to look the other way. Even Author/journalist Michael Wolff, who is no stranger to Trumpworld’s dysfunction, said: “I’d like nothing better than to get Donald Trump and Melania Trump under oath… and actually find out all the details of their relationship with Epstein.” THE NEXT DOMINO The civil suits and criminal investiga-

tions have already served to fray the illusion of invulnerability that has hung over Trump’s legal troubles. None of them directly links him with Epstein’s crimes, but the gravitational pull of scandal is relentless. It erodes credibility, exposes hypocrisy, and isolates even the most powerful. The question now is not only who’s next, but whether the system itself has the appetite for another reckoning. Are prosecutors willing to pierce the legal armor surrounding a sitting president? Is the press ready to confront the powerful with the same ferocity it did a prince? A RECKONING DEFERRED The Epstein saga has not ended; it’s metastasizing. Every newly unsealed document, every new name, extends the fracture line between privilege and accountability. The fall of Prince Andrew was a powerful warning that no title, no fortune, no office is above exposure and retribution. Trump’s relationship to Epstein might remain an unsubstantiated shadow, but shadows have weight. They cling. They remind us that power, once stripped of its myth, shows only what it has always been: fragile, human, corruptible. The Epstein case is more than a scandal; it’s an X-ray of the moral decay of our civilization. And as the names start to emerge, it won’t be a question of who’s next, but how much more decay exists before the whole edifice crumbles.

06 NEWS

Sunday, 2 November 2025 | LAHORE

PRESIDENT XI URGES ASIA-PACIFIC ECONOMIES TO CCD, Punjab Police, and JOINTLY FORGE A SUSTAINABLE, BRIGHTER FUTURE Maryam Nawaz’s Resolve

SEOUL

stAFF CoRResPondent

HINESE President Xi Jinping said on Saturday that Asia-Pacific economies must enhance mutually beneficial cooperation, make good use of new opportunities, stand up to new challenges, and forge a sustainable and brighter future together. Xi made the remarks in his speech titled “Jointly Forging a Sustainable and Brighter Future” at the second session of the 32nd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting. At present, the new wave of scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation is deepening, opening new horizons for humanity, Xi noted. On the other hand, the world faces lackluster economic growth and a widening gap in global development, with challenges such as climate change, food security

and energy security intensifying, he said. Xi made a three-point proposal. Firstly, Xi urged Asia-Pacific economies to further unleash the potential of digital and smart development to give the Asia-Pacific region a fresh edge in innovationdriven development. The economies should fully harness new technologies to empower and propel them forward, seize the opportunities of digital, smart and green development, and move faster to nurture and promote new quality productive forces, Xi said. He called for efforts to promote safe and orderly flow of data, deepen cooperation on open-source technologies and build an open, competitive ecosystem for innovation. The Asia-Pacific economies should bear in mind the wellbeing of the entire humanity, and promote the sound and orderly development of artificial intelligence

(AI) while ensuring that it is beneficial, safe and fair, he said. China has proposed the establishment of a World Artificial Intelligence Cooperation Organization to provide the international community with public goods on AI, he said, adding that China is ready to work with all APEC members to enhance AI literacy and bridge the digital and AI divide in the Asia-Pacific region. Secondly, Xi called on AsiaPacific economies to stay committed to green and low-carbon development to build a new paradigm for sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region. Asia-Pacific economies should keep in mind the responsibility to future generations, enhance synergy between green development strategies of all economies, promote free flows of quality green technologies and products, accelerate the green and low-carbon transition, and vigorously tackle climate change, Xi said.

Since announcing the carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals, China has established the world’s largest and fastest-growing renewable energy system, Xi noted. China has also submitted its 2035 Nationally Determined Contributions on climate response, and will implement the system of dual control over the volume and intensity of carbon emissions across the board, he said. Thirdly, Xi called for building an inclusive and universally beneficial future to foster a new dynamism in the inclusive growth of the Asia-Pacific region. He called on Asia-Pacific economies to always put the people first, and strengthen policy communication, experience sharing and results-oriented cooperation to fully implement the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, eliminate poverty together, and promote shared prosperity for all the people in the Asia-Pacific region.

Canada’s Carney says he apologised to Trump over Reagan ad SEOUL

ReuteRs

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said on Saturday he had apologised to US President Donald Trump over an anti-tariff political advertisement and had told Ontario Premier Doug Ford not to run it. Carney, speaking to reporters after attending an AsiaPacific summit in South Korea, said he had made the apology privately to Trump when they both attended a dinner hosted by South Korea’s president on Wednesday. “I did apologise to the president,” Carney said, confirming comments by Trump made on Friday. Carney also confirmed that he had reviewed the ad with Ford before it aired, but said he had opposed using it. “I told Ford I did not want to go forward with the ad,” he said. The ad, commissioned by Ford, an outspoken Conservative politician who is sometimes compared to Trump, uses a snippet of Republican icon and former President Ronald Reagan saying that tariffs cause trade wars and economic disaster. In response, Trump announced that he was increasing tariffs on goods from Canada, and Washington has also halted trade talks with Canada. When departing South Korea earlier this week, Trump remarked he had a “very nice” conversation with Carney at that dinner, but did not elaborate. On Friday, Trump still said the United States and Canada will not restart trade talks but Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney apologised to him for an Ontario political ad using former President Ronald Reagan saying tariffs spell disaster. “I like him a lot, but what they did was wrong,” the US president said. “He apologised for what they did with the commercial because it was a false commercial.”

Turkey to hold Gaza peace plan meeting ISTANBUL AFP

Turkey will on Monday host a meeting of foreign ministers from Muslim countries to discuss a US peace plan for Gaza, Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said. Fidan told reporters on Friday that the Istanbul meeting would “evaluate our progress and discuss what we can achieve together in the next stage”. A ministry spokesman said ministers from Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates had all been invited. The foreign ministers of all these countries met US President Donald Trump on September 23 on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York. “A glimmer of hope emerged, offering a glimmer of hope for everyone,” Fidan said during a joint news conference with his Estonian counterpart Margus Tsahkna. There were a number of issues that needed to be addressed at the meeting, he said. “What are the obstacles to its implementation? What are the challenges to be faced? What are the next steps? What will we be discussing with our Western friends? And what support is there for the ongoing talks with the United States?”

SAIF AWAN

Progress and prosperity rest upon one indispensable pillar — peace. Stability is only possible when those entrusted with maintaining law and order perform their duties with dedication and integrity. Punjab stands ahead of other provinces in development largely because it has successfully maintained peace, a peace safeguarded by the remarkable sacrifices of its security institutions, particularly the Punjab Police. It would not be an exaggeration to call the Punjab Police the most professional and courageous force in Pakistan. Its ability to assert authority and maintain order has always been unmatched. Chief Minister Punjab, Maryam Nawaz, has depoliticized the police force and transformed it into a truly professional institution. During the previous administration, the police were frequently used for political purposes, and the repeated change of Inspector Generals — sometimes every six months — disrupted the force’s internal discipline and operational continuity. In contrast, under the leadership of the current IG Punjab, Dr. Usman Anwar, and with the unwavering support of the Chief Minister, the police have emerged as a more organized, capable, and respected force. Maryam Nawaz’s government has equipped the Punjab Police with modern weapons and technology, enabling them to effectively counter terrorism and crime. Since she assumed office, incidents of terrorism in Punjab have almost completely vanished — a result of the coordinated efforts of the security forces,

intelligence agencies, and most notably, the Punjab Police. To further strengthen the law enforcement system, the Chief Minister established the CCD (Crime Control Department) a few months ago. The CCD was granted full autonomy, free from any political interference. Under the leadership of Sohail Zafar Chattha, the CCD has been instrumental in cleansing the province of notorious criminal networks. Within just six months, Punjab has witnessed a 70% decline in crime rates — a testament to the effective strategy and strong coordination between the Punjab Police and CCD. Maryam Nawaz has also launched a comprehensive campaign to eliminate illegal weapons from the province. As part of this initiative, the Home Department has revoked the licenses of 28 arms dealers and sealed unregistered shops. Out of 511 registered arms dealers, 393 have successfully verified their licenses through the new digital verification system. The process of digital weapon registration is now in full swing. IG Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar has issued a 15-day deadline for individuals to voluntarily surrender illegal firearms. Those who comply will be granted amnesty, while those who refuse will face strict legal action. For the first time, security companies’ weapon licenses are also being thoroughly verified. Moreover, a complete ban has been placed on the issuance of new arms licenses, and the government is introducing the Punjab Surrender of Illegal Arms Act 2025, to be implemented in three phases.

Sunday, 2 November 2025 | LAHORE

CORPORATE CORNER

NEWS 07

CM MARYAM, GERMAN MP DISCUSS WOMEN EMPOWERMENT, DEEPENING BILATERAL TIES

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Member National Assembly Dr. Mirza Ikhtiar Baig inaugurating Furniture Expo 2025 in Islamabad. Also seen Nazish Faisal & Dr. Faisal of RF-Events organizers of the Furniture Expo. pr

Air quality monitoring stations operating without interruption: EPD LAHORE

staff report

Environment Protection and Climate Change Department would like to inform the public that the air quality monitoring stations in Lahore have been operating without interruption. We regret the inconvenience the public faced due to a 12-hour lag from 3 am on October 31, 2025, to 3 pm on October 31, 2025, caused by a technical glitch that delayed data transmission to the public dashboard. Nevertheless, the monitors continued to collect data, which has been successfully retrieved and incorporated into the database. The monitors were not shut down, and no data was lost during this period. The EPCCD is committed to measuring the air quality of major cities in Punjab by monitoring six air pollutants with regulatory-grade monitors and disseminating the data to the public without manipulation or delay.

Comprehensive measures being taken to develop Islamabad into a cashless model City: Randhawa

ISLAMABAD

staff report

A significant meeting was held at the Capital Development Authority (CDA) Headquarters, chaired by Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, regarding the promotion of a cashless economy in Islamabad. The meeting was attended by CDA Member Finance Tahir Naeem, senior officers from CDA and ICT and representatives from major commercial banks and telecommunications companies.Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa said that, in line with the vision of Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif and Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Islamabad is being developed as a model city for a cashless economy.The meeting reviewed the measures taken so far to promote a cashless economy in Islamabad. During the briefing, it was informed that comprehensive efforts are underway to display Raast QR codes for all types of transactions in both urban and rural areas of Islamabad. In this regard, a cashless system has already been successfully introduced in Islamabad's weekly bazaars, CDA's One-Window Facilitation Centers and metro and electric buses.

Pakistan’s Bilal Bin Saqib Among World’s Most Influential Crypto Leaders ISLAMABAD

staff report

In a remarkable acknowledgment of Pakistan’s growing role in the global digital assets revolution, The Wall Street Journal has recognized Mr. Bilal bin Saqib, Minister of State for Crypto and Blockchain, among the world’s most influential figures shaping the future of cryptocurrency, artificial intelligence (AI), and financial diplomacy. The WSJ’s in-depth investigative report titled “How a Billionaire Felon Boosted Trump’s Crypt Company en Route to a Pardon”, published on October 31, 2025, mentions Bilal bin Saqib’s name 11 times, reflecting the publication’s keen interest in his leadership and his impact at the intersection of technology, geopolitics, and digital finance. The report highlights Mr. Saqib alongside global icons such as Changpeng Zhao (CZ), founder of Binance; members of the Trump family; and leading Emirati investors, portraying him as a new-generation leader in the blockchain era.

PUNJAB CM MEETS GERMAN MP DERYA TÜRK-NACHBAUR, DISCUSSES WOMEN EMPOWERMENT, EDUCATION, CLEAN ENERGY, AND YOUTH EXCHANGES LAHORE

staff report

UNJAB Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Saturday warmly welcomed German Parliament Member Derya Türk-Nachbaur in Lahore for a detailed discussion focused on bilateral relations, parliamentary cooperation, women empowerment, education, youth exchanges, environment, and clean energy. Extending gratitude to Germany for its solidarity during recent floods, the chief minister said, “It is an honour for me to welcome our distinguished guests from Germany in Lahore, the historical and cultural heart of Punjab.” She congratulated Germany’s Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES) on its 100th anniversary and lauded its 35 years of service in Pakistan, noting that the foundation had played a key role in promoting democracy, social justice, and

mutual dialogue between the two nations. Maryam Nawaz said that the expression of sympathy and solidarity by Germany during floods reflected the depth of the long-standing Pak-German friendship, adding that both countries “believe in democracy, tolerance, and parliamen-

tary governance — the foundations of peace, progress, and prosperity.” Acknowledging Derya Türk-Nachbaur’s contributions to inclusive policymaking, gender equality, and human rights, the chief minister proposed organizing training workshops on democratic

Punjab Police promotes 199 oﬃcers to SI rank, concludes 11th batch of Internship Program LAHORE

commitment to public protection. Meanwhile, Punjab Police held the closing ceremony of the 11th batch of its Internship Program at the Central Police Office, Lahore, featuring 24 students from Lahore Garrison University and Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro. The interns—specializing in digital forensics, cyber security, and forensic biology—were divided into five groups and attached to key departments, including the Special

Branch, CTD, Safe Cities Authority, Investigation Branch, and IT Branch, for a six-week training. During the closing ceremony, the interns presented reports highlighting their field experiences. DIG Training Munir Ahmad Zia Rao distributed certificates among participants and emphasized that such programs enhance students’ understanding of policing and help bridge the gap between academic learning and practical law enforcement.

Infinix launches its all-new X5W Smart TV nationwide LAHORE

staff report

Infinix, a leading smartphone brand in Pakistan, now extends its smart technology expertise to home entertainment with the launch of the Infinix X5W TV. Designed to make entertainment truly intelligent, the X5W is powered by a cutting-edge AI-driven recommendation Engine that learns user preferences and tailors content for a personalized viewing experience. Its built-in AI

31st Palmolive Sindh Women’s Swimming C’ship 2025 begins KARACHI

staff report

Punjab Police has accelerated its process of promotions and professional development, with 199 officers advancing to the rank of sub-inspector through the P-Cadet Scheme and the Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC) examination. Simultaneously, the force concluded the 11th batch of its Internship Program aimed at fostering education and research in policing. According to a Punjab Police spokesperson, official notifications of promoted officers have been dispatched to their respective districts. Among those elevated to sub-inspector rank are 54 officers from Lahore, 53 from Gujranwala, 25 from Sahiwal, and 67 from Multan. DIG Establishment-I Dr. Suleman Sultan Rana said that as soon as PPSC results for other regions are received, promotion letters will be issued to those districts as well. Inspector General of Police Punjab Dr Usman Anwar congratulated the newly promoted sub-inspectors, urging them to serve the people of Pakistan with integrity, professionalism, and a fearless

governance for legislators, youth leaders, and women parliamentarians under the FES framework. She also suggested an exchange program between Punjab and German parliamentarians, saying such collaboration would allow Pakistan to learn from Germany’s model of federal cooperation and local autonomy. Maryam Nawaz emphasized that parliamentary cooperation serves as a bridge of trust and understanding, strengthening people-to-people ties and mutual respect between the two nations. She noted that Germany has remained a reliable development partner since 1990, contributing to Pakistan’s progress in environment, energy, vocational training, healthcare, and women’s economic empowerment. Highlighting youth and employment initiatives, the chief minister expressed interest in adopting Germany’s dual vocational training model to enhance the employability of Punjab’s youth.

Voice Assistant further enhances convenience, allowing users to control the TV, find shows, and adjust settings effortlessly through simple voice commands. Infinix X5W QLED TV is now exclusively available nationwide starting from Rs. 69,999. The Infinix QLED Smart TV redefines what a Smart TV can be — intelligent, intuitive, and effortlessly elegant. At its heart is an advanced AI-powered system that understands your preferences, tailors personalized content and

responds instantly to your voice through the built-in AI Voice Assistant. Every interaction feels seamless — your TV doesn’t just play, it thinks. The brilliance extends to visuals, with a 4K QLED Vivid Display delivering exceptional detail, 88% NTSC color precision, and 280 nits brightness that bring every scene to life with stunning realism and depth. Crafted in a Frameless Metallic Design boasting a 96% screen-to-body ratio, the X5W embodies minimalism and modern luxury — a statement piece that merges intelligence with art.

City police heads directed to accelerate Afghan repatriation process

LAHORE: Capital City Police Officer Lahore Bilal Siddique Kamyana presided over a meeting regarding the repatriation of illegal Afghan nationals at his office on Saturday. The meeting reviewed the progress made so far on the ongoing repatriation process.The CCPO directed divisional SPs to lead raids for the arrest of illegally residing Afghan nationals and to accelerate the repatriation process in line with government directives.He instructed police officers to maintain close coordination with the management of commercial centres to ensure the repatriation of foreign Afghan nationals. He also ordered strict enforcement of the Tenancy Act and legal action against those renting out properties or shops to illegal residents.The CCPO further directed that mosque platforms be effectively used to raise public awareness, and strict action be taken against violations of the Loudspeaker Act. He also urged police officers to strengthen coordination with peace committees and take prompt action against the dissemination of hate material.Bilal Siddique Kamyana added that important cases were being disposed of in coordination with public prosecution dept. DIG (Admin) Imran Kishwar, DIG (Investigation) Zeeshan Raza, DIG (Operations) Faisal Kamran, SSP (Investigation) Muhammad Naveed, SP Security Abdul Wahab and divisional SPs attended the meeting. staff report

The 31st Palmolive Sindh Women’s Swimming Championship made a thrilling splash as more than 450 young swimmers from schools, clubs, and institutions dived into action at the opening day of the tournament. The atmosphere was electric as the competitors displayed grit, passion, and remarkable skill—earning loud cheers from the crowd and setting new national records across multiple age categories. The Opening Ceremony was graced by Mrs. Fatima Lakhani, Senior Vice President Pakistan Olympic Association, Chairperson of POA Women’s Commission, and Yasmeen Ahmed, President Pakistan Women’s Swimming Association and Senior Vice President Pakistan Swimming Federation who served as chief guests for the first day. Now celebrating three decades of excellence, the championship continues to be organized by the Karachi Women’s Swimming Association (KWSA). As the principal sponsor, Colgate-Palmolive (Pakistan) Ltd. proudly upholds its longstanding commitment to empowering women in sports and championing this prestigious platform year after year. One new record was set on the opening day — a testament to the talent and dedication of Pakistan’s rising swimming stars.

Authorities Urged to Crack Down as Illicit Cigarette Sales Exceed Legal Market ISLAMABAD

staff report

Pakistan’s tobacco industry continues to face a growing challenge as illicit cigarettes dominate a large share of the market, draining government revenue and strengthening illegal supply networks. Despite repeated policy interventions, the black market remains resilient, largely because supply chains are poorly monitored and enforcement actions have been inconsistent.Recent estimates show that illicit cigarettes now account for more than half of the total market, costing the national exchequer over Rs 415 billion annually. These products are either smuggled, locally manufactured without tax compliance, or sold below the legal minimum price. This not only deprives the government of critical revenue but also places the legal sector at a significant disadvantage."Without a decisive crackdown on the illicit tobacco trade, Pakistan’s legal industry will continue to suffer while the black market thrives unchecked", said Osama Siddiqui, a macroeconomic analyst.“Illicit trade has become deeply entrenched because the supply chain remains inadequately monitored. Unless strong enforcement is applied across manufacturing, distribution, and retail, policies will keep falling short of their intended goals,” he said.He added that the way forward lies in robust supply chain management and coordination between agencies. A modernized track-and-trace system, backed by active enforcement at production sites, distribution points, and retail outlets, is essential. Stronger collaboration among revenue authorities can dismantle the networks that profit from tax evasion.He said that Pakistan cannot afford to let the illicit tobacco trade continue unchecked. A strict, sustained crackdown on the supply chain could recover hundreds of billions in lost revenue each year while ensuring a fair and competitive market for the legal sector.

All set for 2nd edition of PIMEC 2025 from November 3 KARACHI

staff report

The Pakistan Navy on Saturday held the Curtain Raiser ceremony of the Pakistan International Maritime Expo and Conference 2025 (PIMEC-25) at the Karachi Expo Centre, marking the countdown to one of the country’s largest maritime events aimed at advancing Pakistan’s Blue Economy roadmap and showcasing its growing role in the global maritime domain. Commander Karachi, Vice Admiral Muhammad Faisal Abbasi, briefed the media about the upcoming mega event, announcing that the second edition of PIMEC will take place from November 3 to 6, 2025,

at the Karachi Expo Centre, with participation expected from nearly every region of the world. Highlighting the event’s international scale, he said 178 exhibitors—including 28 international firms and 150 local organizations— will showcase their products and services. The event will also host 133 international delegations from 44 countries, including the United Kingdom, Italy, Iran, Turkiye, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Egypt, and China, representing regions across Europe, Asia, North and South America, and the Far East. Vice Admiral Abbasi added that, alongside private and corporate exhibitors, the Governments of Sindh and Balochistan will also set up ded-

icated pavilions highlighting investment opportunities in Pakistan’s maritime and coastal sectors. He lauded the media’s continued support and expressed confidence that their role would remain pivotal in the success of PIMEC-25. The event will feature a comprehensive maritime exhibition, business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G) meetings, the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), and extensive media interactions. These engagements aim to deepen cooperation among foreign delegates, senior government officials, and maritime stakeholders across key sectors such as ports, shipping, fisheries, and

coastal development. Running parallel to the exhibition, the International Maritime Conference (IMC)—a two-day academic and professional forum scheduled from November 4 to 5, 2025—will be organized by the Na-

tional Institute of Maritime Affairs (NIMA) under the theme “Harnessing Blue Economy Potential for Sustainable Development.” The conference will include four sessions featuring 14 research papers presented by renowned national and

international scholars and professionals, addressing emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities in the maritime sector. The briefing was attended by Pakistan Navy officers and a large number of media representatives.

Sunday, 2 November, 2025

Published by Asad Nizami at Qandeel Printing Press, 4 Queens Road, Lahore, for PT Print (Pvt) Limited. Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965. Email: newsroom@pakistantoday.com.pk