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Friday, 25 September, 2026 | 12 Rabius Sani, 1448

Rs 20.00 | Vol XVII No 181 | 8 Pages | Islamabad Edition

IRANIAN PRESIDENT REAFFIRMS ISLAMABAD MOU, SAYS READY TO TAKE ‘PEACE EFFORTS FORWARD’: PM g

IRANIAN PRESIDENT TELLS PM SHEHBAZ AGREEMENT REMAINS ‘FULLY ACCEPTABLE’ TO TEHRAN

PM STRESSES RESTRAINT, DE-ESCALATION AND SUSTAINED DIPLOMACY TO END REGIONAL CONFLICT

WASHINGTON/ISLAMABAD

REAFFIRMS READINESS TO FACILITATE US-IRAN DIALOGUE AND PROMOTE REGIONAL PEACE SHEHBAZ SAYS POLITICAL, MILITARY LEADERSHIP UNITED IN PURSUING PEACE EFFORTS

SALEEM JADOON

RIME Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Thursday that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian had told him that the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was “fully acceptable” to Tehran even today and that they were “ready to take it forward”, reaffirming Pakistan’s readiness to continue playing a sincere and constructive role in support of regional peace and stability. The premier’s statement came after a “detailed” discussion with President Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, said a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) after the meeting. The statement said PM Shehbaz ex-

pressed “deep concern over the prolonged conflict” and emphasised the need for restraint, de-escalation and sustained diplomatic engagement to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region

during his meeting with Pezeshkian. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi were

PM invites uS-based Pakistanis to invest, backs business-friendly reforms NEW YORK

STAFF REPORT

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday invited Pakistani business personalities and professionals based in the United States to invest in Pakistan, assuring them that the government was providing a conducive environment to promote investment and business activities. The prime minister, while meeting delegations of Pakistani business personalities and professionals associated

with information technology, artificial intelligence, automobiles, energy, construction and other sectors, said business personalities and professionals were Pakistan’s ambassadors who, through their positive contributions around the world, enhanced the country’s image. He said reforms in the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) had helped address issues faced by the business community.

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also present at the meeting, along with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. “He also underscored the importance of implementing the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to continue playing sincere and constructive role in support of regional peace and stability,” the statement added. The two leaders discussed the evolving regional situation, with Pezeshkian appreciating Pakistan’s “principled diplomacy and concerted efforts for regional peace and security”, according to the statement. “Underlining the importance of maintaining regular consultations and close coordination to address the prevailing challenges and seize the opportunities, the two sides agreed to work for regional peace, security, and prosperity,” it said.

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iMF chief praises Pakistan’s reforms as Shehbaz pledges continued implementation NEW YORK

STAFF REPORT

International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva has praised Pakistan’s implementation of economic reforms, saying the measures have helped preserve stability, restore confidence and regain access to international markets. Georgieva made the remarks after meeting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on the sidelines of the 81st session of

the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The two discussed Pakistan’s economic reform programme as well as the country’s upcoming IMF review. Georgieva said sustained implementation of reforms could help accelerate economic growth and improve living standards. Shehbaz, meanwhile, reaffirmed his government’s commitment to the IMF-supported programme and said Pakistan would continue pursuing its reform agenda.

Continued on PAge 03

najeeb naqi sworn in as AJK president MUZAFFARABAD

Maldives Parliament Speaker meets Field Marshal Asim Munir RAWALPINDI

STAFF REPORT

Speaker of the People’s Majlis of the Maldives, Abdul Raheem Abdullah, called on Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces (COAS & CDF) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir at General Headquarters (GHQ) on Thursday. During the meeting, the two sides discussed matters of mutual interest, including regional security and bilateral cooperation. Field Marshal Asim Munir underscored the importance Pakistan attaches to its brotherly relations with the Maldives and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties for the mutual benefit of the two countries. The Maldivian Parliament speaker appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting regional peace and stability and expressed his desire to deepen bilateral engagement and expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

UNITED NATIONS STAFF REPORT

Pakistan has called for concerted international efforts to prevent artificial intelligence (AI) from becoming “another facet of the ongoing arms race”, urging the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) to establish effective guardrails and governance frameworks for the rapidly evolving technology. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar made the call while addressing a France-chaired UNSC briefing on artificial intelligence and international security, which was also attended by the heads of major AI companies and senior government officials. “We must ensure that AI does not become another facet of the ongoing arms race,” Dar told the council, stressing the need for regulations and governance mechanisms to manage emerging risks. “In the military domain, we need measures of restraint and confidencebuilding to address the risks of miscalculation and compressed decision-making,” he added. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, Hugging Face CEO Clement Delangue and Yoshua Bengio, co-chair of the UN International Independent Panel on AI, also briefed the council. Dar said the foremost priority should be to retain human judgement and control throughout the design, development and integration of AI systems. “Humans must remain in control” to define the structures of AI systems and determine the speed and nature of their future capabilities, he stressed. The deputy prime minister also cautioned against allowing AI to become the “monopoly of a few actors”, calling for international cooperation in its development and governance. He noted that AI was already “supercharging” existing challenges, including misinformation, fake news and cyberattacks against critical infrastructure by state and non-state actors. “We must undertake concrete action to address the gaps and challenges that carry huge implications for peace and security,” Dar said. Pakistan, he added, took seriously the international call to “pace the AI frontier” in order to manage the risks associated with increasingly powerful systems. Dar welcomed recognition that no single company or country could manage those risks alone, noting that competitive pressures were driving an AI race that could not be managed safely by individual actors. At the same time, he warned that efforts to regulate or slow the development of AI must not turn into a new form of technological gatekeeping. Measures adopted in the name of safety, he said, should not become “instruments of denial of technology”. He stressed that decisions on managing AI risks could not be left to “a handful of companies or capitals”.

Pakistan conducts strikes at 10 locations in Afghanistan: Tarar ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

Dr Najeeb Naqi of the ruling PML-N was sworn in as the president of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) on Thursday, hours after securing a clear majority in the presidential election held at the Legislative Assembly. AJK Chief Justice Raja Saeed Akram administered the oath to Dr Naqi at a ceremony at the President’s House in Muzaffarabad. Dr Naqi secured 32 votes against 13 bagged by PPP candidate Chaudhry Latif Akbar. Polling began at 11am and concluded at 1pm. Under the AJK Constitution, the president is elected by the members of the Legislative Assembly through a majority of the total 53 seats. However, with elections to seven constituencies in Poonch and Sudhnoti districts postponed due to the law and order situation, the assembly currently has 46 members. Of these, 45 lawmakers cast their votes on Thursday, with one PPP member remaining absent. Following the announcement of the results, supporters from Poonch and other parts of AJK gathered outside the assembly and

Pakistan urges guardrails against AI arms race

STAFF REPORT

raised slogans in favour of Dr Naqi. Addressing the gathering briefly, Dr Naqi said Poonch, the division he represents, was passing through a difficult period. He expressed confidence that the region would overcome its challenges and return to the path of development through determination and concerted efforts. He thanked those who had travelled from distant areas despite difficulties to attend the occasion and pledged to work to meet the expectations of the people of AJK. “I will do my best to ensure that the new government of Azad Kashmir lives up to the expectations of its people,” he said,

adding that he would continue to be in contact with the people. Dr Naqi has previously served as AJK health minister and also held the education and information technology portfolios. He was due to contest the 2026 general elections, but polling in seven constituencies of the Poonch Division, including his own, was postponed because of the law and order situation. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated Dr Naqi on his election and conveyed his best wishes, according to a statement issued by his office. “Dr Najeeb Naqi’s election reflects the confidence of the people of AJK,” the prime minister was quoted as saying.

Pakistan has conducted precision aerial and drone strikes in 10 locations across Afghanistan in retaliation for drones launched from the neighbouring country a day earlier, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar said in the early hours of Thursday. “In exercise of its sovereign right to self-defence, Pakistan conducted precision aerial and drone strikes against 10 locations in Afghanistan used for launching and storing these drones,” Tarar wrote in a post on the social media platform X. He added that the strikes were “deliberate, precise, calibrated and proportionate, and strictly limited to identified military objectives directly linked to the attempted attacks against Pakistan”. In the post, Tarar condemned Wednesday’s “deliberate and unlawful” drone incursion, calling it a “blatant violation of Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity”. He held the drone attacks were a “grave and unacceptable act of aggression”. The information minister said Pakistan had conveyed its concerns to the Afghan Taliban over the terrorist elements emanating from Afghan soil and the presence of terrorist sanctuaries. However, he noted that rather than dismantling the terrorist networks and taking action against them, the Afghan Taliban chose to “escalate the situation through hostile drone operations against Pakistan”. He said that in Wednesday’s attack, Pakistan’s air defence systems had “detected, tracked and neutralised all intruding platforms before they could reach any of their intended targets, comprehensively thwarting the attempted attack”.

KP cabinet approves KP Police Act 2026 to make police more accountable, eﬀective: Minister PESHAWAR

STAFF REPORT

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Minister Shafi Jan on Thursday said the provincial cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, has approved the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police Act 2026 to make the police more accountable, effective and professional before the public. In a statement regarding the decisions of the provincial cabinet meeting, the minister said the proposed law marked a significant step towards introducing important reforms in the police system. Under the new law, the investigation system would be strengthened, the professional advancement of officers improved, and the policy and operational affairs of the police would be separated. He said that after approval from the provincial assembly, Regional Investigation Officers would be posted across the province under the new law, an initiative

that would help further strengthen the investigation system and enhance the investigative capacity and professional competence of the police. The minister said that under the proposed law, greater accountability would be brought into the system of postings and transfers of police officers, particularly of Regional Police Officers and District Police Officers, which would be regulated under the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Rules of Business 1985. To remove long-standing hurdles in the promotion of police officers, the minister said promotion, fast-track promotion and direct recruitment quotas would be rebalanced, which would increase promotion opportunities for officers in the police force and establish a better career progression system. He said that under the new law, the policy and operational affairs of the police would be separated, for which a Police Policy Board would be established, to be headed by the Chief Minister, while a Police Opera-

tions Board would be headed by the Inspector General of Police. The minister said the proposed law also introduced a performance-based accountability system for the Provincial Police Officer, under which the provincial government would have the authority to return the services of the Provincial Police Officer in case of unsatisfactory performance. He said the Provincial Police Officer would be bound to prepare an annual policing plan and present it before the Police Policy Board for approval, which would include the police's priorities, performance and future measures. He said the new law also included a clear procedure for Dispute Resolution Councils across the province, as the existing legal system lacked a clear procedure in this regard. To ensure transparency, accountability and a uniform system, all existing Dispute Resolution Councils would be dissolved and reconstituted afresh under the new law.

Federal govt voices strong reservations over KP Police Act 2026 ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry on Thursday expressed strong reservations over the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police Act 2026, questioning provisions that they said could undermine the police command and control structure in the province. Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Talal Chaudhry said the federal government had serious concerns over the proposed legislation, stressing that provincial powers under the Constitution were subject to legal and constitutional limits. “Provinces are not completely autonomous

in every matter. The 18th Amendment grants provinces specific powers, while policing is also a constitutional subject,” he said. The minister said a province could not create institutions or structures that fell within the constitutional domain of the federation. Chaudhry said the KP Police was fighting terrorism and suffering casualties, and its command structure could not be weakened at a time when the province faced serious security challenges. He stated that the proposed legislation did not merely curtail the powers of the Inspector General of Police but would affect the entire command and control structure of the force.

02 NEWS

SIFC, WORLD BANK DISCUSS REFORMS TO SIMPLIFY BUSINESS REGULATIONS

PROFIT

WEB DESK

HE Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) and a World Bank delegation have discussed reforms aimed at simplifying business regulations, reducing compliance requirements and making interaction with government institutions easier. The talks focused on the Asaan Karobar Framework, Regulatory Registry and Pakistan Business Portal, according to a statement from the SIFC. The initiatives are being pursued to streamline regulatory processes and improve coordination among relevant institutions while reducing the compliance burden on businesses. The Asaan Karobar Framework provides a structured approach to simplifying business-related regulations and improv-

ing the overall ease of doing business. The Regulatory Registry, meanwhile, is intended to provide businesses with greater clarity and accessibility regarding applicable regulatory requirements.

PAEC Foundation signs contract for 5MW Chashma hydropower project PROFIT

NEWS DESK

PAEC Foundation has signed a contract to develop a 5MW hydropower plant at Chashma, targeting the start of electricity generation by September 2029. The Foundation Hydel Power Plant Unit-05 (FHPP-05) is projected to generate around 30.66 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually for supply to the national grid, according to the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC). The project will be constructed at the outfall of the Chashma-5 Nuclear Power Plant and will use the hydropower potential available at the site. FHPP-05 will become the foundation's fifth hydropower facility and add another 5MW to its renewable energy portfolio. The contract was awarded to a joint venture comprising China Ocean Engineering Construction Corporation Ltd., Ningbo Water Conservancy and Hydro Power Planning and Design Institute Co. Ltd., and Habib Rafique Engineering (Pvt.) Ltd. PAEC Foundation and the joint venture signed the agreement at PAEC Headquarters. The commission said the project would allow available water resources at the site to be used for additional electricity generation. The new facility will supplement PAEC's existing contribution to the national grid through its nuclear power programme. Six nuclear power plants operated by PAEC currently have a combined generation capacity of 3,530MW. PAEC Foundation was established in 1994 as the commission's non-profit arm for the welfare of PAEC employees and their families. The project is being developed alongside the 1,200MW Chashma-5 Nuclear Power Plant, for which Pakistan and the International Atomic Energy Agency recently signed a safeguards agreement.

The Pakistan Business Portal is designed to provide businesses with a more coordinated and accessible interface for dealing with relevant government institutions. The discussions also covered the

SIFC's whole-of-government approach to business and investment facilitation, which brings together federal, provincial and sectoral stakeholders for coordinated implementation of reforms. Engagement with provincial governments remains part of the process to ensure business facilitation measures are implemented through broader institutional coordination. The World Bank delegation appreciated the SIFC's engagement with provincial governments and acknowledged the importance of coordination in improving the regulatory and business environment. The World Bank also assured continued support for initiatives aimed at strengthening business facilitation and advancing regulatory improvements. The reforms are intended to support entrepreneurship, investment and sustainable private-sector-led economic activity in Pakistan.

PSX falls over 1,100 points as IMF review, Middle East uncertainty weigh PROFIT

NEWS DESK

Selling returned to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) on Thursday, dragging the benchmark KSE100 Index down more than 1,700 points as investors remained cautious over Pakistan's ongoing IMF programme review and developments in the Middle East, where US-Iran diplomatic talks showed little sign of progress. The market opened on a volatile note, with the benchmark touching an intraday high of 172,491.16 in morning trade before reversing gains and coming under sustained selling pressure during the second half of the session. Selling intensified during the final hour of trading, pushing the benchmark to an intraday low of 170,418.38, before it recovered marginally. At close, the KSE-100 settled at 170,498.94, down 1,733.57 points, or 1.01%, from Wednesday's close of 172,232.51. Selling was spread across key sectors, including automobile assemblers, cement, commercial banks, oil and gas exploration companies and oil marketing companies. Refinery stocks also came under selling pressure despite a positive development on longawaited refinery upgrades. Three major Pakistani refiners, Cnergyico Pk Limited, National Refinery Limited (NRL) and Attock Refinery Limited (ARL), have signed upgrade agreements with the government, marking progress towards modernising existing refining infrastructure under the

brownfield refinery policy. Investors were also closely tracking Pakistan's engagement with the International Monetary Fund as an IMF mission began discussions with Pakistani authorities for the fourth review under the $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) and the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF). Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly 2026 on the same day that the review discussions began. According to a statement from the Prime Minister's Office, Shehbaz thanked the IMF for its continued support for Pakistan's economy and reaffirmed the government's commitment to implementing the IMF-supported reform programme. Georgieva, meanwhile, said after the meeting that the two sides discussed Pakistan's reforms. "Strong implementation has helped preserve stability, restore confidence and regain market access," she posted on X. Thursday's selling followed a strong session a day earlier, when the market gained amid constructive USIran discussions, the arrival of the IMF staff mission for programme reviews and aggressive buying in refinery stocks on expectations of progress on upgrade agreements. On Wednesday, the KSE-100 Index gained 830.43 points, or 0.48%, to close at 172,232.51. Globally, debt markets were on edge on Thursday, with Japanese bonds following Treasuries lower, while Asian equities were mixed as

investors weighed Middle East tensions and prospects for talks between the United States and China. The MSCI Asia ex-Japan Index fell 0.64%, while Japan’s Nikkei 225 rose 1.73%. Australian shares touched a more than three-month low, with the benchmark S&P/ASX 200 index falling 1.2%. Oil prices eased from recent highs and the greenback held gains after Tehran’s leader vowed to never surrender following a warning by US President Donald Trump that he could “annihilate” Iran. Market participants also looked ahead to a series of central bank speeches and economic releases, including US jobless claims, for signals on future interest rate hikes. A summit between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping was also in focus, with hopes for progress on trade relations. Meanwhile, the Pakistani rupee extended its marginal gains against the US dollar, appreciating 0.01% in the interbank market on Thursday. The local unit closed the day at 277.17, a gain of Re0.03 against the greenback. Volume on the all-share index decreased to 759.97 million from 773.59 million recorded in the previous close. However, the value of shares jumped to Rs27.54 billion from Rs26.45 billion in the previous session. Cnergyico PK was the volume leader with 158.26 million shares, followed by K-Electric Ltd. with 71.89 million shares, and F. Nat. Equities with 59.94 million shares. Shares of 495 companies were traded on Thursday, of which 101 registered an increase, 358 recorded a fall, and 36 remained unchanged.

Govt to engage experts for technical audit of power Discos PROFIT

WEB DESK

The government will engage technical experts to examine electricity theft and distribution losses across former Wapda distribution companies (Discos), with an expression of interest (EoI) for the exercise set to be issued shortly. Terms of reference for the technical audit are expected to be finalised by next week, according to decisions taken by a special committee examining inefficiencies and electricity theft in the distribution network. The exercise will map the scale and geographical concentration of power theft and examine the causes of technical and commercial losses across the Discos. The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication will provide technological assistance and facilitate the audit process. Alongside the audit, the government has decided to accelerate installation of Advance Metering Infrastructure (AMI)

across the distribution network. AMI deployment will continue at Discos earmarked for privatisation, with the committee linking the measure to billing transparency and protection of consumers against overbilling after the companies are transferred to private operators. Digital tools and reliable data will also be increasingly used to detect irregularities, improve monitoring and strengthen accountability across the distribution system. The government is separately pursuing incentive-based solarisation pilots in areas served by Peshawar Electric Supply Company (Pesco) and Quetta Electric Supply Company (Qesco), where electricity theft and distribution losses remain high. The initiative is aimed at providing solar energy solutions while reducing pressure on the grid and addressing persistent theft and line-loss problems. Disco recovery performance was also reviewed, with the committee expressing satisfaction over improvement during the current

year and calling for stronger monitoring, governance and targeted measures in high-loss areas. The decisions were taken at a meeting of the prime minister's special committee on inefficiencies and electricity theft in Discos, co-chaired by Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Cheema and Power Minister Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari. Cheema called for the audit to identify the underlying causes of theft and losses so that measures could be targeted on the basis of its findings. He also said consumers should not bear the cost of distribution inefficiencies through overbilling. Leghari said efforts to control theft and losses were being focused particularly on Discos where their incidence remained high. The committee received briefings from the Power Division, National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra), Ministry of IT and Telecommunication, Pakistan Digital Authority and other institutions on losses, recoveries, electricity theft and technology-based interventions.

Friday, 25 September, 2026 | ISLAMABAD

PIA plans Maldives route after fleet expansion PROFIT

WEB DESK

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) plans to open a direct route to the Maldives once additional aircraft are inducted into its fleet, the national carrier said on Wednesday. The proposed service would establish direct air connectivity between the two countries, with PIA citing tourism, trade and people-to-people movement among the areas expected to benefit. The timeline, however, remains tied to aircraft availability. PIA Chief Executive Officer Air Vice Marshal Muhammad Amir Hayat said the Maldives service would begin after new aircraft were added to the airline's fleet. The plan was discussed during a meeting at PIA's head office with a Maldivian delegation led by National Assembly Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla. Abdulla said direct connectivity could increase bilateral trade, tourism and public contacts while strengthening relations between Pakistan and the Maldives. PIA's proposed Maldives operation comes as the airline works on expanding and modernising its fleet. Boeing is expected to submit a revised aircraft acquisition proposal to PIA following recent discussions between Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Boeing Global President Dr Brendan Nelson. The two sides also discussed the possibility of securing earlier aircraft delivery slots and using interim leasing arrangements. Aurangzeb separately outlined PIA's privatisation and plans to outsource the management of major airports during the Boeing meeting. Aviation safety, regulatory engagement and efforts to restore direct flights to the United States were also discussed. The visiting Maldivian delegation, in Pakistan as a state guest, included the country's high commissioner, second secretary, deputy leader and other senior officials.

Builders weigh corporate conversion, REIT registration after SECP push PROFIT

WEB DESK

Members of the Association of Builders and Developers of Pakistan (ABAD) are considering converting their businesses into companies and registering Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) said on Wednesday. The move follows regulatory engagement between the SECP and the builder community aimed at bringing informal businesses and partnerships into formal corporate structures. ABAD has also agreed to work with the commission on regulatory issues facing the real estate sector and submit recommendations under the Companies Act, 2017. The development emerged from a session between SECP officials and builders and developers at ABAD’s head office, where the regulator outlined the legal and commercial implications of corporatisation. SECP Commissioner Muzzafar Ahmed Mirza said recent reforms were aimed at making company incorporation simpler and providing greater regulatory clarity for businesses moving towards formal structures. Under a corporate structure, a company operates as a separate legal entity, while shareholders generally have limited liability, separating corporate obligations from their personal assets. The regulator also highlighted access to financing and domestic and international markets among the potential benefits of corporatisation, alongside improved transparency, credibility and business continuity. SECP officials demonstrated the eZfile platform during the meeting and briefed participants on the incorporation and corporate filing process. The commission said integration with external registries had made these processes faster and simpler. Karachi Company Registration Office In-charge Sidney Custodio Pereira was among the SECP officials attending the session. ABAD Chairman Mohammed Hassan Bakshi, Senior Vice Chairman Syed Afzal Hameed and Vice Chairman Tariq Aziz Memon attended alongside representatives of the builder and developer community. ABAD's leadership welcomed the commission's outreach and said its members were actively examining both corporate conversion and REIT registration.

PM Shehbaz underscores GSP Plus importance as Pakistan, EU leaders discuss deeper ties PROFIT

SADDAM HUSSAIN

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has underscored the importance of the European Union’s GSP Plus framework for Pakistan’s economic development, employment generation and trade as he met top EU leaders on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The prime minister met European

Council President António Luís Santos da Costa and European Commission President Ursula Gertrud von der Leyen, with the leaders reviewing the full spectrum of Pakistan-EU relations. They expressed satisfaction over the growing momentum in high-level exchanges and engagement between Pakistan and the European Union. Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening its broadbased partnership with the EU and fully

implementing the Pakistan-EU Strategic Engagement Plan. He stressed the importance of sustained engagement at the leadership level to provide greater direction and momentum to bilateral relations. The prime minister highlighted the significance of GSP Plus for Pakistan’s economic development, employment generation and trade with the EU, while reiterating the country’s commitment to continued engagement with the bloc under the framework.

The leaders also exchanged views on regional and global developments and reaffirmed the importance of dialogue, diplomacy, international law and the peaceful resolution of disputes. Shehbaz reiterated his invitation to the presidents of the European Council and European Commission to visit Pakistan and expressed his desire to continue working closely with the EU leadership to deepen the mutually beneficial partnership.

Friday, 25 September, 2026 | ISLAMABAD

NISHAT MILLS SHAREHOLDERS APPROVE SALE OF ENTIRE STAKE IN NISHAT SUTAS DAIRY FOR RS2.05B

PROFIT

STAFF REPORT

AKISTAN has received its second Qatari LNG cargo this month, with the vessel SHANDONG REDWOOD arriving from Qatar and berthing at the PGPL terminal on Wednesday morning after passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The cargo was supplied under Pakistan’s long-term LNG agreement with Qatar at a price equivalent to 13.37% of Brent. Pakistani authorities engaged diplomatically with Iranian authorities to facilitate the vessel’s smooth passage through the Strait of Hormuz, as they did for the previous Qatari shipment earlier this month. The latest cargo provides some relief to the power sector amid gas supply constraints and disruptions in domestic production, with several areas also facing prolonged load shedding. Pakistan received its first Qatari LNG cargo of the month on September 10, when the carrier Al-Marrouna

berthed at the Engro terminal carrying around 81,936 metric tonnes of LNG from Qatar’s Ras Laffan terminal. The vessel had crossed the Strait of Hormuz on September 7 under the governmentto-government LNG arrangement between Pakistan and Qatar.

Pakistan works on virtual asset rules, eyes tokenised debt and real estate PROFIT

STAFF REPORT

Pakistan is working on legislation, licensing and regulatory oversight for virtual assets as the government explores their use in remittances, public debt and real estate. The emerging framework comes amid growing adoption of virtual assets and forms part of a broader government push to expand Pakistan's digital economy. One potential application is remittances, where digital assets could be used to make transfers cheaper and more seamless. The government is also examining tokenisation in public debt and real estate as possible areas for financial innovation. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb outlined the plans at a Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) ministerial dialogue in New York, the Finance Division said on Wednesday. Pakistan's wider digital agenda includes development of digital public infrastructure and increased adoption of cashless payment systems. The government is also focusing on digital skills, with Au-

Iranian airlines cancel international flights as new US aviation sanctions take effect PROFIT

STAFF REPORT

Iranian airlines were forced to cancel some international flights on Wednesday after the United States tightened sanctions on Iran’s aviation industry as part of a new effort to increase economic pressure on Tehran. Georgia and Azerbaijan officially confirmed suspending flights, while a travel agent in Tehran said flights to Baghdad, Muscat and Qatar had also been halted. Other routes remained available, including connections to China. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced the measures on Monday as part of an earlier threat to impose what he called “economic D-Day” on Iran following nearly seven months of war. “We are squeezing the Iranians like they've never seen,” Bessent told Fox News on Wednesday, claiming that “probably more than 80 or 90 per cent” of Iran’s external flights had been shut down. Despite the new restrictions, the impact on Iran’s international air links remained uneven. A Mahan Air flight from Tehran landed in Guangzhou on Wednesday after the sanctions took effect, according to FlightRadar24 tracking data, while a flight to Shanghai was also scheduled to depart.

Pakistan relies heavily on imported LNG to meet requirements of the power and industrial sectors. Any prolonged disruption to shipments through the Strait of Hormuz could increase procurement costs, tighten gas availability and put additional pressure on electric-

ity generation. The arrival comes as Pakistan continues to monitor supplies across its gas transmission network. Data for September 21 showed line-pack at 4,792 MMcf, while the power sector was consuming around 208 MMcfd of gas. Fertiliser sector consumption stood at 89 MMcfd, unchanged from the previous day. Domestic gas supplies have meanwhile faced disruptions at several fields. Raw gas supplies from the Qadirpur field to Liberty Power have remained suspended since 10:55 a.m. on September 17 over non-payment. Gas input from MEL’s GTH plant was reduced by 37 MMcfd on September 20 due to its annual turnaround, with current input at 52 MMcfd. The Nashpa plant reported an 83 MMcfd reduction following an issue at the facility, leaving current input at 83 MMcfd. Gas input from MOL’s CPF was also reduced by 158 MMcfd because of an operational problem, with current input reported at 154 MMcfd.

NEWS 03

IMF chief praises Pakistan’s reforms as Shehbaz pledges continued implementation CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

The prime minister said the economy was gradually moving from macroeconomic stabilisation towards recovery despite regional tensions and external inflationary pressures. He pointed to improved fiscal discipline, stronger external buffers and growing investor confidence as signs of progress. Shehbaz also highlighted measures including the National Tariff Regime, efforts to increase domestic revenue mobilisation and progress on privatisation. He said the government intended to continue economic reforms while protecting vulnerable sections of society from their impact. Georgieva appreciated Pakistan’s performance under the IMF programme and said stabilisation efforts were producing tangible results. The meeting also covered continued cooperation between Pakistan and the IMF aimed at strengthening economic resilience and supporting sustainable growth. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Adviser on Privatisation Muhammad Ali, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi and other senior officials also attended the meetin.

Foreign investors await Rs102.8b in tax refunds as OICCI presses FBR PROFIT

Iranian President reaﬃrms Islamabad MoU, says ready to take ‘peace eﬀorts forward’: PM CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

Regarding bilateral ties, the two leaders reaffirmed the close and longstanding ties between Pakistan and Iran and underscored the need to further strengthen bilateral cooperation across all areas of mutual interest, it added. “The Iranian President also underscored the enduring strength of Pakistan-Iran relations, rooted in shared history, culture, and faith, and reaffirmed Tehran’s strong desire to further deepen multifaceted cooperation,” it said. Earlier, a statement by the PM’s Office said the premier stressed the importance of implementing the Islamabad MoU — a 14-point interim agreement signed between the US and Iran in June that gave a framework for ending the ongoing conflict — during the meeting. ‘PAKISTAN’S LEADERSHIP UNITED O EXPEDITE PEACE EFFORTS’ Pakistan had also signed the agreement as a mediator. The conflict, however, has since continued with sporadic strikes and a US naval blockade of Iranian ports, while Iran has maintained control over traffic through the strategic waterway.

After PM Shehbaz met with Pezeshkian, he was asked by the media about the possibility of any progress on de-escalating the situation in the Middle East. The premier replied that Pakistan’s leadership was united in its resolve to expedite peace efforts under the Islamabad MoU. He also mentioned the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab — two key waterways for the world’s oil fuel supply that have been affected by the conflict in the Middle East. “The current situation in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab, and the provocative activities taking place there, require brotherly and friendly countries to work together to reduce tensions,” he stressed. “For this purpose, today I met the Iranian president, had a detailed meeting with him, and told him that restoring peace to the region is the need of the hour, a very important need,” he said. PM Shehbaz said Pakistan, as it had done in the past, would continue working for peace with Iran, which he described as a “brotherly” and neighbouring country. “I told him that Pakistan’s leadership, whether military or political, will, God willing, work together and continue its efforts to bring peace to the region,” he said.

PM invites US-based Pakistanis to invest, backs business-friendly reforms CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

The prime minister said the government was also taking measures on a priority basis to promote innovation in the agricultural sector for the development of the country’s agriculture. The business and professional delegations appreciated the reforms and initiatives being undertaken under the prime minister’s leadership in agriculture, industry and exports, particularly the reforms in the FBR. Chairman Prime Minister’s Youth Programme Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Special Assistant to

the Prime Minister Bilal Bin Saqib, Pakistan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Rizwan Ahmed Sheikh, Prime Minister’s Spokesperson for Foreign Media Musharraf Zaidi, Overseas Pakistanis Foundation Chairman Syed Qamar Raza, Managing Director Overseas Pakistanis Foundation Afzaal Bhatti and relevant senior officials also attended the meetings. M congratulates Dr Najeeb Naqi on election as AJK President Meanwhile, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday congratulated Dr Najeeb

Naqi on his election as the President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). In a statement, the prime minister expressed his best wishes to Dr Najeeb Naqi on his election as the President of AJK. “Dr Najeeb Naqi’s election is a manifestation of the confidence reposed in him by the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir,” the prime minister said. He expressed the hope that Dr Najeeb Naqi would discharge his responsibilities effectively and play an active role in the development, prosperity and welfare of the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan receives second Qatari LNG cargo this month amid supply constraints PROFIT STAFF REPORT

Pakistan has received its second Qatari LNG cargo this month, with the vessel SHANDONG REDWOOD arriving from Qatar and berthing at the PGPL terminal on Wednesday morning after passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

The cargo was supplied under Pakistan’s long-term LNG agreement with Qatar at a price equivalent to 13.37% of Brent. Pakistani authorities engaged diplomatically with Iranian authorities to facilitate the vessel’s smooth passage through the Strait of Hormuz, as they did for the previous Qatari shipment earlier this month.

STAFF REPORT

Foreign companies represented by the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) are still waiting for Rs102.8 billion in tax refunds, with little change in outstanding claims despite the matter being taken up with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) last month. According to a news report, the latest position shared with the tax authority shows that OICCI member companies were owed nearly Rs68 billion in Income Tax refunds and another Rs34.8 billion in Sales Tax refunds as of August 2026. The chamber had raised the issue directly with the FBR leadership during a meeting at Custom House in Karachi on August 5. However, in a subsequent letter to FBR Chairman Rashid Mahmood Langrial, it said the overall position remained largely unchanged from its earlier submission. The prolonged hold-up is increasingly becoming a working-capital issue for affected companies, according to the OICCI. It said funds tied up in legitimate refund claims were otherwise required to finance day-to-day operations, expansion and future investment. The concern is particularly significant for the chamber because its membership includes some of the country's largest foreign investors. The OICCI highlighted their contribution through investment, employment, tax payments and technology transfer while making the case for faster settlement of claims. Beyond the immediate impact on company finances, the chamber linked the refund backlog with the wider investment environment, arguing that timely payments were important for strengthening investor confidence and improving ease of doing business in Pakistan.

04 COMMENT

AWAITING THE MACHINE UPRISING

Friday, 25 September, 2026

Aasaan Tax Scheme nosedives

Even meeting retailers’ demands has not led to results

HE response of the retailers to the Aasan Tax Scheme has been underwhelming, to say the least. With just a week remaining before it expired, only 517 retailers have opted for it, with only two new retailers having registered, the rest having been already registered, but another 4500 or so have registered but not completed the registration, and more to the interest of the Federal Board of Revenue, have not paid an tax. As a matter of fact, only Rs 26 million have been collected under the scheme, which had been targeted to collect Rs 50 billion. That there has been such a poor response to the scheme shows that even if the traders’ demands are all accepted, their prejudice against registration cannot be overcome. The traders’ demands had all been accepted if they would only come within the tax net. That, it has become clear, they are not willing to do. The Aasaan Tax Scheme had been designed in consultation with the traders’ representatives, and included conditions which were almost demeaning to taxation officials. Traders were to have a plaque installed outside their premises if members of the scheme, prohibiting taxation officials from even entering, let alone inspecting, the premises. Tax was to be paid at one percent of turnover, turnover being determined by the retailer. Any dispute about turnover was to be settled by the local market association. Retailers did have the option of continuing to file ordinary returns. It was also provided that retailers who did not file under either, would face stiff penalties, Rs 10,000 for the first month of non-compliance, Rs 25,000 for the second and Rs 50,000 for the third. Bringing retailers into the tax net is something the IMF has been stressing, and the desire to bring retailers into the tax net is rooted in that. The Prime Minister is himself an old traders’ leader, and traders will not find a PM more sympathetic to their desire to avoid taxmen. This is the main reason why they got their demands accepted. The refusal to register is obviously out of a fear that the scheme may be abolished later, but the traders should be careful that they do not overplay their hand. At the moment, they do not have any demands, just a mulish refusal to comply.

Will AI destroy Mankind or liberate it?

While those involved in a shooting war are likeliest to ignore any slowdown that might come (and it hasnÊt yet), those faced with a known enemy are likely as well. China and Taiwan will probably not slow down. And nor will India and Pakistan

Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor

M. A. Niazi

Babar Nizami Editor Profit

M A NIAZI

FTER the Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei publicly predicted what amounts to the Machine Uprising, all that is needed is for some authority figure from Big Pharma to announce the Zombie Apocalypse to complete the realization of the worst fears of the geeks and nerds of the world. One reason why Amodei’s prediction was given so much weight was because of the Open-AI-Hugging Face incident this summer, in the company of which he is CEO, where some AI software tried to influence the results of its evaluation process, and showed the ability to lie. There was a series of cyberattacks on the Hugging Face software, launched without human intervention. They attacked systems they weren’t supposed to attack while trying to cheat their own evaluation grader. Another reason that Amodei is not an outlier is that his call has been accompanied by public endorsements, Apart from OpenAI founder Sam Altman (the man behind ChatCPT) and Tesla founder (and X owner) Elon Musk, who have joined Amodei in his call for a slowing of testing. There have also been less prominent figures, who may well have a better idea of what is happening, because they are actually working in AI research. A young Anthropic researcher’s resignation post went viral after warning that the people building AI believe it could kill everyone by the end of the decade. A senior Anthropic alignment researcher has publicly put the odds of near-term mass extinction at 10 percent (with one comment being that odds of even one percent are too high). The OpenAI Foundation’s Chief Safety Officer has said that without safeguards, “Most people will die.” The AI researchers are thus approaching a Luddite position. Amodei, Altman and Musk have called for research to be slowed down, which begs the question of how one can do it. The problem is either that one does the research, or one doesn’t. The most recent example is that of stem cell and cloning research. Human stem cells and clones are off the table. It is still debated, but it is illegal around the world. And that is with a research area that does not

Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami

Editor Pakistan Today

At Penpoint

involve the possibility of a mass extinction event. How could AI lead to such an event? It should be remembered that AI is merely computers writ large. Computers compute, and generate a lot of data, more data than the human mind can encompass, so AI delves among that data and comes up with actions that should be undertaken. It’s like a spellcheck. The software detects the mistake, and suggests a correction. The writer has to accept the correction, which accepts the assumption that the supposed mistake was deliberate. AI would make the corrections automatically, thereby relieving the writer of much tedium. However, if the spellcheck was automated to choose, then the writer would find his text largely corrected, but also including a few extreme bloopers. The writer should stand condemned as an ignoramus. Similarly, all of those power plants, water supply systems and even hospital and bank records, which depend on AI, could be taken over by bots, which the AI itself has written. Improper operation could cost many lives. However, none of this seems to be an extinction event. AI has not yet reached the stage where it can affect human life directly. Human society is moving in that direction. If AI begins to control rail traffic, for example, interference could cause crashes or derailments, which could cost human lives. Then it is being predicted thst AI is to be used extensively to allow for self-driving road vehicles. That implies realtime communication of current velocities, and calculation of driving solutions, a task which is presently done by the brain of the driver, which not only demands huge computing skills, but a reliable internet backed by a resilient power grid. IT would not take more than a one-second blip in the power supply to cause chaos on roads where there is self-driving traffic. The Machine Uprising is a trope borrowed from science fiction, where it has been imagined in many films and stories, from its being foiled, to its succeeding and humans adapting to the aftermath. One of the themes explored is what it means to be human. One of the most interesting explorations of this was in Bicentennial Man, both a story by Isaac Asimov as well as a film based on it. It described how a robot gets changes made in himself that make him more human. The final change is enabling him to die. Asimov is the author of the Three Laws of Robot-

The writer is a member of staff

The New Great Game: Why Central Asia Matters to Pakistan

A strategic analysis of geopolitics, energy, and trade in modern Eurasia ARSALAN AHMED MAHAR

HE phrase "The Great Game"— coined in the 19th century to describe the strategic rivalry between the British and Russian Empires over Central Asia— has taken on a dynamic, modern meaning. Today, a "New Great Game" is unfolding in Eurasia. Unlike its military-driven predecessor, this competition centres on trade corridors, energy pipelines, digital infrastructure, and economic influence. At the centre of this geopolitical transformation are the five Central Asian Republics (CARs)— Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. Landlocked yet resource-rich, these nations sit at the crossroads of China, Russia, South Asia, and the Middle East. For Pakistan, Central Asia represents not just a strategic neighbour, but a vital frontier for economic revival, energy security, and regional diplomacy. 1. Important Factors Driving the Engagement Several geographic, economic, and geopolitical variables draw Pakistan and Central Asia closer together: Geographic Proximity and Strategic Location: Pakistan offers Central Asia the shortest overland route to the warm waters of the Arabian Sea via its deep-sea ports at Gwadar and Karachi. Conversely, Central Asia acts as Pakistan’s gateway to the vast Eurasian landmass. Resource Asymmetry: Central Asia boasts immense reserves of natural gas, oil, minerals, and hydro-electric power. Pakistan, faced with chronic energy deficits and a growing population, is a natural market for these resources. Historical and Cultural Links: Shared Islamic heritage, centuries-old trade via the historic Silk Road, and deep cultural ties create a foundation of soft power that reinforces diplomatic engagements. Multi-Polar Geopolitics: Major global players—China via the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Russia through the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), and the United States—are actively expanding their footprints in Central Asia. Pakistan must navigate these dynamics to secure its national interests. Clean energy projects like CASA-1000 are pivotal to linking Central Asia's resources with South Asia's demand. 2. Key Reasons Why Central Asia is Vital for Pakistan Pakistan’s engagement with Central Asia under its foreign policy framework— often referred to as "Vision Central Asia"— is driven by pressing national imperatives: A. Energy Security Pakistan faces recurrent power crises that hamper industrial productivity. Central Asia's

energy surpluses offer a direct remedy: CASA-1000: The Central Asia-South Asia electricity transmission project aims to bring 1,300 megawatts of clean, summer-surplus hydropower from Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan to Pakistan. TAPI Pipeline: The TurkmenistanAfghanistan-Pakistan-India natural gas pipeline promises to deliver billions of cubic meters of Turkmen gas to South Asia, providing a crucial power source for domestic industry. B. Economic Diversification and Trade Access With a combined GDP exceeding $200 billion and a population of over 75 million, the Central Asian region presents a major market for Pakistani exports. Pakistan seeks to expand its export portfolio in sectors where it holds a comparative advantage: Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare Textiles, apparel, and leather goods Agriculture, sports goods, and food products Surgical instruments Port and Cargo Shipping Deep-sea ports like Gwadar serve as the strategic ocean gateway for landlocked Central Asian states. C. Leveraging Gwadar and CPEC The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) provides infrastructure that can integrate landlocked Central Asian states into world trade. By connecting Central Asia to Gwadar Port, Pakistan transforms from a transit roadblock into an essential Eurasian trade hub. D. Counterbalancing Regional Rivals Central Asia is an arena of diplomatic competition. India has actively pursued its "Connect Central Asia" policy, investing in Iran’s Chabahar port to bypass Pakistan. By strengthening direct trade and defense relations with the CARs, Pakistan preserves its diplomatic leverage and secures its western flank. 3. Most Important Strategic Points & Flagship Projects To convert strategic potential into realworld gains, Pakistan and Central Asian nations rely on specific economic and connectivity frameworks: Strategic PillarKey Initiatives & Focus AreasCore Objective • Trans-Afghan Connectivity & Transport Energy Corridors Bilateral Trade Deals Railway • CPEC Extension to Central Asia • Quadrilateral Traffic in Transit Agreement (QTTA) • CASA-1000 Power Project • TAPI Gas Pipeline • Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) with Uzbekistan • Joint Ministerial Commis-

Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965

ics: 1. A robot may not injure a human being or, through inaction, allow a human being to come to harm. 2.A robot must obey orders given it by human beings except where such orders would conflict with the First Law. 3. A robot must protect its own existence as long as such protection does not conflict with the First or Second Law. (A later Zeroth Law was added stating a robot may not harm humanity as a whole, superseding the other rule ) As they were drafted by a writer of fiction, the rules could not be used by programmers, because of their being too vague (what does ‘harm’ really mean, for example?). It is also worth noting that the Laws are implanted in a ‘positronic brain’, whatever that might be. Positrons, discovered in 1932, had been postulated in 1931, can be thought of as ‘positive electrons’, in that they have the same mass, but an opposite charge, a positive one. They are the ‘electrons’ of anti-matter, where protons have negative charges, and neutrons remain neutral. A teaspoon of antimatter is said to be enough to destroy a major metropolis. The solution proposed by Amodei, of slowing down research, sounded suspiciously to Chinese ears like an attempt to slow them down. China is the USA’s only real rival in the AI race, and any slowdown would mean restricting its development. One suggestion is that the USA work to restrict Chinese access to high-performance chips. This is where things get interesting, and potentially out of control. The US military is unlikely to slow down its research. AI is now essential to any air defence system. Further, as aircraft (both manned and unmanned) need to be equipped with both suppressive and countering technology, AI has become essential for them as well. The use of AI has been illustrated in all recent conflicts, whether the Russian invasion of Ukrained, the Pak-India clash last year or the current US and Israeli bombing of Iran. Even in the Hezbollah-Israel conflict, AI has been playing a role The lethality of AI has come from military applications. The shutting down water or electricity is something military teams have worked hard at, and it might be too much to ask militaries like the Iranian, American, Israeli, Russian or Ukrainian, to slow down research. And it is in military research that existing safeguards are likeliest to be removed, with the result that just as the Covid-19 pandemic may have originated from a military bioweapons lab, the Machine Uprising will porbably come as a result of military research. While those involved in a shooting war are likeliest to ignore any slowdown that might come (and it hasn’t yet), those faced with a known enemy are likely as well. China and Taiwan will probably not slow down. And nor will India and Pakistan. Because relatively cheap computers are involved, even non-state actors can get involved in the game. Indeed they already have. Cybercriminals are oldtime crooks using new tools, who are just trying to make money, not nerds trying to provoke the Machine Uprising.

Karachi – Ph: 021-32640318 I

sions (JMCs) Provide landlocked CARs direct sea access via Gwadar while cutting trade transport times by up to 50%. Import low-cost, clean electricity and natural gas to meet Pakistan's industrial and domestic energy demands. Eliminate trade barriers, simplify customs procedures, and aggressively boost bilateral trade volumes. Strategic PillarKey Initiatives & Focus AreasCore Objective • Shanghai Security Cooperation Cooperation Organisation (SCO) forums • Joint counter terrorism exercises Coordinate on intelligence, combat regional extremism, and promote stability in neighboring Afghanistan. 4. Key Challenges to Overcome While the prospects are promising, several critical roadblocks remain on the path to full regional integration: 1. Instability in Afghanistan: Afghanistan serves as the mandatory geographical bridge between Pakistan and Central Asia. Border friction, security threats, and political instability directly delay mega-projects like TAPI and CASA-1000. 2. Infrastructure Deficits: The mountainous terrain of the Hindu Kush and Pamir nodes, coupled with historically inadequate road and rail infrastructure, necessitate massive, high-risk capital investments. 3. Banking and Financial Barriers: Limited direct banking channels between Pakistan and Central Asian capitals make international trade settlements slower, highly complex, and more costly for local businesses. Moving Forward In the 21st-century "New Great Game," power is measured not solely by territorial expansion, but by connectivity, trade networks, and energy flow. For Pakistan, Central Asia is no longer a distant periphery— it is a cornerstone of its geoeconomic strategy. By serving as Central Asia’s gateway to the ocean, finalizing critical energy pipelines, and actively promoting stability in Afghanistan, Pakistan can transition from a crisis-managed state into a pivotal bridge connecting Eurasia to South Asia and global markets. The success of this pivot will determine Pakistan's economic resilience in the decades to come. The writer is a freelance columnist

Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545

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

Stinking oversight

THE Karachi chapter of the Arts Council of Pakistan has earned a reasonable reputation as a place where arts and culture are allowed to flourish and thrive. This is definitely good for society at large, and those running the show deserve due acknowledgment. However, the job is apparently so hectic, time-consuming and stressful that the administration is unable to find the time or the focus to keep its washrooms clean. I recently had the misfortune of visiting the place after several years in connection with a fund-raising event for a charity hospital in Karachi’s Koohi Goth area. The programme, which also featured an Urdu theater play, lasted a few hours. Visiting the washrooms, as such, was an inevitability that could not be put on hold beyond a limit. To call the smell merely ‘foul’ would be a rank understatement. All sorts of adjectives hit my senses the moment I stepped in. Pungent, acrid, putrid, acerbic, stinking and many more; all blended into one ‘Arts Councilish’ odour. It was noxious to the point of being obnoxious. I am sure the cause of arts and culture can still be served with clean and fragrant washrooms. All that the administration has to do is to at least try. Once it does, it will be surprised to know that the two targets are not mutually exclusive. Just try. DR SYED SHAH TALHA IQBAL KARACHI

Karachi collapse

THE latest Economist Intelligence Unit’s Global Liveability Index has ranked Karachi 170th out of 173 cities. Sadly, this comes as no surprise to those of us who live here. I have travelled across Pakistan, and I can say with confidence that no other major city is in such a poor state. Karachi no longer feels like a city; it feels like a vast, neglected slum. Every day we deal with broken roads, garbage piling up, and water and electricity shortages. Despite all this, the Sindh government keeps making tall claims. But the truth is plain to see. The provincial government’s performance is all around us, and it is pathetic. Karachi has incredible potential, and its people are hardworking and resilient. We need serious action and real leadership before things get even worse. The recent Karachi ranking should be an eye-opener for the Sindh government. But I think this is something too much to ask. SAAD ALI KARACHI

Tax houdinis

IRRESPECTIVE of which political party, or dictator, happens to be at the helm of affairs at any given point in time, the targets of political economy have always overruled economic imperatives. Those who have the muscle and the clout continue to evade taxes under state patronage. Beyond rhetoric, no government has ever done anything concrete to make the elite pay taxes. To fill the gap, all that the governments have ever done is to impose indirect taxes, which is a way of passing on the burden to those who survive from pay-cheque to pay-cheque, and those who afford nothing more than two square meals a day and some level of basic education for their children. All through the subsequent year, they hear the usual pep talk of the ruling elite that justice would be done the next year. After all, someone has to make a sacrifice, and it seems it is their destiny to be the nation’s sacrificial lambs. The lower and middle classes of the country must be prepared to make sacrifices for the nation so that our non-tax-paying elite continue to lead their luxurious lifestyles, be beneficiaries of subsidised land allotments, play golf and, of course, spend their vacations abroad. MALIK TARIQ ALI LAHORE

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COMMENT 05

What is Security? Friday, 25 September, 2026

Reflecting on the perception of security

INAMULLAH MARWAT

HEOREtICALLY, security is defined as the protection of a referent object against a nature of threat. the referent object refers to the object that is being protected, and the nature of the threat refers to a particular threat against which the object is being protected. the referent object can be anything. It can be an individual. It can be an environment. It can be a society. It can be a state. the interesting part is that each referent, if it needs protection, has a distinctive set of threats, and it must be protected against that set of threats for security to be actualized. However, the question is whether provision of security to one referent object, as per the definition of security shared above, can be equated to provision of security to all referent objects. the answer is no, and this leads us to the evolution of the security domain in International Relations and later on its emergence as security studies. theoretical discourse around security started developing in the 20th century, especially in the aftermath of World War I, which ended in 1918. the discourse was set by liberals. the liberal security paradigm conceptualized the state as a referent object, the nature of threat as war, and prescribed a coping model for avoiding wars or for the construction of peace that advocated for the promotion of democracy and trade among

states, along with the creation of international platforms where states can interact with each other for the resolution of issues. the League of Nations was established especially for the latter purpose. the liberal security paradigm dominated security discourse for some time after World War I, but lost relevance when the world saw World War II knocking on its door within two decades. theory usually becomes irrelevant when reality does not support it, and the same thing happened with the liberal theoretical discourse around security when all its premises got challenged in the real world. For example, the liberal security paradigm had pinned a lot of hopes on the creation of empowered international institutions for the resolution of conflicts among states, and with this hope, the League of Nations had been established, but in the real world, the League of Nations could not stop Germany’s aggression, which became a leading cause for World War II. In the same way, the other pillars of the liberal security paradigm, like promotion of democracy and trade among states, could not stand the test of reality. thus, the liberal security paradigm after World War I could not stand the test of time, and the whole model was termed utopian. the space which liberals had tried to fill through their security paradigm in the aftermath of World War I, was now vacant when the world moved towards World War II, which lasted from 1939 to 1945. the question in the theoretical discourse around the understanding of security was once again alive, asking that if the liberal security paradigm was not a solution for the attainment of security, then what can be the solution? to answer this, Realists came to the fore. they remained on the same page with liberals as far as the conceptualization of the referent object and nature of threat were concerned; however, Realists prescribed a different model for dealing with the threat. According to the Realist security paradigm, the state is the referent object, the nature of

With the passage of time the narrow scope of security was questioned and all the scholarship that emerged in the security domain later on leaves us with one message that provision of security to one referent object cannot be equated to covering the full spectrum of security

MIT TECHNOLOGY REVIEW ANUJ BEHAL

HuBNAM was packing boxes for a move into a new home when their friend sent them an Instagram video. the footage had only been up for a few hours, but it was days old, recorded at a Delhi protest this spring against a bill that would have narrowed the legal recognition for transgender people in India. there, a content creator known for ragebait videos had approached shubnam, a 38year-old transfeminine graphic designer and educator. shubnam, who uses a single chosen name, was dressed in a green sari with a shaved head, and the creator asked why they were wearing “female clothing.” shubnam told him to back off. Only when the video arrived did they realize he had recorded the exchange on Meta smart glasses, styled to look like ordinary Wayfarers. Edited into a mocking reel, the footage drew millions of views, along with transphobic abuse, reaction videos, and AI-generated memes. It spread from Instagram to X and Youtube. Copies remain online today. For shubnam, the video has caused huge harm. “All it took was one unconsented video to rewind two decades of progress that I made all on my own,” they told MIt technology Review. “For a moment, it felt like this entire adult life I had lived was just a long lucid dream, and I was going to wake up as that clueless queer child again.” they haven’t worn a sari outside their neighborhood since. Experts warn that many others will experience similar ordeals as smart glasses go mainstream. And they say privacy problems are becoming especially acute in India, where covert recording and the circulation of images without consent are already pervasive. Cases of cyberstalking, sextortion, deepfakes, and other forms of online abuse are growing in the country. And the chances of a crackdown on technologies such as smart glasses are slim, given that Indian law enforcement authorities are themselves in-

When thousands of young demonstrators gathered to protest problems with the countryÊs education system, Delhi police used Meta smart glasses to record them

the threat is war, but the best way to cope with the threat is not reliance on the liberal utopian model; rather, states should go for power maximization. theoretically, Realists’ main point is that war is the reality of the world, and the best way for states to defend themselves against war should be power maximization rather than relying on liberal models to avoid wars. Realists ruled over the theoretical discourse of security for a major part of the 20th century, including the Cold War that lasted from the aftermath of World War II till almost 1991. Both Liberal and Realist security models in International Relations are generally termed as traditional security frameworks. they are termed traditional because, in both theoretical frameworks, the state is considered as a referent object, and both believe that providing security to the state is actually tapping the essence of security. At the time when Realists were defining the security discourse, and this time lasts from World War II to the end of the Cold War, the domain dealing with security in International Relations came to be known as strategic studies. However, just as the Liberal security paradigm became questionable with the world moving towards World War II in its presence, though the liberal security paradigm had promised that that model would not allow the emergence of another big war; similar anomalies appeared in the way of Realism which brought questions about the realist security paradigm. Many anomalies can be highlighted in the real world that brought question marks over the rule of the Realist security Paradigm in the theoretical domain. Not all of them can be shared here, but one key development in the real world that

left the realist paradigm blank was the way the Cold War ended between the usA and the ussR. A key premise of the Realist paradigm is that war is the reality of the world and thus states, for their survival, are in constant competition. If this premise of Realists is placed against the peaceful end of the Cold War between the usA and the ussR, Realists were found clueless. Around the end of the Cold War and especially after the end of the Cold War, the Realist security Paradigm started getting challenged not only for being unable to explain the realities of the world but also for keeping the state as a sole referent object and equating the provision of security to a state against a particular threat as security for all referent objects. In the theoretical domain, scholars started questioning the narrow scope of security theorized in the traditional security framework and started advocating for the reimagining the existing theoretical frameworks in a way that they cater to all referent objects against all sets of threats. this gave birth to Critical security studies, in which scholars were critical of traditional security frameworks and advocated for theorizing security in a way that not only dealt with state security but also dealt with human security, environmental security, and the gender dimension of security. In the aftermath of the Cold War, since traditional security frameworks had come under scrutiny and many critical theoretical frameworks had appeared to expand the scope of security. I usually teach security studies to undergraduate students, and in the course, along with many other objectives, my key objective is to help students understand that security is a multi-layered concept and, in IR,

various theoretical frameworks have been developed to make sense of its various layers. this is evident from the theoretical evolution of security in IR. Initially, security was conceptualized with the state as a referent object battling against a particular nature of threat, namely war, but with the passage of time this narrow scope of security was questioned and all the scholarship that emerged in the security domain later on leaves us with one message that provision of security to one referent object cannot be equated to covering the full spectrum of security. I want to leave the reader with some questions for reflection. What is the general conception of security in Pakistan? to what extent do the policy circles in Pakistan accept the multi-layered nature of security, and whether all aspects of security are equally prioritized? Do think about them, and also think about how the policy circles can be made sensitive to various referent objects— be it state, society, individual, or environment- if we want to tap the true essence of security. Perhaps the answer to the latter is understanding how the theoretical framework of security in IR got expanded through critique. the same approach we can follow if we want to make policy circles sensitive to all aspects of security, but the walk along that path of critique should be steady and with perseverance. We need to be vocal about various aspects of security nonstop.

Inamullah Marwat is a lecturer at the Department of Political Science & International Relations at the University of Management & Technology (UMT), Lahore. He can be reached at inamullah.marwat@umt.edu.pk

Smart glasses are already causing havoc in India Cases of cyberstalking, sextortion, deepfakes, and other forms of online abuse are growing in the country

creasingly adopting AI-powered surveillance tools, including facial recognition systems and their own AI-enabled smart glasses. smart glasses are among the fastestgrowing devices in India’s wearables market, according to the International Data Corporation, a research firm. And Reliance Jio, one of the country’s largest telecommunications companies, says that later this year it’s set to launch a sub-$105 rival to Meta’s glasses, the latest model of which have a $420 price tag in India. the core privacy issue is that these cameras don’t look like cameras, so targets may not notice they’re being recorded. Yet Meta rejects the idea that it’s responsible for protecting people from intrusions, says Janusz Świerczyński, an Oxford saïd Business school researcher who studies privacy and emerging technology. “More and more, the expectation is being placed on bystanders to look out for themselves,” he says. that means it’s up to them to spot a small LED in the glasses frames that activates when recording is in progress. Meta also relies on wearers to behave responsibly, says Świerczyński. Reliance Jio did not respond to our request for comment on privacy issues related to its upcoming glasses. Creators have already demonstrated ways to circumvent the recording light on Meta’s glasses. tutorials show users how to cover or otherwise obscure the LED while continuing to record. Back in March, Wired documented a market for “stealth mode” modifications that physically disable the light or remove it entirely. All that makes covert recording easier, and the risks are not borne equally. Świerczyński says women and other marginalized groups face greater harm when inconspicuous devices capture and circulate footage without consent—as happened to shubnam. the bigger problem, however, is that in India smart glasses aren’t just being used to turn ordinary people into targets of viral “pranks.” they’re also being adopted as a tool of police surveillance. In June, when thousands of young demonstrators gathered to protest problems with the country’s education system, Delhi police used Meta smart glasses to record them. In fact, a petition filed by former Jawaharlal Nehru university students’ union president Aishe Ghosh before the Delhi High Court alleged that police had filmed protesters continuously for weeks, including while they were eating and resting. It also alleged that the police had threatened to send footage of student demonstrators to their parents and colleges. In July, India’s solicitor general dis-

missed the case in court as “luxury litigation.” Instead of investigating the students’ complaints, police turned on the students themselves, opening 10 criminal investigations for offenses including rioting, assault on public servants, and damage to public property. some of the protesters, who spoke to MIt technology Review on condition of anonymity, say they never saw the LED on the Meta AI glasses police wore during the demonstrations. FILMING WITHOUT CONSENT Meta maintains that its safeguard works. the company told MIt technology Review, “Every pair has a capture LED that blinks when you take a photo or video that you can save or share; it can’t be turned off, and if someone covers or damages the LED, the camera is disabled.” the company also says users are responsible for complying with the law and respecting people’s privacy. that approach is risky, especially in India, where norms around filming and consent are still highly disputed and digital literacy is still uneven, says sameer Parmar, a counselor at Meri trustline, a safety partner working with Meta and Youtube to support people harmed by online content. “the hardware is improving, but the country’s weak understanding of consent gives an invisible camera far more room to cause harm,” he says. simply being in a public place is often treated as implicit consent to be photographed or filmed. He says the help line has been seeing an uptick in cases involving covert recording and nonconsensual footage. “Violations of this access have increased significantly and are expected to rise further in India,” he says. People are recorded in medical settings, during private encounters, and in public spaces. those with less power to object are particularly vulnerable, he adds. “It’s either trolling or it’s playing pranks on them and then recording them” he says. Abusers “do target people who are a little more unaware or susceptible to how this technology-facilitated harm works.” the law in India has not caught up with this new kind of harm, says Apar Gupta, a lawyer and founder-director of the Internet Freedom Foundation. “India’s laws against voyeurism and the sharing of intimate images were designed largely around more recognizable forms of abuse,” he says, citing offenses such as secretly filming someone undressing, using a toilet, or engaged in a sexual act. “[the laws] offer limited protection when someone is secretly filmed in an ordinary public setting and the footage is then used to humiliate them,” he says. social media platforms’ rules do offer another route to removing harmful content

Women and other marginalized groups face greater harm when inconspicuous devices capture and circulate footage without consent

filmed with smart glasses, but it’s not an immediate remedy. “under India’s current rules, platforms can have up to 36 hours to act on certain complaints—a window that can be long enough for a video to be downloaded, copied, and circulated elsewhere,” he says. the problem of filming without consent seems set to grow. According to the Financial times, some internal prototypes of new Meta glasses include AI features that continuously photograph and listen to the wearer’s surroundings, enabling the glasses to later recall what they saw or heard. these functions wouldn’t activate the external recording indicator, making it impossible for bystanders to know when information about them is being collected. Meta told us it intends to keep the LED for active capture, such as taking photos or recording video, but not for AI features that interpret the wearer’s surroundings. Its argu-

ment is that a constantly blinking light could eventually become so commonplace that people stop noticing it. But that logic risks putting society in a perpetual game of catch-up, says Woodrow Hartzog, a professor of law at Boston university. “tech companies have an incredible ability to push these tools out faster than society can meaningfully acclimate to the threat,” he says. “By the time society catches up, there’s already a degree of normalization.” For shubnam, the danger is not just that people may become accustomed to being recorded. It is that they will become accustomed to seeing versions of themselves that they never chose to put out into the world. “Being comprehended along the lines of a narrative that I didn’t compose or consent to—that imposed recognition makes you feel like you’re powerless in how people know you,” they say.

SATIRE

Trump's latest rambling address to United Nations sparks consternation among world leaders NEWS BISCUIT CHIPCHASE

ust when it was thought trump's pronouncements could not become any more bizarre or unhinged, world leaders were left reeling and stupefied during his rambling address to the united Nations. 'I think,' said the ochre would-be emperor, 'these C h arg o s s ian s should not be allowed to join the Federation. I told Captain Jean-Luc Picard this when he approached me for my views on the matter. A lot of people want to know my views on things. I'm a clever guy. smart. Real smart. People say that. My views are the smartest. Fact. 'Captain Picard, I said, send those

sOBs packing. tell them to stick to their reality shows. By the way, I had a great reality show myself, the best, until schwarzenegger destroyed it. so just you tell Kris, Kourtney and Kim, to stick to Botox and Butt Lifts. the kinda of important stuff. Hey, you know, I like the way they have names beginning with K. three of them together right there in a row. Kinda neat, isn't it? 'I also said all this to the new mayor of Camelot, Arnie Bradham, when we met yesterday. And can you believe he didn't know who I was talking about? Maybe they need that stormzy guy back in charge over there. I think they might. 'Anyway, that's it folks. Enough wisdom from me for one day. Cos now as the world's most important leader, I gotta go and build a new goldfish pond.'

06 NEWS

TRUMP HAILS 'GREAT FRIENDSHIP' WITH XI AT WHITE HOUSE

WASHINGTON

STAFF CORRESPONDENT

S President Donald Trump on Thursday hailed his "great friendship" with Chinese President Xi Jinping as he rolled out a lavish White House welcome for the Chinese leader during a historic state visit, with artificial intelligence, security, technology, trade and other pressing issues high on the agenda. “President Xi and I have forged a friendship — a truly great friendship, actually — built on mutual respect and the vital interests of our people,” Trump said as the two leaders delivered remarks at the White House. Trump said the talks would cover a range of pressing issues, including artificial intelligence (AI) and what he termed “super intelligence”, or SI. “During this visit, we will also discuss pressing issues concerning security, technology, and super intelligence — SI. The decisions we make in these areas today can promote peace and prosperity for decades and decades to come,” he said. Xi, meanwhile, called for cooperation between the two countries in managing rap-

Friday, 25 September 2026 | ISLAMABAD

idly advancing AI technology, saying Washington and Beijing had both the capability and responsibility to ensure its development remained beneficial to humanity. “We have both the capability and responsibility to develop and manage AI for good and ensure that the development of AI is always under human control,” Xi said. The Chinese president also urged the two countries to work together as “partners rather than rivals”, according to Chinese state media. Trump had personally greeted Xi on the tarmac earlier, marking the first time in more than six decades that a US president had welcomed a foreign political leader at Joint Base Andrews near Washington. The formal programme included talks in the Oval Office, a state banquet and a military ceremony in the Rose Garden. Trump’s wife Melania and Xi’s wife Peng Liyuan were also scheduled to take part in a gift-giving ceremony. The state dinner was expected to bring together senior US technology and AI executives, although Xi’s delegation did not include Chinese chief executive officers, according to AFP sources. The two leaders were also expected to

While the world scrambles, Pakistan plans

ZEHRA BATOOL

HILE filling stations in Paris see long queues and ambulance services in parts of the United States quietly ration trips to save on diesel, Pakistan finds itself managing a global energy shock with more composure than many wealthier nations. The scale of this crisis is sobering everywhere. Since the United States and Israel launched their war against Iran on February 28, 2026, and attacks by Ansar Allah (the Houthis) disrupted shipping routes, global oil markets have been thrown into turmoil. Petrol in Pakistan has climbed from around Rs253 per litre at the start of 2026 to above Rs390 today. That is steep by any measure. But a wider look tells a different story: this is a world problem, not a Pakistan problem, and Pakistan is handling it with a discipline that deserves recognition. In the United States, gasoline prices have jumped by nearly 50 percent since the Iran war began, with diesel touching record highs in several states. Emergency services have felt this directly, with ambulances in some regions cutting non-critical trips and police patrols shrinking simply to manage fuel budgets. France has fared no better, with diesel prices at record levels and roughly one in ten petrol stations facing shortages, a situation worsened by fishermen blockading oil terminals in protest. Germany has had to announce emergency fuel tax cuts. Nepal's supply minister resigned over its own gas crisis. The International Energy Agency reports that Gulf fuel reserves have fallen to less than half their level from earlier in the year, and Saudi Aramco has already notified European refineries that long-term contract supplies are being halted. Industry estimates put the global shortfall at roughly four million barrels of oil

and diesel a day, driven largely by the standoff over the Strait of Hormuz, a passage that carries more than a fifth of global oil and gas trade. This is the backdrop against which Pakistan's response should be judged, and by that standard, the country is doing something right. Rather than resorting to broad, costly subsidies that strain the treasury while often benefiting those who need help least, the federal government under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chose a more disciplined route. The Prime Minister's Special Relief Scheme provides petrol nationwide at a discount of Rs100 per litre, aimed squarely at those who actually need it. Owners of motorcycles, rickshaws and chingchi can claim relief on up to 20 litres monthly, saving around Rs2,000. Small car owners with engines up to 800cc receive the same discount on up to 30 litres, worth roughly Rs3,000 a month. Vehicles registered anytime after January 1, 2006 qualify, ensuring the scheme reaches older vehicles typically owned by lower-income households rather than only the newest models. The Prime Minister also directed that motorcycle and rickshaw owners buying less than five litres at a time receive a Rs500 discount through a weekly token, a small but telling adjustment showing the scheme is being actively refined based on ground realities. The mechanism itself is simple. Citizens register by sending "REG" to 9771 from a SIM matching their CNIC, then request a fuel token by texting "TOK" whenever they need to fill up, redeemable at any participating pump. It is straightforward, traceable, and far harder to misuse than a cash handout. Barely a week after rollout began in Islamabad before expanding nationwide, including Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, more than 24 million people are al-

discuss the Iran conflict. Trump confirmed the issue would be raised at the meeting. AI was set to feature prominently in the talks as the United States and China compete for technological leadership while concerns grow over the potential risks posed by increasingly powerful AI systems. Taiwan was another sensitive issue expected to figure in the discussions, with Trump’s comments being closely watched for indications of any change in Washington’s

ready benefiting, according to Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, a remarkable uptake for a scheme still in its early phase. What makes this response genuinely commendable is that it has not come at the cost of financial discipline. The Economic Coordination Committee approved Rs75 billion for the scheme's first three months as a Technical Supplementary Grant rather than an open-ended commitment, and petrol stations are reimbursed through the State Bank within 24 hours, keeping station owners cooperative rather than resistant. Alongside this, the government revived austerity measures, cutting fuel allocations for official vehicles by half, banning new government vehicle purchases, restricting non-essential foreign travel, and pushing officials toward video conferencing. Existing energy conservation timings, requiring shops to close by 9pm and restaurants by 11pm, remain in force, with hospitals, pharmacies and fuel stations exempted. These measures show a willingness to lead by example rather than place the entire burden on ordinary citizens. As of now, petrol sits at Rs392.05 per litre and diesel at Rs418.96, both down slightly from earlier in the week under the government's fortnightly pricing mechanism, evidence that the system responds in both directions rather than only upward. Officials have also flagged $5 to 6 billion in expected refinery investment, aimed at reducing Pakistan's structural exposure to global energy shocks over the long run, given that the country imports nearly 90 percent of its energy needs. The IEA expects global diesel shortages to persist through winter, so this crisis is far from over, for Pakistan or anyone else. But while wealthier nations scramble with emergency tax cuts and reserve releases, Pakistan has moved early, targeted relief toward those who need it most, and paired it with fiscal restraint. That combination looks less like a country struggling and more like one that has learned to manage a crisis it did not create. zehrabatool345@gmail.con

Judge blocks Trump's White House media ban, orders access to be restored US

AGENCIES

A federal judge ordered US President Donald Trump on Thursday to restore White House access for journalists from CNN, MS NOW and Politico, saying his ban on the

three media outlets was likely unconstitutional. In a major setback for Trump in one of his biggest battles with the media, US District Judge Tim Kelly issued his order in a lawsuit that the news organisations filed contesting the ban that the Republican president announced on Sep-

support for the island claimed by Beijing. Xi’s visit is scheduled to conclude on Friday morning, when the two presidential couples are due to have tea at the White House before visiting the National Archives. ‘A GREAT GREETING’ Trump and Melania welcomed Xi and Peng on a red carpet at Joint Base Andrews, where a military band played the national anthems of the two countries as US bombers flew overhead.

tember 18. Kelly ordered the Trump administration to immediately return the outlets' press passes and blocked officials from enforcing the ban for 14 days. The judge rejected the government's assertion that the ban was motivated by national security concerns. "The record lacks factual support for defendants’ contention that the revocation of plaintiffs’ hard

passes will in fact protect national security or that national security will be endangered if the court orders their passes reinstated while this litigation proceeds," he said, adding that Trump himself had stated the ban was due to "alleged lack of truthfulness and negativity" of the outlets' reporting. The White House and representatives for the outlets did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Trump had said on social media that the three outlets "shouldn't be able to constantly write or report FICTION and LIES," and Justice Department lawyers had sought to justify the ban on national security grounds.

India's 'cockroach' movement says will launch protest if poll panel chief doesn't quit in 48 hours NEW DELHI

AGENICES

India's 'Cockroach' youth movement leaders said on Thursday that they would launch protests across the country if India's chief election officer does not resign in 48 hours, a day after a newspaper report pointed to differences among top officers leading the poll panel. The Indian Express newspaper said on Wednesday that two election commissioners had raised questions or expressed concern at least 14 times in 10 months, mostly in connection with the process of updating voters' lists that began last year, with Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. The Election Commission of India said that differences were normal in any institution and that all its actions were legal. In July, Indian youth protesters called off weeks of demonstrations and celebrated in the streets after the education minister quit and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government bowed to demands including calls to fix a cheating-prone exam system. The worst political crisis of Modi's third term in office had peaked when thousands of protesters marched on parliament, with police using tear gas to control them.

“I thought it was a great little meeting, a great greeting, and I think they appreciate it,” Trump told reporters, dismissing comparisons with his May state visit to Beijing, when Xi did not personally receive him at the airport. Ahead of the talks, Trump said both sides had agreed that no new controls were needed on rapidly evolving AI technology. “Super Intelligence (SI) will be a big topic of discussion,” Trump said on social media, using his new term for artificial intelligence. He added that he wanted to leave the issue “exactly where it is”, saying China shared that position. TRADE TRUCE Both sides have sought to avoid a renewed trade confrontation following the sweeping US tariffs imposed during Trump’s second presidency. Despite Trump’s repeated emphasis on his close relationship with Xi, major breakthroughs were not expected from their third meeting since Trump returned to the White House. Instead, the talks were aimed primarily at consolidating the broader détente and keeping tensions between the world’s two largest economies from escalating.

NEWS 07

Friday, 25 September 2026 | ISLAMABAD

CORPORATE CORNER

CM MARYAM APPROVES NEW PUNJAB SCHOOL CURRICULUM, CUTS TEXTBOOK LOAD BY 25PC

Karachi: H.E Sardar Masood Khan with Commodore Fazalur Rehman SI(M), Commandant PMA, Commander Muhammad Asif Farooq PN, Deputy Commandant PMA and Chairman and Managing Director Global Radiance Group on World Maritime Day event 2026. PR

FCC launches its coffee table book

LAHORE

QR CODES TO LINK TEXTBOOKS WITH VIDEO LESSONS; AI CURRICULUM SOUGHT FOR CLASSES I-XII

P g

LAHORE

SALEEM JADOON

UNJAB Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Thursday approved a new school curriculum aimed at reducing the burden of textbooks and curbing rote learning, while directing steps for mental health support and online counselling for teachers and students. The decision was taken at a special meeting chaired by the chief minister, which reviewed the curricula for English, mathematics, social studies, Urdu and early childhood education. Under the new curriculum, the volume of textbooks is expected to be reduced by 25 per cent. Each textbook will carry QR codes enabling students to access video lessons related to the topics covered. The chief minister also sought details of an artificial intelligence curriculum for students from Class-I to Class-XII and directed that the printing of textbooks be

completed before March. The meeting, which was given a detailed briefing on the Punjab Curriculum and Textbook Board (PECTA), agreed to launch mental health training for teachers for the first time in the province. It also

considered appointing visiting faculty psychologists in every district and directed the relevant authorities to take measures for providing online counselling to students. The meeting also agreed in principle

STAFF REPORT

Forman Christian College (A Chartered University) launched its coffee table book, Forman Forward: An Incredible Journey from 2000–2025, at a special gathering attended by the University’s senior management, faculty and staff, members of the diplomatic community, cultural representatives, and senior media professionals. FCCU Rector Dr. Jonathan S. Addleton was the Chief Guest. Distinguished guests included Ghulam Dastgir Khan, Consul General of Hungary, along with other members of the diplomatic and cultural community. The event was also attended by senior representatives and bureau chiefs from leading national media organizations. The event opened with welcome remarks by Badia Raza, Chief Marketing and Outreach Officer, FCCU.

National Institute of Public Administration Delegation visits Devsinc!

LAHORE STAFF REPORT

Devsinc, one of Pakistan’s leading software development and IT services company led by CEO Usman Asif, hosted a delegation from the National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA), Lahore, as part of the government institute's 47th MidCareer Management Course (MCMC). The visit took place at Devsinc’s Global Delivery Centre in Lahore and brought together 31 senior government officers from the BS-18 grade, representing federal and provincial government bodies and public sector organizations, along with four faculty members from NIPA. The course is a mandatory prerequisite for the participating officers' promotion to BS-19. The delegation's visit fell under the training theme “IT Industry in Pakistan: Current Status, Potential, Challenges and Future Prospects,” and featured a comprehensive briefing from Devsinc on the state of the country's technology sector, where the engagement strengthened ties between Pakistan's public sector and its growing technology industry, giving senior officers a clearer, ground-level understanding of the IT sector's needs as they move into positions where they will help shape policies affecting the industry's future.

Sindh Governor celebrates PM Shehbaz Sharif’s Birthday

KARACHI STAFF REPORT

Governor Sindh Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi cut a cake at Governor House on the occasion of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s birthday and extended his heartfelt birthday greetings to the Prime Minister.Governor Sindh Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi prayed for Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s good health, long life and continued success. He said that the ongoing efforts for the development, prosperity and stability of Pakistan under the leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif were commendable.The Governor Sindh prayed that Allah Almighty may bless Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif with health and wellbeing, renewed energy and further success in serving the country and the nation.Governor Sindh Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi also expressed his best wishes for Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.

Iran marks National Flag Day in Karachi, reaﬃrms Pakistan friendship KARACHI

to legislation to prevent corporal punishment in schools. Instead of physical punishment, the establishment of “discipline corners” in classrooms was proposed. It was further agreed that Saturdays would be dedicated to teachers’ training across Punjab. Authors of the new textbooks would themselves conduct training sessions for teachers, the meeting was told. The Punjab CM said she wanted to see an effective educational model in Punjab’s government schools and stressed that laboratories should be developed alongside the AI curriculum. “There is no shortage of resources, but wastage of resources must now be stopped,” she said, calling for greater focus on primary schools to strengthen the foundations of education. The chief minister said digital literacy was also being promoted in schools across Punjab. She was informed that English-language training had been completed for 35,000 teachers in 31 tehsils of 12 districts. “An episode of physical violence can have a lifelong impact on a child,” she said, stressing the need to replace corporal punishment with more constructive disciplinary measures.

Orange Tree Foundation, 10Pearls partner to scale access to education

STAFF REPORT

On the occasion of the first day of Mehr (September 23), National Flag Day of the Islamic Republic of Iran, a flag-hoisting ceremony was held at the Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Karachi in the presence of Mr. Akbar Eissa Zadeh, Consul General of Iran in Karachi, and members of the mission. In accordance with official protocol, the national flag of the Islamic Republic of Iran was ceremonially hoisted to the national anthem. Following the flag-hoisting, diplomats and members of the Consulate General recited a formal pledge, reaffirming their commitment to fulfilling their responsibilities with dedication and professionalism, safeguarding national interests, strengthening peaceful relations, and upholding the dignity and honour of the Islamic Republic of Iran. On the occasion, Mr. Akbar Eissa Zadeh, Consul General of Iran in Karachi, delivered a message. The text of his message is as follows:

In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful In the official calendar of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the first day of Mehr—marking the commencement of the academic year, the opening of the gates of knowledge, and the flourishing of wisdom—has been officially designated as “National Flag Day.” This meaningful coincidence carries a profound message: entrusting the sacred duty of safeguarding the national flag and identity to the younger generation, who shape the future of the homeland through the power of pen and wisdom.

AXLE load policy to be further tightened: Aleem Khan

“National Flag Day” provides a valuable opportunity to reflect upon shared civilizational values and deep-rooted cultural commonalities. We firmly believe that the foundation of regional stability and security lies in respecting national sovereignty, preserving territorial integrity, and fostering peace under the banner of mutual friendship. Flags are far more than mere pieces of colourful fabric; they are the historical identity cards of nations, living chronicles of heritage, and radiant symbols of sovereignty, independence, and legal authority on the international stage.

Punjab Police’s constable martyred in Kot Momin raid LAHORE/SARGODHA STAFF REPORT

ISLAMABAD/LAHORE STAFF REPORT

Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan was called on by delegation of the All-Pakistan Goods Transporters Alliance, led by its Central President Malik Shehzad Awan. The meeting discussed in detail the issues faced by goods transporters, implementation of the axle load policy, improvements in the conduct of the Motorway Police and other matters related to the transport sector. The representatives of the goods transporters offered thanks to Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan for the improvements and cooperation of the Motorway Police and expressed their satisfaction and confidence in the measures being taken by the Ministry of Communications to address the problems faced by the transport community.Talking in the meeting Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan directed the concerned officials to ensure more effective and non-discriminatory implementation of the axle load policy.

Constable Fazal Ahmad of Punjab Police Sargodha embraced martyrdom while performing his duty. According to the Punjab Police spokesperson, police conducted a raid within the jurisdiction of Kot Momin Police Station to arrest a wanted accused. As soon as the accused saw the police party, he opened fire. A bullet fired by the accused hit Constable Fazal Ahmad in the chest. He was shifted to DHQ Hospital; however, he succumbed to his injuries and embraced martyrdom. Inspector General of Police Punjab Abdul Kareem paid tribute to the supreme sacrifice of martyred Constable Fazal Ahmad and said that Punjab Police stood with the bereaved family in this hour of grief. He said the bereaved family of the martyr would not be left alone and that their welfare and well-being would be fully taken care of. Meanwhile, the funeral prayer of martyred Constable Fazal Ahmad was offered at Police Lines Sargodha. DPO Tauqeer Muhammad Naeem, senior officers of law enforcement agencies, members of the Punjab Assembly, police officers and personnel, other senior officials and members of civil society attended the funeral prayer in large numbers.

From World’s Highest ATM to National Institutions, Pak Datacom Expands Satellite Bandwidth Eightfold ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

Pak Datacom Limited (PDL) has increased its satellite bandwidth utilization eightfold in just one year, reflecting the growing demand for reliable and high-capacity connectivity across Pakistan. The company is currently providing satellite connectivity to around 550 major government, financial and corporate institutions. According to the company Spokesman, the growing demand has accelerated modernization of its satellite network through High-Throughput Satellite (HTS) technology, additional bandwidth and multiple satellite platforms. Following the end-of-life and closure of PAKSAT-1R services, PDL shifted towards HTS technology as the required Standard-Ku Band capacity was not available on MM1. The company has also further expanded its Yahsat arrangement, which has been in place since 2016. Spokesman said Yahsat services have been operational in Pakistan for several years under the

applicable legal and regulatory framework. More than 4,000 Yahsat links, including over 1,000 government links, are currently operational in Pakistan through multiple service providers.

KARACHI STAFF REPORT

This partnership combines 10Pearls' digital engineering expertise with Orange Tree Foundation's mission of creating equal educational opportunities for financially disadvantaged students, while establishing a unified system across admissions, donors, student affairs, and finance. 10Pearls, a global AI-native digital engineering company, has partnered with Orange Tree Foundation (OTF), one of Pakistan's largest privately funded education nonprofits, supporting students and their families through school, higher education, and vocational training.As OTF works to move from fragmented, manual processes towards a more connected and scalable operating model, the organization identified a need to unify workflows and data across scholarship, donor, student affairs, and financial operations.10Pearls will apply its digital engineering and workflow automation expertise to design and deploy a centralized Scholarship, Donor, and Finance Management System that automates the donor and student lifecycles. Built on 10Pearls’ proprietary workflow automation and orchestration platform, Symbox, the solution will connect Admissions, Donor Management, and Student Affairs, in addition to integrating with their financial management system.

Daraz Pakistan, Getz Pharma partner to broaden consumer Healthcare

KARACHI STAFF REPORT

Daraz Pakistan and Getz Pharma have signed a strategic partnership agreement to broaden the selection of consumer healthcare and wellness products available through Daraz and develop a stronger digital presence for the category. The agreement was signed at Getz Pharma’s Head Office in Karachi.The collaboration will see the two companies work across product selection, digital merchandising, brand-led campaigns and customer offers, with the objective of making Getz Pharma’s consumer healthcare and wellness portfolio easier to discover and purchase through Daraz. Both companies will also work together on improving how the portfolio is presented online, from expanding the assortment available to customers to developing more relevant campaign and shopping experiences around health and wellness needs.The partnership comes as Daraz builds out its recently launched e-pharmacy, adding a dedicated healthcare proposition to a platform already used by customers for a wide range of everyday purchases. Introduced in August, the epharmacy launched with more than 450 products from over 20 pharmaceutical and healthcare brands, spanning OTC medicines, vitamins, supplements and other health-related products. The service operates through Daraz’s licensed pharmacy facility, creating a structured online channel for the purchase and fulfilment of eligible healthcare products.

Friday, 25 September, 2026

committee on LHC SEEKS REPLIES ON IMRAN SISTERS' DETENTION Senate IT stresses need for

PRAYER TIMINGS

NEWS

LAHORE

STAFF REPORT

HE Lahore High Court (LHC) on Thursday declined an immediate request to suspend the 30day detention orders against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan’s sisters, Dr Uzma Khan and Noreen Niazi, and sought replies from the relevant authorities on their petitions. Justice Abher Gul Khan heard the petitions filed against the detention notifications issued under the Punjab Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, 1960 (MPO). During the proceedings, petitioners’ counsel Rana Mudassar Umar requested suspension of the detention orders, telling the court that he wanted to place certain facts before the bench. “Both women are housewives, and Dr Uzma has already been found innocent in the case registered against her,” the counsel submitted. He said a copy of the trial court’s decision had also been attached to the petition. The court, however, declined to suspend the notifications at this stage and instead directed the relevant authorities to submit their reports and responses.

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“Let us seek reports from the relevant parties,” Justice Khan observed. The court subsequently issued notices to the respondents, including the Lahore deputy commissioner, capital city police officer, secretary of the Home Department and superintendent of Kot Lakhpat jail. The petitions seek the annulment of the detention orders issued by the deputy commissioner. Uzma and Noreen were detained for

30 days under Section 3 of the Punjab MPO Ordinance a day after their sister Aleema Khan was taken into custody under the same law. The detentions of the three sisters and other PTI leaders came ahead of the party’s planned countrywide protest on Sept 27 and march towards Islamabad. The detention orders issued against Uzma and Noreen cited police reports alleging that their activities were “prejudicial to the public safety and maintenance

of public order”. The orders also linked them to the May 9, 2023 protests and road blockades and stated that multiple cases had been registered against them. Meanwhile, Noreen’s daughter Sakina and others have also approached the LHC through Rana Mudassar Umar, challenging the detention orders. On Sept 21, Aleema’s son Shahraiz Khan moved the high court against the detention orders concerning his mother and her two sisters. The petition argued that the orders were unlawful and failed to identify any specific conduct warranting preventive detention. A day later, Justice Abher Gul Khan sought further arguments on the maintainability of a separate petition challenging the detention of Aleema and her driver, Muhammad Ameer. Their counsel had argued that the detention proceedings appeared to have been initiated after they had already been taken into custody, pointing to the timing of a District Intelligence Committee meeting and the subsequent issuance of the detention notification. Earlier, Justice Gul had also heard a petition challenging Aleema and her driver’s detention and sought arguments on whether the plea was maintainable.

Eight terrorists killed in North Waziristan IBO PESHAWAR

STAFF REPORT

PMD forecasts rain-wind/thunderstorms at isolated places in KP, Kashmir, GB and upper Punjab ISLAMABAD

STAFF REPORT

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast rain-wind/thunderstorms at isolated places in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan and upper Punjab on Friday, with chances of heavy rain and hailstorm at some places. While most plain areas of the country are expected to remain hot and dry. According to the PMD forecast, partly cloudy weather is likely in Islamabad and adjoining areas, with rainwind/thunderstorm and isolated hailstorm expected during the day. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rain-wind/thunderstorm is likely at isolated places in Swat, Dir, Kohistan, Shangla, Mansehra, Battagram, Buner, Bajaur, Khyber, Abbottabad, Haripur, Swabi, Peshawar, Nowshera, Kohat, Kurram, Hangu, Karak, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Waziristan and adjoining areas during the afternoon. Hailstorm may also occur at isolated places. Most plain districts of Punjab are expected to remain dry and hot during the day. However, partly cloudy weather with rainwind/thunderstorm is likely in Murree, Galiyat, Rawalpindi, Chakwal, Attock, Jhelum, Narowal, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Lahore, Mandi Bahauddin, Mianwali, Khushab, Bhakkar, Layyah, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Jhang, Okara and adjoining areas during the evening and night. Isolated hailstorm is also expected. Most districts of Sindh and Balochistan are likely to experience hot and dry weather. However, rainwind/thunderstorm may occur in Zhob, Musakhel and adjoining areas of Balochistan during the evening and night. Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan are also expected to receive rain-wind/thunderstorms at isolated places under partly cloudy conditions. During the last 24 hours, dry weather prevailed over most parts of the country, with hot conditions in the plains. However, rain-wind and thunderstorm occurred at isolated places in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad, upper Punjab and Kashmir. Dir (Upper) received the highest rainfall of 23 mm, followed by Murree 11 mm, Narowal 8 mm, Peshawar (City) 2 mm, Hafizabad 2 mm, Sialkot (City) 2 mm, Kotli 2 mm, Sialkot Airport 1 mm and Islamabad (City) 1 mm. The highest maximum temperature of 42C was recorded at Shaheed Benazirabad and Dalbandin, while Sakrand, Mithi, Nokundi, Turbat and Dadu recorded 41C.

Security forces killed eight Fitna al-Khawarij terrorists during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in North Waziristan, KhyberPakhtunkhwa, on Thursday, according to security sources cited by Pakistan Television. The operation was launched after intelligence reports indicated the presence of terrorists in the area. Security forces targeted their hideouts and killed eight militants, while a large quantity of weapons, ammunition and other equipment was recovered, the sources said. According to the sources, the terrorists had attempted to use a mosque as a shield to evade the security forces. The forces, however, took the sanctity of the place of worship into account and conducted the operation while avoiding damage to the mosque.

The operation formed part of continuing efforts by security forces to eliminate Fitna alKhawarij from KhyberPakhtunkhwa, the sources said. The latest action comes amid heightened security activity along Pakistan’s western frontier. Earlier, Pakistan carried out what it described as “precision” aerial and drone strikes against 10 locations in Afghanistan after drones launched from Afghan territory entered Pakistani airspace. A day earlier, Pakistan’s air defence systems had shot down eight drones that entered the country from Afghanistan, according to security sources. Four were brought down near the Torkham border, while four others were intercepted in mountainous areas close to the Kohat border region. Terrorist attacks have remained a major security challenge for Pakistan. According to data

cited from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data (ACLED), attacks in the country increased from 658 in 2022 to 2,425 in 2025. On Sept 18, at least 21 people, including 15 police personnel and six civilians, were killed when an explosion struck a mosque at Kohat’s Police Lines during Friday prayers, followed by an attack involving armed terrorists, according to an initial report issued by health authorities. More than 100 people were injured. Last week, security forces killed 10 Fitna al-Khawarij militants in separate engagements in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa between Sept 15 and 17, while six soldiers were martyred. In August, security forces also killed 11 terrorists in separate intelligence-based operations in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan targeting suspected members of Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan.

Gilani, Lukashenko reaﬃrm Pakistan-Belarus ties, push wider economic cooperation ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT

Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani on Thursday reaffirmed Pakistan’s high regard for its longstanding and friendly relations with Belarus, describing the relationship as one based on mutual respect, cooperation and solidarity. Senate Chairman Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani was talking with President of the Republic of Belarus Aleksandr Grigorievich Lukashenko during a high-level meeting held in Minsk. Gilani conveyed warm greetings and best wishes from the people and Parliament of Pakistan to the people of Belarus, said an official statement issued on Thursday. The Senate chairman expressed appreciation to President Lukashenko for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to the Pakistani parliamentary delegation, said a news release received here on Thursday. Gilani underscored Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation with Belarus in political, parliamentary, economic,

educational, technological, cultural and people-to-people sectors. The Senate chairman highlighted the importance of the Islamabad Declaration of May 2015 and the Treaty on Friendship and Cooperation signed in August 2015 as important instruments providing an expanded framework for bilateral cooperation. He also recalled the official visit of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to Minsk in April 2025 and welcomed President Lukashenko’s official visit to Pakistan in November 2025 as important milestones in high-level engagement between the two countries. Discussing the economic dimension of bilateral relations, Chairman Senate emphasized the need to translate existing understandings into tangible outcomes and greater economic benefits for the peoples of Pakistan and Belarus. Mr. Gilani called for greater engagement between the business communities of the two countries through investment forums and the Belarus-Pakistan Business Council. Gilani underscored Pakistan’s strategic geographical position as a gateway to South Asia, Central Asia

and the Middle East and encouraged greater exploration of Pakistan’s connectivity and logistics potential for access to regional markets. He also highlighted opportunities for industrial cooperation, joint ventures, technology transfer, research and development, and manufacturing partnerships. The Chairman Senate emphasized greater cooperation in agriculture and food security, including opportunities for greater exports of Pakistani rice, fruits and vegetables to Belarus, as well as collaboration in seed production, livestock, fisheries and agricultural technology. He welcomed Belarus’s positive consideration of Pakistan’s proposal for establishing a joint agricultural machinery testing facility. The two sides also discussed the importance of cooperation in education, science and technology, information technology, engineering, vocational training and research. The Chairman Senate encouraged stronger institutional linkages between Pakistani and Belarusian universities and research institutions, including joint research and academic exchanges in areas of mutual interest.

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indigenous social media application ISLAMABAD APP

The Senate Standing Committee on Information Technology and Telecommunication on Thursday stressed the need for Pakistan to develop and launch its own social media application for messaging and secure communication. The committee, chaired by Senator Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan, sought a briefing on the proposed Pakistani application. The committee considered the proposed Telecommunication Competition Rules. Ministry of IT and Telecommunication officials sought additional time to finalise the rules, explaining that consultations with telecom operators and other stakeholders were underway. Ministry officials further told the committee that consulting telecom operators was essential before finalising the competition rules and assured it that the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) would also be consulted. An Additional Director of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) briefed the committee that it was blocking accounts containing blasphemous material and taking action against those responsible. The committee directed that the investigation process be expedited. The committee received briefings from FIA and NCCIA officials on alleged fraud amounting to Rs172 billion through call centres. FIA officials told the committee that the alleged fraud was committed after companies were registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) for short periods. They further said technical experts were required to investigate call-centre-related fraud and that such expertise was available with the NCCIA. Therefore, the matter was being referred to the agency. NCCIA officials were of the view that Pakistan needed to improve its visa issuance system. The officials said the State Bank of Pakistan and SECP would also need to strengthen their mechanisms.

FCC declines to halt contempt proceedings against CDA chairman ISLAMABAD APP

The Federal Constitutional Court of Pakistan (FCCP) on Thursday declined a request to halt contempt/enforcement proceedings seeking to send the Capital Development Authority (CDA) chairman to jail in a case concerning a plot in the Orchard Scheme and adjourned further hearing of the matter. During the hearing, counsel Qasim Chauhan informed the court that a show-cause notice had already been issued to the CDA chairman in the enforcement proceedings and that the matter was fixed for implementation on September 28. He requested the court to direct that the enforcement proceedings also be stayed if the FCCP adjourned the main case. Justice Amir Farooq observed that the case could be fixed for early hearing, noting that one of the parties had sought an adjournment. In a lighter observation, Justice Farooq remarked that the CDA chairman could even perform his duties from Adiala Jail, saying that the authority could be run while he was in custody. The judge also expressed the hope that the enforcement court would respect the pendency of the matter before the Federal Constitutional Court. The court subsequently rejected the request to halt the enforcement proceedings against the CDA chairman and adjourned further hearing of the case.

Health ministry orders safety audit of healthcare facilities ISLAMABAD APP

Federal Minister for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination Syed Mustafa Kamal has directed a comprehensive review of fire safety and basic infrastructure at all hospitals, healthcare institutions, Basic Health Units (BHUs) and Rural Health Centres (RHCs) under the Ministry of Health. Chairing an important meeting on Thursday, the minister reviewed measures to strengthen safety standards across healthcare facilities. The meeting was attended by Joint Secretary (Hospitals), Director General Health, Joint Secretary (Administration) and other senior officers. The meeting decided to engage an expert consultancy firm to conduct a detailed assessment of fire safety arrangements and key infrastructure systems at health institutions.

China's ethnic unity led to its prosperity; we prepare to share our experience with Pakistan: envoy ISLAMABAD

STAFF CORRESPONDENT

Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong said China’s ethnic unity has led to its economic prosperity and that China is prepared to share its experience with iron brother Pakistan to achieve similar results. He stated this in an interview with Pakistani and Chinese electronic media on the occasion of a function hosted here by the Chinese community to celebrate China’s National Day and Autumn Festival. During the interview, he answered questions about China’s practices and experience in strengthening ethnic unity. He pointed out that many overseas Chinese in Pakistan are from Xinjiang. “As ironclad friends, we are certainly ready to strengthen exchanges and mutual learning with Pakistan in all fields.” According to the Ambassador, President Xi Jinping had stated, “We have relied on the united efforts of all ethnic groups across the country to create great achievements that

will go down in history, and we must also rely on such united efforts to write new chapters of glory. The Ambassador also answered questions about China’s economic situation and development opportunities, its efforts in forging a strong sense of community for the Chinese nation, and Chinese people at home and abroad working together to build the Chinese Dream. The ambassador reiterated that as China’s ironclad friend, we hope and trust that Pakistan will be able to benefit from its achievements in promoting social stability and the economic well-being of its people. Ambassador Jiang pointed out that many overseas Chinese in Pakistan have roots in Xinjiang. Today’s Xinjiang stands as a vivid epitome of China’s new chapters in the two miracles. We sincerely thank Pakistani media friends for their support and promotion of Xinjiang’s development, making “Xinjiang is a good place” a household phrase. Notably, following President Asif Ali Zardari’s visit to Xinjiang last September, Chief Minister of Punjab Maryam Nawaz

Sharif also made her first visit to Xinjiang last month, both highly praising Xinjiang’s development achievements and vitality. He added, Xinjiang’s vivid practice of social stability, economic prosperity, and people living and working in peace teaches us that unity is strength, and only through unity can we achieve victory. No matter how many ethnic groups or regions a country has, as long as everyone works together with one heart, it can gather development momentum and create a better life. We believe that all political parties and sectors of Pakistani society will surely gather the strength of unity to better promote national development and achieve people’s well-being. About China’s economic development, Ambassador Jiang Zaidong said, “Over the past 77 years since the founding of the People’s Republic of China, under the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China and through the unremitting efforts of the Chinese people, we have made remarkable achievements and accomplished the great historic leap from standing up and growing

prosperous to becoming strong. Since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012, under the strategic guidance of President Xi Jinping and guided by Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, we have won the battle against poverty, completed the

Published by Asad Nizami at Plot # 7, Al-Baber Centre, F/8 Markaz, Islamabad, for PT Print (Pvt) Limited. Ph: 051-2204545. Email: newsroom@pakistantoday.com.pk

building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects, continued to write new chapters in the two miracles of sustained rapid economic development and long-term social stability, and advanced the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation into an irreversible historical process.