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What if Pakistan become a political stable country?

Written by: Waleed Ahmad Sheeraz

Pakistan agenda

What if Pakistan become a political stable country?

If Pakistan becomes a politically stable country, it will have several significant consequences for the country, its residents, and the international world. Political stability is frequently correlated with economic stability. A stable Pakistan would almost certainly enjoy improved economic growth, since it would attract more international investment and create a favorable climate for businesses to prosper. This could result in employment creation, higher living standards, and reduced poverty.
Political stability would allow the government to prioritize infrastructure improvements such as roads, bridges, schools, and healthcare facilities. This, in turn, would improve Pakistan’s residents’ quality of life and foster regional prosperity. A stable government can better spend resources to strengthen education and healthcare systems. Access to high-quality education and healthcare would improve, resulting in a more skilled and healthier population.
Pakistan’s stability would most likely enhance relations with its neighbors and the international world. This might result in improved diplomatic collaboration, economic treaties, and regional peace. Political stability would enable Pakistan to address security problems and counter-terrorism measures more effectively. Cooperation with international partners in countering extremism may grow, resulting in a safer environment both at home and in the region.
A stable Pakistan would aid in the strengthening of its democratic institutions. The peaceful transfer of power and a more robust democratic system would become the norm, further solidifying democratic norms. Political stability can foster a favorable atmosphere for cultural and social growth. Arts, culture, and civil society would flourish, contributing to a diversified and strong national identity. With increased economic prospects and stability, Pakistan may see a decrease in skilled professional emigration. Many Pakistanis residing overseas may be more inclined to return and contribute their talents to the development of the country.
Political stability is related with a higher commitment to human rights and the rule of law. An independent judiciary and the protection of citizens’ rights would very certainly improve. A stable Pakistan might play a more significant role in world affairs. It may become more involved in regional groups and contribute to global conversations on a variety of problems.
However, it is important to emphasize that obtaining political stability is a complicated process, and the problems that Pakistan will confront in achieving stability will be varied. The path to stability may include addressing long-standing challenges like as governance, corruption, ethnic conflicts, and economic inequities. Nonetheless, the potential benefits of a stable Pakistan are significant, not just for the country as a whole, but also for regional and global stability.

Waleed.sheraz01@gmail.com

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Turkey: A bomb outside the interior ministry injured two officers

The interior minister of Turkey has described the explosion outside the interior ministry as a “terrorist attack.”

Around 09:30 (06:30 GMT), two assailants arrived in a car and carried out the attack, injuring two officers, according to Ali Yerlikaya.

One attacker “neutralised” himself in front of a government building, according to Mr. Yerlikaya.

The attack was carried out, as admitted, by a PKK-affiliated group.

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Turkey: A bomb outside the interior ministry injured two officers

In Turkey, the EU, UK, and the US, the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) is regarded as a terrorist organization.

A few hours before parliament was scheduled to reopen following a summer recess, there was an explosion on Ataturk Boulevard.

Immortals Battalion, the group that made the claim of responsibility, claimed that this is why they chose to target the ministry because it is close to the legislature.

One of the assailants got out of their car and detained security by throwing a small bomb at the ministry building.

The second attacker then started shooting at the security personnel stationed near the ministry gate before detonating a bomb that was strapped to him, killing him.

Meanwhile, the first person entered the compound and was instantly shot dead by police.

Two policemen suffered injuries. Another had injuries to both of his legs and an eye in addition to being shot in the chest.

None of the injuries, according to Mr. Yerlikaya, were life-threatening.

In Kayseri, a city some 260 kilometers (161 miles) southeast of Ankara, the attackers had their car hijacked on Saturday, according to a senior Turkish security officer who spoke to the BBC.

According to reports, they shot and killed the car’s 24-year-old veterinarian driver when he was traveling through the countryside.

The official stated that surveillance footage from Kayseri to the Syrian border was being examined to ascertain the suspects’ origins.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called the attack “the final flutters of terrorism” in his speech to the legislature.

The evil individuals who targeted the safety and tranquility of our citizens “did not and will never achieve their goal.”

The government has put enormous pressure on Kurdish militants by imprisoning their commanders and conducting military operations against Kurdish sites within Turkey as well as across the border in Syria and Iraq.

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Despite the budgetary disaster, Biden promises to support Ukraine

Following the exclusion of more military financing from a last-minute congressional budget agreement, President Joe Biden promised continuing US assistance for Ukraine.

The short-term plan, which was passed to avoid a government shutdown, omitted $6 billion (£4.92 billion) in military funding for Kiev, a main White House objective.

Hardline Republicans reject more military aid, and many of them openly disagree with Mr. Biden’s strategy for the conflict.

However, Mr. Biden stated on Sunday that Ukraine could “count on” US help.

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Despite the budgetary disaster, Biden promises to support Ukraine

Under no circumstances can we allow the US to stop supporting Ukraine, Mr. Biden stated.

Regarding restoring funds for the war, he added, “I can reassure [Ukraine] that we’ll get there, that we’re going to get it done. “I want to reassure our American allies that you can rely on our support and that we won’t desert you,” he said.

Since Russian began its full-scale assault in February 2022, the US has already given Ukraine over $46 billion (£37 billion) in military assistance.

President Biden has asked for an additional $24 billion (£19 billion).

Additionally, the US has recently transferred cutting-edge weapons to Kiev, including long-range missiles and Abrams tanks. It occurs as the military of Kiev continues to wage a sluggish counteroffensive in the south of the nation.

US Congress strikes a last-minute compromise to avert a government shutdown.
Russian video purports to show the Black Sea fleet commander.
Zelensky’s struggles with the effects of Western combat fatigue
However, the short-term budget deal reached on Saturday, which will sustain the US government for 45 days, removed future military spending.

In a joint statement, senior senators from both parties expressed their desire to “ensure the US government continues to provide” support to Ukraine in the upcoming weeks.

But the action, which occurred just nine days after President Volodymyr Zelensky travelled to Washington to seek additional backing, underscores rising hard-right Republican opposition to the war in recent months in the House of Representatives.

Democratic senatorial majorities are razor-thin, and Republicans hold a majority in the House of Representatives. Prior to being enacted into law, budget legislation must receive both of their approvals.

The spending “already authorised out of this Congress is somewhere between more than enough and way too much,” Florida congressman Matt Gaetz told reporters on Saturday.

Marjorie Taylor-Green, a Georgia representative, asserted that Kyiv had already received much too much aid, claiming that “Ukraine is not the 51st state.”

Democratic Party senators reacted angrily to their approach.

Senator Mark Warner stated, “I can’t believe individuals are going to leave Ukraine at this time.

The new 45-day funding arrangement in the US has been presented by Kyiv officials as a “opportunity” for its diplomats to win longer-term backing, despite the disagreement. It resembles a deadline more than anything.

Even while $3 billion in humanitarian and military aid is still expected to arrive, the Ukrainian foreign ministry acknowledges that “ongoing programs” may be impacted.

Oleksi Goncharenko, a Ukrainian lawmaker, acknowledged that Kyiv was worried about the financing that had been halted.

“The US Congress vote is troubling. The US promised to support Ukraine for however long it needed, but it is now clear that this backing is not included in the stop-gap agreement. Not only is this a warning sign for Ukraine.

One of the many signs of Western exhaustion is this political unrest. Concerning developments for Ukraine and the European Union are the rising skepticism among certain Republicans and Slovakia’s recent election success of a populist, pro-Moscow party. Josep Borrell, the top diplomat for the EU, said he was “worried” by the most recent US Congress decision over funding for Ukraine in an interview with the BBC in Kyiv. He told the BBC, “I don’t know what’s going to happen in the future.” “One thing is clear: the Russian war against Ukraine is an existential threat to us Europeans, and we must respond accordingly.” President Zelensky stated that no one should be able to “turn off Ukraine’s resilience” in his daily speech from Kyiv.

It is obvious that the nation will keep fighting, with or without assistance from the West.

Ukraine is aware of its clear preferences.

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Flawless Pegula gets destroyed by Kudermetova to win the Tokyo title.

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Tennis – WTA 500 – Pan Pacific Open – Ariake Coliseum, Tokyo, Japan – October 1, 2023 Russia’s Veronika Kudermetova celebrates with the trophy after winning her women’s singles final match against Jessica Pegula of the U.S. REUTERS/Androniki Christodoulou

Flawless Pegula gets destroyed by Kudermetova to win the Tokyo title.

Reuters, Oct. 1, Tokyo – Veronika Kudermetova, the eighth seed, defeated world no. 4 Jessica Pegula in the Pan Pacific Open final on Sunday in Tokyo and went on to win the match 7-5, 6-1 for her first win of the year and second overall.

With American Pegula broken early for a 3-0 lead, a determined Kudermetova wasted little time unleashing her potent shots from the baseline. However, she dropped her own service in the fifth game, allowing her opponent to tie the match.

Kudermetova won the opening set thanks to Pegula’s unexpected double fault. In the second set, the Russian world number 19 increased her effort as she sprinted to a 5-1 lead before winning the match on her third matchpoint with a strong serve.

Following her triumph in the Madrid quarterfinals, this was Kudermetova’s second victory against Pegula this year. It was also her fifth victory in her previous six matches against opponents ranked in the top ten.

Earlier in the competition, the 26-year-old had prevailed against world number two Iga Swiatek.

“I’m pretty pleased with how I performed today. It’s my second title, and I’m proud of myself,” Kudermetova, whose first victory came at Charleston in the WTA 500 in 2021, stated.

“Since Jessica is a fantastic fighter and player, I prepared myself for a challenging match… Winning a significant competition is always good.

After a successful week in which she didn’t lose a set until the final, Pegula focused on the positives.

Giving yourself a chance to win the competition is always a wonderful idea, Pegula remarked.

“I’m still optimistic about that and some of my matches, especially going into Beijing,” you say. She displayed excellent tennis, and sometimes that is the way things are.

Pegula won’t be very unhappy, either, as her strong performance will significantly increase her chances of qualifying for the season-ending WTA Finals in Cancun, Mexico.

She will compete in the season finale starting later this month alongside Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, Coco Gauff, and Elena Rybakina.

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Russia claims that US involvement in Afghanistan is limited to “manipulation and threats.”

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Russia claims that US involvement in Afghanistan is limited to “manipulation and threats.”

MOSCOW:
Zamir Kabulov, the presidential envoy of Russia for Afghanistan, stated on Friday that US influence in the nation only consisted of manipulating the situation through asset freezes and threats.

In Kazan, the capital of Russia’s Tatarstan Republic, Kabulov claimed that the US “fled” Afghanistan and “stole, but this is officially called frozen, more than seven billion Afghan assets.”

“This is the ‘influence’ they have. Additionally, American drones hover over Kabul and Afghanistan, frequently threatening Afghan government officials for their anti-American stance. After a Moscow format conference on Afghanistan, he observed, “If this is considered influence, then Americans do have such effect.

The meeting’s attendees, according to Kabulov, did not anticipate any “breakthroughs.”

“Afghanistan needs inclusive governance for the

He claimed that there were some aspects of this announcement that the Tajik side disagreed with, but he made no additional explanations.

Speaking to the audience, Sergey Lavrov, the foreign minister of Russia, claimed that Western nations were to blame for most of the post-conflict restoration of the war-torn nation’s infrastructure because they had caused “irreparable damage” to the Afghan people.

See also: Afghan delegation heads to Russia for meeting with a Moscow-style format

Instead, he said, the US has frozen Afghan assets—assets that Afghanistan needs to help its citizens, who endure harsh conditions.

He expressed alarm over moves by non-regional entities to step up their operations and re-establish a military presence in Afghanistan.

No matter what justifications are used, we deem it intolerable when US and NATO military infrastructure returns to Afghanistan and its bordering states.

Zamir Kabulov, the Russian presidential envoy for Afghanistan, told reporters after the conference that Moscow anticipates Kabul taking additional positive efforts to create an inclusive ethnopolitical government.

Future official recognition of the new Afghan leadership may be based on this, he predicted.

Separately, the Taliban claimed on X that acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi stated at the conference that over the past two years the administration increased the war against insurgent groups that were “trained by the invaders” after reconstructing political, security, and economic systems.

Mehmet Samsar, the Turkish ambassador to Russia, addressed the gathering and declared that peace and stability in Afghanistan will be beneficial for the entire region.

He cautioned against becoming smug in the “relative”

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Vivo Y21 Price and Specs in Pakistan – September 2023

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Vivo Y21 Price and Specs in Pakistan – September 2023

A feature-rich smartphone made to provide a flexible mobile experience is the Vivo Y21. It offers vivid images and lots of screen space for multimedia and productivity with a 6.51-inch HD+ display.

With 4GB of RAM and an octa-core MediaTek Helio P35 processor, it provides lag-free performance for a variety of jobs and apps.

The Vivo Y21’s 13MP primary camera takes clear pictures, while the 8MP front camera is great for taking selfies and making video calls. Funtouch OS 11.1, which is based on Android 11, gives the device a user-friendly interface and access to the newest features.

This smartphone enables longer usage thanks to its huge 5,000mAh battery, and speedy top-ups are guaranteed thanks to its 18W fast charging capability.

Additionally, it has a 64GB internal memory that can be expanded with a microSD card, giving it plenty of capacity. The Vivo Y21 is a versatile smartphone that can meet a variety of demands.

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SC completes 257 cases in one week.

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SC completes 257 cases in one week.

ISLAMABAD: From September 25 to September 30, the Supreme Court decided 257 cases (excluding CMAs) and launched 204 new cases.
The Supreme Court of Pakistan (apex court) stated in a statement on Saturday that Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa and other justices of the top court remained dedicated to expediting case resolution and reducing the backlog.

The judiciary’s continued commitment to helping the litigants was also mentioned in the statement.

Several obstacles await Justice Qazi Faez Isa as he assumes the role of Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP), and it will be closely observed how he handles matters like organising general elections within 90 days, trials of civilians in military courts under the Army Act, and political parties’ worries about how he would handle these issues.

Hearing a series of review petitions that contest the supreme court’s ruling on the Faizabad sit-in, which was written by CJP Isa on February 6, 2019, is one of the main tasks.

The ruling had instructed the nation’s intelligence services, including the ISI, IB, MI, and the army’s propaganda arm, the ISPR, not to go beyond what was prescribed by the constitution.The ruling specifically addressed the TLP-organized 20-day sit-in that took place in November 2017 at the crossroads of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

The TLP has organised the protest in reaction to the Elections Bill 2017’s purported amendments to the parliamentarians’ oath respecting the finality of prophecy. The protesters called for Zahid Hamid, the previous law minister, to quit.

In recent times, the Ministry of Defence, PTI, and

The chief justice showed his interest in the withdrawal of the applications for reviews, speculating that there may have been a directive to file them.
Even his predecessor, Justice Umar Ata Bandial, could not do as much as CJP Isa did during his entire tenure as he took the oath of office.

On the first day of this tenure, the chief judge called a full court conference and assembled a complete court.

To hear the petitions against the Supreme Court (Practise and Procedure) Act, 2023, a full court was also established. CJP Isa also made history when he suggested to the entire court that its sessions be streamed live. Possibly the first institution’s leader is CJP Isa,

Diq case, for which the nation was subject to a $6.5 billion fine.

In order to discuss the Supreme Court’s case disposition rate, the chief justice and senior puisne judge Justice Sardar Tariq Masood met with representatives of the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) and Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA).

CJP Isa made the decision to publish a monthly recommended cause list after engaging both organisations representing lawyers. According to information obtained, CJP Isa chose to put the case management strategy suggested by Justices Syed Mansoor Ali Shah and Munib Akhtar into practise.

The Supreme Court’s chief justice also met with all of its senior solicitors last week to solicit ideas for enhancing the effectiveness and operation of the Court.

First female chief justice appointed by CJP Isa

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gold rate in pakistan today 26th february 2022 1645847707 3200

In accordance with the trend internationally, the price of gold surged in Pakistan.

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In accordance with the trend internationally, the price of gold surged in Pakistan.

In Karachi. On Saturday, gold prices increased in Pakistan in line with the increasing trend in the global market.

According to data provided by the Sarafa Association, the price of yellow metal increased by Rs. 800 per tola and by Rs. 500 for every 10 grammes.

With the most recent price hike, one tola of gold is now worth Rs215,800, and ten grammes are now worth Rs185,000.

After a slight increase, the price of yellow metal per ounce was roughly $1,945 globally.

In Pakistan, the price of gold remained unstable due to ongoing political unrest, economic instability, and high inflation. As a secure investment, individuals chose to purchase bullion during these times. Prices even reached record levels, but when hoarders were being targeted, the market fell.

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Peshawar police

Two terrorists and a policeman were murdered in an attack on a patrol post in Mianwali.

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Two terrorists and a policeman were murdered in an attack on a patrol post in Mianwali.

According to a statement from Punjab police commissioner Usman Anwar, during an early-morning attack on the Kundal patrolling post in Mianwali, two terrorists were slain and one policeman was martyred.

“Kundal Punjab Highway Patrolling Post, in a daring operation assisted by the Counter Terrorism Department Punjab, successfully thwarted an attack by 12 to 15 terrorists last night at approximately 23:45 hours,” it claimed.

The statement claims that Head Constable Haroon accepted death during the operation, which was over after 7am, while numerous terrorists were hurt. “Two terrorist bodies were discovered following a thorough area search conducted by the CTD personnel,” it continued.

Zubair Nawaz, the brother of Tehreek-Taliban Ameer Arshad Nawaz, has been positively identified as one of the terrorists.

The second terrorist was named as Muhammad Khan, who was a “dedicated member of the group” and “proved to be more dangerous than Zubair,” according to the statement.

It said that “extensive efforts, including assistance from Nadra, numerous intelligence agencies, and cutting-edge software used by the Counter Terrorism Department, resulted in His identification.”

“Inspector General of Police Dr. Usman Anwar has stated that this operation is a monument to the bravery and steadfast devotion of our security officers and confirms our group’s determination to safeguard the safety and security of our residents.

“We remain resolute in our fight against terrorism, and such acts of terror will not deter our pursuit of peace and justice,” the statement said in its conclusion.

“Our counter-terrorism department and intelligence agencies keep giving us information, and we knew that they could attack a border post in Punjab to spread panic,” the man claimed.

The patrolling post was one kilometre inside the KP border, and soldiers had been informed about the attack, according to the Punjab police chief speaking about today’s attack. They were ready and positioned themselves on rooftops with small machine guns as terrorists struck from two different directions with heavy weapons.

The forces’ response, according to the IG, led the terrorists to leave, but the “CTD, elite forces, DPO, and SHO” all arrived at the scene right away.

He added that a search operation was being conducted to rid the area of any additional attacks.

Condemnations
Mohsin Naqvi, the interim chief minister of Punjab, praised the local police force for thwarting terrorists’ “impure intentions” in a statement.

He declared, “Haroon, the martyred officer, is a national hero,” and vowed to help the dead officer’s family in any way he could.

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“Diabetic patients must practise good oral hygiene”

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“Diabetic patients must practise good oral hygiene”

ISLAMABAD: On Saturday, a specialist emphasised the urgent necessity for diabetic patients to routinely monitor their blood sugar levels in order to preserve their general health and prevent dental problems that could cause more serious health consequences.

Speaking to the media, leading dental surgeon Dr. Awais Khan Rubbani emphasised the need of educating people about oral health issues because, in his opinion, a healthy smile has significant value in both the social and professional realms of life.

According to Dr. Rubbani, dental infections in people with diabetes might negatively affect their overall blood sugar levels. He added that despite the fact that they are particularly susceptible to toothaches and gum disorders, a considerable proportion of diabetic patients have a tendency to disregard their dental health. He added that these problems frequently emerge owing to poorly controlled diabetes, ultimately leading to raised blood glucose levels.

In response to a query, he clarified that eating is essential for keeping one’s health. He emphasised that choosing a well-balanced diet and avoiding sugary foods can help prevent gum disease, tooth loss, and even oral cancer.

People will be more at risk if they frequently consume foods that are very acidic or sweet.

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PTI wants a court to look into the cipher matter

The PTI spokesperson claimed in a statement released today that the challan filed against party leaders Imran Khan and Shah Mehmood Qureshi was “meaningless and bogus as cipher case.”

The encryption was still there at the Foreign Office in its original form, the official added. Cipher’s existence demonstrates that the accusations made against the former prime minister, Imran Khan, are unfounded.

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PTI wants a court to look into the cipher matter

The spokesperson stated that the Official Secrets Act cannot be utilized in this situation since “the then federal cabinet declassified the cipher under its powers.”

The spokesperson added that the PTI leader had constantly called for an impartial, independent probe into the cipher matter. In vain, he also wrote letters to Pakistan’s president and chief justice.

In order to satisfy the needs of justice, the spokesperson finished by stating that a judicial committee should be established to look into the issue.

A special court established by the official secrets act received a challan of the cipher case from the FIA earlier in the day. Shah Mahmood Qureshi, the vice chairman and chairperson of the PTI, was charged in the challan.

The FIA argued before the court that Shah Mahmood Qureshi, the former foreign minister, and the chairman of the PTI should be tried and found guilty.

According to sources, Asad Umar, a former minister and leader of the PTI, is not on the list of suspects.

Azam Khan, a former principal secretary to the prime minister, has developed into a credible witness for the FIA. Additionally, his comments beneath 161 and 164 have been annexed.

Case cipher

The Official Secrets Act’s first information report (FIR) was filed on August 15. The Home Secretary’s complaint led to its registration.

The names of former principal secretary Azam Khan and former planning minister Asad Umar were also listed in the report, along with former prime minister Imran Khan and former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi.

Action will reportedly be taken against Azam Khan and Asad Umar as well after the authorities determined that they were also involved in utilizing the secret documents improperly.

According to the FIR, the former foreign minister and prime minister fabricated information on the diplomatic cipher. It continued, “A conspiracy was started to use the cipher’s information for evil ends. It went on to say that the state’s interests were harmed by the former premier and senior diplomat.

According to the report, Azam Khan, the previous prime minister’s principal secretary, was directed to “manipulate the contents of cipher” by the former prime minister. “The former premier kept the copy of the diplomatic cipher that was sent to the PM office on purpose,” the statement continued.

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Early in 2024, China plans to launch the Queqiao-2 relay satellite.

China to Launch Queqiao 2 Relay Satellite for Lunar Mission Communications 651914488b646

Early in 2024, China plans to launch the Queqiao-2 relay satellite.

The China National Space Administration (CNSA) announced on Friday that China intends to launch the newly created relay satellite Queqiao-2 (Magpie Bridge-2) in the first half of 2024 to assist communications between its upcoming lunar mission, Chang’e-6, and Earth.

Communications between lunar spacecraft and the ground personnel will be forwarded by Queqiao-2. It is an improved version of the Queqiao satellite, which serves as the Chang’e-4 mission’s relay satellite.

China’s Chang’e-6 mission will aim for a crater inside the South Pole-Aitken Basin when it lands on the far side of the moon in 2024. It requires the Queqiao-2 satellite to relay data because it cannot directly communicate with the Earth due to the moon’s obstruction.

According to Tang Yuhua, deputy chief designer of the Chang’e-7 mission at CNSA’s Lunar Exploration and Space Engineering Centre, the satellite will modify its orbit after the Chang’e-6 mission is complete and continue to support the follow-up Chang’e-7 and Chang’e-8 missions, as well as future lunar exploration missions.

According to Tang, Queqiao-2 will likewise succeed the first Queqiao as a relay communication system for the Chang’e-4 and Yutu-2 probes on the far side of the moon as its planned lifetime is likely to end.

Queqiao-2 is anticipated to perform significant scientific exploration missions in the interim.

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The economy will be Nawaz’s first priority, says Shehbaz

LAHORE: According to PML-N President Shehbaz Sharif, party chief Nawaz Sharif’s key objectives and agenda will be to alleviate the suffering of the common people, rescue them from their precarious circumstances, and stop the economy darkness.

He said these things at a party gathering when they were discussing getting Nawaz back to Pakistan.

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The economy will be Nawaz’s first priority, says Shehbaz

The statement from the party leader supports predictions that, upon his return, Nawaz will place less emphasis on his call for those he holds accountable for his expulsion to face justice and more emphasis on a narrative of the economy and law and order that appeals to the general public.

Shehbaz claimed that their attention, resources, and emphasis were on and will continue to be on helping the populace find solutions to their concerns in a statement released by the party communications secretary. He emphasized that their primary aims were to end terrorism, revive the economy, and unite the country.

He presided over a meeting on Saturday at his Lahore home when the party’s initial accusations against Nawaz’s welcome on October 21 were discussed.

Maryam Nawaz, the party’s chief organizer, Hamza Shehbaz, Ahsan Iqbal, Punjab President Rana Sanaullah, senior party leader Khawaja Saad Rafique, Deputy General Secretary Ata Tarrar, party president spokesperson Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, Information Secretary Marrium Aurangzeb, senior party Pervez Rashid, Bilal Yasin, and Lahore President Saif Khokhar were all present at the meeting.

Leaders gave the party president feedback on the rally’s preparations at Minar-e-Pakistan.

The party president commended the leaders’ zeal and gave them instructions to make sure that contact with all wings was successful. He praised Maryam and other leaders for taking an active part in this situation.

creating a story

Party insiders claim that the leadership has decided to stop emphasizing the story of accountability. To avoid the appearance of a U-turn, Nawaz Sharif may periodically make passing mention of the subject in his remarks. The party’s main focus will be on finding solutions to the problems that the populace is experiencing.

One of these leaders claimed that the recent news conferences and remarks made by party officials, such as Muhammad Zubair and Javed Latif, the spokesperson, proved this understanding.

He said that this understanding “has nothing to do with anything else” and that it was established following internal discussion.
He said that the party has also finalized a legal plan, but he was unable to provide any further information.

The leader emphasized that it was clear that the group would apply for bail before he arrived, and that once that happened, everything else would be easy.

While acknowledging that there were no prior instances in which a criminal was granted protected bail, he expressed the hope that they would be able to establish this as a precedent going forward.

He added that the narrative committee, of which he is a member, had done its work and provided input, and he thought Marrium Aurangzeb must have sent it to the leadership.

He also claimed that the committee met three times, to the best of his knowledge.

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Rudrankksh Patil

India wins the men’s team trap gold at the 2023 Asian Games, increasing their total number of shooting medals to 21.

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India wins the men’s team trap gold at the 2023 Asian Games, increasing their total number of shooting medals to 21.

The Indian men’s team, which consists of Darius Chenai, Prithviraj Tondaiman, and Zoravar Singh Sandhu, won the Trap competition on Sunday. At the Asian Games 2023, this was India’s 21st medal in the shooting event.

On Sunday, October 1, the Indian men’s team, which consists of Kynan Chenai, Zoravar Singh Sandhu, and Prithviraj Tondaiman, won gold in the trap event, continuing India’s incredible shooting streak at the Asian Games 2023.

India was able to hold off competition from China and Kuwait to claim the top spot on the podium, bringing their total number of medals in shooting to 21 with 7 gold, 9 silver, and 5 bronze. Chenai and Sandhu have also qualified for the individual final in addition to winning the gold medal.

In total, the Indian team earned 361 points, beating Kuwait with 352 and China with 346.

India had won the silver medal earlier in the day in the women’s trap team shooting competition. With 337 points, the three of Rajeshwari Kumari, Manisha Keer, and Preeti Rajak came in second place to China.

Indian shooters performed admirably at the 2023 Asian Games, considerably boosting their nation’s medal haul. After the shooting team’s disappointing showing at the Olympics in Tokyo, this was their chance at redemption.

33 shooters from India competed in rifle, pistol, and shotgun events under the leadership of former world champion Rudrankksh Patil and Olympian Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar.

India’s total of 21 medals represents its best-ever shooting result at an Asian Games.

India had its best shooting performance at the Asian Games to date. Sarabjot Singh, who led India in qualification and won a gold medal with the men’s 10m air pistol team, and Divya TS, who competed for India in the women’s 10m air pistol team, were some of the best shooters.

Notable gold medal winners included Sift Kaur Samra in the Women’s 50m rifle 3 positions, Palak Gulia in the Women’s 10m air pistol, and the teams of Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, Swapnil Kusale, Akhil Sheoran in Men’s 50m rifle 3 positions, Manu Bhaker, Rhythm Sangwan, Esha Singh in Women’s 25m sports pistol, and Rudrankksh Patil, Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, Divyansh Singh Panwar in Men’s 10m air rifle.

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Terrorists’ carry out attack in heart of Ankara

The Turkish interior minister said that two terrorists carried out a bombing outside the ministry buildings in Ankara on Sunday, with one blowing himself up and the other being “neutralized” by law enforcement.
Two police officers were only mildly hurt, according to Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, in the incident that reverberated around Ankara.

attack in turkey

Terrorists’ carry out attack in heart of Ankara

“A bomb attack was carried out by two terrorists who arrived in a light commercial vehicle in front of the General Directorate of Security gate. The terrorist who blew himself up, according to the minister Ali Yerlikaya, was one of the group.

One of them “blew himself up,” he continued, and the other was “neutralized,” which generally means murdered. Until every terrorist has been eliminated, “our fight will go on,” Yerlikaya wrote.

Around 9:30 a.m. local time, there was a loud explosion in the Kizilay neighborhood in the center of the city, which was followed by reports of shooting.

Security personnel have subsequently installed barriers there, and television video depicted bomb disposal teams working close to a parked car in the vicinity, which is close to the Turkish Grand National Assembly and other government structures.

According to Anadolu Agency, the chief public prosecutor’s office in Ankara opened an investigation into the terrorist incident.

Police forces tightened security in the area after the explosion.

Due to the explosion, which happened not far from one of the Grand National Assembly’s entrances, the important Ataturk Boulevard was closed to traffic.

Additionally, special operations police were sent to the area.

After a three-month hiatus, the Grand National Assembly will reconvene in the afternoon.

An explosion was reportedly heard close to the parliament and ministerial buildings, and media outlets in Turkey displayed footage of rubble lying around on a street near the interior ministry.

As police shut several surrounding roads, Reuters video showed soldiers, ambulances, fire vehicles, and an armored vehicle assembling close to the center of Turkey’s city.

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China’s factory and service sector growth slows as the country’s economy battles to gain traction: Caixin PMI

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China’s factory and service sector growth slows as the country’s economy battles to gain traction: Caixin PMI

According to a private sector survey released on Sunday, China’s factory activity grew more slowly in September despite higher output due to weak foreign demand.
The Caixin/S&P Global manufacturing purchasing managers’ index (PMI) decreased from 51.0 to 50.6 in September, falling short of experts’ projections of 51.2. Growth and contraction are separated by the 50-index-point threshold.

After a flurry of modest policy changes, the second-largest economy in the world is beginning to show some signs of stabilising, but the prognosis is bleak due to a downturn in the housing market, declining exports, and rising youth unemployment.

The survey was released the day after China’s official PMI, which revealed that manufacturing activity increased in September for the first time in six months, adding to a string of signs that the economy has reached its bottom.

Factory output and new orders continued to be in expansionary zone in September, according to the Caixin PMI, but external demand remained sluggish and the export orders index shrank for the third consecutive month.

According to Wang Zhe, senior economist at Caixin Insight Group, “the economic recovery has yet to find a solid footing with insufficient domestic demand, external uncertainties, and pressure on the job market.”

Factory owners’ confidence for the year ahead hit a 12-month low. Producers of consumer, investment and intermediate goods all cut staff, the survey showed.

Input costs rose at the fastest pace since January, due to rising prices of chemicals, crude oil and industrial metals.

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LNG

CCP approves two mergers in order to increase foreign investment

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CCP approves two mergers in order to increase foreign investment

ISLAMABAD: The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has given the go-ahead for two mergers that could open Pakistan up to FDI and perhaps lessen the country’s gas shortage.

One of these mergers has a business from the United Arab Emirates acquiring two organisations in charge of running an LNG terminal as well as the import, storage, and distribution of LNG and re-gasified LNG in Pakistan.

The merger, which involves the UAE-based Bison Energy FZCO purchasing a complete 100% ownership in Tabeer Energy (Private) Limited and Tabeer Energy Marketing (Private) Limited (TEMPL), has been carefully evaluated and processed by the CCP.

It finished the Phase 1 competition evaluations that were carried out in accordance with Section 11 of the 2010 Competition Act. The proposed transactions did not give rise to any concerns about competition, hence

Due to the merger transactions, Diamond Gas International Japan Co Limited has sold all of its shares in Tabeer Energy (Private) Limited and Tabeer Energy Marketing (Private) Limited to Bison Energy FZCO. Foreign direct investment from the deal will help Pakistan overcome its gas problems.

Launch of a tender for LNG spot cargoes
Pakistan launched a new LNG spot cargo tender earlier this week to meet its winter demand after failing to obtain supplies from the global market for more than a year due to exorbitant prices and limited supply.

The state-owned Pakistan LNG Limited (PLL) announced on Wednesday that it was looking for bids from overseas suppliers for two LNG cargoes, each weighing 140,000 cubic metres, to be delivered to Port Qasim in December.

The tender document specifies that the delivery windows are December 7-8 and December 13-14. PLL is tasked with acquiring LNG on behalf of the federal government in order to satisfy the nation’s gas needs through two LNG import terminals with exclusive contracts for distribution to the public sector.

Since the start of the conflict between Ukraine and Russia in April 2023, Pakistan has struggled to deliver from the uncertain spot market. Previous attempts to purchase LNG were unsuccessful, mostly as a result of the suppliers’ tepid response. A country already struggling with persistent electricity shortages has added another headache: the growing fear of suppliers about the government’s credit risk.

For Pakistan, where natural gas supplies over a third of its energy needs, LNG is essential.

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Gold Cost as of September 30, 2023

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Gold Cost as of September 30, 2023

At 9:08 am today, the price of an ounce of gold was £1,515.11. That is up 0.01% from the closing price of £1,514.90 yesterday.

The price of gold is down 3.69% from the previous week and 1.15% from one month ago.

A 52-week high of £1,573.28 and a 52-week low of £1,483.29 have been set for the price of gold.

A stock market fund or a commodity like gold are both fundamentally risky investments that put your money at risk. It’s possible that you won’t get all of your money back.

Tips for buying gold
Gold is regarded as the ultimate safe-haven asset by many investors. When the value of stocks, bonds, and real estate drops precipitously, gold may maintain its worth—and even rise as anxious investors race to buy.

You can diversify your investing portfolio by making gold investments. Having a diverse portfolio of assets, including gold, can help you preserve the value of your investments.

Gold investments can be made in a variety of ways. Both are good and bad…

One choice is to purchase gold in its actual form:

bars of gold. Gold bars, also referred to as bullion, are a common way to purchase gold. Ordinarily, gold is sold by the gramme or ounce. On the face of the bar, the words “purity,” “manufacturer,” and “weight” should be stamped.
A gold coin. Popular collectibles like The Sovereign and Britannia go for more money than you would pay for the same quantity of gold in bullion.
Gold jewelery. When purchasing gold in the form of jewellery, you’ll likely pay more than when purchasing it in coins; the premium may range from 20% to 300%, depending on the designer.

As an alternative, investors can do so informally:

gold stock. Another approach to invest in the yellow metal is by purchasing the stocks of gold mining or processing firms.

Should you put money into gold?
If you want to diversify your portfolio or insure against risk, you might think about investing in gold. Probably not your first pick for long-term capital growth would be gold.

The price of gold has increased by about 36% over the last five years, compared to a 60% total return for the S&P 500.

Gold is not a completely stable investment because gold prices can be very volatile. In truth, it’s simple to build a well-diversified investing portfolio without using any gold.

Additionally, it should be emphasised that unlike other investments, gold in its physical form does not generate a yield or income.

If you purchase physical gold, you need also think about where you will store it.

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LPG Gas Rate in Pakistan Today 1024x640 1

For October 2023, the government hikes the price of LPG by Rs20.86 per kilogramme.

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For October 2023, the government hikes the price of LPG by Rs20.86 per kilogramme.

ISLAMABAD: The government has announced a significant 8.7% increase in Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) rates for both home and business consumers in October 2023 compared to the prior month, which works out to 20.86 per kilogramme. The new pricing system will go into effect as of right now (October 1, 2023).

Notably, the government has increased LPG prices for the third month in a row by a sizeable amount. The depreciation of the Pakistani rupee versus the US dollar and Saudi Aramco’s increase in the pricing of propane and butane, the main ingredients of LPG, were cited by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) as the main causes of this ongoing escalation.

According to the Ogra’s statement, the cost of LPG per kilogramme will increase to Rs261 in October from Rs240 in September 2023.

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turkey elections

Turkey claims that terrorists detonated a bomb at a government facility in Ankara.

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Turkey claims that terrorists detonated a bomb at a government facility in Ankara.

The Ankara ministry buildings were the target of a bomb attempt on Sunday, according to the interior minister of Turkey. He said that one terrorist perished in the blast and the other was “neutralised” by local officials.

The parliament and ministerial buildings were said to have been nearby when the explosion occurred, and television stations showed footage of rubble lying around on a street close to the interior ministry.

As police shut several neighbouring roads, Reuters video showed soldiers, ambulances, fire vehicles, and an armoured vehicle gathered close to the middle of Turkey’s capital.

At 9:30am (0630 GMT), the interior minister Ali Yerlikaya announced on the social media site X that two police officers had suffered minor injuries in the incident.

He claimed that a bomb attack was carried out by two terrorists who arrived in a light commercial vehicle in front of the General Directorate of Security’s access gate for our Ministry of Internal Affairs.

One of them “blew himself up,” he continued, and the other was “neutralised,” which generally means murdered. Until every terrorist has been eliminated, “our fight will go on,” Yerlikaya wrote.

The inquiry was started by the chief prosecutor in Ankara into what was also referred to as a terrorist incident.

Authorities failed to name any specific militant organisations.

This is a developing story that will be changed as things progress. Initial media reporting can occasionally be wrong. By relying on reliable sources, such as concerned, knowledgeable authorities and our staff reporters, we will work to ensure timeliness and accuracy.

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Apple pinpoints problems that are causing the iPhone 15 to overheat.

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Apple pinpoints problems that are causing the iPhone 15 to overheat.

Apple announced on Saturday that it has discovered a few problems that could lead to new iPhones operating warmer than planned. One of these problems is a flaw in the iOS 17 software that will be resolved in a future update.

Apple acknowledged that the new phones may feel warmer in the first few days “after setting up or restoring the device due to increased background activity” in response to accusations that the devices are becoming overheated.

Apple added that it is collaborating with app developers on improvements that are now being handed out. “Another issue involves some recent updates to third-party apps that are causing them to overload the system,” the company stated.

Apple releases the iPhone 15 Pro with a titanium case while maintaining pricing.

According to the business, the problematic third-party apps are Uber, Instagram by Meta, and the Asphalt 9 video game. On September 27, Instagram already fixed the problem with its app.

The performance of the iPhone won’t be slowed down as a result of the planned iOS 17 bug repair.

The iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, according to the Cupertino, California-based corporation, don’t overheat as a result of their design; rather, the new titanium shells boost heat dissipation when compared to earlier stainless steel models.

Apple added that the problem poses no risk to health or safety and won’t have an effect on the phone’s functionality in the long run.

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Afghan ambassador: Pre-Taliban diplomats are leaving the Indian embassy.

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Afghan ambassador: Pre-Taliban diplomats are leaving the Indian embassy.

NEW DELHI: The Afghan Embassy in India is reportedly experiencing significant personnel changes, yet there is a sense of unease among the departing employees and uncertainty on who will take their places.

According to reports, Afghan Ambassador Farid Mamundzay, who was speaking on behalf of a pre-Taliban agreement, wrote to the Indian External Affairs Minister to inform him that the embassy in New Delhi will be closing its doors.

According to reports, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is investigating the veracity of the communication that was allegedly issued from the Afghan embassy and claimed that the embassy was getting ready to shut down by September 30.

The Taliban leadership had conveyed a directive that the present Afghan ambassador to India, who was chosen by the previous Islamic Republic, be replaced with, The Wire had reported in May.

The Taliban-appointed diplomat was not permitted to take over at that time, according to The Wire, which reported on Friday that the plan had failed. Even then, Ambassador Mamundzay told The Wire that the MEA preferred a change in the embassy based on its official silence.

Despite not recognising the Taliban government, India stationed a technical team in Kabul in June 2022 that was made up of diplomats and security officials. It commemorated India’s return to the Afghan capital following the evacuation of the whole embassy in August 2021 as a result of the Taliban takingover of Kabul.

Afghan embassy diplomats have experienced operational and budgetary issues ever since India decided to return to Kabul.

According to a copy of the letter that Afghan journalist Bilal Sarwary posted on X, Ambassador Mamundzay informed the Indian foreign minister that the embassy will be closing down.

Without the express assistance of the Indian government, the Afghan diplomatic mission’s presence in New Delhi is unable to run normally. Unfortunately, the Embassy finds itself in a situation where this support is not available after giving the situation significant thought. Given these factors, the Embassy has determined that terminating our mission by the end of September 2023 is in the best interest of our mission and its staff, it stated.

The Wire claimed to have gotten in touch with Mr. Mamundzay to have the letter verified, but there hasn’t

Official sources claimed that the communication and its context are being checked for legitimacy, but the MEA has not yet responded in a formal manner.

This is in light of the ambassador’s prolonged absence from India, the regular repatriation of diplomats to third countries after obtaining asylum, and rumours of internal strife within the embassy staff, according to official sources.

The mission’s “significance has been systematically diminished since the reopening of the Indian embassy in Kabul in June 2022,” according to the letter purportedly signed by Ambassador Mamundzay.

“During the same period, the mission was not afforded the diplomatic regard and friendly considerations befitting its rightful status, roles, and responsibilities,” he claimed.

Additionally, Mr. Mamundzay requested that the MEA take custodial

The mission’s “significance has been systematically diminished since the reopening of the Indian embassy in Kabul in June 2022,” according to the letter purportedly signed by Ambassador Mamundzay.

“During the same period, the mission was not afforded the diplomatic regard and friendly considerations befitting its rightful status, roles, and responsibilities,” he claimed.

In the letter, Mr. Mamundzay also requested that the MEA assume custody of the mission’s assets and bank accounts, such as the lndia Afghanistan Fund, which now has over $500,000 in it.

Additionally, he requested that those diplomats whose visas have not been extended since May 2023 receive exit permits from the MEA. Thirdly, he asked that the Afghan tricolour flag continue to fly over all of the mission’s properties.

His final request was his fourth:

His final and fourth requirement was that no official of the Taliban regime be given access to the embassy’s premises.

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Nawaz Shehbaz

PML-N chooses against using an anti-establishment stance

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PML-N chooses against using an anti-establishment stance

LONDON: In order to minimise unneeded distraction, the leadership of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has chosen in principle to focus its narrative on Pakistan’s economic recovery rather than flaunt the anti-establishment narrative.

The crucial choice in this matter was made during a number of meetings in London. Nawaz Sharif, Shehbaz Sharif, Maryam Nawaz, Ishaq Dar, Malik Ahmed Khan, Talal Chaudhary, Atta Tarar, and others participated in these meetings.

The PML-N will focus on the economy, governance, and public issues when Nawaz returns to Pakistan in three weeks rather than anything that smacks of retaliation or a conflict with any institution, especially the military establishment. Senior PML-N figures have stated that Pakistan’s problems are so serious and difficult that conflict with

That doesn’t imply, according to the sources, that the leader of the PML-N party or the organisation would give up on naming and humiliating the true offenders, who include General Faiz, General Bajwa, Saqib Nisar, Azmat Saeed Sheikh, Asif Saeed Khosa, Umar Atta Bandial, Ijazul Ahsan, and Imran Khan. Nawaz and his comrades continue to hold firmly to the notion that a number of persons conspired and collaborated to put the PTI in power in 2018. According to insiders who attended these talks, Nawaz and his colleagues will continue to hold these individuals responsible for the current state of disarray and for pausing Pakistan’s economic progress.

Shehbaz Sharif arrived in London in August and stayed until the middle of September, a period of almost a month. He headed out

However, the party acknowledged in the London meetings that if the emphasis was placed on holding these people accountable, then all of the attention would be deflected, and a persistent environment of conflict would not benefit PML-N in any way. The source claimed that the three-time premier and his colleagues still feel betrayed by the military establishment for harming Pakistan and manipulating the 2018 elections to install Imran Khan as president, but they also believe that so much damage has been done that only a plan for the future can inspire optimism and hope, and that focusing on the past grievances and seeking retribution will cause a spin around the PML-N from which it will not emerge unscathed.

Fewer than two or three hawks

The PML-N leader, according to party insiders, has no doubts about his convictions that the establishment and the judiciary conspired to remove him from power in 2017 at a time when he was strong and appeared to be winning the 2018 elections easily, but was instead ousted by the judges on Iqama in highly contentious circumstances. Everyone around him has cautioned him to consider the future and avoid taking any actions that might provoke another conflict between his party and the influential factions. Nawaz has approved his trusted people to publicise the consensus view in the media at this point since he agrees with it.

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The CTD publishes a second list of wanted terrorists.

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The CTD publishes a second list of wanted terrorists.

The second list of wanted terrorists has been made public by the KhyberPakhtunkhwa (KP) Counter Terrorism Department (CTD). A reward of between Rs 0.3 and Rs 5 million has been announced by the Anti-Terrorism Department for the capture of terrorists

The names and images of the terrorists are listed on the CTD list. The Bannu district is home to fifteen wanted terrorists, Lakki Marwat to thirteen, and Dera Ismail Khan to two.

The price of the head of the Lakki Marwat-affiliated terrorist Habibullah has been put at 5 million rupees, while the price of the head of the Bannu terrorist leader Maulvi Naimatullah has been placed at 4 million rupees, according to the most recent KP CTD list.
We will keep the identities of people providing information about these most wanted terrorists a secret. The CTD previously published a list of the 135 most sought terrorists.—NNI

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After twin suicide bombings, Pak Army Chief says nation will eradicate threat of terrorism

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After twin suicide bombings, Pak Army Chief says nation will eradicate threat of terrorism

Following Friday’s twin suicide attacks that left 65 people dead, Pakistan’s Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir has vowed to end the threat of terrorism from the nation by waging “unabated” military operations against extremists.
An official reported that a horrific suicide attack that took place on Friday in Balochistan targeted a procession to honour the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad close to the Madina Masjid in Mastung and left 60 people dead and more than 60 injured.

Five people were killed and 12 injured in the second bombing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Hangu, which was directed at a mosque that served as a police station. The mosque’s roof fell as a result of the explosion’s impact, it added.

According to a statement released by the Army’s media wing on Saturday night, the Chief of Army Staff visited Quetta on Saturday and was given a briefing on recent terrorist attacks. Munir claimed that these attacks were being carried out with the “backing of state sponsors of terrorism” by heretics who had no connection to Islam.

He remarked, without going into any detail, “These terrorists and their facilitators, having no link with religion and ideology, are proxies of the enemies of Pakistan and its people.

The Army commander continued, “These forces of evil will continue to face the full might of the state and security forces backed by a resilient nation.”The Armed Forces, Intelligence, and Law Enforcement Agencies shall not relent in our fight against terrorists.

According to a research by the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), violence has increased alarmingly nationwide by 57%, according to the publication The Express Tribune.

According to the CRSS Security Report for the third quarter of 2023, security forces were responsible for 36% of the 1,087 violence-related fatalities that were reported this year, which is an eight-year high. This number comprises 208 police officers and 137 soldiers.

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The Silent Sufferers: Unraveling the Impact of Climate Change on Older People in Pakistan

By Syed Moeez KakaKhel

As the world grapples with the consequences of climate change, certain vulnerable groups often bear a disproportionate burden of its effects. Among these groups, older people are particularly susceptible to the adverse impacts of shifting weather patterns, extreme events, and changing ecosystems. In Pakistan, a country already grappling with a multitude of socio-economic challenges, the impact of climate change on its ageing population is an emerging concern that demands urgent attention.

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Pakistan is the fifth most populous country in the world with more than 14 million older people. Pakistan is experiencing a demographic shift towards an ageing population. According to the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS) 2017-18, the percentage of individuals aged 60 and above in the country was approximately 6.6%. The United Nations projects that the proportion of Pakistan’s population aged 60 and above will increase to around 15% by 2050, signifying a significant rise in the elderly population.

Older people in Pakistan are distributed unevenly between urban and rural areas. Urban areas often have better access to healthcare facilities and services compared to rural regions. Many older individuals in Pakistan suffer from various health issues. According to the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS) 2017-18, around 49% of older men and 54% of older women reported having at least one chronic health condition. According to World Health Organization estimates around 43% of older people have some kind of disability, which makes them more vulnerable.

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Older people in Pakistan often face economic challenges. A considerable portion of the elderly population is engaged in informal labour, and they may lack access to social security programs or pension schemes.

Illiteracy rates among older individuals can hinder their ability to access information, communicate effectively, and engage with modern technology and services.

Traditionally, older people in Pakistan have relied on family support. However, urbanization, migration, and changing family dynamics can sometimes lead to reduced family care and increased social isolation.

Older people in Pakistan, especially those living in poverty, are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. Heatwaves, water scarcity, and extreme weather events disproportionately affect their health and well-being. The Population Welfare Council reported more than 800,000 people aged 65 and above were affected by the flood of 2022 in Sindh and Balochistan provinces. The UN reported older people as the most vulnerable groups during these floods.

Chronic health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory issues, and diabetes, which are prevalent in older populations, can worsen under extreme weather conditions, leading to a higher mortality rate during heat waves or cold spells. Climate change can also lead to the spread of diseases such as vector-borne diseases (e.g., malaria and dengue) and waterborne diseases (e.g., cholera). Older people and those with disabilities may have compromised immune systems or difficulty accessing healthcare, putting them at greater risk of illness.

One of the most immediate threats posed by climate change in Pakistan is the intensification of heat waves. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, the frequency and intensity of heatwaves have increased over the past few decades. Heatwaves can pose a serious risk to the health and well-being of older individuals. Physiological changes associated with aging make them more susceptible to heat-related illnesses, such as heatstroke and heat exhaustion, as they may have decreased thermoregulatory abilities and underlying health conditions. Many older individuals in Pakistan live in inadequate housing conditions, lacking proper ventilation and insulation, and limited access to cooling facilities which makes them more vulnerable to extreme temperatures.

Climate change also disrupts water availability, a critical factor for the well-being of older people. As rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns lead to water scarcity, older individuals may face difficulties in accessing safe and clean drinking water. This not only affects hydration but also impacts sanitation and hygiene, leading to increased vulnerability to waterborne diseases.

Climate change-induced events, such as floods, storms, and droughts, can lead to displacement. Older people with disabilities may face challenges in evacuating to safer areas. Lack of accessible transportation, evacuation plans, and shelters that accommodate disabilities can increase their vulnerability during disasters. Older people who are forced to migrate due to these events often face challenges in adapting to new environments, accessing healthcare, and rebuilding their lives. This can have significant mental health implications, including increased stress, anxiety, and depression, which are particularly pronounced in older individuals already dealing with the challenges of aging.

In Pakistan, where the cultural norm of respecting and caring for elders is strong, older people are usually an integral part of family structures. However, the impacts of climate change can strain these familial ties. When households are affected by climate-related disasters, resources that were previously available for the care of older family members might be redirected towards recovery efforts. This can lead to increased social isolation, inadequate care, and neglect of the elderly.

Climate-related disasters can disrupt livelihoods, particularly for vulnerable populations. Older individuals with disabilities may have limited income and resources, making it harder to recover from the economic impacts of climate change. During a HelpAge assessment it was found most of the small livestock like sheep and goats were killed in the flood, which was the only source of income of the older people in Balochistan.

Addressing the impact of climate change on older people in Pakistan requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach that considers their specific vulnerabilities and needs and combines climate adaptation strategies with elderly-friendly policies. Some key considerations include:

  1. Data Collection and Research:
  • Lack of Sex age and disability disaggregated (SADD) data exclude older people and those with disabilities from the policies and programs. Most of the organisations and researchers are collecting gender-based data only. It is important to collect SADD data and identify the vulnerabilities and needs of older people in the context of climate change.
  • This has also been evident that the organizations are not collecting qualitative data on barriers to the inclusion of older people and persons with disabilities that contribute to their exclusion. Researchers must investigate the specific impacts of climate change on older individuals and inform evidence-based policies.
  • Empowerment and Participation:
  • Older people are excluded from the discussions and consultations around climate change. It is important that the active participation of older people, including those with disabilities, is ensured in policy discussions, consultations, and decision-making processes related to climate change and disaster management.
  • Inclusive Climate Adaptation and Mitigation Strategies:
  • It is important to Integrate the perspectives and experiences of older people into climate policies and strategies. We must develop age-sensitive climate adaptation plans that account for the unique vulnerabilities of older individuals and ensure the inclusion of older people in disaster risk reduction and emergency response plans.
  • Early Warning Systems and Communication:
  • The early warning systems must be age-friendly and consider the communication preferences and limitations of older people.
  • It must be ensured that climate-related alerts are disseminated through multiple channels, including radio, community networks, and mobile phones.
  • Capacity Building and Training:
  • We must promote older people and persons with disability-inclusive community-based organizations and decision-making processes related to climate change adaptation. Older people must be considered for training on disaster preparedness, response, and climate-resilient livelihood strategies.
  • Healthcare and Support Systems:
  • Ensuring that healthcare systems are equipped to handle the health needs of older people.
  • Establish mobile healthcare units to reach older people in remote and vulnerable areas during the disaster response.
  • Provide training for healthcare professionals to address the specific health needs of older people during disaster response.
  • Social Protection:
  • Social protection programs must be designed that specifically target older people, providing financial assistance, food support, and access to essential services.
  • Implement cash transfer programs that support older people’s ability to cope with climate-related shocks and stresses.
  • Infrastructure and Shelter:
  • Design and upgrade shelters to be age-friendly and accessible, considering the mobility challenges of older people.
  • Retrofit infrastructure to withstand climate-related events and ensure older people’s safety.
  • Education and Awareness:
  • Conduct awareness campaigns on climate change impacts and adaptation strategies tailored to older people’s comprehension levels.
  • Include older people in educational initiatives to enhance their understanding of climate-related risks and coping mechanisms.
  • Intergenerational Collaboration:
  • Promote intergenerational collaboration to share knowledge, experiences, and resources for effective climate adaptation and disaster resilience.
  • Partnerships and Coordination:
  • Foster collaboration between government agencies, international and national NGOs, civil society organizations, and academia to collectively address the challenges faced by older people in the context of climate change.

The effectiveness of these recommendations will depend on their adaptation to local contexts and the active involvement of older individuals and their communities in the planning and implementation processes.