ISLAMABAD: On Monday, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) barred the police from detaining Attaullah Tarar, the special assistant to Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif.
The protective bail for PM Shehbaz’s assistant was also approved by the high court.In response to Tarar’s petition for security, Acting Chief Justice IHC Aamer Farooq rendered a decision ordering the police not to arrest him.
After being accused of assaulting PTI employees on May 25, Tarar petitioned the high court for protected bail, which led to a police raid and Tarar’s arrest on August 13. He was the subject of a first information report (FIR) at the Qila Gujjar Singh Police Station in Lahore.
Al-Qaeda has requested that Nupur Sharma, a former member of the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP), be “judged” for her insulting comments made about the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) in June.
Sharma, a spokesperson for the right-wing government in India until she was fired, offended many Muslims when she insulted the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) on television.
Muslims worldwide demanded that she be punished after the statements provoked major protests in India and other countries. Since then, the argument has generated bloodshed in Udaipur.
LAKKI MARWAT: In Lakki Marwat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a man was arrested on Monday for recording films of women who had visited a theme park to ride rides with their kids.
The burqa-clad women were being filmed by the man, according to the park’s management, as they boarded a ride in the recreation section.
According to the police, a first information report (FIR) has been filed against the suspect. They further mentioned that as the man was filming, other onlookers were cursing at the women.
The park’s management added that the women’s area was distinct and that the ride was restricted to men while the women were boarding it.
KARACHI: Twelve passengers were on board an Indian aeroplane when it landed at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport (JIAP), according to sources speaking to Geo News.
The special flight, according to the sources, took off from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad, India, and touched down at the airport in Karachi around 12:10 p.m.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) confirmed the news and stated that the international charter flight had only recently arrived from India and had no additional connections to the nation.
Shahbaz Gill, a senior PTI official and Imran Khan’s chief of staff, filed a petition with the Islamabad High Court on Monday challenging the sedition charge brought against him, alleging that the police had booked him at the request of the federal government.
Gill has filed a new lawsuit in an effort to have the FIR against him dismissed on the grounds that it was filed with malicious intent.”To demonstrate its allegiance to the government, Islamabad Police registered the case. The lawsuit was only brought about to forward the federal government’s political objective, “There was a plea.
Prior to this, Gill received a notice from the IHC in response to the federal government’s appeal of the decision to deny a request for an extension of his physical detention made as part of a separate plea in a sedition case.
Federal Minister and top PML-N official Javed Latif announced on Monday that after a protracted absence, PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif will return to Pakistan in September to stand up for “the people.”
Latif stated during a press conference with PML-N Punjab spokeswoman Azma Bukhari that the “doctors” had made their choice and Nawaz will comply with their request.
“With time, the doctors’ opinions shift. People are his medical professionals, and the country has declared that Nawaz Sharif should return “said Latif.
Nawaz was sentenced to seven years in prison in 2018 by an accountability court in the Al-Azizia Steel Mills corruption reference. He was also given a total of 11 years in prison and fined £8 million (about Rs1.3 billion) in the Avenfield Properties reference.
KABUL: The Afghan Foreign Ministry has asked that India fulfil all outstanding development projects in Afghanistan.In a statement made last Saturday, the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan’s (IEA) foreign ministry also emphasised that India begin work on “important projects” in the war-torn country.
Indian Foreign Minister
The demand came after Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar announced last Friday that a party of diplomats — without the ambassador — had visited Afghanistan to address a variety of issues, including development projects and humanitarian assistance.
“We have taken a very deliberated and considered view that our relationship, at the end of the day, is with the people of Afghanistan, to the society, and that it is a relationship that is deep enough and, in a sense, historically long enough for us to actually find ways of factoring in these political changes and continuing that people-to-people, so like a relationship,” the foreign minister told journalists.
KARACHI: In the interbank market on Monday, the Pakistani rupee strengthened against the US dollar for the eleventh consecutive working day.
The rupee gained another Rs2.49 after more than a week of gains, with the dollar trading at Rs213 following a depreciation during intraday activity in the interbank market at 10:50am.
Rupee clashes with US dollar
The Pakistani rupee gained Rs3.38 versus the US dollar in the interbank market on Friday, closing at Rs215.50.
Despite dwindling foreign exchange reserves, the rupee has continued to strengthen against the US dollar as the supply of foreign currency has steadily increased relative to the system’s demand.
NEW YORK: Highlighting India’s “brutal” military siege of Jammu and Kashmir, now in its 3rd year, Pakistan’s UN Ambassador Munir Akram has said that Islamabad will continue to raise Kashmir’s call for liberation at the United Nations and in all forums. “We stand firmly with our Kashmiri brothers and sisters in their struggle for right to self-determination and freedom,” he said in a video message to the Pakistani community released Sunday to mark Pakistan’s Independence Day.
At the same time, the Pakistani envoy said, “The foresight of Quaid-e-Azam in advancing the rationale for the creation of Pakistan is being emphatically validated today in the repression of the Muslims who live in India. “They face organized state repression, shrinking social space and usurpation of their fundamental rights as the BJP-RSS government seeks to eliminate the Islamic legacy in India and re-write history to elaborate the great contributions of its Muslim rulers and dynasties.” “Our founding fathers”, he said, “faced vigorous opposition and secured Pakistan through determination, resolve, wisdom and democratic struggle. Hundreds of thousands of our brothers and sisters sacrificed their lives just to reach their promised homeland; to fulfill their dream of nationhood and liberty.
“We must never forget their heroism; their ideals; and their sacrifice,” Ambassador Akram said, adding to honour them, “We must preserve and build Pakistan into a strong, modern, democratic Islamic State where all can prosper and no one is left behind. “We must reaffirm the pledge to pursue and realize the vision of the Quaid.”
As regards the people of Jammu and Kashmir, he said that they are part of Pakistan’s body and soul who have been denied the right to self-determination and freedom by Indian occupation and oppression. “They have been under a brutal military siege for the past three years. 900,000 Indian troops have unleashed a reign of terror in occupied Jammu and Kashmir, resorting to extra-judicial killings; abduction and torture of young Kashmiri boys; and destruction of entire villages and neighborhoods and the illegal incarceration of Kashmiri leaders.”
WASHINGTON: Pakistan’s Ambassador to the United States Masood Khan in his message on 75th Independence Day of Pakistan has said today is a special day for us – in Pakistan and in the United States. He said we have completed 75 years of our national independence. He said Pakistan was a dream in 1940s.Our forefathers and people of Pakistan, through their steely determination and sacrifices opened the way for this miracle.
The Ambassador said Nation-building has not been an easy task for us. We rode through many storms. Many challenges lie ahead. But as individuals, communities and a nation, we are confident that we will succeed. God is with us. Today we also celebrate 75 years of our diplomatic relations and friendship with our ally and partner, the United States of America.
In the past seven decades, Masood Khan said together we have achieved a lot and we commit ourselves to work together for peace, security and stability. Most importantly, we will strengthen our people to people ties that will nurture our relations at all levels. “Long Live Pakistan. Long Live Pakistan-US friendship.”
ISLAMABAD: Saudi Arabia is planning to renew its $3 billion deposit in assistance to Pakistan, as the South Asian nation looks to rein in one of Asia’s highest inflation rates and stave off a current-account crisis, according to people familiar with the matter, reported Bloomberg.
The Saudi Finance Ministry plans to renew its $3 billion deposit with State Bank of Pakistan as soon as this week, the people said, asking not to be identified discussing private deliberations. The kingdom also plans to provide $100 million a month for 10 months in petroleum products that will be granted as additional support, the people added. Pakistan’s funding gap has been covered after the kingdom’s commitment, the people said, adding that the assurance will pave the way for the International Monetary Fund’s loan approval at the end of the month. Saudi Arabia has been coordinating with the IMF to ensure that Pakistan is fully supported, one of the people said.
One of the persons claimed that the announcement of the commitment may happen within the next two days. Saudi Arabian and Pakistani Finance Ministry representatives did not immediately reply to requests for comment from Bloomberg. The assistance comes as the IMF is evaluating Saudi Arabia’s commitment to finance Pakistan before disbursing more monies to the South Asian country.
Bloomberg reported in July that the IMF wanted to ensure that Saudi Arabia will follow through with as much as $4 billion in funding to Pakistan to ensure Islamabad does not have a funding gap after the IMF loan. Pakistan has a gaping trade deficit, a large fiscal hole and a $1.7 billion debt payment due in December. Averting default will depend on whether external support from Saudi Arabia and other countries materializes. Without it, default seems increasingly likely.
Saudi Arabia extended support multiple times to the nation. It pledged $4.2 billion in assistance to Pakistan when the former prime minister, Imran Khan, visited the kingdom in October. That included a deposit of $3 billion with the State Bank of Pakistan to help shore up its reserves and a facility to finance oil derivatives trade worth $1.2 billion during the year. The kingdom discussed extending the term of its $3 billion deposit with Pakistan when Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met the kingdom’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in May.
The issue is important because, despite the IMF’s scheduled loan of $1.2 billion to Pakistan, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s administration would not be able to avoid a default on its debt with this amount. Last month, Pakistan and the IMF reached a staff-level agreement to resurrect its rescue plan. The board of the IMF could decide against authorising the cash release if there is a risk of default.
LAHORE: Former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Saturday said that Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Jinnah fought for independence of the country. Addressing the participants of Haqiqi Azadi Jalsa, he said that the slavery makes a person feels inferior and recalled how people laid down their lives to gain independence from British rule in India. The ex-PM lamented that the elite of the country has not come out of inferiority complex. It is a myth, according to Imran Khan, that Islam expanded through the sword. He added that the genuine revolution involved changing Arabs’ mindsets and empowering them to think for themselves. He also mentioned the tragedy of Karbala and said that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) made people bold in the face of “idols of fear.”
The former premier said that the people of Kufa did not help Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) despite knowing that the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was on the right path. Imran Khan said that when he entered politics, he pushed educated people to join him but people did not pay heed to him citing that politics was a ‘dirty affair’. He said that his opponents had been running vile campaigns against him since he joined politics, but they failed.
According to the former prime minister, those who fear death will never succeed in life. He said that he formed the Rahmatul-Lil-Aalameen authority to educate young people about the moral guidelines set out by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and to combat Western culture. He emphasised that he was not hostile to either the US or any other nation. He did, however, add that they wanted to be friends with every country, but not slaves.
ISLAMABAD: While congratulating Pakistan on its 75th anniversary of independence on Sunday, the United States of America listed the sectors in which they cooperate. US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken wrote in a statement that he “sends warm greetings to the people of Pakistan as they celebrate their 75th Independence Day” on the website of the State Department.
He further said “In addition to 75 years of independence, this year also marks 75 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Pakistan.”
Blinken said “We enjoy robust cooperation in many sectors, from the tens of thousands of Pakistani exchange students who have come to the United States to the 77 million Covid-19 vaccine doses we have committed to Pakistan through COVAX. The United States continues to be Pakistan’s largest export destination and I am confident our relationship will continue to grow. As we commemorate our 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations, let us resolve to renew and strengthen our partnership for the next 75 years and beyond.” The secretary concluded “We congratulate you on this important milestone and wish you a Happy Independence Day!”
On behalf of the government and people of the United States of America, US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome wished Pakistanis a very happy 75th Independence Day. The US ends, “We congratulate you on this significant achievement and wish you a Happy Independence Day.” On behalf of the US government and its citizens, US Ambassador Donald Bloom wished the people of Pakistan a very happy 75th Independence Day on Sunday.
A statement issued by the US Embassy in Pakistan released a video message of the recently appointed ambassador. In his video message to the nation of Pakistan on the occasion of Independence Day, Ambassador Bloom started his message by saying “Assalam Alaikum.” Talking about the relations between the two countries, he said Pakistan and US will have to face the upcoming challenges together in the rapidly changing conditions of the world.
The governments and people of both countries have developed a solid and long-lasting partnership, according to Bloom. He stated that “we have supplied 77 billion vaccines to Pakistan for the previous 2 years” when referring to the coronavirus vaccine developed for the global outbreak. The envoy continued by saying that the US is pleased that trade and economic ties between the two nations have improved. Additionally, the US is still Pakistan’s biggest export market.
RAWALPINDI: President Dr. Arif Alvi claims that Pakistan is an independent country that attained independence after a protracted struggle and that its people will never again bow to outside authority. President Dr. Arif Alvi stated that our children are the future of Pakistan while speaking at an event in conjunction with Independence Day celebrations on Sunday at Kashana, a shelter home for abandoned and orphaned girls in Rawalpindi. He claimed that our nation’s founder Quaid-i-Azam constantly emphasised the importance of women to the growth of the nation.
The President also underlined that inclusion of girls in the national mainstream was imperative for development of the country. Highlighting the significance of taking care of orphans in Islam, the president appreciated the institute for providing facilities of food, residence and education. He said Muslim society always stressed on taking good care of deserving children and orphans.
According to President Dr. Arif Alvi, it is the state’s duty to give children appropriate opportunity for work, moral upbringing, and education. He encouraged girls to work hard so they can get an education. He urged ladies to speak their truth and respect teachers and elders, putting an emphasis on character development. The President noted that millions of people died in the struggle for independence while remembering the sacrifices made by our ancestors in the Pakistan movement.
President Dr. Arif Alvi also participated in a cake cutting ceremony and posed for a group photo with children and teachers of the institute. Later, First Lady Begum Samina Arif Alvi distributed gift packs among girls.
KARACHI: U.S. Ambassador Donald Blome visited Karachi to further strengthen the robust economic partnership and bilateral trade between Pakistan and the United States. The Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, the Chief Ministers of Sindh and Balochistan, the Administrator of Karachi, the Commander of Pakistan Navy Pakistan Fleet (COMPAK), as well as other government officials, business and financial leaders, trade and energy executives, and other business and commercial representatives were among those with whom Ambassador Blome met during his visit, according to a press release issued on Saturday. “I am glad to be back in Karachi, a financial and commercial hub with tremendous energy,” said Ambassador Blome. “This year marks the 75th anniversary of U.S.-Pakistan bilateral relations and I look forward to strengthening U.S.-Pakistan partnerships in trade, investment, clean energy, health, security, education, and other mutually beneficial priority areas.”
Ambassador Blome visited Port Qasim and met with Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Faisal Subzwari. The Ambassador expressed interest in how the United States can work with Pakistan to develop more linkages with U.S. port and maritime institutions. In his discussions with the chief ministers of Sindh and Balochistan, respectively, Murad Ali Shah and Abdul Quddus Bizenjo, the ambassador spoke about political, economic, and security issues as well as the current relief efforts to deal with the unfortunate effects of the recent floods in both provinces. The United States is providing a new $1 million grant to strengthen the resilience of agricultural communities in Sindh Province and assist Pakistan’s disaster management authorities in Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan provinces to better respond to upcoming disasters, according to Ambassador Blome during his meeting with Sindh Chief Minister Shah.
Ambassador Blome and Karachi Administrator Murtaza Wahab discussed the impact of flooding and other challenges in the city, as well as opportunities for growth including in the information technology sector. The Ambassador reiterated the significance of the military ties between the United States and Pakistan as well as his desire to strengthen and broaden our ongoing security cooperation during his meeting with COMPAK Vice Admiral Ovais Bilgrami. They also discussed relief efforts in flood-affected areas. Imran Nasrullah, CEO of Cargill Pakistan, met with Ambassador Blome. The Ambassador also visited Excelerate’s floating storage and regasification facility in Port Qasim to highlight our shared desire for the LNG joint venture between Engro and Excelerate to flourish in Pakistan.He met other U.S and Pakistani business leaders to show his commitment to promoting U.S. business and investment in Pakistan through a wide range of effective services, products, and programs.
The U.S. government is dedicated to expanding the ties between the Pakistani and American people to promote a more stable, secure, and prosperous future for both our nations. Bilateral trade reached nearly $9 billion in 2021. The greatest single export market for Pakistan is the United States, which is also one of the largest sources of foreign investment. U.S. direct investment has increased by 50% in the last year. Approximately 80 U.S. corporations directly employ more than 125,000 Pakistanis, and another one million are indirectly employed by these companies and their local affiliates, making them among of Pakistan’s greatest employers. Up to $5.7 million was invested by American businesses in Pakistani CSR projects in 2021.
MULTAN: Special Assistant to Prime Minister (SAPM) Abdul Ghaffar Dogar on Saturday said that he was committed to serve the masses with complete devotion and dedication round the clock.
SAPM Malik Abdul Ghaffar Dogar while addressing a welcome reception organized by people of the constituency NA 157, thanked them and stated that their love for him was matchless. He said he would never forget love of the people of the constituency in his honour.
He stated that although the PML-N leadership had given him another task, he still intended to run for office. He promised to keep serving the people with devotion and dedication. On this occasion, he was warmly welcomed by hundreds of PML N employees. They had placards and banners with slogans in support of the party leadership.
ISLAMABAD: Minister of State for Petroleum and PML-N leader Musadik Malik said on Saturday that former prime minister and PTI Chairman Imran Khan did not want to be asked about the foreign funding of his party. Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, he claimed that Imran was no more ‘truthful and honest’.
At the PTI rally in Islamabad, Khan flashed a letter in front of the public, claiming it had come from the United States and warned of dire consequences if a no-trust resolution against him was not approved by the National Assembly. He even insisted that he had never shared the document with anyone (NA). He recalled that “all institutions, particularly the ISPR, had firmly denied there was a conspiracy behind the fall of the PTI government.”
Musadik was of the view that Imran and his party wanted to pressurize the country’s establishment by holding public gatherings. “Imran, what are you afraid of if you have done nothing wrong,” he added.
The minister expressed regrets that Shehbaz Gill of the PTI, who had incited people against the Pakistan Army, had only received a two-day physical remand whereas PML-N Vice President Maryam Nawaz had received a 45-day physical remand. The minister continued by stating that it was odd that the PTI chairman was waiting for President Joe Biden’s call while claiming to be the victim of a US scheme.
ISLAMABAD: Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal Chaudhry has directed National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and all the provinces to expedite the relief assessment survey in flood-affected areas particularly in Balochistan.
Ahsan Iqbal issued these directions while chairing a Flood Relief Committee meeting to review progress over flood relief activities in Islamabad. The representatives from all the provinces informed the meeting that soon after the flood, immediate measures were taken and further progress is underway in collaboration with NDMA. The Minister directed the concerned stakeholders to expedite the relief activities while ensuring the completion of joint relief assessment surveys in flood-hit areas so the rehabilitation process could be started. It was also decided to engage Benazir Income Support Program for the disbursement of cash to the flood-affected families. The Minister for Planning said the most deserving people should be given a top priority.
ISLAMABAD: Finance ministry has launched ‘75 years Economic Journey of Pakistan’ to commemorate 75th Independence Day of the country, highlighting how GDP, exports, per capita income and tax revenues increased during the period.
Sharing details of the economy during the period of 75 years since independence, the finance ministry shared that the nominal GDP rose from US$3 billion to US$383 billion from 1950-2022 while GDP growth boosted from 1.8 percent in 1950 to 5.97 percent in 2022.
It stated that between 1950 and 2022, the per capita income increased from US$86 to US$1,798. From 1950 to 2022, exports increased from $163.9 million to $32.5 billion, the report stated, adding that tax receipts increased from Rs0.31 billion to Rs6126.1 billion. In summarising the economic journey, the finance ministry noted that in 1949–1950, agriculture accounted for 59.9% of the total GDP and that the green revolution began in the early 1960s. Out of 921 industrial units, Pakistan only received 34 at the time of independence.
GAZA: Hamas and the Palestinian people highly appreciate the position of Pakistani Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif in support of the Palestinian cause, thus emphasizing the unwavering position of the Pakistani people towards the Palestinians. In his speech, Khawaja Muhammad Asif emphasised how the British Belfour Declaration added to the agony of the Palestinian people and said that everyone who supports the Israeli occupation is complicit in the atrocities done against the Palestinian people.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Hamas movement has thanked Khawaja Muhammad Asif and the Pakistani people for honest positions in support of the Palestinian people. We also urge the free people of the world and the Arab and Islamic countries to act decisively and take positions that are firm in order to cease Israeli occupation of our land and its atrocities against Islamic and Christian holy sites. According to Hamas, these positions would promote the Palestinian people’s aspirations for liberation, freedom, and return.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan had strongly condemned the recent terrorist incident in Jeddah, resulting in injuries, including to a Pakistani national. “We pray for the speediest recovery of those injured,” the foreign office said on Saturday.
According to the statement, the leadership, administration, and benevolent people of Saudi Arabia are fully supported and united in their opposition to any threats to the Kingdom’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
ISLAMABAD: Minister for Information and Broadcasting Marriyum Aurangzeb on Saturday said the journey of democracy would continue with same zeal and zest which had passed on numerous dividends to the nation under the leadership of previous democratic leaders. The minister reiterated the Quaid-i-vision, Azam’s who correctly stated that the country’s future lay in democracy: “The nation reaped benefits and fruits anytime there was a democracy in the country during the last 75 years.”
Addressing the Flag Painting Ceremony here at D-Chowk, she said the country became nuclear power during the democratic rule of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Nawaz Sharif who connected all federating units by establishing network of the motorway across the country. She claimed that Nawaz Sharif finished the nuclear programme started in the 1970s by Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto. Despite the pressure from outside forces, he (Nawaz Sharif) made the nation’s defence unbreakable.
Marriyum paid tribute to all scientists, engineers and others for their contribution in making the country an atomic power. She said Nawaz Sharif eliminated terrorism from the country, brought economic growth to 6 per cent and ensured zero load-shedding during tenure of his previous government (2013-18).“ She praised everyone who had given their lives in the fight for democracy and stated, “We gained all these fruits during democratic rules, whether it was nuclear deterrence, the constitution, youth programme, Benazir Income Support Programme, or 4G internet. She referred to the political system as the solution to all of the issues facing the nation and said that whenever democracy was assaulted, it came back in full force.
She said the Constitution of Pakistan, 1973 was a remarkable achievement of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto’s ear as it was passed with complete consensus of all the political parties. The Constitution ordered all the state institutions to perform their duties within their domain. The minister remarked that during the administration of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who had provided public transit systems to all significant cities, Punjab, the nation’s largest province, was connected to all other provinces. Shehbaz Sharif, the prime minister, would unveil the re-recorded national song on August 14 during the ceremony for hoisting the flag, she said. She also said that PM Shehbaz would be the first prime minister to introduce a re-recorded version of the national anthem since Liaquat Ali Khan.
Marriyum extended gratitude to all who contributed in the re-recording of national anthem. The Information Ministry, Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) and Steering Committee Head Javed Jabbar played a major role in this regard. She also praised the contributions made by minorities to the socioeconomic advancement of the nation. She continued, “Their services will never be forgotten.” In addition, the minister praised the media for its thorough coverage of Pakistan’s Diamond Jubilee festivities. She praised the students who had congregated at the D-Chowk and had painted the national flag, saying they had come to show support for the nation in light of the Diamond Jubilee.
The D-Chowk was used for the protests always, but it was the first time that the children had gathered here to express solidarity with the country, she said, adding the spirit of school kids showed that they were ready to sacrifice their lives for the motherland. “Today, the spirit is not different from that of 1947 when Quaid-i-Azam established an independent and democratic country for the Muslims through votes,” she remarked.
The minister congratulated the Interior and Information Ministries, Law Enforcement Agencies and police from all the provinces for successfully holding the Diamond Jubilee festivities. She also praised the military forces for defending and guarding the nation. Marriyum advised the populace to exhibit togetherness and affection for the nation by hoisting the national flag atop the rooftops of their residences. “This will demonstrate to the world that we are a peaceful people who have come together to thwart the evil plans of our adversaries. She said that tonight’s D-chowk fireworks and laser spectacular had been planned and will be shown live on Pakistan Television. She added that the Parliament would present an united declaration to honour our warriors who gave their life in defence of the nation.
ISLAMABAD: The 75th Independence Day is a watershed moment in our nation’s history. Today we pay rich tributes to Muslims of the sub-continent and express our collective gratitude to them for their heroic struggle, and epic sacrifices for the creation of a new state. The establishment of Pakistan is an outcome of the Quaid-i-Azam’s single-minded devotion, unflinching resolve, and unwavering struggle. From the conception of an idea in 1930, Pakistan emerged on the map of the world as the largest Muslim country in a short span of 17 years. The coming of Pakistan into existence was no less than a miracle that stunned friends and foes alike, beating all predictions and assessments.
Where the 75th Independence Day is an occasion of jubilation and festivity, it is also a moment of reflection and self-accountability. We, as a nation, have achieved many milestones during the last seven and a half decades. From thwarting external aggression to putting together a federal constitution to becoming the 7th nuclear power of the world to beating the scourge of terrorism, we have come a long way. The odds were definitely heavier than anyone could imagine but our national will to defeat them was stronger. At the same time, it is also a fact that we have not been able to fully realize the dream that our founding fathers dreamed; the dream of socio-economic justice, rule of and equality before the law, and the dream of an egalitarian society.
While we are an independent nation, a precious gift for which we cannot thank Allah Almighty enough, true freedom lies in being free from want, hunger, poverty, and backwardness. As long as we do not have economic sovereignty, the concept of freedom will remain incomplete. Nothing is more dangerous for a nation than internal division; disruption and chaos, for such negative forces, undermine the solidarity and integrity of the country and rob societies of their national purpose.
The Quaid-i-Azam warned against such evils and gave us the motto of “unity, faith, and discipline” as an antidote. The greatest strength of our country is the people, particularly the youth. It is their energy, resolve, and passion that is capable of overcoming any odds, beating any hurdle, and lighting the candle of hope. We can push back the divisive and nihilistic forces with the power of the people and protect our freedom and identity. I have my full faith in their capabilities to chart a way forward.
While celebrating the 75th Independence Day, let us seek guidance from the ideology and thoughts of our founding fathers and put the welfare of our people at the center of our mission of national rejuvenation. Let us vow to turn Pakistan into a nation-state that is reflective of the ideals of our founding fathers. On the historic occasion of the 75th Independence Day, I congratulate the people of Pakistan including overseas Pakistanis. Pakistan Paindabad!
KARACHI: A doodle of Karachi’s Frere Hall is being used by Google to commemorate Pakistan’s 75th anniversary of independence today (Sunday).Google stated in a note on the significance of this historic day,
“Pakistan attained independence and became an independent nation on this day in 1947. This federal holiday also honours the contributions and achievements of Pakistan’s founding fathers.”
Google claimed in its statement that the nation’s Independence Day celebrations begin with a 31-gun salute in Islamabad, the federal capital, and are followed by flag-hoisting rituals at the presidential and parliamentary buildings.Political leaders frequently deliver speeches that are broadcast live on television about the state of the nation.
LAHORE: Leading cricketers from Pakistan, including Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan, have petitioned the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to change their core contracts because they are unhappy with the new agreements.
Nevertheless, after successfully negotiating revisions to many sections, the main participants agreed to sign the PCB’s central contracts.According to its report, they likely agreed to sign under the understanding that they will start up negotiations with the board regarding a few more clauses in the second week of September, following the conclusion of the Asia Cup.
After the PCB updated them on the day of departure, the players signed the contracts moments before taking off on their tour of the Netherlands.
TAIPEI: Officials said that a US congressional delegation landed in Taiwan on Sunday, days after China conducted military exercises near the island in retaliation for a visit by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
After Pelosi’s surprise travel to Taiwan earlier this month upset Beijing and sparked extraordinary air and sea drills that increased the likelihood of war, Pelosi made her secret journey on Sunday.
According to Taiwan’s foreign ministry, the delegation of five will meet with President Tsai Ing-wen and attend a luncheon given by Foreign Minister Joseph Wu. The trip is led by Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey.
“US-Taiwan ties, regional security, trade and investment, global supply chains, climate change, and other key subjects of mutual concern” will be covered.
As rains pounded Karachi on Saturday during the current monsoon, four more persons perished. Due to flooding, two of the residents drowned, while the other two died from electrocution.
A couple on a motorcycle was among the 40 individuals who were swept away by the floodwaters while caught on the Korangi Causeway, which was severely inundated following Friday’s downpour.
Rescuers from the Edhi Foundation launched an operation to save the stranded people as soon as they received the information. A representative for the Edhi Foundation stated that about 40 individuals were saved using motorboats.
Tigray rebels deny ‘direct engagements’ with Ethiopia govt
Tigrayan rebels denied Saturday they have had “direct engagements” with the Ethiopian government, following a statement by the African Union which has been leading a push to end the 21-month conflict.
Getachew Reda, spokesman for the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), said an AFP story that cited an AU statement was “pure fabrication”.
“Such engagement simply didn’t happen!” he said on Twitter.
In a statement dated August 4 but posted on its website on Thursday, the AU’s Peace and Security Council said it “commends the AU High Representative for the direct engagements between the Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF)”.
But an updated version of the statement on the website has replaced the word “between” by “with” and the original, which was published in both English and French, is no longer available.
AFP has contacted the PSC for comment but there was no immediate response.
Government forces have been at war with the TPLF since November 2020 but in recent weeks both sides have mooted the possibility of peace talks.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government wants any negotiations to be led by the AU, but the rebels want Kenya’s outgoing President Uhuru Kenyatta to mediate.
TPLF leader Debretsion Gebremichael has also insisted that key services would have to be restored in Tigray before dialogue could begin.
In its statement, the AU council called on the warring sides “to place the supreme interests of Ethiopia and its people above all else and embrace inclusive political dialogue as the only viable approach towards finding a consensual solution to the current situation”.
It also urged international partners to support AU-led mediation under former Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo “as the only viable and effective approach towards finding a negotiated lasting solution to the situation in Ethiopia”.
Fighting has eased in northern Ethiopia since a humanitarian truce was declared at the end of March, allowing the resumption of desperately needed international aid convoys to Tigray’s six million people.
Since the war broke out, Ethiopia’s northernmost region has suffered food shortages and access to basic services such as electricity, communications and banking has been severely limited.
In November 2020 Abiy ordered troops into Tigray to topple the TPLF, accusing the rebels of attacking federal army camps.
The TPLF mounted a shock comeback in June last year, retaking Tigray and expanding into neighbouring Afar and Amhara, before the war reached a stalemate.
Ancelotti confirms he will quit football after Real Madrid
Carlo Ancelotti confirmed on Saturday that he will quit football management when he eventually leaves Real Madrid, ending one of the most glorious careers of football’s modern era.
ADVERTISING Ancelotti had said in May that he would “probably” quit once he left Madrid, but he removed all doubt in an interview with Italian daily Il Messaggero.
“This time at Real will end my career, after Los Blancos I will quit,” said the 63-year-old.
“Real are the very top of football. It makes sense to call it quits after my experience here.”
Ancelotti became the first ever coach to win all five of Europe’s top leagues when he claimed the Spanish title last season, and he capped a remarkable campaign by winning his second Champions League for the club.
That was the 14th time Madrid had crowned themselves European champions and was the latest in a string of honours the Italian has won in a long career as player and coach.
He won three Serie A titles with Roma and AC Milan in the 1980s, as well as back-to-back European Cups with Arrigo Sacchi’s Milan in 1989 and 1990.
He returned to Milan as coach in 2001 and in eight years at the San Siro won the 2004 league title and two Champions Leagues.
He also led Chelsea to a league and FA Cup double in 2010, setting a Premier League record of 103 goals scored in the process.
He also won Ligue 1 with Paris Saint-Germain in 2013 and the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich four years later.
Popovici breaks world 100m freestyle record at European Championships
David Popovici broke the men’s 100m freestyle world record to win gold at the European Championships in Rome on Saturday.
The 17-year-old Romanian double world champion swam 46.86sec to slice 0.05sec off the old mark set by Brazilian Cesar Cielo in the same pool at the 2009 World Championships in the era of buoyant body suits.
The fastest time in a textile suit had been 46.96 set by American Olympic champion Caeleb Dressel at the 2019 World Championships.
Hungary’s Kristof Milak was second on Saturday with Italy’s Alessandro Miressi third.
Popovici had eased into the final on Friday with a new European record of 46.98 seconds.
Only two other swimmers managed to dip under 48sec on Friday, Milak and Miressi in the other semi-final, but both were some way off Popovici.
In June, Popovici became the first man to complete the 100-200m freestyle double at the World Championships in nearly 50 years.
In a golden summmer, he also won three European junior titles in his home town of Bucharest.
Another 17-year-old world champion also added European gold on Saturday.
Italian Benedetta Pilato won the women’s 100m breaststroke in 1:05.97, more than a second-and-half outside the world record set by American Lilly King in 2017.
Pilato was followed home by compatriot Lisa Angiolini and Lithuania’s Ruta Meilutyte, the 50m world champion.
Pilato imitated her compatriot Federico Poggio, who won the men’s 200m breaststroke on Friday.
Swedish veteran Sarah Sjostrom won the women’s 50m butterfly gold for the fifth time in 24.96. The 28-year-old is the only woman to go under 25 seconds in the events in a 50m pool.
France’s Marie Wattel won silver in 25.33 with Maaike de Waard of the Netherlands a distant third in 25.62.
Frenchman Yohann Ndoye Brouard won the opening final of the evening when he took the men’s 200m backstroke in 1 min 55.62 sec.
Ndoye Brouard had to swim his semi-final twice on Friday because of a problem with his starting block and ended up qualifying on time in an empty pool.
He beat Hungary’s Benedek Kovacs in 1:56.03 and England’s Luke Greenbank (1:56.15).
