Islamabad MoU only way forward: Dar

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday emphasised that the implementation of the Islamabad MoU of June 18 in letter and spirit was the only way forward, reaffirming Pakistan's commitment to regional peace and security while safeguarding its national interests. Dar made the remarks during a meeting with US Chargé d'Affaires Natalie A Baker, who called on him and discussed Pakistan-US bilateral cooperation and recent regional developments. The DPM/FM appreciated the positive trajectory in Pakistan-US relations and underscored the importance of dialogue and diplomacy for lasting peace. The US Chargé appreciated Pakistan's constructive role in promoting regional peace and stability and conveyed felicitations to the DPM/FM on Pakistan's Independence Day. Meanwhile, the foreign minister also met UK High Commissioner Jane Marriott and appreciated the positive momentum in Pakistan-UK relations. During the meeting, the deputy prime minister recalled his recent meeting with UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband on the sidelines of the ASEAN Regional Forum in Manila and highlighted the importance of sustained high-level contacts. They discussed key areas of mutual interest and ways to further strengthening bilateral cooperation, a DPM's Office news release said. However, recent regional and international developments also figured in the discussion. The DPM/FM stressed that the Islamabad MoU should be implemented by the parties in letter and spirit and reaffirmed that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only way forward to address outstanding issues.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/vDWeilj

Pakistani missions abroad celebrate Independence Day with patriotic fervour

Pakistani diplomatic missions across the world celebrated Independence Day with traditional zeal and patriotic fervour, holding flag-hoisting ceremonies at embassies, high commissions and consulates. The ceremonies began with the hoisting of the national flag by Pakistan’s envoys, accompanied by the national anthem. National songs were also played, while participants paid tribute to the sacrifices of the country’s founding fathers. Messages from President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar were read out at the gatherings. The events were attended by members of the Pakistani diaspora, officials of host countries, diplomats, media representatives, embassy staff and their families. India The High Commission of Pakistan in New Delhi celebrated the 80th Independence Day with a flag-hoisting ceremony led by Chargé d’Affaires Saad Ahmad Warraich. Addressing the gathering, Warraich said the creation of Pakistan under the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah was not only a triumph of the Muslims of the subcontinent’s conviction to chart their own future but also the fulfilment of their aspiration for a separate homeland. He said Pakistan had made significant strides across various fields over the years. He described the country’s nuclear capability as a stabilising factor in South Asia and said the Marka-e-Haq demonstrated Pakistan’s resolve to protect its sovereignty and the dignity of its people. The High Commission for Pakistan, New Delhi celebrated the 80th Independence Day of Pakistan with tradition zeal and fervor, today.#PakistanAt80@ForeignOfficePk@Saadawarraich@epwing_official@PkPublicDiplo pic.twitter.com/inQvWxehfI — Pakistan High Commission India (@PakinIndia) August 14, 2026 He paid tribute to those who had sacrificed their lives for the country and praised the role of the armed forces in national defence. Children dressed in traditional attire performed national songs and delivered speeches highlighting the struggle for Pakistan. A cake was also cut.  Warraich later inaugurated a photo exhibition depicting the life, vision and struggle of Quaid-e-Azam, curated to mark the 150th birth anniversary of the founder of Pakistan. Afghanistan The Embassy of Pakistan in Kabul held a flag-hoisting ceremony to commemorate Independence Day, with Ambassador Ubaidur Rehman Nizamani hoisting the national flag. In his remarks, the ambassador reaffirmed the vision outlined in the leadership’s messages and recalled the struggle of the founding fathers that led to the emergence of an independent homeland. Commemoration of #Independence Day at the Pakistan Embassy Kabul @GovtofPakistan @PresOfPakistan @PakPMO @MoIB_Official @ForeignOfficePk @OfficialDGISPR @appcsocialmedia @RadioPakistan @PakistanTVcom pic.twitter.com/RxfQV7TZ5g — Pakistan Embassy Afghanistan (@PakinAfg) August 14, 2026 He also recalled the courage and commitment of the country’s security forces in the face of internal and external threats and reaffirmed the nation’s resolve to overcome these challenges. The event was attended by Pakistanis working with UN agencies and other international organisations, professionals and students in Afghanistan. UAE The Embassy of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi organised a flag-hoisting ceremony attended by a large number of members of the Pakistani community and their families. Ambassador Shafqat Ali Khan hoisted the national flag to the tune of the national anthem and urged the community to continue playing a constructive role in Pakistan’s progress and prosperity. He appreciated the community’s contribution to the development of the UAE and Pakistan’s economy through remittances, and its role as a bridge between the two countries. The ambassador also thanked the UAE government for its longstanding hospitality towards the Pakistani community and urged Pakistanis to respect local laws. 🇵🇰 On the occasion of Pakistan’s 80th Independence Day, the Embassy of Pakistan in Abu Dhabi held a dignified Flag Hoisting Ceremony, attended by members of the Embassy, the Pakistani community and their families. Messages of the Pakistani Leadership were read out on the… pic.twitter.com/NcCkm0S1zw — Pakistan Embassy UAE (@PakinUAE_) August 14, 2026 Children from Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Arab Pakistan School sang patriotic songs and joined the ambassador in cutting the Independence Day cake. In Dubai, the Consulate General of Pakistan held a flag-hoisting ceremony attended by community members, consulate officials and other guests. Acting Consul General Fawad Ali Khan said Aug 14 was a symbol of freedom, sacrifice, determination and national identity. He paid tribute to the struggle that led to the creation of Pakistan under the leadership of Quaid-e-Azam. CONSULATE GENERAL OF PAKISTAN DUBAI *** PRESS RELEASE Pakistan's Independence Day Celebrated at the Consulatehttps://t.co/vEqsv15URw pic.twitter.com/HtmMujdG05 — Pakistan Consulate General Dubai (@PakinDubai_) August 14, 2026 Khan also visited an art exhibition organised in collaboration with Parallel Palette, featuring works by Pakistani artists inspired by the ideals of Quaid-e-Azam and their love for Pakistan. Australia and France In Canberra, High Commissioner Irfan Shaukat led the flag-hoisting ceremony at the High Commission for Pakistan. He paid tribute to the country’s founding fathers and reaffirmed their vision for a sovereign, democratic and progressive Pakistan. https://ift.tt/JUYPki5 Describing the Pakistani diaspora as one of the country’s greatest national assets, he commended its achievements and contributions to Pakistan’s socio-economic development. In Paris, Ambassador Mumtaz Zahra Baloch hoisted the national flag to the national anthem and welcomed members of the Pakistani community, including a large number of children. She said Independence Day was an occasion to celebrate freedom, pay homage to Quaid-e-Azam and other leaders of the freedom movement, remember the sacrifices of the forefathers and draw inspiration from the country’s achievements. The Ambassador @Mumtazzb inaugurated the ‘historic photo exhibition’ based on the life and works of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah at the Embassy. The exhibition showcased a remarkable collection of archival records and photographs chronicling the visionary leadership and… pic.twitter.com/9M18PODSYj — Pakistan Embassy France (@PakinFrance) August 14, 2026 She also reaffirmed Pakistan’s political and diplomatic support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine. The ambassador later inaugurated a photo exhibition on the life and work of Quaid-e-Azam, featuring archival records and photographs. Japan and Saudi Arabia The Embassy of Pakistan in Tokyo held a flag-hoisting ceremony attended by members of the Pakistani community, embassy officials and Japanese friends of Pakistan. Ambassador Abdul Hameed extended felicitations to Pakistanis in Japan and reaffirmed the embassy’s commitment to serving the community and deepening ties between Pakistan and Japan. Independence Anniversary Ceremony at the Embassy of Pakistan, Tokyo The Embassy of Pakistan in Tokyo commemorated Pakistan’s 79th Independence Anniversary today with a dignified flag-hoisting ceremony, bringing together the Pakistani community and friends of Pakistan in a… pic.twitter.com/bnumfQGAbH — Pakistan Embassy Japan (@PakinJapan) August 14, 2026 In Jeddah, Consul General Syed Mustafa Rabbani led a flag-hoisting ceremony at the Consulate General’s chancery. He paid tribute to the founding fathers and highlighted Pakistan’s achievements, including its diplomatic efforts to promote peace and stability. He also said the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement had strengthened cooperation, collective defence and the growing strategic partnership between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. A pictorial exhibition featuring nearly 100 historical photographs covering different aspects of Quaid-e-Azam’s life and the Pakistan Movement was also inaugurated. Azerbaijan and Iran The Embassy of Pakistan in Baku held a ceremony that began with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the hoisting of the national flag. Ambassador Qasim Mohiuddin paid tribute to the vision and founding principles of Quaid-e-Azam and Allama Muhammad Iqbal. He also highlighted the longstanding ties between Pakistan and Azerbaijan. Pakistan’s Independence Day was celebrated at the Embassy with great fervor. Messages from the President, Prime Minister, and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister were read out. Pakistani diaspora and Azerbaijani friends joined the celebration. 🇵🇰🤝🇦🇿 pic.twitter.com/sSRs8xdkL1 — Pakistan Embassy Azerbaijan (@PakinAzerbaijan) August 14, 2026 Azerbaijani Urdu scholar Rovshan Shiranxali and Baku State University student Nazrin Shahgeldiyeva delivered speeches in Urdu on the achievements of Pakistan’s founding fathers. In Tehran, Ambassador Ian Ahmed Siddiqui addressed a flag-hoisting ceremony attended by members of the Pakistani diaspora. Flag hoisting ceremony was organized at pakistan house Tehran to mark the completion of 79 years of Independence of Pakistan. The event was attended by large number of Pakistani diaspora.The messages of President of Pakistan, Prime Minister of Pakistan and DPM of Pakistan were… pic.twitter.com/q7LcG42IaJ — Pakistan Embassy Iran (@PakinIran) August 14, 2026 He highlighted the community’s contribution to Iran’s socio-economic development and the promotion of bilateral relations. He also referred to efforts by both governments to increase bilateral trade and said the Pakistani community was an important stakeholder. Children from Pakistan Embassy International School and College presented a national song. A collective prayer was also offered for those who sacrificed their lives for the country. Singapore and UK In Singapore, High Commissioner Rabia Shafiq hoisted the national flag at Pakistan House to the national anthem. She paid tribute to Quaid-e-Azam and highlighted the resilience of the Pakistani nation and its role in promoting peace and stability. She also congratulated the nation on the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement. 🇵🇰 High Commissioner @rabia_shafiq_ hoisted the national flag and cut a cake along with the Pakistani community at Pakistan House to mark Pakistan’s 80th Independence Day.@ForeignOfficePk @PkPublicDiplo @epwing_official @MoIB_Official #PakistanAt80 pic.twitter.com/nD2w8o1Vjw — Pakistan High Commission Singapore (@PakinSingapore) August 14, 2026 The ceremony concluded with prayers for global peace and Pakistan’s security, stability and economic prosperity. In London, High Commissioner Tipu Usman hoisted the national flag at a ceremony attended by members of the Pakistani community, friends of Pakistan, media personnel and High Commission officials and their families. Pakistan High Commission, London celebrates 80th Independence Day of Pakistan Pakistan High Commission, London celebrated 80th Independence Day with traditional zeal and enthusiasm. Chairman Kashmir Committee, Rana Muhammad Qasim Noon attended the ceremony as guest-of-honour.… pic.twitter.com/3t0pRIl3tv — Pakistan High Commission London (@PakistaninUK) August 14, 2026 He paid tribute to Quaid-e-Azam and those whose struggle and sacrifices made Pakistan’s independence possible. He described the Pakistani diaspora in the UK as ambassadors of Pakistan and praised its role in strengthening ties between the two countries. National songs and a musical performance by British-Pakistani soprano Saira Peter featured at the event, followed by cake-cutting. Germany and Oman In Berlin, Ambassador Saqlain Syedah hoisted the national flag following a recitation from the Holy Quran. The national anthe of Pakistan and Germany were played. She paid tribute to the sacrifices of the country’s founding fathers and highlighted Pakistan’s achievements and potential in areas including green energy, climate justice and information technology. pic.twitter.com/7y6ihqREXG — Pakistan Embassy Germany (@PakinGermany_) August 14, 2026 A major highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of an honour to Dr Senta Maria Anna Siller for her humanitarian services, rural women’s empowerment and contributions to community development in Pakistan. In Muscat, the Embassy of Pakistan held a flag-hoisting ceremony attended by members of the Pakistani community. To celebrate 80th Independence Day of Pakistan, the Embassy of Pakistan organized a flag hoisting ceremony in the Chancery today. A large number of Pakistani community members attended the event. Messages of the President and the Prime Minister were read out by Deputy Head of… pic.twitter.com/Yp21cZZ7JS — Pakistan Embassy Oman (@PakinOman) August 14, 2026 The ambassador congratulated the community and said Pakistan had not only achieved a victory on the battlefield but had also emerged as a pivotal state in promoting global peace and security. He praised the Pakistani-Omani diaspora for its role in supporting Pakistan’s economy through remittances and investment and serving as a bridge between Pakistan and Oman. China and Bangladesh In Beijing, Chargé d’Affaires Aizaz Khan hoisted the national flag to the national anthem. He highlighted the deep-rooted friendship between Pakistan and China and noted that the two countries were commemorating 75 years of diplomatic relations. https://ift.tt/IYnJKse A photo exhibition on the life of Quaid-e-Azam was held, while students of Pakistan Embassy College Beijing gave performances. In Dhaka, High Commissioner Ian Haider hoisted the national flag at a ceremony attended by Pakistani community members, Bangladeshi friends, students, journalists and civil society representatives. Independence Day Observed at Pakistan High Commission, Dhaka Pakistan Independence Day was observed at the Pakistan High Commission in Dhaka today. The ceremony commenced with the hoisting of the national flag by High Commissioner Mr. Imran Haider to the tune of the national… pic.twitter.com/4EywWF4Z0m — Pakistan High Commission Bangladesh (@PakinBangladesh) August 14, 2026 The event included the distribution of prizes and certificates to Bangladeshi students who participated in an essay competition on “Historical Sites in Pakistan”. Serbia and Sri Lanka The Embassy of Pakistan in Belgrade held a flag-hoisting ceremony to mark Independence Day and the 150th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam. Messages from the country’s leadership were read out, followed by cake-cutting. Embassy of Pakistan in Belgrade held a dignified flag hoisting ceremony to commemorate the 80th Independence Day of Pakistan. This year the Embassy also marked the 150th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. It was highlighted that it was his vision and… pic.twitter.com/jFSqM9qMzl — Pakistan Embassy Serbia (@PakinSerbia) August 14, 2026 In Colombo, High Commissioner Maj Gen (retd) Dr Nayyar Naseer led the ceremony at the Pakistan High Commission. He paid tribute to Quaid-e-Azam and Allama Iqbal and reflected on Pakistan’s resilience and progress. He also highlighted the enduring warmth between Pakistan and Sri Lanka and noted cooperation in trade, industry, technology, education and cultural exchanges. Malaysia and Tanzania The Pakistan High Commission in Malaysia held a flag-hoisting ceremony attended by members of the Pakistani community, civil society, the Malaysia Pakistan Business Council and university students. High Commissioner Syed Ahsan Raza Shah paid tribute to Allama Iqbal and Quaid-e-Azam and highlighted the enduring political, defence and economic relationship between Pakistan and Malaysia. 1/4 Celebrating #YaumEAzaadi at the Pakistan High Commission in Kuala Lumpur! The day began with a proud flag-hoisting ceremony, joined by a record-breaking number of our vibrant community members, civil society, the Malaysia Pakistan Business Council, and university students.… pic.twitter.com/obgs99VoeJ — Pakistan High Commission Malaysia (@PakinMalaysia_) August 14, 2026 In Dar es Salaam, the High Commission marked Independence Day and the 150th birth anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam. https://ift.tt/eYCrBig Chargé d’Affaires Muhammad Azeem Khan hoisted the national flag and paid tribute to the founder of Pakistan and the sacrifices made during the struggle for independence. Tajikistan, Vietnam and Mauritius The Pakistan Embassy in Tajikistan held a flag-hoisting ceremony and paid tribute to Quaid-e-Azam and the martyrs of Pakistan. The national anthem and patriotic songs were also played. In Hanoi, the Embassy of Pakistan held a flag-hoisting ceremony at the chancery. Ambassador read out messages from the president and prime minister to members of the Pakistani community. https://ift.tt/UYzMEpC In Mauritius, Chargé d’Affaires Khadijah Khalid Khan hoisted the national flag at a ceremony attended by dignitaries, members of the Pakistani diaspora and friends of Pakistan. She paid tribute to Quaid-e-Azam and highlighted the role of the Pakistani community in strengthening ties between Pakistan and Mauritius. Guangzhou and Thailand The Pakistan Consulate in Guangzhou held a ceremony attended by Pakistani business leaders, professors, doctors, researchers, students and their Chinese friends and families. The consul general paid tribute to the founding leaders and highlighted Pakistan’s commitment to peaceful coexistence. He also praised the armed forces, security personnel and civilians. https://ift.tt/qZ7gTwH In Bangkok, the Embassy of Pakistan held a ceremony attended by members of the Pakistani diaspora and embassy officials. Ambassador-designate Saadia Altaf Qazi paid tribute to the martyrs, veterans and founding fathers of Pakistan and reaffirmed the spirit of sacrifice, unity and resilience. Iraq and Republic of Korea In Baghdad, Ambassador Muhammad Zeeshan Ahmed hoisted the national flag to the national anthem. He paid tribute to the struggle and sacrifices that led to the creation of Pakistan and stressed that safeguarding and strengthening the country remained a collective responsibility. He also highlighted the role of overseas Pakistanis in national development through their professionalism, remittances, investment and positive representation of the country. The ambassador reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and their right to self-determination. In Seoul, the Embassy of Pakistan organised an Independence Day event attended by Korean friends and members of the Pakistani community. Ambassador Syed Moazzam H. Shah congratulated Pakistanis in Korea and around the world and urged the community to uphold the principles of the country’s forefathers. The event featured a performance by a traditional Korean arts group, while Korean singers performed “Dil Dil Pakistan”. The celebrations across the missions featured flag-hoisting ceremonies, national songs, exhibitions, cultural performances and prayers, bringing together Pakistanis and friends of Pakistan in a shared expression of national pride.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/8CQpkwW

Govt announces 45 paisas increase in petrol, Rs1.16 in HSD price for August 14

The federal government on Thursday increased the price of petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD) by 45 paisas and Rs1.16 per litre, respectively, for August 14. According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Petroleum, the price of petrol was fixed at Rs325.43 per litre, while HSD would now cost Rs383.95 per litre. The latest revision comes a day after the government decreased the price of petrol by 94 paisas while hiking the price of HSD by 54 paisas per litre for August 13. Read: Govt decreases petrol price by 94 paisas, hikes HSD by 54 paisas for August 13 On July 17, the government introduced a daily fuel price review mechanism amid volatility in global oil prices following renewed hostilities in the Middle East. The daily fuel prices are based on a seven-day average of international market rates to align with international standards. According to the Pakistan Economic Survey 2024-25, petroleum products constitute one of the country's largest import categories, making the economy highly vulnerable to changes in global crude oil prices. Domestic refineries satisfy only part of national demand, while the remainder is met through imports of crude oil and refined petroleum products. Consequently, every increase in international oil prices raises Pakistan's import bill, pressures foreign exchange reserves, and contributes to inflation. Pakistan previously exercised significant government control over petroleum pricing through subsidies and administrative interventions. While these measures temporarily protected consumers, they imposed substantial fiscal costs. During periods of elevated global oil prices, successive governments delayed passing price increases to consumers, creating financial pressures for oil marketing companies, refineries, and the national budget. Large fuel subsidies widened fiscal deficits, increased public borrowing, and weakened macroeconomic stability. Global geopolitical developments continue to pose significant risks. International oil prices are influenced by decisions taken by OPEC+, conflicts in the Middle East, sanctions on oil-producing nations, and disruptions in critical shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. Any interruption in these supply chains can immediately increase crude oil prices and freight costs. Since Pakistan imports the majority of its petroleum requirements, these developments quickly translate into higher domestic fuel prices. Oil prices pared losses to less than 1% after dropping more than 3% earlier on Thursday, as reports that Yemen's Houthis ‌had targeted a Saudi Aramco refinery with drones renewed concerns over supply disruptions in an already tight global market. The Houthis attacked an Aramco refinery in Saudi Arabia's Jazan with two drones on Thursday, the Iran-aligned movement's Saba News Agency reported. Brent futures were down 74 cents, or 0.8%, at $88.24 a barrel at 11:58 am EDT (1558 GMT), while ​US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude was down 77 cents, or 0.8%, at $82.56.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/aNqrTi6

President Zardari, PM Shehbaz inaugurate Yadgar-e-Fatah in Islamabad ahead of Independence Day

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday inaugurated the Yadgar-e-Fatah monument in Islamabad, built to honour the country’s martyrs and commemorate the victory in Marka-e-Haq, on the eve of Pakistan’s 80th Independence Day. President Zardari attended the ceremony as the chief guest. PM Shehbaz, Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu, Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi were also present. Other notable attendees included foreign dignitaries, military officers, ministers and families of martyrs who laid down their lives for the motherland. The armed forces, civil armed forces and contingents from all four provinces participated in the ceremony. They presented a guard of honour to the president, the premier and CDF Munir upon their arrival. The monument commemorates Pakistan’s victory over India in the brief military conflict in May last year, during which the country shot down more than six Indian fighter jets and demonstrated its professional expertise across various domains. The term “Marka-e-Haq” refers to the 2025 conflict with India, which began with the April 22 Pahalgam attack and concluded with a ceasefire on May 10 following Operation Bunyanum Marsoos. More to follow....

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/2dQwEHC

Eid Milad-un-Nabi to fall on Aug 26 as Rabi-ul-Awwal moon not sighted

The moon for Rabi-ul-Awwal was not sighted across the country, and Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH) will be celebrated on Wednesday, Aug 26, Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Chairman Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad announced on Thursday. He made the announcement after chairing a meeting of the committee in Islamabad. Representatives from the Pakistan Meteorological Department, the Ministry of Science and Technology and other concerned institutions also provided technical support in the matter. Read: Sindh CM orders foolproof security for Rabiul Awwal Zonal meetings were simultaneously held in Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Peshawar and other major cities, where the committee did not receive any testimony of moon sighting from anywhere in the country. The Ministry of Religious Affairs also issued a notification confirming that the moon had not been sighted and that the first day of Rabi-ul-Awwal would fall on Aug 15. According to the ministry’s notification, the 12th of Rabi-ul-Awwal will be observed on Wednesday, Aug 26, 2026. Earlier, the Committee, was barred from going to the rooftop of the Ministry of Religious Affairs to sight the moon. According to Express News, the committee, which was in Islamabad to sight the Rabi-ul-Awwal moon, was not allowed to go to the rooftop of the Kohsar Complex. The committee and astronomers subsequently set up a telescope in the parking area of the Kohsar Complex to observe the moon. It had already been anticipated that the moon would be difficult to sight due to clouds in the western sky.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/xQoXj0f

California Senate hails Pak-US ties

The California State Senate unanimously passed a "historic resolution" celebrating the "enduring relationship" between Pakistan and the US , while recognising the "significant contributions" of the Pakistani-American diaspora to California's economy, culture, and social fabric, the embassy of Pakistan in Washington said in a statement. Presented by Senator Melissa Hurtado, the resolution highlighted the pivotal role played by Pakistani-Americans in California and commended their achievements across diverse fields. The resolution urged all Californians to join in celebrating the friendly relations between the two nations, the statement read. Council of Pakistan led by Dr Imran Sharief made key efforts for passage of the resolution, it added. Expressing his gratitude, Pakistan's Ambassador to the US Rizwan Saeed Sheikh praised Senator Hurtado for her leadership. The envoy reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to deepening people-to-people ties and building on the current positive trajectory of Pakistan-US bilateral relations. California State Assembly also resolved to promote relations between Pakistan and the State of California. The Assembly resolved to promote the contributions of Pakistani-American businesses and investors in advancing economic cooperation between Pakistan and California. The Assembly recognised and acknowledged the achievements of Ambassador Sheikh in promoting bilateral ties between the two nations. These pronouncements were made by Assembly member Matt Haney. The resolution's passage coincided with an official visit by Ambassador Sheikh to California, during which he interacted with state lawmakers to strengthen economic and political engagement.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/KERT7pU

Seven workers abducted as armed men raid private mining site in BalocChagai

Eight unidentified armed motorcyclists stormed a private mining site in Balochistan's Chagai district on Wednesday, abducting seven workers and taking away equipment and supplies worth millions of rupees, according to sources. The incident took place at around 1pm at the private mines located approximately 15 to 18 kilometres west of Chagai tehsil in Mahian Kor. The attackers held the workers hostage and later took seven of them with them. The abducted workers included four labourers from Gilgit identified as Wajahat, Wajid, Shahid and Sabir, and three local workers identified as Ziauddin of Dalbandin, Shah Saleem of Mahian, Chagai, and Saeed Muhammad, also a resident of Mahian, Chagai. Read: 18 terrorists killed in VBIED blast, security operation in Balochistan: ISPR According to sources, the armed men remained at the mining site until around 7pm and took away a Zambad vehicle, a four-wheel-drive pickup, more than 20 solar panels, a Zarinj motorcycle, bedding, kitchen utensils, gas cylinders, 2,500 litres of diesel, 1,500 litres of petrol and other equipment and supplies. Sources at the private mining company said the attackers stayed at the site for several hours and carried out the operation without haste before fleeing with the abducted workers and stolen property. The incident was promptly reported to the relevant administration, but the seven abducted workers and the equipment taken by the attackers had not been recovered at the time of this report. The administration has launched further efforts to trace the abductees and recover the stolen property.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/y9uvKZ1