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ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has reiterated its firm opposition to the use of chemical weapons under any circumstances and called for continued international cooperation to address outstanding issues related to Syria&rsquo;s chemical weapons file. Speaking during a United Nations Security Council briefing on the Middle East focused on Syria and chemical weapons on Thursday, Pakistan&rsquo;s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Usman Jadoon, reaffirmed Islamabad&rsquo;s support for the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) and efforts aimed at its universal, effective, and non-discriminatory implementation.<div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; line-height: 2;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-1" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 650px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-1&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2062560761860214861&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Fdashboard%2F&sessionId=88d809bfae25bd323453617d30ba61fed85e1873&theme=light&widgetsVersion=6a3ad42b224df%3A1778106238597&width=550px"></iframe></div></div> Ambassador Jadoon welcomed the Syrian authorities&rsquo; commitment to extending full cooperation with the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), including facilitating the work of Technical Secretariat teams and providing unrestricted access to suspected sites linked to the country&rsquo;s former chemical weapons program. He noted that such cooperation could help accelerate efforts to eliminate any remaining traces of chemical weapons activities.&nbsp; OPCW reportReferring to the latest OPCW report, the Pakistani envoy observed that 19 out of 26 outstanding issues remain unresolved, while additional locations continue to be assessed for possible declaration under the Convention. The ambassador highlighted several challenges affecting progress, including institutional constraints, limited technological capacities, security concerns, and the continued occupation of parts of Syrian territory, which impact the timely implementation of the OPCW mandate. Pakistan stressed the importance of enhancing Syrian capacities and extending international support to overcome these obstacles.&nbsp; Ambassador Jadoon commended countries assisting Syria in this regard, particularly T&uuml;rkiye and Qatar, for their contributions to capacity-building efforts. He emphasized that the OPCW Technical Secretariat must continue its independent verification work and expressed hope that ongoing engagement between Syria and the OPCW would help resolve all remaining issues and facilitate the closure of the long-standing file.

Foreign Affairs

Pakistan tells the UN Security Council that cooperation between Syria and the OPCW is vital for resolving outstanding chemical weapons issues, strengthening verification efforts, and advancing regional peace and stability.

 Pakistan urges strengthening int'l cooperation to eliminate chemical weapons in Syria 

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan joined member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Arab Group at the United Nations to draw urgent attention to Israel&rsquo;s continued efforts to accelerate the annexation of the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT), in violation of international law, said a statement from the permanent mission of Pakistan to the UN on social media platform X. &nbsp; According to the statement, Pakistan&rsquo;s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, participated in a press stakeout organized by the Permanent Observer Mission of the State of Palestine to the UN.&nbsp; The representative of T&uuml;rkiye, speaking in her capacity as chair of the OIC, delivered a joint statement on behalf of the group.<div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px; line-height: 2;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2062632425499263362&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Farticles%2F&sessionId=7edb57e4931511bd1cca66c01355817f1eba8091&theme=light&widgetsVersion=6a3ad42b224df%3A1778106238597&width=550px" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 648px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;"></iframe></div></div>The statement further said that the OIC expressed serious concern over the expansion of Israeli settlement plans in the E1 area, warning that such measures threaten the territorial unity of the occupied Palestinian territory by fragmenting the West Bank and isolating East Jerusalem from its Palestinian surroundings. The statement also highlighted concerns over land registration measures, property seizures, land expropriation, and the appropriation of sites with religious, cultural, and historical significance.&nbsp; It further condemned continued incursions by extremist Israeli settlers into Al-Aqsa Mosque/Al-Haram Al-Sharif, and cited ongoing forcible displacement of Palestinians through restrictions on movement, home demolitions, land confiscations, and settler violence. The OIC additionally criticized the approval of a military compound on the site of the former UNRWA headquarters in occupied East Jerusalem. Addressing the situation in Gaza, the group said continued Israeli military operations, expanding control over territory, and restrictions on humanitarian assistance were causing immense suffering for Palestinian civilians. The OIC called on the UN Security Council and all states to take urgent measures to halt annexation activities and ensure accountability under international law, the statement concluded.

Middle East

OIC and Arab Group members at the UN, urging the Security Council to stop Israeli annexation activities, settlement expansion, forcible displacement, and violations of international law in the occupied Palestinian territory.

Pakistan, OIC urge UNSC action against Israeli annexation efforts in occupied Palestinian territory

LAHORE: Spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi and Shadab Khan starred in Pakistan&#39;s four-wicket win in the third and final one-day international in Lahore on Thursday. Shaheen grabbed 3-30 to bundle Australia out for 157 while Shadab added a fighting 29 not out to his two wickets, helping Pakistan to the target in 41.5 overs. The win gave Pakistan a 2-1 series win -- their third successive ODI series win over Australia - after they won the first match by five wickers in Rawalpindi. Australia won the second by 41 runs, also in Lahore. Left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann with a career best 3-38 -- including Babar Azam&#39;s wicket for top score of 40 -- had given the visitors some hope for an unlikely win. At 112-6, Pakistan were in a spot of bother but Shadab found an able partner in Abdul Samad as the duo added a match-winning 49 runs for the unbroken seventh wicket stand to seal the win. Shadab&#39;s second boundary sealed the win, while Samad&#39;s 18 not out had one boundary. Earlier, Shaheen was ably supported by Abrar Ahmed (2-19) and Shadab (2-28) as Australia&#39;s innings folded in 42 overs after they won the toss and batted. Spinners Abrar and Shadab built on Shaheen&#39;s early strikes as Pakistan made a strong comeback after a disappointing loss in the second game. Josh Inglis top-scored with a 71-ball 65 which included eight boundaries and a six, with Marnus Labuschagne and Alex Carey scoring 19 each and Adam Zampa making 10. Shaheen had Matthew Short caught off the second ball of the match before Inglis added 46 for the second wicket with Labuschagne and another 52 for the third with Carey. But Australia lost their last seven wickets for a meagre 38 runs with two run outs also hurting their innings.

Cricket

Pakistan beat Australia by four wickets in the third ODI to secure a 2-1 series victory. Shaheen Shah Afridi took three wickets, while Shadab Khan contributed with bat and ball to guide Pakistan to the target.

Pakistan upstage Australia for 2-1 ODI series win

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has expressed concern over the proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons in Afghanistan, warning that their diversion to terrorist groups poses a significant threat to regional peace and security. In a statement shared on X,&nbsp;Pakistan&#39;s Counselor Syed Atif Raza, while speaking at the Ninth Biennial Meeting of States (BMS-9) on the United Nations Program of Action on Small Arms and Light Weapons, said the unchecked transfer and accumulation of such weapons continue to intensify conflicts, undermine socio-economic development, and endanger civilian populations. He noted that small arms and light weapons have become the preferred tools of non-state actors and terrorist organizations, whose access to increasingly sophisticated weaponry has heightened security challenges across borders. <div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 744px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=eyJ0ZndfdGltZWxpbmVfbGlzdCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOltdLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X2ZvbGxvd2VyX2NvdW50X3N1bnNldCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOnRydWUsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdHdlZXRfZWRpdF9iYWNrZW5kIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6Im9uIiwidmVyc2lvbiI6bnVsbH0sInRmd19yZWZzcmNfc2Vzc2lvbiI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfZm9zbnJfc29mdF9pbnRlcnZlbnRpb25zX2VuYWJsZWQiOnsiYnVja2V0Ijoib24iLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X21peGVkX21lZGlhXzE1ODk3Ijp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6InRyZWF0bWVudCIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfZXhwZXJpbWVudHNfY29va2llX2V4cGlyYXRpb24iOnsiYnVja2V0IjoxMjA5NjAwLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X3Nob3dfYmlyZHdhdGNoX3Bpdm90c19lbmFibGVkIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6Im9uIiwidmVyc2lvbiI6bnVsbH0sInRmd19kdXBsaWNhdGVfc2NyaWJlc190b19zZXR0aW5ncyI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdXNlX3Byb2ZpbGVfaW1hZ2Vfc2hhcGVfZW5hYmxlZCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdmlkZW9faGxzX2R5bmFtaWNfbWFuaWZlc3RzXzE1MDgyIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6InRydWVfYml0cmF0ZSIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfbGVnYWN5X3RpbWVsaW5lX3N1bnNldCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOnRydWUsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdHdlZXRfZWRpdF9mcm9udGVuZCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9fQ%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2061505190973325521&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Fmedia-library%2F&sessionId=ec709ea7af2ead2de2ca6a20a2cfa191646a41d8&theme=light&widgetsVersion=6a3ad42b224df%3A1778106238597&width=550px">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe></div></div> The Pakistani delegate, the statement continued, highlighted concerns over stockpiles of advanced arms and ammunition in Afghanistan, citing findings reflected in reports of the UN secretary-general.&nbsp; He emphasized that these weapons present a direct threat to neighboring countries, including Pakistan. The statement further said that calling for stronger international cooperation, the Pakistani counselor urged efforts to prevent illicit arms from reaching armed terrorist groups, and stressed the need for the Taliban to fulfill their international obligations and commitments. Reaffirming Pakistan&rsquo;s commitment to the UN Program of Action, Syed Atif Raza said that a comprehensive and balanced approach is essential to address both the supply and demand sides of illicit arms trafficking, and to promote international and regional peace and security.

Security

Counselor tells forum that illicit small arms stockpiles in Afghanistan threaten regional security; urges stronger international action to prevent weapons from reaching terrorist groups and criminal networks.

Pakistan raises alarm over illicit weapons in Afghanistan at UN small arms moot

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan&rsquo;s Special Representative for Afghanistan, Muhammad Sadiq, said Tuesday he held talks with a senior Chinese diplomat in Islamabad on regional security challenges, including concerns over terrorist groups operating from neighboring Afghanistan. Sadiq, in a post on X, said&nbsp;he welcomed Chinese Ambassador Yue Xiaoyong and his delegation for discussions focused on strengthening coordination and synchronized counterterrorism efforts. He said the two sides exchanged views on &quot;threats posed by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM) operating from Afghan soil&quot;.<div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=eyJ0ZndfdGltZWxpbmVfbGlzdCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOltdLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X2ZvbGxvd2VyX2NvdW50X3N1bnNldCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOnRydWUsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdHdlZXRfZWRpdF9iYWNrZW5kIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6Im9uIiwidmVyc2lvbiI6bnVsbH0sInRmd19yZWZzcmNfc2Vzc2lvbiI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfZm9zbnJfc29mdF9pbnRlcnZlbnRpb25zX2VuYWJsZWQiOnsiYnVja2V0Ijoib24iLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X21peGVkX21lZGlhXzE1ODk3Ijp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6InRyZWF0bWVudCIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfZXhwZXJpbWVudHNfY29va2llX2V4cGlyYXRpb24iOnsiYnVja2V0IjoxMjA5NjAwLCJ2ZXJzaW9uIjpudWxsfSwidGZ3X3Nob3dfYmlyZHdhdGNoX3Bpdm90c19lbmFibGVkIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6Im9uIiwidmVyc2lvbiI6bnVsbH0sInRmd19kdXBsaWNhdGVfc2NyaWJlc190b19zZXR0aW5ncyI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdXNlX3Byb2ZpbGVfaW1hZ2Vfc2hhcGVfZW5hYmxlZCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdmlkZW9faGxzX2R5bmFtaWNfbWFuaWZlc3RzXzE1MDgyIjp7ImJ1Y2tldCI6InRydWVfYml0cmF0ZSIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfbGVnYWN5X3RpbWVsaW5lX3N1bnNldCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOnRydWUsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9LCJ0ZndfdHdlZXRfZWRpdF9mcm9udGVuZCI6eyJidWNrZXQiOiJvbiIsInZlcnNpb24iOm51bGx9fQ%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2061509383318851946&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Farticles%2F4092%2F&sessionId=4a0186208528240165a547fa581bdc21a9f15b22&theme=light&widgetsVersion=6a3ad42b224df%3A1778106238597&width=550px" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 648px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe></div></div> Both sides agreed to &quot;strengthen coordination &amp; synchronize counter-terrorism efforts to protect regional peace &amp; stability,&quot; Sadiq said.&nbsp;

Both sides discussed regional security challenges, particularly threats posed by the TTP and ETIM from Afghan soil, and agreed to strengthen coordination and synchronize counterterrorism efforts to promote lasting peace and stability across the region.

Pakistan, China discuss Afghan-based terror threats, strengthen counterterrorism cooperation

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan&rsquo;s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar has reaffirmed Pakistan&rsquo;s strong commitment to multilateralism, equitable global governance, and international cooperation while addressing the Meeting of the Group of Friends of Global Governance on Thursday. Speaking on the topic &ldquo;Reforming and Improving Global Governance; Working Together to Address Global Challenges&rdquo;, Dar commended China&rsquo;s leadership for its steadfast commitment to strengthening multilateralism and revitalizing international cooperation amid growing global uncertainty. Highlighting the challenges confronting the international community, the deputy prime minister referred to protracted conflicts, climate emergencies, rising inequalities, debt distress, food and energy insecurity, and governance challenges posed by emerging technologies. He said unilateralism and the selective application of international law were undermining global stability and weakening confidence in collective action, stressing the urgent need for renewed solidarity and a stronger global governance system anchored in the principles of the United Nations Charter.<div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-3" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 877px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-3&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2060066787627348103&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Fdashboard%2F&sessionId=f97d0ae85c8d94d844b46d4d70da19e771007333&theme=light&widgetsVersion=6a3ad42b224df%3A1778106238597&width=550px">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe></div></div> Dar emphasized that Pakistan and China stood united in support of a just and inclusive international order based on international law and centered on the United Nations.&nbsp; He described Pakistan-China relations as an enduring partnership built on mutual trust, strategic cooperation, and shared perspectives on key global issues. The deputy prime minister expressed Pakistan&rsquo;s full support for President Xi Jinping&rsquo;s Global Governance Initiative, calling it a timely and forward-looking framework to address contemporary global governance challenges. He also stressed the importance of reforming the UN Security Council to make it more democratic, representative, and accountable, particularly by ensuring adequate representation of small and medium-sized states. Reaffirming Pakistan&rsquo;s commitment to international peace and cooperation, Dar said Pakistan would continue working closely with China and other global partners to promote equitable development, uphold international law, and strengthen multilateral cooperation worldwide.

Pakistan Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to multilateralism, UN reforms, and China’s Global Governance Initiative during the Group of Friends of Global Governance meeting held on May 28, 2025.

Pakistan FM reaffirms support for China’s global governance vision at UN meeting

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday reaffirmed Pakistan&rsquo;s unwavering commitment to United Nations peacekeeping missions, while paying tribute to peacekeepers serving across the world on the International Day of UN Peacekeepers. In his message issued on the occasion of the day observed annually on May 29, the prime minister said Pakistan joined the international community in honoring the brave men and women serving under the UN flag for global peace and security. Referring to this year&rsquo;s theme, &ldquo;Invest in Peace,&rdquo; he stressed the importance of sustained political commitment and financial support to ensure durable peace and protection of human lives worldwide.<div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 814px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2060163264592630138&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Fdashboard%2F&sessionId=f97d0ae85c8d94d844b46d4d70da19e771007333&theme=light&widgetsVersion=6a3ad42b224df%3A1778106238597&width=550px">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe></div></div> The prime minister noted that the day also commemorates the establishment of the United Nations Truce Supervision Organization (UNTSO), the first UN peacekeeping mission launched in Palestine in 1948. Highlighting Pakistan&rsquo;s contributions, Sharif said the country had deployed more than 235,000 personnel in over 48 UN peacekeeping missions since 1960, including over 500 women peacekeepers.&nbsp; He said Pakistan proudly stands as the fifth-largest contributor to UN peacekeeping operations. Paying tribute to fallen peacekeepers, the prime minister acknowledged the sacrifices of more than 4,400 UN personnel, including over 181 Pakistani peacekeepers who embraced martyrdom in the line of duty. He reiterated Pakistan&rsquo;s continued commitment to promoting international peace, stability, and multilateral cooperation through active participation in UN peacekeeping missions. President Asif Ali ZardariIn a separate message posted on social media platform X, the President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari also paid tribute to the courage, professionalism, and sacrifice of UN peacekeepers serving across the world.&nbsp;<div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 345px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2060255942995026369&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Farticles%2F&sessionId=22ec5ed6ea4c7af432356e76aad0a2fcbabb8958&theme=light&widgetsVersion=6a3ad42b224df%3A1778106238597&width=550px">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe></div></div> He particularly honoured the 183 Pakistani peacekeepers who laid down their lives in the service of global peace and security, and reaffirmed Pakistan&rsquo;s strong commitment to UN peacekeeping. ISPRThe Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) also paid rich tribute to United Nations peacekeepers on the occasion of the International Day of UN Peacekeepers 2026, recognising their invaluable contributions and sacrifices for global peace and security. In a statement issued on Friday, ISPR said Pakistan&rsquo;s association with UN peacekeeping spans over six decades and reflects the country&rsquo;s steadfast commitment to international peace efforts. &quot;Since 1960, more than 237,000 Pakistani peacekeepers have served in UN missions across the world, while 183 brave Pakistani personnel laid down their lives in the line of duty. Pakistani blue helmets are currently deployed in high-risk missions, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic, where they are undertaking multidimensional operations.&quot; Referring to this year&rsquo;s theme, &ldquo;Invest in Peace,&rdquo; the statement emphasised the need for proactive peace preservation through advanced intelligence systems, civilian protection mechanisms, and climate-resilient operational frameworks. ISPR reaffirmed that the Government of Pakistan and its Armed Forces remain fully committed to the ideals and objectives of United Nations peacekeeping operations through enhanced training, human resource development, and institutional capacity building.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif pays tribute to UN peacekeepers, highlights Pakistan’s longstanding contributions, sacrifices, and continued commitment to global peace, stability, multilateralism, and international security efforts worldwide.

Pakistan reaffirms commitment to UN peacekeeping on int'l day of peacekeepers

Asfandyar Yahya

Eid ul-Adha goes back 4,000 years to Prophet Ibrahim&#39;s test of devotion.&nbsp; Today in Pakistan alone, over six million animals are sacrificed across three days, with 1.8 billion dollars changing hands and one-third of all meat distributed directly to those who cannot afford it.

Tell Me Why

Today in Pakistan alone, over six million animals are sacrificed across three days, with 1.8 billion dollars changing hands and one-third of all meat distributed directly to those who cannot afford it.



Tell Me Why: We celebrate Eid al-Adha

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan&#39;s Finance Minister, Muhammad Aurangzeb, met British High Commissioner Jane Marriott at the Finance Division on Monday to discuss bilateral cooperation and economic reforms, said a statement from the Ministry of Finance in Islamabad. The finance minister briefed the envoy on Pakistan&rsquo;s macroeconomic outlook, external sector stability, and ongoing reform agenda aimed at ensuring long-term growth and resilience amid global economic uncertainties. He highlighted improvements in key indicators, including remittance inflows, investor confidence, and measures to broaden the tax base through digitalization, improved compliance, and enhanced transparency. Aurangzeb reiterated the government&rsquo;s commitment to fiscal discipline, policy continuity, and structural reforms to support private sector-led growth. Both sides also closely exchanged views on regional and global economic challenges, energy market volatility, and their impact on supply chains and development. The British high commissioner appreciated Pakistan&rsquo;s reform efforts and reaffirmed the UK&#39;s support for climate resilience, social development, and institutional cooperation. She also appreciated Pakistan&rsquo;s continued engagement on regional issues and reaffirmed the United Kingdom&rsquo;s support for Pakistan&rsquo;s economic reform efforts and development priorities. The meeting concluded with a resolve to strengthen Pakistan-UK relations.

Muhammad Aurangzeb meets British High Commissioner Jane Marriott to discuss Pakistan-UK cooperation, economic reforms, macroeconomic stability, tax broadening, investment confidence, and continued support for development priorities agenda.

Pakistan's finance minister, British high commissioner discuss economic reforms, bilateral cooperation

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) agreed on Friday to accelerate documentation and procedural requirements for the Karachi&ndash;Rohri section of the Main Line-1 (ML-1) railway project, as the government pushes to begin work on the long-delayed infrastructure scheme this year. Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema chaired a high-level meeting reviewing implementation arrangements for the project, with senior officials from the Economic Affairs Division, Ministry of Railways, and the ADB in attendance. Cheema directed the Ministry of Railways to expedite documentation in coordination with the ADB and the Economic Affairs Division, stressing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif&rsquo;s commitment to holding the project&rsquo;s groundbreaking ceremony within the current year. &ldquo;The Karachi&ndash;Rohri section is a starter and will be implemented come what may,&rdquo; the statement quoted Cheema as saying.&nbsp; It added that the government was coordinating with other development partners for the remaining sections of the ML-1 corridor and aimed to finalize agreements for the full Karachi-to-Peshawar railway upgrade. Cheema, according to statement, said the government was also engaging other development partners for the remaining sections of the ML-1 corridor and aimed to finalize agreements for the full Karachi-to-Peshawar railway upgrade. The minister said Pakistan was seeking to secure ADB financing in the upcoming fiscal year and emphasized that timely completion of documentation and procedural requirements would be critical to achieving that goal.&nbsp; He also instructed the Ministry of Railways to work closely with the Planning Division to finalize the PC-1 and other mandatory approvals. Cheema described ML-1 as a &ldquo;landmark initiative&rdquo; that would improve freight movement and strengthen railway services nationwide. ADB Country Director Emma Fan reaffirmed the lender&rsquo;s support for the project and praised efforts by Pakistani authorities to advance preparations.&nbsp; &ldquo;ADB would ensure the timely hiring of the PRF consultant,&rdquo; Fan said, adding that the bank would &ldquo;make every effort to minimize the project review timeline&rdquo; to support swift implementation of the strategically important scheme. The ML-1 project, stretching from Karachi to Peshawar, is Pakistan&rsquo;s largest railway modernization initiative and is aimed at upgrading tracks, improving freight capacity, and reducing travel times across the country.

Economy

Pakistan and the Asian Development Bank agreed to fast-track approvals and documentation for the Karachi–Rohri ML-1 railway section, as Islamabad pushes to begin construction this year under the broader Karachi-to-Peshawar railway modernization project.

Pakistan, ADB push to fast-track Karachi-Rohri ML-1 railway project

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan&rsquo;s Permanent Representative to the UN, Asim Iftikhar, expressed cautious optimism during a United Nations Security Council briefing on the situation in Syria on Friday regarding recent developments, while underscoring the complexity of the challenges facing the country. Ambassador Iftikhar welcomed the 30 January agreement between the Syrian Government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), voicing hope that its faithful implementation would bring stability and strengthen Syria&rsquo;s unity and territorial integrity.<div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowtransparency="true" allowfullscreen="true" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 767px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2022517880252772697&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Farticles%2F&sessionId=1dfd8a62c6207cbc21c0529808556923ad9aba06&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px" data-tweet-id="2022517880252772697">&nbsp;&nbsp;</iframe></div></div>He noted that over the past 14 months, notable steps have been taken to advance Syria&rsquo;s political transition.&nbsp; Although gradual and intricate, these measures reflect movement toward stabilization after years of conflict. He emphasized the importance of continuing this trajectory in a steady and inclusive manner, anchored in national ownership, reinforcing state institutions, consolidating security and creating conditions conducive to durable peace.&nbsp;&nbsp;Constructive steps&nbsp;In this context, Ambassador Iftikhar also appreciated recent state initiatives, including the 16 January presidential decree concerning the rights of the Kurdish community, describing them as constructive steps toward national cohesion. At the same time, Ambassador Iftikhar stressed that significant challenges persist.&nbsp; He warned that the threat of terrorism remains acute, citing the continued presence and activities of terrorist groups, including foreign terrorist fighters, especially ETIM, as serious risks to Syria&rsquo;s stability and regional security.&nbsp; He called for these elements to be addressed in a coordinated and effective manner, consistent with international law and relevant Security Council resolutions.&nbsp; Counter-terrorism efforts, he said, must remain precise and focused, without conflating state institutions with non-state actors, and detention facilities holding terrorists must be managed and transitioned responsibly to prevent instability or spillover.&nbsp;Humanitarian situation&nbsp;He also highlighted the dire humanitarian situation, with millions of Syrians in need of sustained assistance as infrastructure, basic services, and livelihoods remain under severe strain.&nbsp; Ensuring safe and unimpeded humanitarian access, alongside enhanced early recovery support, he said, is essential to alleviate suffering and restore dignity.&nbsp; With the lifting of sanctions, he noted, there is an opportunity to gradually shift toward revitalizing economic and commercial activity to enable meaningful recovery. Ambassador Iftikhar strongly condemned violations of the 1974 Disengagement Agreement and other destabilizing actions by Israel, calling them unacceptable.&nbsp; He stressed the need for full respect for existing agreements and for Syria&rsquo;s sovereignty and territorial integrity, urging the Council to ensure Israel&rsquo;s full withdrawal from occupied Syrian territory in compliance with its resolutions. Reaffirming Pakistan&rsquo;s solidarity with the Government and people of Syria, he said the country would continue to engage constructively in support of a stable, unified, and sovereign Syria.&nbsp;

Ambassador Iftikhar welcomes the 30 January agreement between the Syrian Government and the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), voicing hope that its faithful implementation will bring stability and strengthen Syria’s unity and territorial integrity. 

Pakistan welcomes Syria-SDF Agreement, urges inclusive political transition

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has sought clarification from India over an &ldquo;abrupt variation&rdquo; in the Chenab River&rsquo;s flow, with the Foreign Office saying its Indus water commissioner has formally written to his Indian counterpart under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) procedures. In a weekly press briefing broadcast live on the ministry&rsquo;s social media account on Thursday, Foreign Office (FO) spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andrabi talked about the &ldquo;abrupt variation&rdquo; in the flow of the Chenab River.<div class="fr-embed"><div class="twitter-tweet twitter-tweet-rendered" style="display: flex; max-width: 550px; width: 100%; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><iframe id="twitter-widget-0" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" title="X Post" src="https://platform.twitter.com/embed/Tweet.html?dnt=false&embedId=twitter-widget-0&features=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%3D%3D&frame=false&hideCard=false&hideThread=false&id=2001539859375362539&lang=en&origin=https%3A%2F%2Fmain.d1wrm1qseko1cp.amplifyapp.com%2Fsections%2F&sessionId=a1ed9f1a960b94e8ad9472a6e71dc4c5cf066845&theme=light&widgetsVersion=2615f7e52b7e0%3A1702314776716&width=550px" style="position: static; visibility: visible; width: 550px; height: 640px; display: block; flex-grow: 1;">&nbsp;</iframe></div></div>&ldquo;Pakistan views these variations with extreme concern and seriousness. They allude to unilateral release of water into the Chenab River by India, without any prior notification,&rdquo; FO spokesperson said. &ldquo;Our Indus water commissioner has written a letter to his Indian counterpart seeking clarification on the matters in accordance with the procedures enshrined in the Indus Waters Treaty.&rdquo; Lives on the line&nbsp;Andrabi said, &ldquo;Any manipulation of river flow by India, especially at a critical time of our agricultural cycle, directly threatens the lives and livelihoods as well as food and economic security of our citizens.&rdquo; &ldquo;We call upon India to respond to the queries raised by the Pakistani Indus water commissioner, refrain from any unilateral manipulation of river flows and fulfil its obligations in letter and spirit under the Indus Water Treaty provisions,&rdquo; he said. The FO spokesperson further said that the IWT was a &ldquo;binding international agreement,&rdquo; which had been &ldquo;an instrument of peace and security and stability in the region.&rdquo; Existential rights &nbsp;Andrabi said that violating the treaty threatened the &ldquo;inviolability of international treaties and compliance with international law&rdquo; and also posed a serious threat to &ldquo;regional peace, principles of good neighborliness, and norms governing interstate relations&rdquo;. &ldquo;The international community must take notice of India&rsquo;s continued disregard of a bilateral treaty, and counsel India to act responsibly and in accordance with international law and established norms as well as its own obligations.&rdquo; He said, &ldquo;Pakistan remains committed to the peaceful resolution of disputes and issues with India but will not compromise on the existential water rights of the people of our country.&rdquo; Incident in Bihar condemned &nbsp;On the issue of the incident where Chief Minister of the Indian state of Bihar Nitish Kumar pulled the veil of a Muslim woman, Andrabi said: &ldquo;The forcible removal of the Muslim woman&rsquo;s hijab by a senior political leader and subsequent public ridicule of this act are deeply disturbing and warrant strong condemnation&rdquo;. &ldquo;The action risks normalizing the humiliation of Muslim women in India. The conduct also demonstrates public disrespect of India&rsquo;s religious minorities, particularly its Muslim citizens,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;Such conduct reflects a broader and troubling pattern associated with Hindutva-inspired politics, namely the alarming rise of religious intolerance and Islamophobia,&rdquo; Andrabi added. &ldquo;We urge all responsible stakeholders and the Indian government to recognize the seriousness of this incident and to reaffirm their commitment to the protection of minority rights, respect for religious freedom, and the preservation of human dignity,&rdquo; the spokesperson said.

Foreign Office spokesperson says, ‘Our Indus water commissioner has written a letter to his Indian counterpart seeking clarification on the matter in accordance with the procedures enshrined in the Indus Waters Treaty.’

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