Day: July 25, 2026

Islamabad: Prime Minister, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Friday described the newly inaugurated AI and cloud computing facility as a landmark achievement for Pakistan reflecting the country’s growing technological capabilities and demonstrated that Pakistan could accomplish world-class initiatives through unity, vision and determination.

Addressing the inauguration ceremony of the country’s first ever AI Cloud Sky47, the prime minister said he was deeply inspired after touring the state-of-the-art facility, which had been completed in record time. Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif praised the engineers, experts and institutions involved in the project, and said the successful execution of the facility showcased the extraordinary talent available in both Pakistan’s military and civilian sectors.

Quoting the national poet Allama Muhammad Iqbal, the prime minister said nations were built through fresh ideas and visionary thinking rather than bricks and stones alone. He stressed that innovation, commitment and collective resolve were the driving forces behind national progress.

Paying tribute to Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir’s leadership, the prime minister said the project stood as a testament to what could be achieved when state institutions worked together with a shared national purpose. He expressed confidence that if the same model of coordination and execution was replicated across other sectors, Pakistan could not only recover from past setbacks but also emerge as a modern, dynamic and forward-looking nation.

“This journey will not be easy, but it is certainly not impossible, ” the prime minister said, adding that Pakistan’s success during Marka-e-Haq had already demonstrated that determination, courage and unity could transform seemingly impossible goals into reality.

He maintained that every major challenge presented an opportunity, whereas serious planning, innovation and sustained hard work would shape Pakistan’s future in emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence and cloud computing.

The prime minister also acknowledged the contributions of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, the Ministry of Information Technology, the IT Secretary and strategic technology partner ZTE for their role in delivering the project. He revealed that the facility had an initial capacity of 8.5 megawatts and announced that similar AI and cloud infrastructure would soon be replicated in Karachi and Lahore.

Prime Minister Shehbaz directed all state institutions to align themselves with the country’s digital transformation agenda. He described the facility as a priceless gift to the people of Pakistan, and added that it would significantly strengthen the country’s digital security, enhance technological self-reliance and inspire confidence that Pakistan was fully capable of competing in the global digital economy.

The prime minister in his conclusion once again invoked Allama Iqbal’s message of national unity, reminding the audience that an individual derives strength from the collective power of the nation. He ended his speech with prayers for Pakistan’s prosperity and stability and the slogan, “Pakistan Zindabad.”

The inaugural ceremony was attended by Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, federal ministers Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Attaullah Tarar, senior government officials and distinguished guests.

Islamabad: Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Dr. Musadik Malik, participated in the Heads of Delegations Retreat held in Shamakhi, Azerbaijan.

The Heads of Delegations Retreat is a part of preparations for the upcoming COP31, scheduled to take place in Antalya, Trkiye, in November 2026.

The Retreat provided an important platform for participating countries to exchange views on the priorities, agenda, and key areas of focus for COP31.

On the sidelines of the Retreat, Dr. Musadik Malik held bilateral meetings with Deputy Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan Yalchin Rafiyev, Deputy Minister for Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change of Trkiye Ms. Fatma Varank, and Cabinet Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry of Kenya, Dr. Deborah M. Barasa.

During his meeting with the Kenyan delegation, Dr. Musadik Malik held detailed discussions on developing a new vision for Margalla Hills National Park and revitalising the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB), drawing on the experience and model of Nairobi National Park.

The Kenyan side expressed its willingness to support Pakistan in advancing these initiatives.

Both sides agreed to move towards formalising cooperation through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aimed at facilitating institutional collaboration and the adoption of best practices in wildlife and protected-area management.

During his meeting with Azerbaijan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Yalchin Rafiyev, Dr. Musadik Malik discussed the future of climate diplomacy and priorities for the agenda of COP31.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to mutual support and agreed to work towards strengthening cooperation on climate-related issues at international forums.

The Deputy Foreign Minister reciprocated the sentiments and conveyed his warm regards to the leadership and people of Pakistan. Dr. Musadik Malik also held discussions with Trkiye’s Deputy Minister for Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change Ms. Fatma Varank on Pakistan-Trkiye cooperation in advancing climate action.

The minister reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to constructive international climate diplomacy.

Islamabad: Chairman Senate, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, on Friday emphasized that Balochistan was not a peripheral concern but the cornerstone of Pakistan’s unity, prosperity, economic future and national security, urging all stakeholders to work collectively for lasting peace, inclusive development and a stronger federation.

Addressing the participants of the National Workshop Balochistan, the Chairman Senate warmly welcomed parliamentarians, civil servants, members of civil society, academia, youth and media representatives from across the country.

He described the National Workshop as a unique platform that fosters dialogue, strengthens inter-provincial understanding and builds national cohesion by bringing together diverse segments of society.

Gilani said that Balochistan occupies a strategic position owing to its vast coastline, abundant mineral resources and geographic location linking South Asia with Central Asia and the Middle East.

He observed that the province’s progress was inseparable from Pakistan’s overall development and prosperity.

While acknowledging the security, socio-economic and human development challenges confronting the province, Chairman Senate strongly condemned terrorism and said that hostile elements backed by external forces are attempting to destabilize Pakistan by targeting innocent civilians and development projects.

He paid glowing tribute to the Pakistan Armed Forces, Frontier Corps Balochistan, Police and all law enforcement agencies for their courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment in safeguarding the country.

He reaffirmed the Senate of Pakistan’s complete solidarity with the nation’s security forces and honored the sacrifices rendered by the martyrs in defence of the motherland.

Chairman Gilani stressed that sustainable peace could not be achieved through security measures alone. He underscored the importance of empowering the people of Balochistan, particularly its youth, through education, employment, skills development, political participation and equal opportunities.

He said that winning the trust and confidence of the people remained essential for ensuring enduring peace and meaningful progress.

Recalling his tenure as Prime Minister, Chairman Senate highlighted landmark initiatives undertaken for Balochistan, including the Aghaz-e-Huqooq-e-Balochistan Package, the historic Seventh National Finance Commission (NFC) Award, settlement of outstanding gas development surcharges and royalties, enhanced representation of Baloch youth in federal institutions and the armed forces, and sustained political dialogue aimed at strengthening national integration and addressing the province’s legitimate concerns.

He reaffirmed that the Senate, as the House of Federation, remains fully committed to protecting provincial rights, strengthening the federation, ensuring equitable resource distribution and guaranteeing equal representation of all provinces in national decision-making.

Gilani observed that development, security and national unity were inseparable pillars of a stable and prosperous Pakistan. He noted that terrorism sought to undermine education, economic progress and public welfare by attacking schools, laborer’s and development projects.

However, he expressed confidence that the resilience, patriotism and determination of the people of Balochistan would defeat such designs.

The Chairman Senate urged them to become ambassadors of national harmony, constitutional values and democratic principles. He encouraged them to carry forward the lessons learned during the workshop by promoting dialogue, respecting diversity and contributing positively to Pakistan’s progress.

Gilani expressed confidence in the country’s youth, stating that they possess the vision and commitment to build a peaceful, united and prosperous Pakistan. He called upon all Pakistanis to stand together against forces seeking division and reaffirmed that national unity remains the country’s greatest strength.

While answering the questions of participants during QandA session, Chairman Senate termed youth of Pakistan the future of country.

He also lauded the vision of Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, the then Prime Minister of Pakistan to introduce bicameral legislature making House of Federal the Senate of Pakistan that ensures equal representation of all provinces.

He called this visionary action to be a step to grant rights to the people. He appreciated the Pakistan’s civil and military leadership for efforts to bring peace in world and in Balochistan.

Islamabad: The National Highway Authority (NHA) has restored the Gilgit-Shandur Road for all types of traffic after emergency teams constructed an alternate route at KM 98 in Yangal, Ghizer District, while directing all field personnel to remain on high alert amid recent heavy flooding.

According to an NHA spokesperson, Chairman NHA has instructed field formations to remain fully alert and coordinate closely with district administrations to ensure uninterrupted traffic flow, provide timely updates to headquarters and extend all possible assistance to commuters, said a press release issued on Friday.

The NHA said restoration and maintenance work was continuing at other affected sectors. Clearance work has been completed at RD 16 Knat Bridge (Abutment 1), and debris has been removed from RD 25 Bridge. Backfilling using stone dumping is currently underway at Ansar Camp on the RD 16 Bridge. Additionally, at JSR Sassi Bridge (Hanochal, RD 25), water flow has been diverted to one side and upstream excavation has begun. Due to ongoing strong water flow, the deployment of heavy machinery may experience slight delays; however, as water levels recede, machinery will be immediately shifted from RD 25 Bridge toward RD 16 (Abutment 2).

Islamabad: The 2-day ITBA Pre-Azadi Cup 2026 Tenpin Bowling Tournament, under the auspices of Islamabad Tenpin Bowling Association (ITBA), will kick off on July 25, here at the Leisure City Bowling Club, Safa Gold F-7 Markaz.

President, Pakistan Tenpin Bowling Federation, Ijaz-ur-Rehman will inaugurate the tournament.

According to Islamabad Tenpin Bowling Association, Daniyal Ijaz the tournament will be held in two phases at two important different bowling venues in Islamabad. The first phase will be held on July 25 at Leisure City Bowling Club, Safa Gold, F-7 Markaz, Islamabad while the second phase will be held on July 26, at Jacaranda Bowling Alley, DHA, Phase-II.

The tournament matches will be played daily at 4pm.

He further, said that the aim of organizing the tournament is to provide a platform to the bowlers of Islamabad and Rawalpindi in preparation for the Azadi Cup Tenpin Bowling Championship so that the bowlers can make their full preparations.

The Azadi Cup Tenpin Bowling Championship-2026 under the auspices of the Pakistan Tenpin Bowling Federation, will be played from August 8-14, at Leisure City Bowling Club, Safa Gold, F-7 Markaz, Islamabad. Men and women players from all over the country will take part in the championship.

Islamabad: Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production, Haroon Akhtar Khan said on Friday, the government was committed to creating a business-friendly environment and improving the ease of doing business, with the National Industrial Policy aimed at strengthening local industries, enhancing productivity and promoting investment-led growth across the country.

He was talking to a delegation led by the President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), Sardar Tahir Mehmood, to discuss measures aimed at promoting industrial growth, facilitating businesses and strengthening Pakistan’s economic development.

The meeting was also attended by Joint Secretary, Ministry of Industries and Production, and Chairman, Export Processing Zones Authority (EPZA), Freedoon Akram Sheikh.

During the meeting, the ICCI delegation appreciated the efforts of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Haroon Akhtar Khan for promoting economic growth, industrial development and public welfare.

The SAPM emphasized that the Prime Minister has consistently directed the government to provide maximum facilitation to the business community and investors, recognizing the private sector as a key driver of economic progress.

Haroon further highlighted that the government had approved the Regulatory Guillotine Reform Programme, which is currently in the implementation phase. The initiative aims to eliminate unnecessary regulatory barriers, simplify procedures and establish a transparent, efficient and business-friendly regulatory framework.

‘We are committed to creating a business environment that is simple, transparent and conducive to investment and industrial expansion, ‘ he said.

The ICCI delegation also briefed the Special Assistant on its upcoming trade delegation visit to Trkiye, aimed at exploring new avenues for trade, investment and business collaboration between the two countries.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continue close coordination between the government and the private sector to build a stronger economy, promote industrialization and create new opportunities for investment, exports and employment