Month: July 2026

Islamabad: Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication Shaza Fatima Khawaja on Wednesday said that Pakistan will own the full value chain of robotics and artificial intelligence because achieving advanced technological self-reliance is a national decision, and the country is now ready to realise that vision.

Addressing the two-day Indus RAS (Robotics and Autonomous Systems) Expo 2026, she said that, under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, the government has embraced a clear direction for Digital Nation Pakistan.

“A Pakistan where technology is not simply another lever of the economy but the true engine of productivity, employment and national competitiveness. This vision recognises that digital transformation is no longer optional,” she said.

The minister said that, as the world moves from the digital era into the intelligent era, artificial intelligence is itself moving into the physical world.

“It is becoming the foundational building block of value creation. Robots are moving from factories to warehouses, farms, roads, critical infrastructure, disaster areas and even national security.”

She said countries that lead these technologies will define the future economy, while those that remain mere consumers will continue to depend on others. Pakistan, she added, has chosen to lead.

“It is the foundational building block of sustained economic growth. Only yesterday, the Prime Minister launched the AI-enabled, evidence-led Prime Minister’s Office system, which is going to completely transform how the country is governed.”

Furthermore, she said the country’s defence leadership has transformed the military from a purely kinetic force into a robust cyber-centric institution.

“As the Ministry of IT and Telecom, we stand for the execution of this vision. We invest in digital infrastructure, innovation ecosystems, entrepreneurship, digital skills and emerging technologies.”

“We are creating an environment where innovators can build, startups can scale, investors can grow, young Pakistanis can compete globally and, most importantly, where the government serves as the ultimate enabler.”

She said the results were already visible.

“The export figures show that ICT exports grew by almost 21% this year. This is a testament to the resilience of our industry and the effectiveness of our policies.”

She said Pakistan’s progress was also reflected in international rankings.

“Pakistan today ranks among the top-tier countries in cybersecurity according to the ITU. We have moved up 14 places in the E-Government Development Index and 27 places in the ITU’s ICT Development Index.”

She said artificial intelligence has become the defining technology of the current generation, with robotics serving as its physical arm.

“The question is not simply whether Pakistan will use these technologies. The question is whether Pakistan will own them. Building indigenous capabilities and developing talent that will shape our future and safeguard our sovereignty is absolutely critical.”

She said sovereignty is increasingly measured not only by the ability to defend territorial boundaries but also by a nation’s ownership of and command over advanced technologies.

Referring to Marka-e-Haq, she said the operation demonstrated not only Pakistan’s conventional military capabilities but also the effectiveness of cyber and autonomous systems under the leadership of the Prime Minister and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.

She said the country’s defence institutions, together with industrial leaders, are driving digital innovation.

“These achievements give me confidence to stand before you today as your minister and as a member of the Prime Minister’s team to assure you that we are second to none.”

She said Pakistan’s ambitions must be rooted in reality and move beyond automation towards transformation.

“Our people, especially our youth, are Pakistan’s greatest asset. Today, we are building complete talent pipelines.”

She said the Prime Minister chairs productive employment meetings every month and that nearly one million young people have been trained this year, ranging from basic digital skills to advanced semiconductor and chip design programmes.

“My second core pillar is real-world testbeds. Robots become valuable when they leave factories and operate in real-world environments. We must establish more centres of excellence, and our robotics and autonomous systems must be tested under real-world conditions.”

She said the public sector must become the first intelligent buyer by creating opportunities for the private sector to develop solutions.

“Third is infrastructure and computing. Every one of us understands how critical data sovereignty has become.”

She said artificial intelligence requires data, connectivity, computing power and secure infrastructure, while robotics depends on sensors, edge computing, communications, control systems and reliable power.

“We must invest across the entire technology stack. Through our National AI Policy and National AI Initiative, approved by the cabinet last year, we are addressing every layer of this ecosystem.”

She said the fourth pillar is industry and investment.

“Our universities, factories, startups, investors and the public sector must act in unison. This must happen in a coordinated and disciplined manner.”

She called for financing mechanisms for deep technologies that can attract larger pools of risk capital.

“Procurement pathways must be opened for startups, shared fabrication facilities should be established, and partnerships between Pakistani companies and leading international firms must include guaranteed technology transfer.”

She said advanced technologies are rewriting the rules, reshaping realities and giving nations a once-in-a-generation opportunity to leapfrog decades of development. “This is an opportunity we cannot afford to miss.”

Islamabad: Pakistan and Iran reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation in security, border management and regional stability as Iranian Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni held wide-ranging talks with Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi during his three-day official visit to Islamabad.

The visit underscored the growing momentum in Pakistan-Iran relations, with both sides agreeing to intensify collaboration in counterterrorism, counternarcotics, curbing illegal immigration and preventing human smuggling while stressing the importance of coordinated efforts to address shared security challenges along the Afghan border.

Upon his arrival at the Ministry of Interior, the Iranian interior minister was accorded a warm welcome by Mohsin Naqvi. A smartly turned-out contingent of the Federal Constabulary presented a guard of honour to the visiting dignitary, reflecting the significance Pakistan attached to the high-level engagement.

The ceremony was followed by the introduction of members of the Iranian delegation to Pakistani officials, while the Iranian minister was introduced to the heads of the Ministry of Interior’s attached departments and agencies.

The two interior ministers first held a one-on-one meeting before leading their respective delegations in comprehensive talks covering bilateral relations, regional developments and avenues for expanding cooperation between the neighbouring countries.

The discussions placed particular emphasis on strengthening institutional coordination in combating terrorism and narcotics trafficking, with both sides agreeing that closer collaboration was essential to effectively tackle cross-border security threats.

They also resolved to improve mechanisms for cooperation in addressing illegal immigration and human smuggling while reinforcing coordination among relevant law enforcement agencies.

Speaking after the meeting, Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to broadening cooperation with Iran across all sectors. He commended Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni for their efforts in promoting peace and expressed optimism that ongoing diplomatic initiatives would yield positive outcomes, paving the way for lasting peace and stability in the region.

The Iranian delegation included the Governor General of Sistan and Baluchestan Province, the Deputy Interior Minister, the Deputy Minister for Urban Development and Transport, the head of the National Iranian Oil Company, the Special Representative of the Iranian Minister of Agriculture and other senior officials.

The Pakistani side was represented by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, the Federal Secretary Interior, the Chairman of NADRA, the Directors General of the Federal Investigation Agency, Anti-Narcotics Force, Federal Constabulary, National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency, and Immigration and Passports, as well as the Chairman of the Capital Development Authority, the Inspector General of Islamabad Police and senior officials of the Ministry of Interior.

The high-level engagement reflected the shared resolve of Pakistan and Iran to deepen cooperation on matters of mutual interest while reinforcing regional peace, border security and institutional collaboration in addressing common security and law enforcement challenges.

Islamabad: Deputy Chairman Senate Syedaal Khan Wednesday held separate meetings with Member of the Provincial Assembly (Balochistan) Haji Fazal Qadir Mandokhail, former Federal Minister Fawad Chaudhry and his wife, prominent tribal elders, renowned businessman Rehmat-ul-Salam Khattak, lawyers, doctors, students, and delegations representing various segments of society.

The meetings featured detailed discussions on the prevailing national and regional situation, the country’s political and economic landscape, the role of Parliament, the legislative process, national cohesion, harmony among the federating units, public welfare, ongoing and proposed initiatives in the health and education sectors, challenges confronting the youth, and key national development priorities.

Deputy Chairman Senate Syedaal Khan stated that the Senate, as the symbol of the Federation, serves as a vital constitutional institution promoting trust, harmony and national unity among all federating units.

He emphasized that the primary objective of Parliament is to enact effective legislation that improves the lives of citizens, strengthens state institutions, and contributes to Pakistan’s political, economic and social stability.

He further observed that health and education are the fundamental pillars of national development. Investing in these sectors, expanding access to modern facilities, and equipping the younger generation with quality education and professional skills, he said, must remain national priorities. He stressed that balanced development, the provision of basic services, and equal opportunities for youth, particularly in underdeveloped regions including Balochistan, are indispensable for sustainable national progress.

The meetings also included an in-depth exchange of views on the evolving regional environment and the contemporary international political landscape. The Deputy Chairman Senate stated that Pakistan’s foreign policy is founded on the principles of peace, constructive diplomacy, mutual respect, regional stability and shared prosperity. He noted that the prevailing global environment demands that differences and disputes be resolved through dialogue, diplomacy, adherence to international law and the principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations in order to pave the way for lasting peace and sustainable development in the region.

He further stated that Pakistan attaches great importance to regional economic cooperation, trade, regional connectivity and people-to-people exchanges, and remains committed to strengthening relations with friendly countries on the basis of mutual trust and shared interests.

The Deputy Chairman Senate reaffirmed that Pakistan unequivocally condemns terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and will continue to play a constructive and responsible role in promoting global peace, interfaith harmony, sustainable development and international cooperation. He observed that in the current global environment, parliamentary diplomacy has emerged as an effective instrument for confidence-building among nations, fostering meaningful dialogue and addressing common global challenges, and that the Senate of Pakistan continues to fulfil its constitutional and national responsibilities in this regard with dedication.

The members of the visiting delegations appreciated the Deputy Chairman Senate’s parliamentary services, his efforts to address public issues, and his principled stance on national affairs. They also presented their views and proposals on various national, regional and public interest matters. The Deputy Chairman Senate welcomed their suggestions and assured them that all proposals serving the public interest would be taken up at the appropriate forums, reaffirming that the Senate would continue to discharge its constitutional and democratic responsibilities with commitment and dedication in line with the aspirations of the people.

Islamabad: Senate Standing Committee on Housing and Works on Wednesday expressed serious concern over delays in the payment of salaries and arrears of various various former employees of Pak Public Works Department (PWD) adjusted in various ministries and departments, by the respective government departments despite their adjustment.

In the committe meeting, which held here at Parliament Lodges, chaired by Senator Nasir Mehmood, officials informed that a total of 20,024 former Pak PWD employees had been adjusted in various ministries and departments.

Of these, salaries of 3,094 employees had been released, while cases of around 30 employees were still pending, including 14 employees in the Ministry of Planning, nine in the Ministry of Religious Affairs, and the remaining in other departments.

Chairman Senator Nasir Mehmood directed the officials not to mislead the Committee with repeated assurances and stressed that commitments made before the Committee must be honoured through practical implementation.

Officials informed the Committee that employees were affected by the closure of department and that the majority had been adjusted in various ministries and departments. However, several employees are still awaiting payment of salaries and arrears.

Officials from the Ministry of Finance informed the Committee that following the revised funding mechanism introduced from 1 July 2025, letters had been issued to the relevant ministries and departments for clearance of outstanding salary arrears. However, employees informed the Committee that while they had been adjusted in different ministries, several departments had neither released their salaries nor cleared their outstanding dues.

The Committee directed all concerned ministries and departments to ensure immediate payment of salaries and arrears to adjusted employees and remove unnecessary delays in processing their cases.

The Committee also discussed the status of contractual employees. Officials informed the Committee that, under the existing legal framework, contractual employees are not eligible for pension benefits. However, the Ministry of Housing and Works had submitted a proposal requesting special consideration from the Prime Minister. The Committee was informed that any decision in this regard would require approval from the competent forum, i.e., the Federal Cabinet.

Officials from the Ministry of Finance further explained that pension was admissible only to civil servants in accordance with the applicable rules and was processed by Accountant General Pakistan Revenues (AGPR) upon completion of the required documentation by the concerned department. The Ministry of Housing and Works informed the Committee that the remaining pension-related cases would be placed before the competent forum for an appropriate decision. The Committee emphasized that all eligible employees should receive their lawful benefits without further delay.

During the meeting, Senator Naseema Ehsan highlighted the difficulties being faced by widows and families of deceased employees and urged the concerned authorities to resolve their cases on priority. The Committee unanimously recommended that all outstanding arrears of adjusted employees be cleared at the earliest.

The Committee then reviewed the status of the Green Enclave-I Housing Project, expressing serious concern over prolonged delays, cost escalation, and the continued hardship faced by allottees.

Officials of Federal Government Employees Housing Authority (FGEHA) informed the Committee that the project had suffered delays due to litigation, National Accountability Bureau (NAB) inquiries, land-related disputes, bank guarantee issues, the impact of COVID-19 on construction costs, and subsequent contractual complications.

They informed the Committee that work on the project had resumed and that several pending issues would be placed before the Authority’s Board for final decisions.

Chairman Senator Nasir Mehmood questioned the prolonged continuation of contractual arrangements despite years of delay and observed that thousands of citizens, particularly retired government employees, had invested in the project in good faith and deserved timely delivery.

The Committee directed that Contractor Dr. Hafeez Abbasi be summoned in the next meeting to explain the delays and stressed that all stakeholders must cooperate to ensure early completion of the project.

The Secretary, Ministry of Housing and Works, informed the Committee that the Ministry had initiated reforms to resolve longstanding issues in housing projects and had placed restrictions on launching new schemes until ongoing projects would be completed.

The Committee also reviewed the replacement and repair of lifts at the Shaheed-e-Millat Secretariat. Members expressed dissatisfaction over the slow pace of work and directed the concerned authorities to complete the project within the committed timeframe. The Committee decided to conduct an on-site visit to monitor progress after a month.

The Committee also reviewed the progress of the Model Jail project. Members were informed by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) Chairman that the first phase of the project had been approved and was nearing completion, while the proposal for Phase-II, which includes dedicated facilities for women, had already been submitted. Officials expressed the hope that the remaining work would be completed within the stipulated time frame.

During the discussion, the Committee expressed concern over delays in the implementation of the project. The Chairman directed the concerned authorities to expedite the pace of work and announced that the Committee would undertake a visit on 22 August to review the project’s progress on-site.

The Committee also reviewed the performance of the Federal Government Employees Housing Authority (FGEHA). The Chairman observed that none of the Authority’s projects had been completed within the prescribed timeline and stressed that ongoing projects should be completed before launching new ones.

Concluding the meeting, Chairman Senator Nasir Mehmood directed all relevant ministries and departments to implement the Committee’s recommendations without delay and present a comprehensive progress report in the next meeting

Islamabad: The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) has been granted an FM Radio licence by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA), paving the way for the country’s premier business chamber to launch its own radio platform dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship, investment, economic awareness, and ease of doing business.

The licence was formally presented to ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood by Chairperson PEMRA, Ms. Ambreen Jan, at the PEMRA Headquarters. Executive Director General PEMRA, Wakil Khan, Director General Faqir Afzal Khan Deputy Director Hassan Durrani were also present on the occasion, said a press release issued here on Wednesday.

Chairperson PEMRA congratulated the ICCI leadership on securing the FM Radio Licence and appreciated the Chamber’s contributions towards promoting economic development and supporting the business community.

She expressed confidence that the ICCI FM Radio would emerge as a vibrant and credible platform for disseminating authentic business information, promoting entrepreneurship, encouraging investment, and fostering constructive dialogue on issues vital to Pakistan’s economy.

She noted that the initiative would play a meaningful role in facilitating businesses and contributing to the country’s economic prosperity.

Sardar Tahir Mehmood termed the award of the FM Radio Licence a historic achievement for ICCI, saying it reflects the chamber’s commitment to adopting modern communication tools to better serve entrepreneurs, SMEs, exporters, investors, and the wider business community.

He said the FM Radio would broadcast informative programmes on trade, industry, taxation, investment opportunities, entrepreneurship, innovation, technology, skills development, and government policies, while providing a credible platform to highlight the concerns and aspirations of the private sector.

He highlighted ICCI’s sustained efforts to facilitate policy reforms, improve the investment climate, strengthen public-private dialogue, and create a more business-friendly environment that supports sustainable economic growth.

Islamabad: The international recognition earned by Pakistan’s “Football for Mental Health Programme” at the United Nations has been hailed as a major milestone for Pakistan’s sporting diplomacy, reinforcing the country’s positive image while strengthening its standing within the global football community.

Officials associated with the initiative believe the acknowledgement has gone beyond celebrating a successful social programme, instead highlighting Pakistan’s growing ability to contribute meaningfully to international discussions on youth development, mental well-being and community empowerment through sport.

The recognition has also reinforced the Pakistan Football Federation’s (PFF) belief in the unity of the global football family, demonstrating that football continues to transcend geographical, cultural and political boundaries by bringing together nations in pursuit of common humanitarian goals.

PFF President Syed Mohsen Gilani described the achievement as a significant endorsement of Pakistan’s potential to transform football into an instrument of social progress. “It proved that Pakistani people have the will and ability to serve society, while the Pakistan Football Federation possesses the professional capacity to implement globally conceived ideas focusing on building a better society by using football as a vehicle,” he said.

Gilani added that the international appreciation had projected Pakistan’s soft image before the world by showcasing the country’s commitment to innovation, social responsibility and community development through sport.

According to the PFF president, one of the most significant outcomes of the initiative was its emphasis on mental health, an issue receiving increasing attention across the global sporting landscape. “Football has the power to improve the emotional and psychological well-being of players, coaches, volunteers, supporters and families, while creating healthier and more connected communities.”

PFF Chief Operating Officer Muhammad Shahid Niaz Khokhar said that the United Nations platform enabled Pakistan to engage with a diverse range of international stakeholders, including football administrators, policymakers, development organisations, athletes and youth leaders. “These interactions created valuable opportunities to exchange ideas, explore future collaborations and strengthen partnerships aimed at using sport to address global social challenges,” he remarked.

“Football has increasingly become an effective platform for promoting inclusion, education, health awareness and youth empowerment, with governing bodies around the world encouraging federations to expand their role beyond competition and contribute to broader community development,” Khokhar added.

The other delegation members said that Pakistan’s participation in the global dialogue reflects the PFF’s commitment to embracing this modern vision of football, where the game’s influence extends beyond the pitch to create lasting social impact.

“The recognition is also expected to encourage greater international cooperation and support for similar initiatives in the future, while reinforcing Pakistan’s reputation as a responsible and constructive member of the global football community,” they added.