Month: July 2026

Islamabad: Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Pakistan Khazar Farhadov on Wednesday paid a farewell call on Federal Minister for Law and Justice Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two brotherly countries.

During the meeting, the minister appreciated Ambassador Farhadov’s valuable contributions to deepening the historic ties between Pakistan and Azerbaijan during his diplomatic tenure. He commended the envoy’s efforts to enhance bilateral cooperation across a range of sectors and wished him success in his future assignments.

Ambassador Farhadov expressed gratitude for the warmth, hospitality and unwavering support extended to him by the Government and people of Pakistan throughout his posting. He said his tenure in Pakistan would always remain a cherished chapter of his diplomatic career.

The two sides reiterated their resolve to further expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest and underscored that Pakistan and Azerbaijan have consistently stood by each other, expressing confidence that their enduring partnership would continue to grow in the years ahead.

Islamabad: A high-level delegation comprising representatives of the Tabani Group and Shandong Hi-Speed Group Co., Ltd. (SDHS) , one of the People’s Republic of China’s largest state-owned infrastructure and investment enterprises called on Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani at Parliament House on Wednesday.

The SDHS delegation was led by its Chairman, Xu Xiang, and included Mr. Wang Zhenrong, Country Director, along with Humza Tabani, Chairman of the Tabani Group, said a news release.

The meeting focused on strengthening Pakistan-China economic cooperation and exploring new avenues of investment in infrastructure, transportation, energy, logistics, industrial development, and other strategic sectors.

Welcoming the delegation, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani said that Pakistan and China enjoy an enduring, time-tested friendship built on mutual trust, respect, and unwavering support. He emphasized that China has always stood by Pakistan during challenging times, and the people of Pakistan deeply value this steadfast friendship.

The Chairman Senate appreciated the significant contribution of Chinese companies and investors towards Pakistan’s economic development, stating that their investments are creating prosperity, generating employment opportunities, and promoting sustainable growth for the people of both countries.

He highlighted the transformative role of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), describing it as a landmark project and a shining example of the strategic partnership between Pakistan and China. He noted that CPEC has laid a strong foundation for regional connectivity, economic integration, and long-term development.

Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani expressed confidence that trade, investment, and economic cooperation between Pakistan and China would continue to expand in the years ahead, bringing greater prosperity and strengthening bilateral relations.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for foreign investment and welcomed the interest of Chinese enterprises in contributing to Pakistan’s development.

Chairman Senate observed that Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) is a significant national initiative aimed at promoting investment, strengthening economic stability, and creating employment opportunities for the people of Pakistan. The Senate , he said, remains committed to supporting policies and legislation that foster a transparent, investor-friendly environment, sustainable economic growth, and national prosperit

The delegation briefed the Chairman Senate on the global operations of Shandong Hi-Speed Group, highlighting its extensive experience in transport infrastructure, high-speed rail, expressways, energy, logistics, and industrial development.

They also shared the Group’s vision for expanding its investment portfolio in Pakistan and expressed their commitment to supporting the country’s economic progress through long-term partnerships.

The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their resolve to further deepen Pakistan-China cooperation and to promote mutually beneficial investment initiatives that would contribute to regional connectivity, economic growth, and shared prosperity.

Advisor to Chairman Senate Misbah Khar was also present during the meeting.

Islamabad: Pakistan emerged as the undisputed champions of the Zong 5G Central Asian Volleyball Association (CAVA) Men’s Volleyball Championship 2026, defeating Bangladesh in a commanding straight-set victory in the championship final here at the Liaquat Gymnasium, Pakistan Sports Complex.

The final day’s action began with the 3rd Place Match between Sri Lanka and Uzbekistan, producing another exciting five-set encounter. Sri Lanka made a strong start by taking the opening set before Uzbekistan responded to level the match.

The two teams continued exchanging sets in a thrilling contest that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.

In the decisive fifth set, Sri Lanka displayed remarkable composure and determination to seal the victory and secure the Bronze Medal. Sri Lanka defeated Uzbekistan 3-2 (25-19, 22-25, 25-23, 19-25, 15-11).

The victory earned Sri Lanka a well-deserved third-place finish, while Uzbekistan concluded the championship in fourth position.

The championship final featured the tournament’s two best-performing teams as unbeaten Pakistan faced Bangladesh before a packed Liaquat Gymnasium, where thousands of passionate volleyball fans created a spectacular atmosphere.

Pakistan entered the final with an unbeaten record and continued its outstanding form by dominating every department of the game. The Green Shirts combined powerful serving, disciplined blocking, quick attacks, and outstanding defense to keep Bangladesh under constant pressure.

Pakistan claimed the opening set 25-20, setting the tone for the match with aggressive attacking volleyball.

The hosts elevated their performance in the second set, producing exceptional teamwork and tactical discipline to comfortably win 25-16, moving within one set of the championship.

Bangladesh attempted to mount a comeback in the third set, but Pakistan remained composed and controlled the crucial points before sealing a convincing 25-20 victory to lift the championship trophy in front of an ecstatic home crowd.

Pakistan defeated Bangladesh 3-0 (25-20, 25-16, 25-20).

The victory completed a perfect tournament for Pakistan, as the national team won all seven matches without dropping a single set, demonstrating complete dominance throughout the championship.

Final Championship Rankings: Gold Medal: Pakistan; Silver Medal: Bangladesh; Bronze Medal: Sri Lanka; 4th Place: Uzbekistan; 5th Place: Kazakhstan; 6th Place: Nepal.

The championship’s outstanding individual performers were recognized during the closing ceremony.

Dream Team 2026: Outside Hitter: Murad Jehan (Pakistan) – No. 15; Outside Hitter: Tharusha Chamath Dilshan Weerappulige (Sri Lanka) – No. 5; Middle Blocker: Musawer Khan (Pakistan) – No. 18; Middle Blocker: Md Naieem Hossen (Bangladesh) – No. 6; Setter: Al Amin MD (Bangladesh) – No. 4; Opposite Player: Murad Khan (Pakistan) – No. 11; Libero: Md Shaon Ali (Bangladesh) – No. 17; Most Valuable Player (MVP): Murad Jehan (Pakistan) – No. 15.

Chairman Pakistan Volleyball Federation, Ch. Muhammad Yaqoob, congratulated the national team on winning the championship.

He said, “On behalf of the Pakistan Volleyball Federation, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our players, coaching staff, officials, and the entire volleyball family on winning the ZONG 5G CAVA Men’s Volleyball Championship 2026. This historic triumph reflects the dedication, discipline, and tireless efforts of our players and coaches.”

He further added, “Hosting and winning this prestigious championship is a proud moment for Pakistan. I thank the Central Asian Volleyball Association (CAVA), all participating teams, our sponsors, government institutions, volunteers, technical officials, media representatives, and the passionate fans whose support made this championship a resounding success.”

President Pakistan Volleyball Federation, Sohail Khawar Mir, described the championship victory as another milestone in Pakistan volleyball.

He said, “Winning the championship without losing a single set is an extraordinary achievement and a testament to the exceptional talent, preparation, and commitment of our players and coaching staff. The entire nation is proud of this remarkable performance.”

He further stated, “I congratulate Bangladesh on an excellent tournament and all participating nations for contributing to a highly competitive and successful championship. This event has strengthened volleyball in the Central Asian region and further enhanced Pakistan’s reputation as an outstanding host of international sporting events.”

Islamabad: Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry on Wednesday said that if the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) had any evidence of rigging in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) elections, it should present it before the relevant legal and electoral forums.

In a statement posted on social media platform X, the minister said the PPP was once again resorting to its old practice of making allegations of electoral rigging without presenting any evidence, terming it a failed attempt to conceal its defeat.

He said the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir had delivered their verdict through the ballot box after evaluating the performance of the PPP’s previous government.

The people of AJK expressed confidence in the politics of development, stability, and public service by voting for the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), he added.

Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry reiterated that if the PPP genuinely possessed any evidence of electoral irregularities, it should submit it before the relevant legal and electoral forums instead of making unfounded allegations.

He maintained that baseless allegations could not cast doubt on the people’s democratic verdict.

Islamabad: The prices of gold witnessed a decline in the local market on Wednesday, with the price of 24-karat gold per tola falling by Rs1,000 to settle at Rs426,436, according to rates issued by the All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association.

Similarly, the price of 10 grams of 24-karat gold decreased by Rs857 to Rs365,600, whereas 10 grams of 22-karat gold dropped by Rs786 to Rs335,145.

In the international market, the price of gold declined by $10 to $4,040 per ounce, the association reported.

Meanwhile, the price of silver per tola increased by Rs68 to Rs6,291, while the price of 10 grams of silver rose by Rs58 to Rs5,393.

The price of silver in the international market also increased by $0.68 to $58.12 per ounce, the association added.

Islamabad: Minister of State for National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, has emphasized that Pakistan’s rapidly growing population poses a serious challenge and warned that, without timely and effective interventions, the country’s population could reach nearly 400 million by 2040.

He stressed that addressing this challenge requires not only government initiatives but also the active participation of every member of society.

Dr. Bharath expressed these views while addressing the ceremony for the handover of reproductive health and family planning commodities. He stated that family planning is not merely about limiting the number of children but about ensuring that every child is born into a healthy, safe, and dignified environment.

The Minister said parents should carefully consider whether they have the necessary resources to provide their children with adequate nutrition, quality education, timely immunization, access to healthcare, and proper upbringing before planning their families. He emphasized that a healthy and prosperous society can only be built when every child enjoys their fundamental rights.

Highlighting the importance of reproductive health services, Dr. Bharath noted that the use of modern contraceptive methods in Pakistan remains comparatively low when measured against several other countries, including Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Trkiye. He observed that limited utilization of safe and effective family planning methods contributes to unintended pregnancies, which in turn increase the incidence of unsafe abortions, posing serious risks to women’s health and placing additional pressure on the country’s healthcare system.

The Minister underscored that a healthy mother is the foundation of a healthy family and a strong nation. He said that poor maternal health adversely affects children’s growth, education, development, and the overall well-being of families. Just as fathers bear the responsibility of providing for their families financially, safeguarding maternal health is equally essential for family welfare and national progress.

Dr. Bharath further informed the audience that Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has constituted a National Council to address the country’s population challenges. The Council is working on a comprehensive national strategy aimed at promoting balanced population growth, improving maternal and child health, and strengthening family planning services across Pakistan.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment, the Minister said the Ministry of National Health Services, in collaboration with provincial governments, development partners, and relevant institutions, will continue to enhance the accessibility, quality, and effectiveness of maternal and child healthcare and family planning services throughout the country.

In his concluding remarks, Dr. Bharath appealed to all Pakistanis to embrace family planning with a sense of responsibility and awareness, keeping in view the brighter future of coming generations. He said collective efforts would ensure that every child grows up in a healthy environment, every mother remains safe, and Pakistan moves toward becoming a stronger, healthier, and more prosperous nation.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Ministry of National Health Services stated that the Government of China, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), has provided the Government of Pakistan with reproductive health and family planning medicines, medical supplies, and equipment worth US$2 million.

The handover ceremony was held at the Basic Health Unit (BHU), Tarlai, Islamabad, where the contribution was described as a significant step toward strengthening reproductive healthcare services, improving maternal and child health outcomes, and expanding public access to quality family planning services across Pakistan.