ITP forms special squad to tackle illegal parking in Capital

Islamabad: Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) has formed a special squad to take action against illegal parking in the capital's shopping malls, markets, and commercial centers. The crackdown, launched on Sunday, aims to ensure strict enforcement of no-parking zones and keep footpaths clear for pedestrians.

The ITP spokesman told reporter that following the special directions of Inspector General of Police (IGP), Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, the ITP has intensified efforts to maintain smooth traffic flow and improve the city's integrated traffic system.

Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) , Captain (retd) Syed Zeeshan Haider, directed all zonal DSPs to enforce traffic laws more strictly. He stated that no leniency would be shown to violators, and parking will only be allowed in designated areas.

CTO Zeeshan emphasized that footpaths are for pedestrians and should remain obstruction-free, ensuring convenience for the public.

The ITP urged citizens to cooperate by following traffic laws.

Pakistan continues dominance in Asian Taekwondo C’ships

Islamabad: The Combaxx 7th Asian Taekwondo Open Championships witnessed thrilling action on Sunday, as athletes from across Asia competed in various weight categories.

Pakistan continued to demonstrate its dominance, securing 2 gold, 4 silver, and 8 bronze medals in both male and female divisions, further strengthening its standing in the championship.

In the Male -48kg category, Ahmed Muzamil earned a silver medal for Pakistan, while Qureshi Muhammad Suleman and Ansari secured bronze medals, showcasing Pakistan's strong presence on the podium. Tamim Rahmani of Afghanistan took the gold in this category.

The Male -55kg division saw another intense battle, with Akeed Hukmuddin of Afghanistan claiming the gold medal. Pakistan's Yasir Muhammad secured silver, while Sameer Muhammad and Akbar Sh Muhammad Muaz took home bronze medals, adding to Pakistan's tally.

In the Female -44kg category, Pakistan's Anwar Ayesha achieved a remarkable feat by winning gold, while Habiba Umme secured silver.

Sarwary Manahil and Aslam Safia earned bronze medals, ensuring a complete Pakistani podium finish.

Pakistan continued its winning streak in the Female -49kg category, where Khan Aiman clinched gold, and Fatima Ghouse secured silver. Khawakani Fatima Tuz Zahra and Khan Khadija took home bronze medals, further solidifying Pakistan's dominance in women's taekwondo.

The outstanding performances on Day three have strengthened Pakistan's medal count, demonstrating the country's growing strength in Asian taekwondo. With several weight categories still to be contested, Pakistan's athletes are determined to continue their remarkable run and bring more glory to the nation.

DIG Tariq directs HIU to ensure swift justice

Islamabad: Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Islamabad Capital Police, Muhammad Jawad Tariq, on Sunday chaired a meeting with Homicide Investigation Unit (HIU) officers.

A police spokesman told reporter that DIG Tariq reviewed their performance and directed them to intensify efforts in solving murder cases and ensuring the swift arrest of absconding suspects.

DIG Tariq said that officers must ensure timely arrests and collect strong evidence to secure convictions. "All officers must fulfill their responsibilities with professionalism. Any negligence in duty will not be tolerated," he added.

The DIG further stated that the protection of citizens' lives and property remains the top priority of Islamabad Police, and officers should maintain the highest standards of professionalism in their duties.

DPM to participate in UNSC meeting on multilaterlism

Islamabad: The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, will travel to New York to participate in the high-level meeting of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on 'Practicing Multilateralism: Reforming and Improving Global Governance', scheduled for 18th February 2025.

The meeting has been convened by China under its rotating presidency of the Security Council for the month of February 2025. It will be chaired by the Foreign Minister of China, Wang Yi.

Pakistan welcomes this timely initiative by China, which underscores the critical importance of multilateralism in addressing today's complex global challenges.

In his remarks, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister will reaffirm Pakistan's strong commitment to the principles of multilateralism and the central role of the United Nations in promoting international peace, security, and sustainable development.

He will also highlight Pakistan's priorities as a non-permanent member of the Security Council for the term 2025-2026, emphasizing the importance of dialogue, cooperation, and inclusive global governance.

On the sidelines of the UNSC meeting, DPM/FM is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with his counterparts, as well as senior UN officials.

Pakistan remains a steadfast supporter of multilateralism and stands ready to contribute constructively to the collective efforts for global peace, security, and development.

JKDF discusses deteriorating situation in IIOJK

Islamabad: The Jammu Kashmir Democratic Forum (JKDF) Italy chapter recently held a meeting to discuss the deteriorating situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

The session was presided over by President of Jammu Kashmir Democratic Forum Italy, Atiq Zubair Jarral, said a press release issued here on Sunday.

The meeting was attended by several notable figures, including Italian human rights defender Laura Raffaeli, Sardar Man Singh, Mohsin Waraich, President of the Sports Club Brescia, and Chaudhry Tanveer Sahi, among others.

Speaking at the event, Laura Raffaeli expressed deep concern over the serious human rights violations occurring in IIOJK, particularly those perpetrated by India. She emphasized the importance of upholding human rights values and the continuous need to raise a voice against their violation.

She highlighted alarming reports of sexual violence against women in IIOJK, stressing that these acts were highly disturbing. Raffaeli called on India to adopt United Nations' guidelines and hold Indian soldiers accountable for their involvement in sexual violence, ensuring immediate justice for Kashmiri women.

Atiq Zubair Jarral also addressed the gathering, expressing full solidarity with the Kashmiri people. He reaffirmed the commitment to continue raising their voices until the Kashmiri people achieve their fundamental and inalienable rights.

Jarral condemned the repression of freedom of expression in IIOJK, pointing out the ongoing restrictions and calling for international attention. He emphasized that supporting the oppressed and opposing the oppressors is the true struggle, which will continue until the complete liberation of the Kashmiri people.

Other speakers at the meeting urged the international community to move beyond mere verbal support and take practical steps to ensure the rights of the Kashmiri people. They called for the Kashmir issue to be resolved in accordance with United Nations resolutions, with the world playing a significant role in bringing about a just solution.

Cricket enthusiasts of Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Dubai bracing for ICC champions trophy excitement

Islamabad: Cricket enthusiasts in Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and even Dubai are eagerly awaiting the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which is scheduled to take place on February 19.

According to a report aired on the PTV news, the tournament, which features the world's top cricketing nations, promises to deliver thrilling matches and unforgettable moments.

"I have been waiting for this moment for months" explained a cricket enthusiast from Karachi. "I have already booked my tickets for the Pakistan-India match. It is going to be a thrilling tournament", it added.

In Lahore, students at the University of Punjab are planning a massive screening of the tournament's opening match. "We will cheer on our team with flags, banners and plenty of food," said a student. "It is going to be an electric atmosphere!"

Rawalpindi's cricket fans are equally enthusiastic. "I have been following Pakistan's cricket team since I was a kid," said a local resident. "This tournament is going to be a real test of their skills. I am confident they will make us proud", he believed.

Even in Dubai, where a large Pakistani expatriates reside, their excitement was building. "We are planning a huge gathering at the Dubai Sports City to watch the matches," said a an oversea Pakistani.

"It is going to be a fantastic experience, cheering on our team with fellow Pakistanis!"

As the countdown continues, one thing is certain, the ICC Champions Trophy is going to be an unforgettable experience for cricket fans across these cities, he added.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has also announced that tickets for the tournament will be sold online, "We are thrilled to host the ICC Champions Trophy and will provide an opportunity for fans to watch their favorite teams in action," said a PCB spokesperson.

"We are expecting a high demand for tickets, and we urge fans to purchase them online to avoid any inconvenience."

The PCB has also credited the government for its support in reviving international cricket in Pakistan.

"The government's efforts to improve security and provide a conducive environment for cricket have been instrumental in bringing back international cricket to Pakistan," said the PCB spokesperson.

"We are grateful for their support and look forward to hosting more international tournaments in the future."