Category: Islamabad

Islamabad: Advisor to the Finance Minister on Economic and Financial Reforms, Khurram Schehzad on Thursday said Pakistan has achieved economic stability, with the government's strong commitment to sustainable growth and long-term economic development.

He expressed these views while addressing the New Member Ceremony- 2025 organized by the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), a news release said.

Discussing the government's economic reforms, he said the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has acknowledged Pakistan's progress in implementing key economic measures. 'Macroeconomic stability has been achieved, and economic indicators are showing positive trends,' he added.

The advisor underscored ongoing efforts to increase tax revenues and reduce unnecessary expenditures, emphasizing that fiscal discipline and sustainable growth remained top priorities.

He also mentioned that the government was actively working to attract efficient, export-driven foreign direct investment (FDI) to strengthen Pakistan's economic foundation.

Regarding public sector reforms, he noted that the government was rightsizing 43 federal ministries and over 400 attached departments to enhance efficiency and reduce financial imbalances. 'So far, 150,000 vacant posts have been abolished where no inductions were planned,' he informed.

The advisor further stated that privatization of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) was underway to improve governance and efficiency.

He also mentioned the decline in inflation and the increase in foreign exchange reserves as the positive developments for the economy.

Congratulating the entire ACCA Pakistan team and the new members, he acknowledged their achievements and contributions to the finance and accounting sector.

He also extended his congratulations to Ayla Majid on becoming the Global President of ACCA, recognizing her achievement as a proud moment for Pakistan.

He encouraged young professionals to prioritize working in Pakistan. 'Challenges exist everywhere, whether at home or abroad, but with passion, hard work, and discipline, success is achievable,' he emphasized.

The advisor further highlighted that youth are the driving force behind Pakistan's progress. 'Our youngsters must lead this country. They have immense potential and the responsibility to take Pakistan forward,' he remarked.

He urged the youth to remain hopeful and positive about Pakistan and its economy, emphasizing that their contributions will

shape the nation's future.

Islamabad: Kuwait hosted a two-day forum on Tuesday, bringing together representatives from member states of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to discuss the International Islamic Court of Justice.

The forum aims to encourage member states to ratify the court's statute and strengthen cooperation between judicial institutions, said a UNA press release received here.

In the opening speech, Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Judicial Council, Justice Saleh Al-Raqdan, emphasized Kuwait's commitment to establishing the International Islamic Court of Justice as a judicial framework for resolving disputes among Islamic states.

He expressed hope that the forum would produce practical recommendations to strengthen justice and consolidate principles of rights and equality in Islamic countries.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sheikh Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, stated that the forum reflects Kuwait's firm commitment to activating the International Islamic Court of Justice.

He emphasized the need for fruitful dialogue and sustained efforts to overcome common challenges and build a comprehensive Islamic legal system based on justice, fairness, and equality.

The OIC General Secretariat, in coordination with Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, organized the forum, which features international experts in law and international and regional judicial affairs.

The forum is expected to provide recommendations to the Council of Foreign Ministers on activating the International Islamic Court of Justice.

Islamabad: The Saudi Embassy on Thursday marked World Radio Day by sharing a special video on its official X account featuring rare archival images and historical details of Saudi King Faisal bin Abdulaziz's 1955 visit to the Karachi Radio Station and underscoring a significant chapter in Saudi-Pakistani diplomatic ties.

Observed annually on February 13, the day recognizes the power of radio in connecting communities and preserving history. According to the Saudi Embassy's Media Attach©, Dr Naif Al-Otaibi, the content was curated to highlight historic moments that strengthen the bond between the two brotherly nations, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.

He said such initiatives are aimed at further reinforcing bilateral relations. He emphasized that the Embassy of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in Pakistan remains committed to promoting themes that resonate with Pakistan's historical and cultural significance, connecting them to Saudi Arabia's rich heritage and esteemed leaders.

https: //x.com/KSAembassyPK/status/1889925556596269354?t=7KR0I4I6fIS21KyjwbxGWw and s=19

Islamabad: The Ministry of Law and Justice on Thursday notified the appointment of Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfraz Dogar as Acting Chief Justice of the Islamabad High Court till the nomination of regular chief justice.

Besides this, the law ministry also issued separate notifications regarding appointment of acting chief justices of other three high courts of the country.

Justice S.M. Attique Shah is appointment Acting Chief Justice of Peshawar High Court, Justice Junaid Ghaffar as Acting Chief Justice of the Sindh High Court and Justice Muhammad Ejaz Swati is appointed as Acting Chief Justice of High Court of Balochistan.

The notifications issued by the ministry of law and justice said that in exercise of the powers conferred under Article 196 of the constitution of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the President of Pakistan, is pleased to make the appointments of Acting Chief Justices of aforesaid high courts.

Islamabad: The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Administration on Thursday intensified its crackdown on begging as Ramadan approaches, resulting arrest of 11 individuals in a coordinated citywide operation.

This initiative follows directives from Deputy Commissioner (DC) Islamabad, who had called for urgent action against professional beggars.

DC Islamabad had instructed all ACs to conduct daily operations to keep public spaces clear of begging activities.

The DC urged citizens to support these efforts by discouraging practices that enable begging networks.

Officials stress that this campaign was part of a long-term strategy focused on rehabilitation and prevention, rather than a one-time effort. The DC emphasized the importance of coordinated actions to tackle the issue comprehensively.

The district administration appealing to the public for information on areas where begging is common. Ongoing monitoring and enforcement will continue as they work to address the problem at its source.

Islamabad: The Saudi Embassy on Thursday marked World Radio Day by sharing a special video on its official X account featuring rare archival images and historical details of Saudi King Faisal bin Abdulaziz's 1955 visit to the Karachi Radio Station and underscoring a significant chapter in Saudi-Pakistani diplomatic ties.

Observed annually on February 13, the day recognizes the power of radio in connecting communities and preserving history. According to the Saudi Embassy's Media Attach©, Dr Naif Al-Otaibi, the content was curated to highlight historic moments that strengthen the bond between the two brotherly nations, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.

He said such initiatives are aimed at further reinforcing bilateral relations. He emphasized that the Embassy of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques in Pakistan remains committed to promoting themes that resonate with Pakistan's historical and cultural significance, connecting them to Saudi Arabia's rich heritage and esteemed leaders.

https: //x.com/KSAembassyPK/status/1889925556596269354?t=7KR0I4I6fIS21KyjwbxGWw and s=19