Category: Islamabad

Islamabad: A local court on Friday cancelled the arrest warrants against PTI leader Ali Bokhari after he surrendered in case pertaining to section-144.

Judicial Magistrate Abbas Shah heard the case and also served notices to police on acquittal plea of Ali Bokhari.

The court sought arguments on the acquittal petition and adjourned hearing till March 10.

It may be mentioned here that the court had issued arrest warrants against Ali Bokhari on non-appearance before it. In this hearing, Ali Bokhari appeared before court along with his legal team.

Islamabad: Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited the residence of JUI-F Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman to inquire about his well-being and expressed good wishes for his health.

Both leaders discussed matters of mutual interest, the overall situation in the country. Moreover, they exchanged views on measures for establishing peace in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in the Kurram region. They also expressed satisfaction over the arrival of aid convoys in Kurram.

Interior Minister stated that all stakeholders have been taken into confidence for establishing peace in the region. He said that some elements have deliberately distorted the Kurram issue.

Mohsin Naqvi appreciated the sincere efforts of the Grand Jirga for improving the situation in the area. He said that he had a long- standing relation of respect with Maulana Fazlur Rehman and praised his positive role in the Pakistani politics.

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday congratulated Joseph Aoun on his election as the President of Lebanon.

The prime minister, in a social media post on X, wished him success in his endeavors to lead Lebanon towards peace, stability and prosperity.

"Pakistan values its ties with Lebanon and looks forward to strengthen our bilateral cooperation," he wrote.

Joseph Aoun was elected President of Lebanon by securing 99 votes from the 128-seat parliament in a second round of voting on Thursday afternoon.

Islamabad: Upon completion of his diplomatic tenure as U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan for more then two years, Donald Blome is all set to return to home country on January 11, Saturday (today).

In his video message, Ambassador Blome reflected on the progress made during his three-year service, highlighting the shared challenges and successes that have strengthened the bond between the two nations.

'During my time as U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan, we have worked with our Pakistani friends to enter a new chapter in our partnership,' he said.

Ambassador Blome praised the joint efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, rebuild after the devastating 2022 floods, and create opportunities through expanded access to healthcare, education, and technology.

From enjoying traditional chai and Qawwali performances to playing cricket, the Ambassador expressed his deep appreciation for Pakistan's hospitality, calling Islamabad his 'home away from home.'

Reflecting on his travels across the country, Ambassador Blome spoke of the vibrant culture of Lahore, the fertile fields of Punjab, and the entrepreneurial spirit of Karachi. 'We've made expanding trade and investment our top priorities as Pakistan works to break free from debt and dependency,' he stated, emphasizing the importance of U.S.-Pakistan collaboration in fostering innovation and economic growth.

Ambassador Blome also shared his admiration for Pakistan's diverse landscapes and rich heritage, having traveled from Gwadar to Gilgit and explored the stunning peaks of the north and the historic sites of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Ambassador Blome is departing Pakistan on January 11, 2025. His transition comes as part of the normal U.S. Foreign Service rotation process. He has served as U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan since May 2022.

Under Ambassador Blome's leadership, the U.S.-Pakistan relationship entered a new chapter focused on collaboration to meet shared goals and global challenges - partnering with Pakistan to promote economic growth and deepen the connections between the Pakistani and American people.

The Ambassador is immensely grateful for the warmth and hospitality he has experienced in every corner of Pakistan throughout his tenure.

As he signed off with a heartfelt 'Phir Milein Ge,' the Ambassador expressed optimism for Pakistan's future and pride in the progress achieved during his tenure.

Ambassador Blome's departure marks the end of a significant chapter in U.S.-Pakistan relations, leaving behind a legacy of collaboration and mutual respect.

Islamabad: The National Assembly's Standing Committee on Inter Provincial Coordination met on Friday in Islamabad to discuss the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) and Pakistan Kabaddi Federation (PKF).

According to press release, The committee chaired by Mr Muhammad Sana Ullah Khan Mastikhel, expressed dissatisfaction with the PFF's preparation and instructed them to provide a more thorough briefing within 15 days.

The committee also directed the PFF to include details on voter eligibility, appeals and Supreme Court orders in their next briefing.

Additionally, the PKF representative was instructed to ensure the president's presence at the next meeting.

The meeting was attended by several MNAs including Mr Anjum Aqeel Khan and Ms Shaista Khan as well as officials from the Ministry of Inter Provincial Coordination and attached departments.

Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Friday congratulated the nation on departure of the first flight of Pakistan Airlines (PIA) to Paris following restoration of PIA flight operation to Europe.

The prime minister, in a statement said the restoration of PIA flights to Europe will facilitate the overseas Pakistanis as they will benefit from the direct flights.

He noted that due to suspension of flights, the national airlines had to incur huge losses worth billions of dollars and also had to lose its reputation.

“By the grace of Allah Almighty, the incumbent government has restored the identity of the national airlines,” the prime minister said.

After restoration of flights to Europe, PIA will move towards news development and progress, he added.

In this regard, the prime minister said Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Minister for Aviation Khawaja Muhammad Asif, the relevant departments and their officers and staff deserved appreciation.