Category: Islamabad

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ECP reserves verdict in disqualification case against PTI senator Abro


Islamabad: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) reserved its verdict on Tuesday regarding the disqualification reference against PTI Senator Saifullah Abro after completing the proceedings.



A three-member bench, chaired by Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja, heard the case concerning the disqualification of Abro, filed by Pakistan People’s Party Senators Shahadat Awan and Majid Mahmood.



During the hearing, Abro’s lawyer informed the court that his client, an engineer, held a government job from 1991 until 2007 after obtaining his engineering degree.



The lawyer further argued that Abro met the qualifications for the technocrat seat, citing over 20 years of experience and significant projects such as the Multan Metro Bus. Additionally, he stated that Abro had paid the highest taxes on his projects from 2007 to 2021 and had his degrees verified by the Higher Education Commission (HEC).



The lawyer for complainant Shahadat Awan argued that merely constructing bridges or roads does not qualify someone as a technocrat. He added that Abro worked as a contractor on these projects and lacked notable national or international awards.



When asked by the ECP member from Sindh to define success in engineering, Awan responded that success in the field means creating new inventions or innovations.



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Survey completion of 35 industrial zones to put positive impact on economy: Aleem Khan


Islamabad: Minister for Board of Investment, Privatization and Communications Abdul Aleem Khan on Tuesday said that the completion of the survey of 35 industrial zones across the country, identification and resolution of their problems is a great progress and an important achievement that will have a positive impact on the country’s economy as well.



He stated this while chairing the 9th meeting of the Approval Committee of Board of Investment, which was also attended by the representatives of provincial governments including Gilgit Baltistan, said a press release.



The meeting took important decisions regarding Special Economic Zones including approval of the Land Lease Policy and it was decided to amend the Special Economic Zones Act and reduce the notice period for convening the meeting from 21 to 7 days so that important initiatives for these zones can be completed without any delay.



The minister further said that the up gradation of Special Economic Zones has been done in the shortest possible time and important steps have been taken to ensure better quality in this regard. He directed that all the provincial governments and relevant departments should be sent this survey report.



He indicated that now digital data of these industrial zones is available which is mutual property and all relevant institutions must get benefit out of it. He said that it is very important to hold regular and timely meetings of the Approval Committee of Board of Investment to resolve matters quickly so the next meeting of this Committee should be convened again in February.



Abdul Aleem Khan said that all matters related to Special Economic Zones have been completely updated which is in line with the current requirements and standard facilities which have been provided there. Investment from other countries in these zones equipped with latest facilities will enable rapid economic development.



He said that instead of unnecessary complications we have to create conveniences to increase investment in the country for which we will encourage all kinds of industries in these Special Economic Zones so that maximum foreign exchange can be added in the country.



In the meeting of the Approval Committee, the participants discussed positively on the outstanding issues, deliberated on the current situation of the Special Economic Zones and presented an 18-point action plan.



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Sohail Adnan ends Pakistan’s 18-year wait for British Junior Open title


Islamabad: Young squash sensation, Sohail Adnan made the nation proud as he clinched the U-13 title at the British Junior Open Squash Championship 2025.



According to information made available here by Pakistan Squash Federation (PSF) on Monday, Sohail outlasted Egypt’s Elmoghazy 3-2 in a heart-pounding final, with game scores of 11-5, 5-11, 6-11, 11-7, 11-5.



This momentous victory marks Pakistan’s first title in the British Junior Open in 18 years, reviving memories of the country’s golden era in squash. The last Pakistani to win at the tournament was Nasir Iqbal in 2007. Sohail’s determination and exceptional skill captivated the audience, leaving them on the edge of their seats during the electrifying match.



The PSF hailed Sohail’s triumph as a beacon of hope for the nation’s resurgence in the sport. “This victory is a testament to Sohail’s hard work and the potential of Pakistan’s squash talent,” a PSF spokesperson said.



Sohail battled through a challenging draw against top players from around the world. His final match showcased not only his technical brilliance but also his mental fortitude, as he fought back after trailing in the third game to secure a historic win.



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Sayedaal Khan visits Siddique-ul-Farooq’s residence to offer condolences


Islamabad: Deputy Chairman Senate Sayedaal Khan Monday visited the residence of senior Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader and former Chairman of the Evacuee Trust Property Board, Siddique-ul-Farooq, to offer condolences on his demise.



Expressing profound grief, he prayed for the departed soul, seeking forgiveness, elevated ranks in Jannah, and patience for the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss.



Paying tribute to Siddique-ul-Farooq’s contributions, the Deputy Chairman remarked that his political and social services to Pakistan will always be remembered. Siddique-ul-Farooq was a sincere and astute politician with strong convictions,” he added.



He also lauded Siddique-ul-Farooq’s sacrifices and unwavering commitment to democracy, terming his efforts as unforgettable.



Sayedaal Khan extended heartfelt sympathies, assuring them of his solidarity during this difficult time and sharing in their sorrow.



Separately, the Deputy Chairman Senate visited the residence of Chaudhry Ilyas Mehrban, a prominent political and social figure, to express condolences on the tragic demise of his young son.



The Deputy Chairman expressed deep sorrow over the loss, offering prayers for the departed soul. He prayed for forgiveness and the elevation of the deceased’s ranks in Jannah.



He conveyed his heartfelt sympathies and assured the bereaved family of his unwavering support. ‘In this time of sorrow, I stand with the family, sharing their grief,’ he said.



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Dist admin takes action against illegal construction in Sector H-16


Islamabad: The Islamabad district administration conducted an anti-encroachment operation in Sector H-16 here to remove illegal constructions and encroachments.



In a coordinated operation, the district administration cleared illegal constructions that had encroached on government land in Sector H-16. The action is part of an ongoing campaign to eliminate encroachments, said an ICT spokesman on Monday.



The operation was conducted in collaboration with law enforcement agencies and relevant departments, ensuring safety and minimal disruption to nearby residents.



Deputy Commissioner (DC) Irfan Nawaz Memon directed officials to intensify operations against encroachments across the city without exception.



DC Irfan Memon emphasized that any form of encroachment or illegal construction would not be tolerated at any cost, and the land mafia would be dealt with constitutionally. “Encroachments disrupt public order and hinder the city’s development. We will not tolerate any violation of the law,” he stated.



Officials urged citizens to adhere to building codes and obtain proper approvals before undertaking construction projects. They also warned that unauthorized structures would face strict legal action, including immediate demolition.



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PM’s aide highlights COP29 outcomes, calls carbon guidelines a key climate milestone


Islamabad: Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Romina Khurshid Alam said Pakistan’s achievements at COP29 have strengthened its commitment to adopting international carbon trading guidelines.



She emphasized the need for robust monitoring and validation systems, which are essential for the successful operationalization of carbon markets.



Speaking as a chief guest at the “Post COP Dialogue on operationalization of article 6 of the Paris agreement: The road from Baku to Belem” arranged by Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), Romina highlighted the significance of the outcomes of COP29 held in Baku, particularly the approval of carbon guidelines, which she described as a key milestone in the global journey toward climate action.



“With the government actively collaborating with provincial and international stakeholders, Pakistan is positioning itself to capitalize on carbon trading, aiming to unlock new opportunities for green development and sustainable climate action, she added.



She emphasized the importance of article 6 for Pakistan, noting that it offers an unprecedented opportunity to develop robust global carbon markets crucial for achieving the country’s low-carbon growth and adaptation objectives.



For Pakistan, these mechanisms are not merely technical solutions but essential strategic tools for sustainable development and climate resilience.



‘The approval of the carbon guidelines marks a historic step forward. Pakistan is ready to implement these guidelines with integrity, transparency, and ambition. We are aligning our institutional frameworks with these global standards to attract investment, ensure environmental integrity, and build confidence in our carbon market,’ said Romina.



Highlighting Pakistan’s potential to leverage carbon markets, Romina stated that the country is uniquely positioned to drive transformative change, particularly through projects related to renewable energy, afforestation, and sustainable urban development initiatives.



She also emphasized the critical role of regional collaboration in South Asia and expressed optimism about the shared progress that can be achieved through carbon trading and climate finance in the region.



Acknowledging the challenges ahead, including capacity gaps and the need for strong regulatory frameworks, Romina stated that Pakistan is taking concrete steps to address these issues.



She shared that Pakistan is forging partnerships with multilateral agencies and private stakeholders to build the necessary expertise and infrastructure.



‘We are prioritizing the development of a robust monitoring, reporting, and verification system to ensure the credibility of our efforts,’ she added.



Romina reaffirmed Pakistan’s role as a constructive voice in global climate negotiations, stressing the country’s commitment to advocating for inclusive and equitable frameworks under article 6. She emphasized, ‘We are committed to fostering South-South cooperation and building capacity among developing nations to ensure that no one is left behind in this transition.’



Romina also called on developed nations to fulfil their financial and technical support commitments, enabling the successful implementation of article 6 mechanisms. “Capacity building is essential, and I call on the global community to support nations like Pakistan in maximizing the benefits of these mechanisms,” she added.



Additional Secretary, Ministry of Climate Change, Zulfiqar Younas, Ambassador Shafqat Kakakhel, Chairman of the Board of Governors SDPI, Danish Ambassador Jakob Linulf, and Dr. Abid Qaiyum Suleri, Executive Director of SDPI also addressed to the event.