Category: Lahore

Lahore: The ICC Champions Trophy match between the teams of Australia and Afghanistan was played at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.

On the instructions of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar, comprehensive security was provided to players, officials, and cricket fans. The IGP said that, in view of the international event's security, a close watch should be kept on anti-national elements. Every effort should be made to provide players with a peaceful and secure environment, he added.

He said that effective close coordination with the Pakistan Cricket Board, district administration, security agencies, and all related departments should be ensured.

Over 12,000 police officers and personnel were deployed for the security of the Australia and Afghanistan match. Snipers were deployed on the players' residences, routes, stadium, and surrounding tall buildings. The Dolphin Squad, Police Response Unit, and Elite teams conducted effective patrolling along the routes and key locations, while the Safe Cities cameras were used to continuously monitor the teams' routes, stadium, and other important areas. To ensure smooth traffic flow and adequate parking, additional traffic wardens were deployed.

The IGP instructed that searches, sweeps, combing, and intelligence-based operations continue around the players' residences, routes, and the stadium area. Forces deployed at the stadium's entry and exit points should treat citizens with courtesy, he said and urged fans to cooperate with the Punjab Police so they can enjoy international cricket in a safe environment.

Lahore: Pakistan's trade relations with Central Asian states are gaining significance amid shifting geopolitical and economic challenges.

Former SAARC Chambers of Commerce and Industry president Iftikhar Ali Malik highlighted the region's vast potential for Pakistan, citing its rich resources and strategic location.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's recent visits to Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan reflect Pakistan's commitment to expanding trade and investment. Malik emphasised Pakistan's role as a key transit hub, with projects like CPEC and the Trans-Afghan Railway enhancing connectivity and trade.

Energy, agriculture, and mineral sectors offer promising opportunities for collaboration. Strengthening ties with Central Asia, he noted, will help Pakistan diversify its economy, boost exports, and reduce reliance on traditional markets. Recent diplomatic efforts aim to enhance bilateral trade, energy cooperation, and joint ventures in key industries, fostering long-term economic growth.

Lahore: Australia qualified for the semi-final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 after their group B match against Afghanistan was abandoned due to rain and the teams share one point each at the Gaddafi stadium on Friday night.

One point from the match catapulted the team Australia to the top of the table with four points from three matches in group B while South Africa and Afghanistan sit at second and third position with three points. The South Africa and England match at the National stadium Karachi will decide the fourth semi-finalist of the Champions Trophy 2025 although South Africa are more likely to make to the last four due to superior run-rate than Afghanistan.

South Africa may find themselves in a point of bother if they lose badly against England in tomorrow's fixture.

Earlier, a heavy downpour halted the Australia-Afghanistan fixture in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 at the Gaddafi stadium on Friday night. The valiant ground staff at the Gaddafi stadium did their best to drain out the water with the help of a super sopper, domestic wipers and small manual soppers but the umpires found the field dangerous during their inspection at 08.45 pm.

The head groundmen signalled the groundmen to stop futile effort to dry up the field soon after the umpired returned.

Afghanistan scored 273 -10 in their innings and set Australia a target of 274 runs to secure a place in the semi-final of the Champions Trophy. Australia scored 109-1 in 12.5 overs when the skies poured down at around 7 pm PST.

Travis Head 59 (40) and Steven Smith 19 (22) were at the crease with team total at 109-1 in 12.5 overs when the umpires stopped play. Matthew Short 20 (15) before Azmatullah Omrazia got the better of him.

The DLS par score is 56 and Australia are 53 runs ahead of Afghanistan. As per the ICC rules, at least 20 overs had to be bowled for a result under the DLS method but the play could not resume due to a wet outfield.

The rain swept away dreams of Afghanistan team to play first ever semi final of an ICC event.

Lahore: Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi, on Friday met with Governor Punjab, Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, at the Governor House Lahore.

During the meeting, both leaders discussed party organizational matters, political activities, and various issues of mutual interest. They also deliberated on inter-provincial harmony and the overall political situation in the country.

The two governors agreed to strengthen relations between the federation and the provinces and to enhance cooperation on public welfare projects.

Governor Punjab, Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, emphasized that inter-provincial harmony is essential for national progress.

Meanwhile, Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, stressed the need for all provinces to work together to address public issues effectively.

Similarly, Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, visited the shrine of the renowned Sufi saint, Hazrat Data Darbar.During his visit, the Governor laid a floral wreath at the shrine and offered special prayers for the country's progress, peace, and stability, particularly for the restoration of peace in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

He also participated in the distribution of langar (free meals) among devotees, continuing the tradition of serving the community.

Lahore: The Punjab government on Friday has officially announced office hours in Ramadan.

Office hours in Punjab Civil Secretariat will be from 9 am to 3 pm from Monday to Thursday, while office hours will be from 9 am to 12: 30 pm on Friday.

Office hours in offices with 6 working days will be from 9 am to 2 pm. Likewise, office hours will be from 9 am to 12: 30 pm on Friday.

The Punjab government in this connection has also issued a notification of office hours.

Lahore: The Pakistan Furniture Council (PFC) has sent a comprehensive set of 20 budget proposals to the federal government, aimed at revitalising the furniture industry and enhancing its global competitiveness.

PFC Chief Executive Officer Mian Kashif Ashfaq said on Friday that the proposals focus on boosting exports, improving quality standards, and promoting the industry in line with international benchmarks. Key recommendations include tax incentives for furniture manufacturers, subsidies for raw material imports, and the establishment of specialized training centers to enhance workforce skills.

The PFC also stressed the need for modern technology adoption, branding, and marketing support to help local manufacturers penetrate into international markets. Additionally, the council advocates for the creation of export-friendly policies, such as reduced tariffs and streamlined customs procedures, to facilitate smoother trade. By implementing these measures,he said, the PFC aims to position Pakistan as a leading player in the global furniture market, generating employment opportunities and contributing significantly to the national economy. The proposals reflect a strategic vision to align the industry with global standards and capitalize on its untapped potential.