Islamabad, The final phase of scrutiny for the nomination papers submitted for forty-eight Senate seats is scheduled to be concluded tomorrow. This key step marks a critical juncture in the lead-up to the upcoming Senate elections, aiming to ensure the eligibility and legitimacy of all candidates.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the review process is an essential part of the electoral procedure, setting the stage for the next steps in the democratic process. The revised list of candidates is slated for release on the 26th of this month, providing transparency and clarity on the upcoming electoral contest. Furthermore, candidates have the opportunity to withdraw their nomination papers by the 27th, allowing for final adjustments before the election.
Scheduled for the 2nd of the next month, the polling represents a significant event in the nation’s political calendar. In the federal capital, members of the National Assembly are tasked with electing Senate representatives for one general and one technocrat seat, which also includes Ulema. Similarly, each of the four provincial assemblies will elect senators for seven general seats, two seats designated for women, and two for technocrats, which again include Ulema. Additionally, one seat allocated for non-Muslims will be contested in both Punjab and Sindh provinces.
This electoral exercise fills vacancies triggered by the recent expiry of terms for incumbent members on the 11th of this month, ensuring continuity and representation in the legislative body.
Karachi, In a series of diplomatic engagements, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has explored various collaborations with the consuls general of China, Japan, Turkey, and Russia to bolster industry, agriculture, and education in Sindh. The meetings, which focused on mutual interests and investment opportunities, also delved into the prospective establishment of a Sufi University with Turkish assistance.
According to Chief Minister Sindh, discussions with the consul general of China, Mr. Yang Yundong, highlighted the progress of CPEC projects, including the Karachi Circular Railway (KCR), and agricultural advancements. The engagement with the consul general of Japan, Mr. HATTORI Masaru, opened avenues for investment in electronics and automobiles, with plans to further identify collaborative sectors. A notable conversation with the consul general of Turkey, Mr. Cemal Sangu, revolved around expanding Turkish educational institutions in Sindh’s rural areas and establishing a Sufi University, reflecting a shared cultural heritage.
These meetings signify a strategic direction for Sindh’s development, emphasizing international partnerships to enrich local industry, agriculture, and education. The envisaged Sufi University project, in collaboration with Turkey, marks a cultural and educational synergy between the regions, aiming to foster academic and spiritual growth in Sindh.
Dera Ismail Khan, On his inaugural visit to Dera Ismail Khan after taking office, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur committed to prioritizing law and order, public welfare, and the economic upliftment of the province. Addressing various issues, including healthcare improvements and economic strategies, Gandapur outlined his administration’s focus on immediate and strategic development initiatives across the region.
According to Directorate General Information and PRs – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Chief Minister emphasized a comprehensive approach to provincial governance, ensuring security, development, and welfare as his paramount responsibilities. He detailed plans to enhance law enforcement, healthcare services, and economic conditions, promising substantial support for the underprivileged, particularly during the month of Ramadan. Gandapur also highlighted infrastructure projects, including the CRBC Lift Canal and small dams, aiming to boost local agriculture, livestock, and employment opportunities.
Further emphasizing economic strategies, Gandapur addressed the inflation crisis and the need for provincial revenue enhancement, advocating for fair energy pricing and rightful federal allocations to the province. His vision for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa includes transformative measures to establish it as a model province, with significant focus on self-employment, skill development, and community engagement in economic activities.
Islamabad, In a decisive move to combat terrorism, Pakistan executed targeted anti-terror operations against Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) sanctuaries along the Afghan border. The operation specifically aimed at neutralizing members of the Hafiz Gul Bahadur Group, associated with TTP, which has been implicated in numerous attacks within Pakistan, including a recent assault that resulted in the deaths of Pakistani soldiers.
According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Pakistan has persistently voiced its concerns to the Interim Afghan Government regarding TTP’s presence and activities within Afghanistan. The repeated use of Afghan territory for launching attacks against Pakistan has heightened tensions between the two neighbors, prompting Islamabad to take unilateral action in addressing these security threats.
The operation reflects Pakistan’s broader strategy of engaging with Afghan authorities to eliminate terrorist safe havens while respecting Afghanistan’s sovereignty. Despite prioritizing dialogue and cooperation, Pakistan has been compelled to act directly due to the ongoing patronage of TTP by certain Afghan factions, undermining regional peace and bilateral relations.
The Ministry’s statement underscores Pakistan’s longstanding solidarity with the Afghan people and its call for Afghan leadership to reject any collusion with TTP elements. As both nations grapple with the shared menace of terrorism, Pakistan reaffirms its commitment to collaborative efforts in ensuring regional stability and preventing any entity from undermining the bilateral ties that bind the two countries.
Islamabad, President Asif Ali Zardari has called for an enhancement of Pakistan’s bilateral relationships with the United Arab Emirates and the United States, focusing on sectors vital for mutual benefits and development. These aspirations were conveyed in separate meetings with the ambassadors of the UAE and the US in Islamabad.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, President Zardari discussed with UAE Ambassador Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al-Zaabi the potential for increased cooperation in aviation, suggesting the initiation of Airbus A380 flights to assist the Pakistani diaspora. He advocated for Emirati investment in Pakistan’s economy through the stock exchange and stressed the importance of agricultural collaboration, especially in the face of climate change challenges.
In a similar vein, discussions with US Ambassador Donald Blome revolved around boosting trade and investment ties, with a particular emphasis on leveraging American innovation and capital in Pakistan’s economic landscape. President Zardari highlighted the enduring relationship with the US, underlining the need for collaborative efforts in addressing economic, security, and environmental concerns. He also pointed to agriculture and water conservation as critical areas for cooperation.
Ambassador Blome acknowledged the potential for expanded US-Pakistani partnership in various sectors, including education, where the US has already contributed through the Sindh Basic Education Program. He also reaffirmed US support for Pakistan’s development and congratulated President Zardari on his reappointment.
These meetings underscore Pakistan’s strategic focus on strengthening international alliances to bolster its economy and address global challenges such as climate change, signaling a proactive approach to international diplomacy and economic strategy.