ISLAMABAD, APR 30 (DNA): Minister of State for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Aun Chaudhary Thursday stated that urgent action has been initiated over reports of Pakistani nationals detained in Cambodian jails, with the embassy responding promptly and efforts underway to ensure their swift repatriation, expected shortly after legal procedures are completed.

In an exclusive conversation with a local media outlet, he explained that the government is closely monitoring the situation regarding Pakistani nationals detained in Cambodia.

He said that urgent notice has been taken of the matter to ensure timely action and effective coordination at all levels.

Aun also expressed appreciation for the role of the Pakistani Embassy in Cambodia and the ambassador, acknowledging their prompt engagement and detailed briefings on the case.

Minister also highlighted that their continuous communication and efforts have been instrumental in handling the situation responsibly.

He further assured that all necessary steps are being taken to secure the safe return of the affected Pakistani nationals.

He expressed confidence that, following the completion of legal procedures, they will soon be repatriated safely.

To another query, Minister further stressed the importance of awareness in media reporting and public understanding of overseas employment matters.

He explained that the Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis is actively engaged in expanding international cooperation and has signed various Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with multiple countries to create more employment opportunities for Pakistani workers.

He further stated that the global demand for skilled labour is increasing, particularly in Europe and other international markets.

He added that Pakistan is focusing on training and skill development programs to better prepare its workforce, ensuring they meet international standards and can effectively compete in the global job market.

He concluded by warning against illegal migration practices and unregulated overseas recruitment channels.

 He stressed that such activities not only put citizens at risk but also damage Pakistan’s international reputation, urging people to rely only on authorized and legal employment pathways.=DNA

The Pakistan Navy commissioned its first Hangor-class submarine (PNS/M Hangor) — armed with state-of-the-art weapons — at a ceremony held in Sanya, China, with President Asif Ali Zardari attending the event as chief guest, the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Thursday.

“The commissioning of the first Hangor-class submarine marks another chapter in the time-tested and enriching friendship between Pakistan and China. The ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Pakistan Navy and PLA (Navy),” the military’s media wing stated.Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf was also present on the occasion.

President Zardari termed the commissioning a “historic milestone” in Pakistan Navy’s modernisation, reaffirming Pakistan’s resolve to maintain a robust, balanced and credible defence posture.He said Pakistan is fully capable of defending its sovereignty, protecting its maritime interests, and securing its economic lifelines.

Speaking on the occasion, the ISPR said, Admiral Ashraf highlighted growing threats to global trade and energy security at key maritime choke points, stressing the need for technologically advanced naval forces to ensure a stable, rule-based maritime order.He said the Hangor-class submarines, equipped with state-of-the-art weapons, advanced sensors, and Air Independent Propulsion, will play a key role in maintaining maritime stability.

The naval chief added that the submarines will be vital in deterring aggression and safeguarding Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) across the Arabian Sea and the wider Indian Ocean region.

He further noted the historic significance of the Hangor name, recalling its 1971 legacy as the first submarine since World War II to sink a warship. “PNS/M Hangor carries forward this legacy while strengthening Pakistan Navy’s modern capabilities,” Admiral Ashraf said.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Defence Forces, and Chief of Army Staff Syed Asim Munir congratulated the nation and the Pakistan Navy on the achievement, the ISPR added.

ISLAMABAD, Apr 30: Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik and Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, on Thursday discussed bilateral relations and areas of mutual interest.

Reza Amiri Moghadam expressed gratitude to the government and people of Pakistan for their constructive role in promoting peace and stability in the region, according to a news release.

The ambassador appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts, saying, “We thank our Pakistani brothers and highly value Pakistan’s efforts for peace in the region.”

Ali Pervaiz Malik welcomed the ambassador’s remarks and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to regional peace.

ISLAMABAD, Apr 30: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Thursday spoke with European Union Vice President/High Representative Kaja Kallas and discussed the evolving regional situation, including its economic and broader implications.

The EU HR/VP appreciated Pakistan’s continued constructive and facilitative role in promoting regional peace and stability.

Deputy Prime Minister Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s sustained commitment to promote dialogue and engagement in this regard.

He also commended the recent successful convening of the EU-Pakistan Business Forum in Islamabad, underscoring its role in strengthening partnerships and unlocking new opportunities for businesses.

Both leaders also agreed to remain in close contact.

ISLAMABAD, APR 30 (DNA): Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi adopted a proactive and hands-on approach by personally inspecting the railway track from Golra Railway Station to Rawalpindi Railway Station while traveling on a track trolley.

During the visit, the minister emphasized that field inspections are essential to understanding ground realities.

He said that traveling on the track trolley allowed him to closely observe the condition of the railway tracks, assess operational matters and gain firsthand insight into inspection procedures.

The Divisional Superintendent (DS) Rawalpindi accompanied the minister during the inspection and provided detailed briefings on various operational aspects of the railway system.

Hanif Abbasi directed the concerned officials to remain more active in the field and ensure effective on-ground monitoring.

He also instructed railway authorities to further improve track maintenance, operational efficiency and passenger facilities.

At Rawalpindi Railway Station, passengers expressed pleasant surprise upon seeing the minister among them, appreciating his direct engagement.

The minister’s practical leadership style, combining administrative oversight with field monitoring, has drawn attention.

Meanwhile, a video of his track trolley visit has gone viral on social media, receiving positive feedback from users.=DNA