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EU HR/VP lauds Pakistan’s role in securing US-Iran ceasefire

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EU HR/VP lauds Pakistan's role in securing US-Iran ceasefire

ISLAMABAD, Apr 8: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Wednesday spoke with European Union (EU) HR/VP Kaja Kallas on latest regional developments.

The deputy prime minister underscored Pakistan’s sustained efforts to promote dialogue and diplomacy towards achieving lasting peace.

The EU HR/VP thanked DPM/FM for his efforts and commended Pakistan’s role in helping create space for diplomacy, including for securing the initial ceasefire between the parties.

She also expressed EU’s full support to Pakistan in this endeavor.

Qatar’s Minister commends Pakistan’s constructive role in fostering peace

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Qatar's Minister commends Pakistan's constructive role in fostering peace

ISLAMABAD, Apr 8: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Wednesday spoke with Minister of State of Qatar, Dr. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi.

On the latest regional developments, the deputy prime minister shared Pakistan’s sustained efforts to promote dialogue and diplomacy for peace and stability in the region, according to a press release issued by the foreign office spokesperson.

Minister of State Qatar appreciated DPM/FM’s efforts and commended Pakistan’s constructive role in fostering peace.

He also conveyed best wishes of PM/FM of Qatar, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani to DPM/FM.

ECC approves Rs 2.8 billion for child immunization

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ECC approves Rs 2.8 billion for child immunization

ISLAMABAD, APR 8 /DNA/ – The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet met today at the Finance Division under the chairmanship of the Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb.

The ECC approved a summary submitted by the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations & Coordination for a Technical Supplementary Grant (TSG) amounting to Rs. 2.8 billion in favour of the Federal Directorate of Immunization (FDI). The Committee was informed that the FDI remains a key national programme aimed at immunizing over eight million children against vaccine-preventable diseases, and the grant will support continued pooled procurement of vaccines, syringes, and Cold Chain Equipment Optimization Platform (CCEOP) in coordination with the provinces.

The ECC also approved a summary submitted by the Commerce Division regarding amendments to the Import Policy Order (IPO), 2022 for the import of Areca nut (betel nut), a widely consumed commodity with significant commercial importance in the domestic market. The revised framework, including pre-shipment inspection and enhanced regulatory oversight, has been introduced, under approval by the Prime Minister, to ensure compliance with phytosanitary and food safety standards, minimize disputes, and facilitate trade in line with international best practices.

The Committee further approved a Technical Supplementary Grant of Rs. 306 million in favour of the Airports Security Force (ASF) under the Defence Division to meet essential obligations, including payments under the Prime Minister’s Assistance Package, encashment of Leave Preparation Reserve (LPR), and Travelling and Daily Allowances.

The ECC also approved a summary submitted by the Federal Education and Professional Training Division for allocation of Rs. 2 billion through a Technical Supplementary Grant. The Committee noted that the funds have been generated through adjustment within the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) and will be utilized for priority initiatives, including establishment of Daanish School, Kuri, Islamabad, and the Prime Minister’s Youth Skill Development Programme under NAVTTC to enhance youth employability.

The ECC emphasized the need for robust monitoring and tracking of fund utilization, with clear performance benchmarks and reporting mechanisms to ensure transparency, efficiency, and alignment with intended outcomes.

The meeting was attended by Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, Federal Minister for Petroleum Mr. Ali Pervaiz Malik, along with federal secretaries and senior officials from the relevant ministries, divisions and regulatory authorities.

Araqchi thanks CDF Munir for Pakistan’s effective regional peace efforts

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Araqchi thanks CDF Munir for Pakistan's effective regional peace efforts

ISLAMABAD, APR 8 /DNA/ – In a telephone conversation with Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Iran’s Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araqchi commended the Pakistani government’s constructive and responsible role, as well as its continuous and effective efforts aimed at ending the war and bolstering peace and security across the region.

During the call, the two sides also referenced the recent telephone discussion between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian. Both officials underscored the importance of maintaining coordination and following up on the agreed areas outlined in that conversation.

The discussion further addressed ceasefire violations in Iran and Lebanon by the Zionist regime, with both sides expressing concern over the breaches and reaffirming the need for collective action to uphold stability in the affected areas.

Leghari, Canadian envoy discuss power sector reforms, investment prospects

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Leghari, Canadian envoy discuss power sector reforms, investment prospects

ISLAMABAD, Apr 8: /DNA/ – Federal Minister for Power Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari on Wednesday held a meeting with Canadian delegation led by Canadian High Commissioner Tarik Ali Khan to discuss bilateral relations, energy sector cooperation and investment prospects.

During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on promoting collaboration in the power sector and strengthening economic ties.

The Canadian envoy appreciated Pakistan’s positive role in facilitating a ceasefire in the context of recent US-Iran tensions and expressed hope that Islamabad would continue to support the upcoming dialogue process.

The minister urged the Government of Canada to play an active role in promoting dialogue and ensuring lasting peace in the region.

While discussing the energy sector, the Minister said that Pakistan achieved around 55% of its energy mix from clean sources last year. He said this reflects the government’s clear policy direction. He added that the government is taking steps to protect the power sector from unforeseen challenges. He noted that hydropower will be further expanded to provide affordable and sustainable electricity.

Sardar Awais said the government is working to reduce dependence on imported coal. He said plans are being reviewed to shift imported coal power plants to local coal. Environmental studies are near completion. If found feasible, the transition will be implemented.

He also highlighted that the government is promoting Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) at the utility level. He said private sector investment in this area is also being encouraged. He added that a system is being developed for the safe and environmentally friendly disposal of solar panel waste.

The Canadian High Commissioner appreciated these steps. He said that with the growing use of electric vehicles, proper planning for battery disposal is also important.

The Minister said that a Time-of-Use tariff will be introduced soon. He said this will promote efficient use of electricity. He added that industrial consumers will benefit from lower costs with higher usage during specific hours.

He further said that about two years ago the power sector was facing serious challenges. The government decided to step back from unnecessary projects. He said reforms are now being implemented based on a least-cost and sustainable approach.

Investment opportunities were also discussed. The Canadian High Commissioner said that a Canadian company, JCM, is interested in Pakistan’s energy sector. The Minister said Pakistan offers strong investment potential, especially in a competitive electricity market and transmission infrastructure. He said the government welcomes foreign investment. Both sides agreed to continue discussions at the technical level.

The Canadian High Commissioner also shared that a Global Energy Show will be held in Canada this summer. He said it will provide a good opportunity for Pakistani professionals to learn and connect. The Federal Minister welcomed this and said such platforms support technology transfer and strengthen cooperation.

Ambassador presents Quaid-e-Azam speeches’ collection to National Library in Ankara

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Ambassador presents Quaid-e-Azam speeches' collection to National Library in Ankara

ISLAMABAD, Apr 8: Ambassador Dr Yousaf Junaid on Wednesday visited the Presidential National Library in Ankara and presented a commemorative volume on the speeches (1906-1948) of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

The volume was presented to mark the 150th birth anniversary year of Quaid-e-Azam.

Pakistan’s Moment of Honour on the World Stage

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Pakistan’s Moment of Honour on the World Stage

by Muhammad Mohsin Iqbal

Sometimes, a nation hits those rare moments when pure determination feels like it can tip the balance of destiny in its favor. Such moments are not born of chance. They rise from toil and sacrifice. They’re shaped by challenges and fueled by a noble purpose. When passion is pure and effort is sincere, then the mercy of Allah descends. He grants honour where He wills.

On 14 August 1947, such a moment was witnessed. The long-held dream of having a separate homeland has finally come true. The people of this land had faced challenges beyond anything imaginable. They had given blood and tears for an idea. When freedom finally came, their faces lit up with joy. They were overflowing with gratitude. They realized how fortunate they were to enjoy their independence.

From that day onward, the journey of Pakistan began. It was not an easy path. Storms arose at every turn. There were hardships and trials. There were moments when the road seemed uncertain. Yet the ship of the nation kept moving. It did not lose direction. Like a mountaineer who climbs with faith and courage, Pakistan pressed forward. The peak was distant, yet the resolve was firm.

Today, by the grace of Allah, that long journey has reached a remarkable height. Pakistan stands tall in the world. It has shown strength in diplomacy. It has upheld values of morality. It has worked for peace. In every sphere of life, it has striven to make its mark. Such moments are rare. Nations wait for them across generations.

The recent past has tested the region in a severe manner. Dark clouds gathered. The fear of conflict loomed large. The air was heavy with tension. It seemed as if a great disaster was near. Human life was under threat. The global economy trembled. The system of life itself appeared to falter. In such a time, wisdom was needed. Courage was required. Above all, sincerity of purpose was essential.

It was then that Pakistan rose to the occasion. Its civil and military leadership acted with foresight. They understood the gravity of the moment. They worked with calm and resolve. Through careful diplomacy, they helped avert a crisis that could have engulfed the world. It was a service not only to the region but to humanity at large.

Allah has said that He grants honour to whom He wills and He humbles whom He wills. In this testing hour, honour was bestowed upon Pakistan. The world witnessed its role. It saw a nation that chose peace over conflict. It saw a people who valued stability over chaos.

This was not the first time that Pakistan stood for global peace. In the war against terror, when the world sought support, Pakistan did not hesitate. It did not calculate its losses. It did not weigh its sacrifices. It stepped forward with sincerity. The cost was heavy. Thousands of lives were lost. The economy bore a severe strain. Yet Pakistan remained steadfast. It chose the path of responsibility.

Even in those difficult days, when the region stood on the brink of destruction, Pakistan played a vital role. It acted as a bridge. It brought opposing sides closer. It created space for dialogue. It proved that even in the harshest conditions, diplomacy can succeed where force fails.

Today, the world acknowledges this role. Voices of appreciation are heard from every side. Media outlets that once remained silent now speak with respect. This change is not sudden. It is the result of consistent effort. It reflects the trust that Pakistan has earned through its actions.

In this process, Pakistan has extended support to many nations. It has helped restore their stability. It has contributed to their dignity. It has acted as a facilitator with sincerity. All this has been done in the spirit of humanity. It has been done for the sake of peace.

It is only fair that those who have benefited remember these efforts. They should not forget the sacrifices made by Pakistan. They should see its pain as their own. They should stand with it in times of need. True friendship is tested in moments of difficulty.

Across the border, a different response is visible. India has watched these developments with concern. Its media has been compelled to take note. In these circumstances, even reluctant voices have acknowledged Pakistan’s success. This is the power of truth when it becomes evident.

Pakistan has witnessed such diplomatic triumphs before. On the twentieth of February in 1999, a historic moment took place. The Prime Minister of India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, visited Lahore at the invitation of Nawaz Sharif. It was a gesture of goodwill. The following day, he went to Minar-e-Pakistan. There, he acknowledged the reality of Pakistan. It was a moment of great diplomatic significance.

Today, history seems to echo once more. Pakistan has achieved another milestone. It shines on the global stage like a bright star. Its voice carries weight. Its actions inspire confidence. It has shown that a nation guided by faith and determination can rise above challenges.

May this light continue to shine. May Pakistan remain a beacon of peace. May it always uphold the values that brought it into being. And may Allah, in His infinite mercy, protect and honour this nation for all times to come.

Pakistan set to host US-Iran ceasefire talks on Friday

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Pakistan set to host US-Iran ceasefire talks on Friday

ISLAMABAD, APR 8 /DNA/ – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday said that Islamabad would host delegations from the United States and Iran later this week following their ceasefire announcement.

“I… extend deepest gratitude to the leadership of both the countries and invite their delegations to Islamabad on Friday, 10th April 2026, to further negotiate for a conclusive agreement to settle all disputes,” he said in a post on X.


Pakistan, which has forged a close relationship with US President Donald Trump and is sensitive to developments in neighbouring Iran, has emerged as a channel for messaging between Tehran and Washington in recent weeks.

“We earnestly hope, that the ‘Islamabad Talks’ succeed in achieving sustainable peace and wish to share more good news in coming days,” the prime minister said.

Both Tehran and Washington said they had agreed to a two-week ceasefire barely an hour before Trump’s deadline to obliterate Iran was set to expire.

Separately, PM Shehbaz said that Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian confirmed Tehran’s participation in the “Islamabad talks” to finalise a settlement to their conflict.

The confirmation came during a 45-minute phone call between PM Shehbaz and Pezeshkian, he wrote in a post on X.

The war began when Israel and the United States launched strikes on Iran that assassinated its supreme leader on February 28, sparking retaliatory attacks from Tehran on Gulf nations and Israel.

Lebanon has also been drawn into the conflict after Hezbollah launched attacks on Israel, which has since carried out strikes, including on the capital, and launched a ground operation in the south of the country.

PM Shehbaz said the ceasefire applied “everywhere” including Lebanon, though Israel later said it would not stop its aerial and ground operations there against Hezbollah.

The temporary ceasefire came after a down-to-the-wire bid by Pakistan and other mediators to avert Trump’s threat to destroy all power plants and bridges across Iran, a move that legal experts said could constitute a war crime.

Turkiye and Egypt had also been helping mediate in recent days. China helped get Iran to the negotiating table, Trump told AFP on Wednesday.

PM Shehbaz, in a separate X post, said China, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, Egypt and Qatar had all provided “support towards reaching the ceasefire and giving peaceful diplomatic efforts a chance”.

The prime minister also thanked Arab Gulf nations for their “commitment to peace and stability in the region”.

Despite trading missile fire with Iran two years ago and holding an at-times rocky relationship with the United States, Pakistan currently shares warm ties with both countries.

Pakistan shares a 900-kilometre (560-mile) border and represents some Iranian diplomatic interests in Washington where Tehran has no embassy.

President Saïed: “State very capable of rooting out forces of destruction”

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President Saïed:

TUNIS, April 8: The State -driven by the determination to embark on a new stage in building – is very capable of rooting out the forces of destruction which sneaked into administrations in a vain attempt to sabotage the country, President Kaïs Saïed said.

There is need to enforce laws that respond to the expectations of Tunisians as part of a stable welfare state ridden from the injustice that plagued the people for decades. 


The President of the Republic also told a ceremony held in Monastir to commemorate the 26th anniversary of the late leader Habib Bourguiba’s death several sectors require an overhaul. 


Progress made in connection to some services still falls short of expectations, the Head of State added. Tunisia, though, is able to meet the demands of the people by capitalising on its human resources.


“We have the necessary means to transform Tunisia from the north to the south; our destiny lies in our hands,” he highlighted. The fact some projects are on hold across the country under the pretext of administrative procedures-notwithstanding the availability of funds- is “deliberate,” President Kaïs Saïed said in another vein.


He pointed the finger at those who seeped through the workings of the administration to destabilise the state and drive it to implode. “Those who cannot fully discharge their mission need to make way for the more competent, especially as the country boasts highly patriotic youth capable of making active contribution,” Saïed added. 


New revelations will be made about stolen assets, Kaïs Saïed said in another connection. The State is endevouring to recover these assets without any compromise and will forge ahead with the “battle of national liberation” so as to meet the aspirations of the people, in spite of attempts of lobbies which continue to act against the interests of the State.


“These lobbies revealed their faces and lost all credibility among Tunisians; the latter demonstrated unequalled lucidity by unmasking their manœuvres,” he underlined. Public service television broadcaster is urged today to reconsider its discourse, the President underscored.


“Some concepts have become obsolete for Tunisians, The national broadcaster needs to be in the service of the country and citizens,” he further said, as it can play a critical role in raising the awareness of youth about the use of narcotics, in particular.

Gillani hails Romania for Pakistan’s anthem first choral score

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Gillani hails Romania for Pakistan’s anthem first choral score

ISLAMABAD, APR 8 /DNA/ – The Senate of Pakistan hosted a distinguished cultural and diplomatic event, bringing together ambassadors of friendly countries, senators, and guests to mark the official launch of the national anthem of Pakistan, Qaumi Tarana, in a choral format, while celebrating the enduring partnership between Pakistan and Romania.

The programme commenced with an informal gathering of ambassadors with H.E. Yousaf Raza Gillani, Chairman of the Senate. It continued with the inauguration of a diplomatic exhibition dedicated to over six decades of Romania–Pakistan bilateral relations, highlighting key milestones in political dialogue, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange.

The exhibition was officially opened through a ribbon-cutting ceremony jointly conducted by Chairman Gillani and H.E. Dan Stoenescu, Ambassador of Romania to Pakistan. foreign Ambassadors and Pakistani parliamentarians toured the exhibition, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening international cooperation and friendship.

A highlight of the event was the performance of the national anthem of Pakistan in its historic choral arrangement by the Romanian National Chamber Choir “Madrigal – Marin Constantin,” presented during the opening of the Senate plenary session in the presence of ambassadors, senators, and guests.

On this occasion, Chairman Gillani recalled that, on the occasion of Pakistan Day (23 March), Romania offered Pakistan the first-ever professional choral arrangement and written score of its national anthem. This landmark cultural initiative was presented to the Senate on the auspicious day when Pakistan played a crucial diplomatic role in reaching a ceasefire in the Middle East.

He further expressed his appreciation to the Romanian authorities for their support in advancing this historic initiative, emphasizing that the project represents a lasting cultural bridge between Pakistan and Romania, symbolizing friendship, mutual respect, and a shared vision for deepening bilateral relations. During the plenary session, senators from both the government and opposition benches also expressed their gratitude to Romania for this historic gesture.

The event reaffirmed the strength of Romania-Pakistan relations and underscored the vital role of cultural diplomacy in bringing nations closer together.

Senate of Pakistan Launches National Anthem in Choral Format and Hosts Diplomatic Event Celebrating Romania–Pakistan Relations

Islamabad – The Senate of Pakistan hosted a distinguished cultural and diplomatic event, bringing together ambassadors of friendly countries, senators, and guests to mark the official launch of the national anthem of Pakistan, Qaumi Tarana, in a choral format, while celebrating the enduring partnership between Pakistan and Romania.

The programme commenced with an informal gathering of ambassadors with H.E. Yousaf Raza Gillani, Chairman of the Senate. It continued with the inauguration of a diplomatic exhibition dedicated to over six decades of Romania–Pakistan bilateral relations, highlighting key milestones in political dialogue, economic cooperation, and cultural exchange.

The exhibition was officially opened through a ribbon-cutting ceremony jointly conducted by Chairman Gillani and H.E. Dan Stoenescu, Ambassador of Romania to Pakistan. foreign Ambassadors and Pakistani parliamentarians toured the exhibition, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening international cooperation and friendship.

A highlight of the event was the performance of the national anthem of Pakistan in its historic choral arrangement by the Romanian National Chamber Choir “Madrigal – Marin Constantin,” presented during the opening of the Senate plenary session in the presence of ambassadors, senators, and guests.

On this occasion, Chairman Gillani recalled that, on the occasion of Pakistan Day (23 March), Romania offered Pakistan the first-ever professional choral arrangement and written score of its national anthem. This landmark cultural initiative was presented to the Senate on the auspicious day when Pakistan played a crucial diplomatic role in reaching a ceasefire in the Middle East.

He further expressed his appreciation to the Romanian authorities for their support in advancing this historic initiative, emphasizing that the project represents a lasting cultural bridge between Pakistan and Romania, symbolizing friendship, mutual respect, and a shared vision for deepening bilateral relations. During the plenary session, senators from both the government and opposition benches also expressed their gratitude to Romania for this historic gesture.

The event reaffirmed the strength of Romania-Pakistan relations and underscored the vital role of cultural diplomacy in bringing nations closer together.

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