DG Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mr. Irfan Soomro spoke on Pakistan-Philippines bilateral relations and 127th declaration of country

Nazir Siyal

KARACHI, JUN 17 /DNA/ – The 127th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence was commemorated by The Honorary Council General of Phillipines in Karachi Dr. Imran Yousuf S.I led by the  Ambassador Emmanuel R Fernandez  Philippines embassy in Islamabad along with his spouse Mme. Alicia Kalaw-Fernandez hosted a grand reception here in Karachi.

A large number of dignitaries, ambassadors, diplomats, Pakistani officials, diplomatic corps, Journalists community, civil society representatives, and fellow Filipinos residing in Pakistan.

On the occasion, Chief Guest of the ceremony was Director General Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mr. Irfan Soomro, who talked about the Pakistan-Philippines bilateral relations, and 127th declaration of independence of Re-Public of Philippines.

He assured the good relationship of Pakistan on trade International and Diplomatic level.

Pakistan authorities would initiate business and technology development on both sides, he also thanked the Ambassador of the Philippines and to promote bilateral relations with the Philippines on national independence celebration.

Philippines Ambassador Emmanuel R Fernandez paid rich tributes to the forefathers of the Philippine independence movement, the ambassador said the occasion was not only to honor their sacrifice but also to renew a national commitment.

He also spoke high about the historical significance of June 12, 1898 — the day when the Filipino people declared their independence after a prolonged and painful struggle against colonial oppression.

The ambassador also highlighted that the Philippines was among the first nations to recognize the newly independent Pakistan in 1947. Since then, he said, the two countries have cooperated extensively across sectors including education, culture, trade, and climate change resilience. “Indeed, the Philippines has every reason to consider Pakistan its abiding friend,”.

He discussed historical narrative as the foundation of a strong and enduring bilateral relationship between the two countries. “I believe that it is our common experience of having to fight long and hard for our freedom that makes Pakistan and the Philippines natural friends,”=DNA

ISLAMABAD, JUN 17 /DNA/ – President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Mr Asif Ali Zardari, called on Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the Air Staff, Pakistan Air Force during his visit to Air Headquarters Islamabad. The visit was aimed at boosting the morale of PAF following its resounding success in defending the aerial frontiers of Pakistan and delivering a decisive response to recent aggression from India.

Upon his arrival, a smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan Air Force presented Guard of Honour to the President.

During the meeting, Chief of the Air Staff shared insight into various ongoing modernisation projects of Pakistan Air Force’s operational construct, force goals and plans for the force structure with a keen focus on future warfare. In the recent standoff against india, he attributed PAF’s success  to the matchless training, smart inductions, seamless operational readiness and a homegrown kill chain sharpened by the mastery of modern warfare. The Air Chief highlighted that for the first time in its history, Pakistan Air Force conducted Full Spectrum Operations during the recent conflict, employing multi-domain warfare capabilities. This included the integration of Space, Cyber and Electronic Warfare, alongside the strategic application of niche and disruptive technologies, which collectively generated decisive effects that significantly contributed to Pakistan’s victory over India.

The President expressed his profound appreciation for the exemplary professionalism, unwavering commitment and indomitable spirit demonstrated by the personnel of Pakistan Air Force. He acknowledged the pivotal and decisive role played by PAF in safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Pakistan during the recent conflict, which culminated in a historic and resolute victory. He also lauded the leadership of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, recognizing his role in modernizing PAF and swiftly integrating advanced technologies that have significantly enhanced operational readiness of Pakistan Air Force and have recalibrated the region’s deterrence landscape. The President highlighted that the  bold and visionary leadership of Pakistan Armed Forces had enabled Pakistan to deliver a firm and timely response to Indian aggression, ensuring the Air Force remains at the forefront of technological and strategic advancement. He also expressed his satisfaction over PAF’s combat readiness and reiterated an all-out support from the Government of Pakistan to Pakistan Air Force in its pursuit of excellence.

Later, the President also visited National ISR & Integrated Air Operations Centre where he was briefed about the overall operational capabilities of Pakistan Air Force.

The visit concluded with a reaffirmation of the nation’s unwavering confidence in its Armed Forces, especially Pakistan Air Force, as a vital pillar in the defence of the homeland.

ISLAMABAD, JUN 17: Amid heightened regional tensions following the Iran-Israel war, Pakistan has decided to evacuate the families of its diplomats and other non-essential staff stationed in Iran, a senior official at the Foreign Office confirmed on Tuesday.

In a statement, the FO official said that the families are being relocated as a precautionary measure, while certain members of non-essential diplomatic personnel are also being recalled.

However, the Pakistani Embassy in Tehran and its consulates in the country will continue to operate normally, the official clarified, adding that Pakistan’s diplomatic missions in Iran remain fully functional.

Israel launched its air war after saying it concluded Iran was on the verge of developing a nuclear weapon. Its surprise attack has killed nearly the entire top echelon of Iran’s military and its leading nuclear scientists.

The attacks have also killed more than 220 people in the Islamic Republic. Iran has retaliated with barrages of drones and missiles that have killed more than 20 people in Israel.

Israel claims that it now has control of Iranian airspace and intends to escalate the campaign in the coming days. Iran has so far fired 400 ballistic missiles and hundreds of drones towards Israel, said an Israeli military official.

Trump has consistently said the Israeli assault could end quickly if Iran agreed to US demands that it accept strict curbs on its nuclear programme.

Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons and has pointed to its right to nuclear technology for peaceful purposes, including enrichment, as a party to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

Israel, which is not a party to the NPT, is the only country in the Middle East widely believed to have nuclear weapons. Israel does not deny or confirm that.

‘Hundreds of Pakistanis return from Iran’
Meanwhile, the federal government is taking measures to bring back Pakistanis, including students, from war-hit Iran, with nearly 714 nationals arriving in Pakistan from Iran via buses through the Taftan border, immigration officials said on Monday.

The passengers included citizens, traders, and drivers, officials said, adding that special security arrangements had been put in place due to the Iran-Israel conflict.

Officials said three buses carrying 154 Pakistani students arrived at Taftan from Tehran. They added that the students would be moved to Pakistan House after completing immigration. This brings the total number of student arrivals at the border today to 214.

Two days ago, the Balochistan government closed all border crossing points with Iran in Panjgur, Gwadar and Kech for an unspecified period, citing regional instability and security concerns following recent escalations in the Middle East.

The Ministry of Interior has further advised its citizens to avoid travelling to Iran due to the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. In addition, airspace between the two countries remains suspended.

Despite these closures, the Taftan border crossing in the Chagai district remains operational.

Authorities there confirmed that cross-border trade and the movement of passengers are continuing as normal.

ISLAMABAD, JUN 17 /DNA/ – Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif acalled on President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr today. The meeting discussed the prevailing political and economic situation in the country. Deputy Prime Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Minister for Planning and Development and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal,Federal Minister for law and Justice, Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar and Senator Saleem Manviwalla were also present during the meeting.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister briefed the President on his recent official visit to the United Arab Emirates and also shared key features of the federal budget.

President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized that the federal budget should prioritize the welfare and uplift of the common man, particularly workers and low-income groups. He underscored that the salaried class, pensioners, labourers, and underprivileged segments of society are facing serious challenges, and effective measures must be taken to alleviate their burden.

The President highlighted the need for employment generation and  social protection initiatives to support the poor and vulnerable sections of the population.

KARACHI, JUN 17 /DNA/ – The Italian Navy Ship ITS ANTONIO MARCEGLIA arrived at Karachi Port for a three-day goodwill visit, marking a significant milestone in the longstanding maritime cooperation between Italian Navy and Pakistan Navy.

An impressive reception ceremony was held upon arrival of the ship, where the Commanding Officer and crew of the visiting ship were warmly received by officials of Pakistan Navy. Ambassador of Italy to Pakistan, along with officials from the Italian Consulate were also present on the occasion.

During the port call, the ship’s crew will participate in a range of professional engagements including cross-ship visits, discussions on maritime security and joint training sessions. These engagements are designed to foster deeper mutual understanding, enhance bilateral naval cooperation and advance operational interoperability between the two navies. The visit will culminate in Sea Phase, featuring various warfare-related exercises, designed to enhance tactical coordination and maritime security operations of both navies.

The visit of Italian Navy Ship ITS ANTONIO MARCEGLIA reinforces growing maritime partnership between both countries. It also reflects shared resolve of both navies to work together for regional stability.

FAISALABAD, JUN 17: Powerloom workers in Faisalabad have strongly rejected the Punjab government’s proposed minimum wage of Rs 40,000, calling it inadequate and anti-worker.

The announcement, part of the provincial budget for the upcoming fiscal year, sparked widespread anger among laborers in the city’s textile hub.

A large number of workers walked off their jobs and took to the streets, chanting slogans against what they described as an “anti-worker budget.” Demonstrations were held across several industrial areas, with protestors demanding fair wages that reflect the rising cost of living and inflation.

Speaking to reporters, labor representatives said that Rs 40,000 does not meet the basic needs of working families and accused the government of ignoring the plight of daily wage earners. They called for immediate revisions to the minimum wage and a more inclusive policy that protects the rights of workers.

RAWALPINDI, JUN 17: Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, who is on an official visit to the United States, has acknowledged the contributions of overseas Pakistani’s to the country’s economy, and global reputation by contributing actively through remittances, investments and higher achievements in other domains, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Tuesday.

During the visit, the military’s media wing said the army chief received a warm reception and welcome from the overseas Pakistanis, who gathered in large numbers to meet him in Washington DC.

While interacting with the diaspora, the ISPR said, Field Marshal Munir expressed his deep appreciation for the vital and most significant role being played by overseas Pakistanis for being ambassadors of Pakistan

Meanwhile, the overseas Pakistanis warmly appreciated the outstanding performance of the armed forces during Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos and Marka-e-Haq, showcasing their bravery and professionalism.

Members of Pakistani community in US give standing ovation to Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. — ISPR
Members of Pakistani community in US give standing ovation to Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. — ISPR
They also shared their experiences and suggestions with the COAS, while he emphasised the importance of engagement with the overseas Pakistanis, highlighting the need for continued collaboration and cooperation to address common challenges and promote cooperation, the military’s media wing added.

The interaction concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment, as the COAS and the overseas Pakistanis pledged to work together towards a more secure, prosperous, and resilient Pakistan.

It is pertinent to mention here that India launched unprovoked attacks on multiple Pakistani cities and air bases last month in response to April 22′ Pahalgam attack.

In response, the armed forces of Pakistan launched a large-scale retaliatory military action, named “Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos”, and targeted several Indian military targets across multiple regions on May 10.

Pakistan downed its six fighter jets, including three Rafale, and dozens of drones. After at least 87 hours, the war between the two nuclear-armed nations ended on May 10 with a ceasefire agreement brokered by the United States.

The military confrontation between the two countries was triggered by April’s attack in IIOJK that left 26 tourists dead, with India blaming Pakistan for the attack without offering any evidence.

In recognition of his brilliant military leadership, courage, and bravery, ensuring Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and courageous defense against the enemy, COAS Munir was elevated to the rank of field marshal.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the United States have resolved to carry forward their negotiations through a constructive engagement to finalise the trade deal at the earliest, according to a statement released on Tuesday

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb held a virtual meeting with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Monday (June 16) to discuss US reciprocal tariffs and advance ongoing negotiations toward a trade deal.

The discussions, held at 2100 hours (PST), centred on engagement in trade and investment cooperation, with both sides agreeing that detailed technical-level discussions would follow soon, based on a mutually agreed roadmap. The meeting was part of sustained efforts to deepen economic ties between the two countries.

Both sides expressed confidence in advancing these negotiations to a successful conclusion at the earliest.

Speaking at an event in Islamabad on Tuesday, the finance minister said he had a constructive and positive conversation with the US commerce secretary last night. He said that both countries are moving in the right direction and are stepping ahead to strengthen their strategic partnership.

The talks come against the backdrop of US-announced reciprocal tariffs in April, citing Pakistan’s $3 billion trade surplus with the United States. These tariffs, which could amount to 29% on Pakistani exports, were suspended for 90 days to allow space for negotiations.

Finance Minister Aurangzeb and US Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer initiated the formal dialogue with a telephonic conversation on May 30.

Earlier in May, Pakistan proposed a zero-tariff bilateral trade agreement to the United States, offering wide-ranging economic concessions.

Commerce Minister Jam Kamal told Reuters that Pakistan was prepared to extend incentives to American firms, particularly in the mining sector in Balochistan, through joint ventures with local companies. These concessions include lease grants and investment facilitation.

Additionally, Pakistan has offered to increase imports from the United States, especially cotton and edible oils, which are in short domestic supply.

The developments come amid a broader strategic thaw, with US President Trump recently stating that Washington is working on “big deals” with both Pakistan and India.

This follows the US-brokered ceasefire earlier between the two neighbours after the worst cross-border clashes in decades.