Home Blog Page 47

Security forces kill 13 Indian-backed terrorists in KP: ISPR

Security forces kill 13 Indian-backed terrorists in KP: ISPR

RAWALPINDI, NOV 21: /DNA/ – Thirteen khwarij belonging to Indian Proxy Fitna Al Khwarij were killed in two separate engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province.

On reported presence of Khwarij, a joint intelligence based operation was conducted by the Security Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies in general area Paharkhel, Lakki Marwat District. During the conduct of operation, own troops effectively engaged the khwarij location and after an intense fire exchange, ten khwarij were sent to hell.

Another intelligence based operation was conducted in Dera Ismail Khan District. In ensuing fire exchange, three Khwarij were effectively neutralised by the security forces.

Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from killed Indian sponsored Khwarij, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities against the Security Forces, Law Enforcement agencies and target killing of innocent civilians.

Sanitization operations are being conducted to eliminate any other Indian sponsored kharji found in the area as relentless Counter Terrorism campaign under vision “Azm e Istehkam” (as approved by Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan) by Security Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out menace of foreign sponsored and supported terrorism from the country.

Steps to hold IWT in abeyance ‘real threat’ to regional stability, Dar reiterates

Steps to hold IWT in abeyance ‘real threat’ to regional stability, Dar reiterates

ISLAMABAD, NOV 21: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday reiterated that the “illegal and unilateral” step to hold the Indus Water Treaty (IWT) in abeyance is a “real threat” to regional stability while addressing the Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum Roundtable in Brussels.

India in April held the IWT in abeyance following the attack in occupied Kashmir’s Pahalgam that killed 26 — an incident New Delhi blamed on Islamabad without evidence. Pakistan termed any attempt to suspend its water share an “act of war”, noting the IWT had no provision for unilateral suspension. It later said it was considering court action, citing a violation of the 1969 Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties.

Speaking at the EU forum in Belgium’s capital today, Dar emphasised that water must be a source of cooperation “and not weaponised for politics”.

“We believe that durable peace in South Asia cannot be achieved without a peaceful resolution of decades-old Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with relevant United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions and aspirations of Kashmiri people,” Dar said.

On the subject of Afghanistan, the foreign minister said the country “remains a consequential relationship for Pakistan and the regional stability”.

Pakistan’s bilateral relations with Afghanistan have also come under strain in recent times as the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) remains the main point of contention between the two countries. Pakistan has demanded that the rulers in Kabul take action to stop cross-border terrorism.

“We desire a peaceful, stable, friendly, connected, and prosperous Afghanistan. We urge the Afghan Taliban regime to act responsibly, honour their commitments, and work towards rooting out terrorism from its soil,” Dar restated.

With reference to Israel and Gaza, DPM said the situation in the Middle East “impacts us all directly”.

“Pakistan commends efforts of President Trump, along with eight Arab Islamic countries, including Pakistan, leading to the signing of the peace agreement in Sharm el-Sheikh, heralding a ceasefire,” he said.

“The ongoing atrocities in Gaza and violations of the peace agreement must end, as well as the illegal occupation of Palestinian lands,” he added.

“Our foreign policy is grounded in the criticality of a credible, time-bound political process consistent with relevant [UNSC] resolutions, leading to the establishment of an independent, sovereign, viable, and contiguous state of Palestine based on pre-1967 borders, with al-Quds al-Sharif as its capital,” Dar stressed.

The foreign minister also spoke on the conflict in Ukraine, which he pointed out has disrupted energy and food markets, “with real consequences for people around the globe”.

He said that Islamabad’s position on the conflict is anchored in the UN Charter. “We hope for a peaceful resolution of this conflict at the earliest. The model of cooperation adopted by the [EU] offers many lessons for the international community, proving that inclusivity and interdependence are the surest foundations of peace and prosperity.”

Naqvi condemns Bannu terror attack on Peace Committee

Naqvi condemns Bannu terror attack on Peace Committee

‎ISLAMABAD, NOV 21 /DNA/ – Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has condemned the attack by the Khawarij terrorists on the Peace Committee office in the Bannu area. The Interior Minister expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives in the attack. He extended heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the families of those who were martyred.

‎Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said that this cowardly act of terrorism is a malicious attempt to undermine peace and stability. He stated that such cowardly actions by the Khawarij cannot weaken the high morale of the people. The nation and the state stand united against the enemies of peace.

Iran did not breach nuclear non-proliferation treaty: Expert

Iran did not breach nuclear non-proliferation treaty: Expert

LAHORE, NOV 21 /DNA/ – The Centre for Aerospace and Security Studies (CASS), Lahore, organised a roundtable discussion titled “Iran’s Rights and Obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Regime” on 19 November 2025. As an independent think tank, CASS Lahore organises academic events for scholars and practitioners interested in foreign relations in its wider context. The event was attended by academics, intellectuals, and domain experts. Ms Maheera Munir, a Research Assistant at CASS Lahore, delivered the opening address.

The speaker, Mr Sameer Ali Khan, a renowned nuclear and strategic affairs expert, offered an in-depth assessment of Iran’s legal entitlements within the non-proliferation framework. He delved into the NPT, which was designed to limit nuclear weapons to P5 states and prevent horizontal proliferation. He asserted that Iran did not breach the NPT; it only unveiled the pre-existing cracks and loopholes. He discussed in detail the long-term effects of US and Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, stressing the need for consistent international norms and serious reforms in the NPT to prevent further destabilisation.

In his closing remarks, Air Marshal Asim Suleiman (Retd), President of CASS Lahore, underlined the challenges facing the global non-proliferation regime amid widening geopolitical divisions. He added that the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action’s (JCPOA) expiry in October 2025 marks a critical juncture. He noted that the global nuclear non-proliferation regime is a public good. For the NPT to survive as a viable instrument of global security, it must be defended impartially, enforced universally, and anchored in genuine political will.

The roundtable concluded with a lively interactive session. It highlighted the critical importance of the non-proliferation regime in maintaining international stability and security. The participants appreciated CASS Lahore’s initiative of hosting this engaging and thought-provoking discussion.

Gilani visits Mahmood Group of Textile Mills

Gilani visits Mahmood Group of Textile Mills

ISLAMABAD/MULTAN, NOV 21 /DNA/ – Acting President of Pakistan Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani  visited  Mahmood Group of Textile Mills  in Multan Industrial Estate. During the visit, the head of the group, Khawaja Muhammad Anees, briefed him on the state-of-the-art machinery, production processes, labour welfare programs, and ongoing export orders. Khawaja Muhammad Anees informed the Acting President that Mahmood Group is producing world-class textile products and is adopting sustainable industrial practices through the use of modern technology. The Acting President appreciated the group’s industrial contributions and its role in strengthening Pakistan’s exports.

A detailed discussion was also held on the overall situation of the textile sector, cotton production, and related agricultural matters. Acting President Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani stated that textiles form the backbone of Pakistan’s exports, while cotton remains the foundation of the textile industry. He emphasized the need for improving seed quality, irrigation systems, and agricultural research. The Acting President added that supporting farmers and strengthening the agriculture sector would further boost the textile industry, which is vital for the national economy. He reiterated that the government is committed to providing all possible facilities and a conducive environment for the promotion of industry and trade.

Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani lauded  Mahmood Group for its valuable services, noting that the private sector’s contribution in enhancing exports and generating employment opportunities is commendable. Senior government officials, industrialists, and relevant authorities were also present during the visit.

Analysts say Tejas crash raises serious questions for India’s defence industry

Analysts say Tejas crash raises serious questions for India’s defence industry

DUBAI, NOV 21: Defence analysts have voiced sharp concerns following the crash of an Indian Air Force HAL Tejas fighter jet at the Dubai Airshow, calling the incident a major setback for India’s indigenous combat aircraft programme and its export ambitions.

Analyst Zaighan Khan said the crash highlighted what he views as persistent structural issues within India’s defence production ecosystem. Citing remarks made earlier by India’s air chief, he argued that the country’s defence manufacturing and procurement standards “are not at the level required for producing a frontline fighter aircraft.”

Khan added that, in his assessment, both aircraft quality and pilot preparation for high-risk aerobatic displays may have contributed to the accident.

Khan further claimed that the incident could dampen international interest in the Tejas, a jet India has promoted heavily for export.

“The weaknesses of India’s military system have come into the global spotlight,” he said, repeating long-standing allegations of corruption in segments of India’s defence industry.

Brigadier (R) Masood Khan also described the crash as damaging to India’s aviation credibility, especially given the high-profile nature of the Dubai Airshow, where more than 200 aircraft were on display.

He pointed to images circulating on social media days earlier that appeared to show oil leakage from a Tejas aircraft, raising public questions about build quality. “No corrective action was seen, and the crash became the final nail in the coffin,” he said, arguing that the incident has cast a shadow over India’s self-image as a regional security provider.

US ram through UN Gaza plan bypassing Palestinians

US ram through UN Gaza plan bypassing Palestinians

WASHINGTON, NOV 21: /DNA/ – The UN Security Council voted on the American draft resolution featuring Donald Trump’s plan to end the war in Gaza. The document was adopted with 13 votes in favour, while Russia and China abstained.

The document, prepared by Washington, establishes a so-called Board of Peace to govern Gaza, headed by Donald Trump and, according to him, involving other “most powerful and respected leaders throughout the World.” The Board is, in turn, authorised to deploy certain International Stabilisation Forces in coordination with Israel and Egypt. These forces are tasked with peace enforcement functions, including the demilitarisation of the enclave and the disarmament of Hamas and other armed groups.

However, the participation of the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) in governing the sector or in determining the future of the Palestinians based on the two-state formula is not envisaged. Nor does the resolution stipulate obligations for Israel as the occupying power, including the renunciation of annexing Palestinian lands or the withdrawal of its forces.

The UN Security Council and the UN Secretariat have been entirely sidelined, both in terms of oversight and accountability for the structures being established in Gaza, and the practical modalities for deploying and stationing the international contingent.

Also telling are the rushed, indeed ultimatum-like, methods employed to advance the American draft – without genuine discussion, without addressing the substantive concerns of other delegations, and under direct threats of renewed large-scale bloodshed in Gaza. Even the circulation of a Russian counter-draft, aimed at overcoming the disagreements in the UN Security Council by returning to consolidated international legal foundations for Palestinian-Israeli settlement, failed to rectify the situation.

Thus, it must be acknowledged that Resolution 2803, as adopted, does not grant the Security Council the requisite prerogatives to maintain peace and security. It contradicts the spirit of genuine peacekeeping and universally recognised international legal decisions, which envisage the creation of an independent and territorially contiguous State of Palestine within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, coexisting peacefully and securely with Israel.

❗️Russia abstained in the voting, taking into account the stance of the PNA leadership, the position of concerned Arab and Muslim countries in support of the American document, and to avoid a recurrence of violence and military actions in Gaza.

It bears reminding that the war and the suffering of civilians in the enclave could have been halted long ago had Washington not consistently – six times in the past two years – used its veto to block draft resolutions demanding an immediate ceasefire.

The paramount concern now is that this decision does not become a fig leaf for unbridled experiments in the occupied Palestinian territories, nor a final verdict on the legitimate rights of Palestinians to self-determination or the aspirations of Israelis for security and peaceful coexistence in the region.

ICRC, PRCS convene International Conference to Restore Family Links

ICRC, PRCS convene International Conference to Restore Family Links

ISLAMABAD, NOV 21 /DNA/ – The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in collaboration with the Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) hosted the Global Conference on Restoring Family Links at the PRCS National Headquarters in Islamabad.

Following the successful editions held in 2021 and 2023, the 2025 conference brought together eight families from across Pakistan whose relatives have become separated abroad because of international migration, mainly towards Europe. The event aimed to provide these families a safe space to connect, share their experiences, and strengthen mutual support through a global solidarity network.

Organized by the ICRC’s Central Tracing Agency together with National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies around the world, the conference serves as a unique international platform for families who have lost contact with loved ones due to natural disasters, international migration, or other humanitarian emergencies.

This year, several conference hubs are being hosted simultaneously by Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies globally, bringing together hundreds of families from diverse contexts to share their stories and learn from each other.

In her remarks, Chairperson PRCS, Mrs Farzhana Naek said that ICRC and PRCS continue to work together under the Restoring Family Links (RFL) program to help people separated from their families following migration, natural disasters, or other humanitarian crises. The program is part of a global effort by the Family Links Network to locate and reconnect separated relatives.

The three-day hybrid conference features a mix of online and in-person sessions, including discussions with experts and families, sharing circles, and presentations on psychosocial support and coping strategies. Participants from Pakistan are connecting virtually with families from around the world, learning how others cope with uncertainty, and exploring the support services available to them.

Families seeking to reconnect with relatives abroad, especially in Europe, can visit www.tracetheface.org an online platform that helps people look for their loved ones.

Yango Pakistan partners with Airblue to redefine Airport Rides

Yango Pakistan partners with Airblue to redefine Airport Rides

ISLAMABAD, NOV 21 /DNA/ – Yango Pakistan, part of the global tech company Yango Group, has entered into a strategic partnership with Airblue, one of Pakistan’s leading airlines. The partnership is aimed at enhancing the travel experience for passengers through exclusive airport ride discounts and integrated travel touchpoints.

As part of this collaboration, Airblue passengers will be able to enjoy exclusive discounts on rides to and from the airport booked using special promo codes via the Yango app. With this partnership, both Yango and Airblue aim to further create a smooth transition from air to ground travel. Additionally, the partnership also includes dedicated co-branded pocket inserts placed on Airblue flights, alongside cross-brand visibility across digital and offline platforms.

Speaking at the signing ceremony held in Islamabad, Miral Sharif, Country Head of Yango Pakistan, said: “At Yango, we are continuously looking for new ways to make mobility smarter and more accessible for the people of Pakistan. This partnership with Airblue allows us to merge flying and commuting: the two most critical parts of a traveler’s journey, under one seamless experience.”

Commenting on the partnership, Airblue’s representative, Mr Muhammad Shafique – Director Commercial, shared: “Our collaboration with Yango aligns perfectly with Airblue’s longtime commitment to providing value, comfort, and convenience to passengers who opt for our services. Together, we are reimagining how travelers experience connectivity from the moment they land.”

Through this partnership, Yango intends to strengthen its position as a trusted travel companion, ensuring passengers can move conveniently between airports and city destinations of their choice. The initiative also strengthens Yango’s focus on integrating digital mobility with lifestyle services, helping passengers save time, enjoy comfort, and experience the safety and reliability that both brands stand for.

ICCI launches official Podcast Studio

ICCI launches official Podcast Studio

President Sardar Tahir Mehmood calls it a powerful platform for youth and business community

ISLAMABAD, NOV 21 /DNA/ – The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ICCI) has formally inaugurated its official podcast studio and launched its new podcast series aimed at empowering Pakistan’s youth and business community. The inaugural episode featured ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood, who underscored the significance of the initiative as a modern and impactful platform for knowledge-sharing.

Speaking at the launch, Sardar Tahir Mehmood said that the podcast series will serve as a valuable source for young entrepreneurs and professionals by providing them access to the real-world experiences, insights, and success principles of accomplished business leaders. He noted that in a rapidly evolving economic environment, authentic guidance and direction are essential for youth and this podcast aims to bridge that gap effectively.

The ICCI President stated that the series will feature prominent senior businessmen, industrial leaders, and distinguished figures from various fields, who will share their journeys, challenges, and key lessons that shaped their success. Highlighting the concept of introducing Pakistan’s “economic heroes,” he said the podcast will showcase individuals who have made remarkable contributions to the national economy through resilience, innovation, and leadership.

He said that the initiative reflects ICCI’s commitment to promoting a progressive mindset, fostering innovation, and supporting professional development across the business sector.

It is noteworthy that full podcast series will be released soon and made available across all major digital platforms. This will allow a wider audience including youth, entrepreneurs, and students to benefit from the guidance of Pakistan’s leading business personalities.

The business community has described  the ICCI podcast studio  a significant step towards modern communication, enhanced outreach, and the promotion of informed economic dialogue in the country.

Stay Connected

64FansLike
60FollowersFollow

Latest Reviews

Exchange Rates

USD - United States Dollar
EUR
1.17
GBP
1.34
AUD
0.67
CAD
0.73