DNA
Islamabad – August 22, 2025: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar received a farewell call from the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates, Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al-Zaabi,. The meeting marked the conclusion of the Ambassador’s diplomatic tenure in Pakistan.
During the meeting, Senator Dar expressed his sincere appreciation for Ambassador Al-Zaabi’s dedicated efforts and significant contributions to strengthening the fraternal ties between Pakistan and the UAE. The Foreign Minister acknowledged the envoy’s role in enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including trade, investment, and people-to-people contacts.
Senator Dar expressed his hope that the close and cordial cooperation between the two brotherly nations would continue to deepen in the future. He conveyed his best wishes for Ambassador Al-Zaabi’s success in his future assignments.
The UAE Ambassador thanked the Government of Pakistan for its steadfast support during his term, reaffirming his commitment to the enduring partnership between the two countries. The meeting underscored the mutual desire to further solidify the strategic partnership and multifaceted relationship shared by Pakistan and the UAE.
Deputy PM lauds services of Ambassador Hamad Alzaabi
Pakistan’s past and future discussed at UK symposium
Each workshop was followed by a vibrant 20-minute Q&A session, where the audience engaged deeply with the speakers, posing thoughtful questions and sharing perspectives
Attaullah Cheema
MANCHESTER, UK – The Press Club of Pakistan, United Kingdom (PCP-UK) commemorated Pakistan’s Independence Day with a profound and forward-looking symposium, “The Genesis and Destiny of Pakistan,” held at the Gorton Hub Library auditorium in Manchester.
The event featured a series of three insightful workshops delving into the nation’s foundation, its current governance, and its future trajectory.
Session I: The Governance Structure of Pakistan. Eminent journalist Nasrullah Khan Moghal led the first session, elucidating the salient features and complexities of Pakistan’s governance framework. His presentation was followed by a robust discussion on its practical implications and evolution.
Session II: The Role of Minorities in the Nation’s Genesis Naeem Waiz took the stage to elaborate on the pivotal, yet often overlooked, contributions of minority communities to the creation of Pakistan. His talk focused on their enduring legacy and the challenges they have faced throughout the nation’s history.
Session III: Pakistan in 2047 – A Vision The final session featuredMohammed Ajeeb, CBE, who offered a detailed and inspiring projection of Pakistan’s potential shape and structure on the centenary of its independence in 2047. He outlined a vision for progress and development in the coming decades.
Each workshop was followed by a vibrant 20-minute Q&A session, where the audience engaged deeply with the speakers, posing thoughtful questions and sharing perspectives.
The programme was brought to a close by Saleem Akhter, General Secretary of the PCP-UK, who summarised the key takeaways from the rich discussions. Following the formal proceedings, the event culminated in a warm and congenial reception, where participants continued their conversations.
From Monal’s glory to moral decay: a national tragedy
This tragic transformation has sparked anger and dismay among citizens. “When Monal was functioning, it was a symbol of pride. Families felt safe, and foreigners left with a positive image of Pakistan. Now, it has become the opposite—a shameful spectacle,” says one concerned resident
DNA
ISLAMABAD: Once perched majestically a top Pir Sohawa, Monal Restaurant stood as one of Islamabad’s most iconic landmarks. Over the years, it became more than just a dining place—it was a symbol of Pakistan’s hospitality and natural beauty. Tourists from across the globe, diplomats, and locals flocked to Monal to enjoy its scenic views, authentic cuisine, and the experience of dining above the clouds. For many, it was a proud showcase of Pakistan’s cultural richness.
However, the closure of Monal by former Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa drastically changed the fate of this hilltop gem. The Supreme Court, at the time, declared the establishment illegal, citing that it had been built on protected Margalla National Park land. While the court’s order may have been rooted in environmental concerns, the aftermath has shocked and saddened many.
Today, the very space once associated with family gatherings, celebrations, and international tourism has reportedly transformed into a hub of obscenity and immorality. Videos and accounts circulating on social media suggest that the abandoned premises are being misused for nude dances, vulgar shows, and activities that not only degrade the sanctity of the site but also tarnish Islamabad’s cultural and moral image.
This tragic transformation has sparked anger and dismay among citizens. “When Monal was functioning, it was a symbol of pride. Families felt safe, and foreigners left with a positive image of Pakistan. Now, it has become the opposite—a shameful spectacle,” says one concerned resident.
Critics argue that while the intention behind shutting down Monal may have been to protect the environment, the decision lacked foresight. Instead of preserving the land or repurposing it for constructive use, the closure has created a vacuum, allowing immoral activities to flourish unchecked.
The irony is stark: a place once known for bringing together families and promoting tourism has now become associated with obscenity. This has raised serious questions about governance, enforcement, and the consequences of decisions made without considering ground realities.
Islamabad, known for its serene beauty and cultural modesty, cannot afford to let such degradation continue. The authorities must act swiftly—either by reclaiming and rehabilitating the site or by establishing strict oversight to ensure that the area does not remain a breeding ground for moral and social decay.
The story of Monal should serve as a cautionary tale: without vision, even the most cherished landmarks can fall into ruin, leaving behind only regret and embarrassment.
US Judge Frank Capriodies at 88
NEW YORK, Aug 21 (APP):Judge Frank Caprio, renowned for his compassion in the courts of the US state of Rhode Island, has died at the age of 88, his son, David Caprio, said in a social media post Wednesday.
His death following a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer was announced on his official Instagram account, where he was remembered for his “warmth” and “unwavering belief in the goodness of people”.
“Beloved for his compassion, humility, and unwavering belief in the goodness of people, Judge Caprio touched the lives of millions through his work in the courtroom and beyond,” the statement reads. “His warmth, humour, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him.”
“It was the love and support he received from all of you that lifted his spirits and boosted his soul to find the strength to fight on and outlive his diagnosis by a year and a half,” David Caprio said in the video.
Caprio went viral on social media for hearing cases on traffic and parking violations and arraignments for criminal offenses. It was Caprio’s empathy and humour in how he handled the cases that would touch audiences on social media.
A couple of times when a Pakistani-American man or a women appeared in his court, Judge Caprio would smilingly tell him or her that he receives a lot of fan mail from Pakistan.
Before becoming a judge, Caprio shined shoes, delivered newspapers and worked on a milk truck.
He graduated from Providence College in 1958 and began teaching American government at a local high school in Providence. While teaching, he also attended night school at the Suffolk University School of Law in Boston.
Caprio served as a Providence Municipal Court judge from 1985 to 2023.
China committed to development of Pakistan: Wang Yi
Pakistan, China Hold 6th Strategic Dialogue; Pledge to Deepen Cooperation Under CPEC 2.0
Ansar Mahmood Bhatti
ISLAMABAD — Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held the 6th Round of Pakistan-China Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue in Islamabad on Thursday.
The two sides comprehensively reviewed the entire spectrum of Pakistan-China relations and exchanged views on important regional and global developments. Key areas of discussion included the next phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC 2.0), trade and economic ties, multilateral cooperation, and enhancing people-to-people exchanges.
Both leaders reaffirmed that the All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership between Pakistan and China is not only vital for regional peace and stability but also essential for the progress and prosperity of the two countries.
Deputy Prime Minister Dar underscored Pakistan’s strong commitment to advancing cooperation with China, particularly in the areas of infrastructure development, industrialization, and connectivity under CPEC’s upgraded phase. He said CPEC continues to play a transformative role in Pakistan’s socio-economic development.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi, in his remarks, stressed that China values its deep-rooted friendship with Pakistan and is keen to expand bilateral cooperation in diverse fields. He assured Beijing’s continued support for Pakistan’s development agenda and highlighted that both countries stand together as reliable partners in a rapidly changing global environment.
The two sides also agreed to maintain close coordination and communication at both bilateral and multilateral forums. They underlined the importance of strategic alignment on regional security, counterterrorism cooperation, and safeguarding shared interests in international platforms.
Analysts view the dialogue as another demonstration of the time-tested partnership between Islamabad and Beijing, which continues to deepen amid regional challenges and shifting global dynamics.
Relief for PTI: Supreme Court Accepts Imran Khan’s Bail in 8 May 9 Cases
DNA
ISLAMABAD – In a major relief for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the Supreme Court of Pakistan on Thursday accepted bail petitions of former prime minister Imran Khan in 8 separate cases linked to the May 9 riots. The verdict comes after the Lahore High Court (LHC) had earlier rejected his pleas for bail, citing the seriousness of charges related to violent attacks on state institutions and military installations.
The cases stem from the violent protests that erupted on May 9, 2023, following Imran Khan’s arrest in the Al-Qadir Trust corruption case. Enraged PTI workers stormed sensitive buildings, including the Lahore Corps Commander’s residence, public properties, and military memorials, triggering a nationwide crackdown. The government accused PTI of orchestrating the violence, while Khan repeatedly distanced himself from the events, calling them a “false flag operation” aimed at crushing his party.
Earlier, the LHC had denied Khan bail, arguing that the charges involved terrorism and incitement to violence. However, Khan’s legal team moved the Supreme Court, contending that the former premier had been unfairly targeted in politically motivated cases. The apex court, after hearing arguments, granted him bail, terming it a matter of due process and fair trial rights.
This ruling is seen as a significant legal respite for Khan, who remains entangled in dozens of other cases ranging from corruption to contempt. PTI leaders have welcomed the decision, calling it a step toward restoring confidence in the judiciary. Government officials, however, maintain that accountability must continue.
The development could potentially ease some of the legal pressure on Khan, though his political future remains uncertain amid ongoing cases and the state’s tough stance against the PTI.
Ahsan greets newly-elected office-bearers of G 10 union
ISLAMABAD, AUG 20 /DNA/ – Chairman Clean & Green Islamabad Movement Ahsan Bakhtawari congratulated the newly elected union of G-10 Markaz, saying that the Clean & Green campaign can only succeed with public cooperation. Along with the newly elected office-bearers, he planted trees, installed dustbins, and participated in an awareness walk. Arham Bakhtawari also accompanied him on the occasion.
In his address, Ahsan Bakhtawari said that Islamabad is the heart of Pakistan, and its cleanliness and beauty are a collective responsibility. He added that the purpose of the Clean & Green Islamabad Movement is not only to promote cleanliness but also to create awareness about eco-friendly practices among citizens. “Tree plantation and the habit of disposing garbage in dustbins are valuable investments for our future generations,” he remarked. He assured the newly elected union that the Clean & Green Movement stands shoulder to shoulder with the business community and will leave no stone unturned in making Islamabad a model clean and green city.
Secretary General of G-10 Markaz, Amir Bukhari, expressed gratitude to Ahsan Bakhtawari, saying: “We are thankful that he encouraged us from day one and gave us confidence through practical steps. Together with the Clean & Green Islamabad Movement, we will turn our center into a model market.”
Senior Vice President Tabish Mahboob Jutt said: “Cleanliness is half of faith. We have pledged to keep our area clean and play our role in spreading awareness.”
Vice President Muhammad Imran Ashraf said that the joint efforts of the business community and Clean & Green Islamabad will surely bear fruit and G-10 will be transformed into a model center.
Media Coordinator Noor Islam said: “We will spread this message to as many citizens as possible through media so that the dream of a clean and green Islamabad can be realized.”
The trader leaders and citizens of G-10 appreciated the initiatives of Ahsan Bakhtawari and pledged to stand shoulder to shoulder with the Clean & Green Islamabad Movement in making Islamabad a clean, green, and healthy city.
Trilateral meet in Kabul Pakistan, China, Afghans to ‘jointly fight terrorism
In meeting with Muttaqi, Dar highlights rise in terrorist attacks in Pakistan by groups operating from Afghan soil
Ansar M Bhatti
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan on Wednesday expressed commitment to strengthening joint efforts against terrorism.
The resolve came during the sixth Trilateral Foreign Ministers Dialogue held in Kabul between Pakistan’s FM Ishaq Dar, his Afghan counterparts Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi and China’s Wang Yi.
In a statement, Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan said that the trilateral dialogues were focused on political, economic, and security cooperation between the countries.
The spokesperson said that the three sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration in trade, transit, regional development, health, education, culture, and combating drug trafficking, as well as, extension of CPEC to Afghanistan.
Earlier in the day, DPM Dar urged the Taliban government in Kabul to take concrete and verifiable measures against terrorist entities such as the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), and Majeed Brigade.
The demand came during a meeting between DPM Dar and Afghanistan’s Acting FM Muttaqi, on the sidelines of the 6th trilateral meeting of the foreign ministers in Kabul.
This call follows the recent designation of the BLA and its militant faction, the Majeed Brigade, as Foreign Terrorist Organisations (FTO) by the United States.
In a statement, FO spokesperson said that the DPM highlighted a recent surge in terrorist attacks inside Pakistan perpetrated by groups operating from Afghan soil.
Pakistan has witnessed a surge in cross-border terror incidents since 2021, particularly in the bordering provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
The country witnessed a slight uptick in terrorist attacks in July after a brief decline last month, according to the monthly security report released by the Islamabad-based think tank Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS).
According to PICSS, the country reported 82 militant attacks across the country during July, resulting in 101 fatalities and 150 injuries. Those killed in militant attacks included 47 civilians, 36 security personnel, and 18 militants.
The FO spokesperson said: “Both ministers expressed satisfaction with the positive trajectory of bilateral relations between their countries.”
“They welcomed the recent elevation of diplomatic representation between the two countries from chargé d’Affaires to ambassadorial level, as agreed during the trilateral meeting in Beijing on 21 May 2025,” the spokesperson added.
Reflecting on their recent engagements, including the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister’s visits to Kabul on 19 April 2025 and 17 July 2025, and the Beijing meeting on 21 May 2025, the ministers noted with appreciation that most decisions from these interactions have either been implemented or are nearing completion.
These efforts have significantly strengthened Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, particularly in the areas of trade and transit, read the statement.
During the meeting, DPM Dar acknowledged the encouraging progress in political and commercial ties, while expressing that progress in the security domain, especially in counter-terrorism, continues to lag behind.
The Afghan acting foreign minister reaffirmed Afghanistan’s commitment to ensuring its territory is not used by any terrorist group against Pakistan or other nations.
The DPM extended his gratitude to the Afghan authorities for their warm hospitality and congratulated them on successfully hosting the 6th trilateral dialogue.
Govt issues data protection guidelines to prevent cyber threats
ISLAMABAD, AUG 20: The National Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT) has issued a fresh advisory for institutions and the public, stressing stronger data protection practices to safeguard personal information against rising cyber threats.
Advisory for institutions
According to the advisory, all organizations must implement data encryption, access controls, and breach protocols to prevent sensitive information from being exposed. Outdated IT systems, weak cybersecurity frameworks, and the use of malicious mobile apps were highlighted as the biggest risks.
The National CERT warned that the theft of identity cards, health records, and financial data poses a serious threat to public trust. Institutions found guilty of leaking personal information could face action under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).
Also Read: Cyber crime agency rules: Cases to be tried under PECA, PPC
The advisory also directed organizations to adopt a zero trust model, multi-layered access controls, and a disaster recovery plan to ensure preparedness against cyberattacks.
Public guidelines
For individuals, National CERT advised extreme caution when sharing personal documents such as CNIC copies. Citizens have been urged to write the purpose clearly on copies to prevent misuse.
People were further instructed to:
Use strong and unique passwords
Enable multi-factor authentication
Avoid downloading apps from unverified sources
Also Read: Alert! PTA warns against sharing OTP with unknown callers
National security priority
The agency underlined that data protection is not just a legal requirement but a strategic necessity linked to national security. Protecting sensitive information, it said, is essential to maintaining public trust in digital systems and preventing exploitation by malicious actors.
KSrelief dispatches major relief convoy for flood-affected families in KP
ISLAMABAD, AUG 20 /DNA/ – The King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief) has dispatched a large-scale emergency relief convoy to support victims of the recent flash floods and cloudbursts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).
The ceremony was attended by His Excellency Ambassador Nawaf Bin Said Al-Maliki, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to Pakistan; Mr. Rana Sana Ullah Khan, Federal Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination; Mr. Abdullah Al-Baqami, Director of KSrelief Pakistan; along with representatives from National Disaster Management Authority, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and members of national and international media.
The convoy comprises 10,000 Shelter NFI Kits and 10,000 Food Packages. Each Shelter Kit includes; Shelter, solar panels with LED lights, two thermal blankets, plastic mats, durable kitchen sets, water coolers, and antibacterial soap. Each Food Package, weighing 95 kilograms, contains wheat flour, sugar, lentils, and cooking oil, carefully designed to address the immediate nutritional needs of families.
Distribution will be carried out in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), the Relief, Rehabilitation and Settlement Department (RR&SD), and KSrelief Implementing partners Hayat Foundation and Peach and Development Organization —ensuring transparent and timely delivery of aid to the most vulnerable communities.
This initiative reflects the continued commitment of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, through KSrelief, to extend humanitarian assistance to Pakistan. Over the years, KSrelief has launched numerous projects across the country in food security, health, shelter, education, and disaster response—further deepening the bonds of friendship and brotherhood between the two nations.
The dispatch of this convoy stands as another milestone in this enduring partnership, providing urgent relief to families affected by the devastating floods in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
