ISLAMABAD, JUL 1 /DNA/ – The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (FDRE) and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on Tuesday agreed to further strengthen the bilateral relations by enhancing cultural ties of the two nations.
To this end, H.E. Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula, Special Envoy and Ambassador Extraordinary of the FDR Ethiopia held a productive discussion with H.E. Mr. Muhammad Aurangzeb Khichi, Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture.
H.E. Mr. Asad Rehman Gilani, Federal Secretary of Pakistan for the National Heritage and Culture Division, was also present on the occasion.
Ambassador Dr. Jemal emphasized the importance of fostering robust people-to-people connections through cultural exchange. He highlighted the recent launch of Ethiopian Airlines operations in Karachi, which now connects Pakistan to Africa and the broader global network.
During the discussion, the Ambassador briefed the Minister about “Medemer” philosophy of Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed, which is focused on nation-building through practical inter-generational connectivity, unity, and togetherness.
He said Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed is a prolific writer and wrote three books on “Medemer” philosophy.
The Ambassador presented Minister Khichi with a copy of “Generation Medemer” which was unveiled in Pakistan in 2023, and added to the collection of the National Library of Pakistan this year.
Minister Khichi expressed keen interest in the “Medemer Philosophy” and announced to translate “Generation Medemer” into Pakistan’s national language.
He affirmed Pakistan’s readiness to pursue all necessary formal processes to deepen cultural collaboration with Ethiopia, commending the Ambassador’s practical and valuable proposals for mutual engagement in heritage and culture.=DNA
ISLAMABAD, JUL 1 /DNA/ – Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has strongly condemned the attack by Fitna-e-Hindustan Terrorists on the Levies Line and government property in Mastung. He paid tribute to the brave personnel of FC, CTD, and Levies for thwarting the attack by the terrorists of Fitna-e-Hindustan.
Mohsin Naqvi lauded the professional capabilities of FC, CTD, and Levies for sending two terrorists of Fitna-e-Hindustan to hell. The Interior Minister emphasized that FC, CTD, and Levies effectively responded and foiled the terrorist attack through swift and decisive action.
He stated that the personnel of FC, CTD, and Levies fought the terrorists of Fitna-e-Hindustan with great courage, which is commendable. He expressed solidarity with the family of the young martyr who lost his life in the attack and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.
ISLAMABAD, JUL 1 /DNA/ – The Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East & Africa (CAMEA) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), in collaboration with Pakistan Africa Institute for Development and Research (PAIDAR), organized an event to celebrate Somalia’s Independence Day.
The proceedings, which began with the national anthems of Pakistan and Somalia, were moderated by Ms. Amina Khan, Director CAMEA. Speakers included Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General ISSI; Mr. Yasin Mire Mohamud, Deputy Head of Mission of Somalia to Pakistan; Mr. Shahid Ali Seehar, Ambassador of Pakistan to Djibouti (accredited to Somalia); and Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman BOG ISSI. The Chief Guest on the occasion was Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, President PAIDAR, and the Keynote Speaker was Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan, Additional Secretary (Africa), Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed praised the “blood-cemented solidarity” between Pakistan and Somalia, recalling Pakistan’s peacekeepers martyred in Mogadishu and military aid during the 1978 Ogaden conflict as proof that “Islamabad has always stood by Mogadishu in its hour of need.”He urged the Foreign Office to reopen Pakistan’s embassy in Mogadishu and pledged to lead a think tank delegation there. With both Pakistan and Somalia on the UN Security Council, he called for deeper cooperation in security, trade, and education, noting Pakistan hosts the largest cohort of Somali students worldwide. “Together we will build a better tomorrow,” he concluded.
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General ISSI, recalled the historic significance of July 1, 1960, when the union of British and Italian Somaliland gave birth to the Somali Republic, a landmark in Africa’s decolonisation and a symbol of the Somali people’s aspirations for freedom, dignity and sovereignty. Ambassador Sohail noted the longstanding Pakistan-Somalia ties rooted in mutual respect, shared faith, and people-to-people links, recalling that Pakistan was among the first to recognise Somalia’s independence. He also highlighted the invaluable services rendered by Pakistani peacekeepers in Somalia as part of Pakistan’s commitment to international peace and security, as well as Somalia’s security and stability.
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood further highlighted strong educational ties, with a number of Somali students studying in Pakistan and now contributing significantly to efforts for national development in their homeland. Stressing the importance of trade and economic ties, he underscored the need to enhance the interface between business communities and chambers of commerce. He also noted shared positions at forums like the UN and OIC and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepen collaboration with Somalia under the ‘Engage Africa’ policy. Given Somalia’s strategic location, he said it plays a key role in regional peace and maritime security. He expressed ISSI’s readiness to expand academic and policy collaboration with Somali institutions and appreciated the support of the Africa Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and PAIDAR.
Ambassador Hamid Asghar emphasized Africa’s vast untapped potential in trade, investment, and cooperation, urging Pakistan to deepen its engagement with the continent. He highlighted Somalia’s strategic location and stressed that peace and governance are key to its progress. Citing Pakistan’s support through NADRA’s ID project and peacekeeping efforts, he called for a Preferential Trade Agreement and joint ventures in sectors like pharmaceuticals, ports, and agriculture. He also appreciated the vibrant Somali community in Pakistan and proposed expanding scholarships and cooperation rooted in shared values and faith.
Ms. Amina Khan, Director CAMEA, marked Somalia’s Independence Day as a tribute to the resilience and pride of its people. She reaffirmed Africa’s central place in Pakistan’s ‘Engage Africa’ policy and CAMEA’s commitment to deepening ties with Somalia. Highlighting Pakistan’s historic support and shared positions at multilateral forums, she also acknowledged the vibrant Somali diaspora in Pakistan. She called for greater collaboration in trade, investment, training, and institutional development based on mutual respect and shared goals.
Mr. Yasin Mire Mohamud, Deputy Head of Mission of Somalia to Pakistan, described the occasion as a tribute to Somalia’s progress, built on the sacrifices of its forefathers. He highlighted recent advancements in governance, infrastructure, education, and healthcare, as well as growing business and investment. He called the joint election of Somalia and Pakistan to the UN Security Council a shared milestone. Expressing gratitude, he recalled Pakistan’s vital support during Somalia’s civil war and its role in peacekeeping and diplomacy, including backing the lifting of the arms embargo in 2023. He affirmed Somalia’s resolve to build a secure and prosperous future.
Ambassador Shahid Ali Seehar extended warm greetings to the Somali nation and highlighted the historic and growing ties since Somalia’s independence in 1960. He noted the strong convergence of views, especially as both countries currently serve as non-permanent members of the UN Security Council. He mentioned Pakistan’s support, including a US$14 million grant for Somalia’s National ID System and increased scholarships for Somali students. Appreciating Somalia’s backing at multilateral forums, he called for greater cooperation in counterterrorism, boosting trade beyond US$72 million, and exploring maritime connectivity.
Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, in his vote of thanks, stated that Pakistan has great love and affection for Somalia. He added that a large Somali diaspora is benefiting from Pakistan’s educational facilities. He affirmed that there are no impediments in Pakistan-Somalia relations and these are expected to grow significantly in the future.
ISLAMABAD, JUL 1 /DNA/ – Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif visited the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Islamabad, earlier today, to sign the condolence book opened by the Iranian mission to honour the martyrs and injured Iranians during the recent Israeli aggression against Iran. He was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, SAPM Tariq Fatemi and the Foreign Secretary.
The Prime Minister was received by Amb. Reza Amiri Moghaddam, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Pakistan and his senior colleagues. He expressed his deepest condolences to the people and Government of Iran, while reaffirming Pakistan’s sympathy and solidarity with Iran during this difficult time. He paid rich tributes to the resilience and courage of the Iranian nation, while offering his prayers for those who had embraced martyrdom, as well as for the swift recovery of the injured.
While assuring the Iranian side of Pakistan’s consistent and continued support, the Prime Minister also conveyed his good wishes and respects for Iranian Supreme Leader His Eminence Ayatullah Ali Khamenei, as well as for President Dr. Massoud Pezeshkian.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a stark warning over the global toll of loneliness, estimating that the condition contributes to more than 800,000 deaths worldwide each year.
In a new report, the UN health agency described loneliness and social isolation as a “public health challenge of our time”, urging governments and communities to treat social connection as a priority.
According to the report, loneliness leads to over 871,000 deaths annually — averaging more than 100 fatalities every hour. The WHO defines loneliness as the distressing gap between the social relationships individuals desire and those they actually experience.
“At a time when people are more digitally connected than ever before, a growing number of individuals are feeling isolated and alone,” said WHO Director-General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “This paradox must be addressed urgently.”
The report finds that one in every six people globally suffers from loneliness. Although the problem affects people of all ages, the report highlights that young individuals and those living in low- and middle-income countries are particularly at risk.
Chido Mpemba, co-chair of the WHO Commission on Social Connection, noted that even among digitally connected youth, feelings of loneliness are widespread. “As technology reshapes our societies, we must ensure it brings us closer together — not further apart,” she said.
Beyond emotional distress, loneliness is linked to a range of serious health concerns, including stroke, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cognitive decline, depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Studies cited in the report suggest that people experiencing social isolation are at significantly higher risk of premature death, while those with strong social networks enjoy better mental health and increased longevity.
“People who live alone are nearly twice as likely to suffer from depression,” the report adds, underlining the urgent need for preventive interventions.
To tackle this crisis, WHO has proposed a global roadmap centred on five key areas: policy-making, research, evidence-based interventions, improved measurement of social connection, and reshaping public attitudes to reduce stigma. The organisation is calling for a broad-based movement involving individuals, civil society, governments, and international partners.
The report concludes with a call to action: “It is time to build societies that foster belonging and mutual care. Social connection is not a luxury — it is a fundamental human need.”
WHO is urging countries to integrate social connection into national health strategies, develop community programmes, and promote environments that encourage meaningful interaction.
MASTUNG, JUL 1: A teenager was killed while seven others were wounded after government offices came under attack by “India-backed” terrorists in Balochistan’s Mastung district on Tuesday, the provincial government said.
The military has said India was using its “assets” to intensify terrorist attacks in Pakistan, with ISPR Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry detailing “irrefutable evidence” of an Indian military personnel’s involvement.
“Two terrorists were killed while another three were injured in an intense fire exchange between the security forces and the terrorists,” Balochistan spokesperson Shahid Rind said in a statement.
“Fitna al Hindustan attacked the tehsil office, government offices and a bank. A 16-year-old boy died while seven individuals were injured by the terrorists’ firing,” the statement read.
The term “Fitna al Hindustan” is a new phrase coined by Pakistan’s military, aimed at framing India’s alleged role in terrorism as a deliberate destabilisation strategy, potentially to galvanise domestic support.
“The Frontier Constabulary, Counter-Terrorism Department and Levies immediately cordoned off the area, crushing the terrorists,” Rind asserted.
An intense fire exchange occurred after the security forces “encircled” the terrorists, the government spokesperson added.
Action against the perpetrators was ongoing while a clearance operation was also underway, according to the statement.
Militant groups were unable to significantly escalate their activities in the country last month, according to data released by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, which recorded 85 attacks in May compared to 81 in April.
Pakistan has witnessed an uptick in terror activities, especially in KP and Balochistan, after the TTP ended its ceasefire with the government in November 2022.
The country ranked second in the Global Terrorism Index 2025, with the number of deaths in terrorist attacks rising by 45 per cent over the past year to 1,081.
ATTOCK, JUL 1 /DNA/ – The sacrifices of Hazrat Imam Hussain (A.S) for the religion of Islam are unparalleled and continue to offer a lasting message of patience, sacrifice, and resistance against tyranny. These views were expressed by religious scholars and speakers while addressing participants of a mourning procession held in K-Block, Attock City, on the 1st of Muharram-ul-Haram.
Speakers emphasized that the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (A.S) and his companions at Karbala was not just a historical event but a universal and eternal message of courage, justice, and sacrifice that stands unmatched in human history. They urged the community to draw inspiration from Imam Hussain’s legacy and apply those values in daily life.
Later in the day, a mourning procession was taken out from the residence of late Tehseen-ul-Hasan Zaidi in K-Block. The procession followed traditional routes and culminated at Imambargah Hussainia in Attock Cantonment during the evening.
To ensure the safety of participants, comprehensive security arrangements were made by Attock police. Personnel were deployed along the procession routes and on nearby rooftops. DSP Sadar Circle Malik Iftakhar, SHO Sadar Circle Tahir Bashir, and SHO City Mujahid Abbas personally inspected security checkpoints along the route.
In addition, Incharge RWMC Sardar Waheed and Incharge Special Branch Mushtaq Ahmed were also present during the procession to assist in coordination and monitoring.
As part of public facilitation, the Government of Punjab also arranged cold water stall (sabeel) along the procession route to provide relief to mourners in the summer heat.
ISLAMABAD, JUL 1 (DNA): The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has unveiled an ambitious plan to expand the operational capacity of Gwadar Port by establishing additional shipping lines and launching a new ferry service connecting Pakistan with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
The announcement was made during a high-level meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, in Islamabad on Tuesday. Senior officials of the ministry attended the meeting.
“The initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance regional connectivity, boost maritime trade, and position Gwadar as a major hub in the Arabian Sea,” said Minister Junaid Chaudhry. “We aim to transform Gwadar into a strategic transshipment and logistics center, benefiting Pakistan and the wider region.”
The Minister emphasized that with Gwadar Port now fully operational, it is time to accelerate its integration into international maritime networks. He directed relevant departments to pursue all necessary steps to increase the port’s commercial activity and unlock its full potential.
He said additional shipping lines will be connected to Gwadar to facilitate greater movement of goods, promote transit trade with Central Asia and the Middle East, and support Pakistan’s growing role in the regional logistics landscape.
“The new routes will reduce pressure on existing ports and ensure faster, more efficient cargo handling”, the Federal Minister stated .
In addition to enhancing cargo operations, the Ministry has also planned to launch a ferry service from Gwadar to GCC countries This move is expected to provide an affordable, direct maritime link for passengers and cargo, and will particularly benefit expatriate communities, and cross-border traders.
“The ferry service will strengthen people-to-people ties, boost tourism, and provide a new economic lifeline for Balochistan,” the Minister said. “It will create local employment, improve supporting infrastructure, and attract private sector participation, especially in the areas of ship services, hospitality, and transportation.”
The Ministry has initiated consultations with shipping companies, maritime authorities, and port operators to finalize technical, legal, and logistical frameworks for both the new shipping lines and the ferry service. Safety, affordability, and environmental sustainability will be key priorities in the implementation phase.
The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fully harness the strategic importance of Gwadar. He noted that these maritime developments align with Pakistan’s vision to become a regional trade corridor and enhance its blue economy, as outlined in the country’s National Maritime Policy.
BIRMINGHAM: India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate on Monday, shared that the visitors are likely to go with two spinners in the second Test against England, scheduled to be played here at the Edgbaston from Wednesday.
India suffered a gruelling five-wicket defeat in the series opener last week despite their batting unit’s commendable performance as it yielded five individual centuries.
Their bowling, however, was a concern as they failed to defend 371 runs despite having ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah in the arsenal.
Following the thrashing, cricket pundits advised head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill to make tweaks to their lineup, particularly calling for the addition of a spinner.
While India are still undecisive about retaining Bumrah, their assistant coach ten Doeschate shared that he is confident that two spinners will be in their lineup for the upcoming fixture.
He further suggested that the dry nature of the surface despite the rain forecast may result in them fielding two specialist spinners.
“It’s just which two we play. And that goes back to juggling the batting depth. All three spinners are bowling very nicely,” said ten Doeschate.
“Washi is batting very nicely. So it’s just which combination do we go with? The allrounder-spinner or the out-and-out spinner? And obviously you have to play the bowling allrounder again.
“So there are so many different variables. The wicket has got 11 mils [mm of grass] at the moment, 11 or 12, I can’t remember which of the two, but it’s quite grassy and patchy.
“It’s quite dry underneath, but there’s also rain forecast for Wednesday, so again trying to weigh up the two options of how we want to go attack-wise, but I’m pretty sure two spinners will play in this Test.”
ISLAMABAD, JUN 30: Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has dismissed the petition seeking the disqualification of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Punjab Assembly member Sonia Asher.
The verdict was announced by a three-member bench headed by Chief Election Commissioner Sikandar Sultan Raja.
In its ruling, the ECP clarified that minority women are eligible to contest and be elected on women’s reserved seats. The petition against Sonia Asher was filed by Saadia Muzaffar and Fiza Maimoona, challenging her eligibility on the grounds of being a non-Muslim candidate on a women’s reserved seat.
The commission emphasized that there is no constitutional or legal restriction preventing non-Muslim women from contesting either general or reserved seats. “Minority women cannot be barred from contesting elections on general or reserved seats,” the decision stated.
The ECP further noted that restricting minority candidates to only non-Muslim reserved seats would be a violation of Article 25 of the Constitution, which guarantees equality of all citizens.
The ruling is seen as a significant precedent affirming the right of minority candidates to participate fully in the democratic process without discriminatory limitations.
