RAWALPINDI, MAR 12 /DNA/ – The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) hosted a Grand Iftar Dinner to honor ambassadors, high commissioners, diplomats, and commercial counsellors. The prestigious event served as a platform to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between Pakistan and the international community.

Among the distinguished guests were H.E Mr. Atadjan Movlamov Ambassador of Turkmenistan, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Islamabad, along with ambassadors from Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Iraq, Malaysia, Romania, Myanmar, Nepal, Ireland, Kyrgyzstan, Brunei, Zimbabwe, as well as Charge d’Affaires from Indonesia, Cyprus, and Finland. Other notable attendees included Mr. Charles J. Perego and Brooke de Montluzon, Economic Counselors at the US Embassy, along with representatives from Portugal, Azerbaijan, Syria, and high commissioners from Sri Lanka and Rwanda.

RCCI President Usman Shaukat, accompanied by Group Leader Sohail Altaf, Senior Vice President Khalid Farooq Qazi, Vice President Fahad Barlas, and Zahid Latif Khan, Chairman of the Standing Committee on International Affairs, warmly welcomed the esteemed guests and expressed gratitude for their presence.

Federal Minister for Climate Change, Musaddiq Malik, CEO of DRAP Dr. Obaidullah, Patron-in-Chief of Sweet Homes Zamarud Khan, former RCCI presidents, executive committee members, district officials, trade association representatives, and a large number of traders were also in attendance.

Dean of Ambassadors Atadjan Movlamov commended RCCI’s role in fostering strong relationships with the diplomatic community and enhancing trade collaborations. In his welcome address, RCCI President Usman Shaukat expressed his appreciation for the attendees and emphasized that the annual Iftar Dinner is a longstanding tradition aimed at uniting esteemed members of the diplomatic corps with key figures from the business sector.

The event successfully reinforced RCCI’s commitment to strengthening economic diplomacy and fostering meaningful connections between Pakistan and global partners.

ISLAMABAD, MAR 12 /DNA/ – The Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan convened a high-level meeting with national accreditation councils at the HEC Secretariat, Islamabad, to address key challenges in maintaining and enhancing the quality of higher education across the country.

The meeting brought together chairpersons, presidents, and representatives from leading accreditation councils, including Pakistan Medical & Dental Council (PMDC), National Council for Tibb (NCT), National Council for Homeopathy, Pharmacy Council of Pakistan (PCP), Pakistan Nursing and Midwifery Council (PN&MC), Allied Health Professional Council, Pakistan Bar Council (PBC), Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC), Pakistan Council for Architects and Town Planners (PCATP), Pakistan Veterinary Medical Council (PVMC), National Computing Education Accreditation Council (NCEAC), National Accreditation Council for Teachers Education (NACTE), National Business Education Accreditation Council (NBEAC), National Agricultural Education Accreditation Council (NAEAC), and National Technology Council (NTC).

The primary objective of the meeting was to foster collaboration among accreditation bodies, streamline accreditation processes, and implement best practices to enhance academic standards. The agenda covered critical areas, including programme accreditation, faculty appointment criteria, standardization of accreditation processes, curriculum development, capacity building, international collaboration, and the role of accreditation in ensuring academic excellence.

Chairman HEC, Prof. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad emphasized the importance of modernizing accreditation frameworks and aligning them with international best practices. “To ensure quality education, we must continuously evolve our accreditation processes by adopting global standards, enhancing capacity, and updating outdated regulations,” he stated.

He further stressed the need for a more dynamic, transparent, and technology-driven accreditation system that ensures higher education institutions in Pakistan meet both national and international quality benchmarks. “In an era where higher education is rapidly transforming, we cannot afford to rely on outdated accreditation models. We must foster innovation, integrate digital solutions, and establish mechanisms that not only maintain but also enhance the credibility of our academic programmes,” he added.

Executive Director HEC, Prof. Dr. Zia Ul-Qayyum being chair of the meeting reiterated the Commission’s dedication to supporting accreditation councils, saying, “Accreditation is the backbone of higher education quality assurance. HEC is committed to providing a platform for collaboration and dialogue to strengthen these processes and address challenges collectively.”

He also highlighted the role of accreditation in shaping the future of education in Pakistan. He urged accreditation councils to work collaboratively with industries and global accreditation bodies to ensure that graduates are equipped with the skills required to compete in the international job market. He noted that improving accreditation standards would strengthen Pakistan’s higher education system, making Pakistani universities globally competitive and producing graduates who are research-oriented, innovative, and capable of driving economic progress.

The meeting highlighted several pressing challenges faced by accreditation councils, including limited resources, the need for regulatory updates, gaps in international collaboration, and the necessity of regular curriculum reviews to keep pace with industry advancements.

The participants proposed multiple strategic solutions, including review and modernization of accreditation laws and policies, capacity-building and training programmes for accreditation personnel, adoption of international accreditation benchmarks, enhanced collaboration between accreditation councils and HEC, and frequent curriculum updates to align with industry trends.

Prof. Dr. Anwar-ul-Hassan Gillani, Consultant (Quality AssuranceAgency and Quality Assurance Division) HEC expressed his appreciation to the participants for their valuable insights and active engagement. He assured them that future meetings would be held regularly to ensure continuous progress on key issues.

The accreditation councils welcomed the initiative and pledged to work closely with HEC to develop a more robust accreditation ecosystem for higher education in Pakistan. The meeting concluded with a unanimous commitment to holding periodic discussions, fostering collaboration, and ensuring excellence in higher education nationwide.

QUETTA: At least 80 hostages, including women and children, were freed by security forces on Tuesday after an unknown number of terrorists took passengers of the Jaffar Express hostage in Balochistan’s Bolan area, said security sources.

The train, with over 400 passengers on board in nine bogies, was on its way from Quetta to Peshawar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa when it came under attack, according to security sources.

Among those rescued are 53 men, 26 women and 11 children. Security sources added forces are continuing the operation to rescue the other hostages, and the circle around the terrorists is being tightened.

Soon after the attack started, security forces cordoned off and surrounded the train, and a heavy exchange of fire was reported.

Security sources said that the terrorists behind the attack are in contact with their mastermind in Afghanistan and are using women and children as human shields.

The operation is being carried out with extreme caution due to the presence of civilians onboard.

Security sources elaborated that the operation is further complicated by the difficult terrain of the area.

The attackers bombed the railway track before storming aboard the train, said security forces, adding that they also opened fire on the locomotive, injuring the driver.

Security officials present on the train and the terrorists also reportedly exchanged fire.

The locomotive was stopped just before a tunnel, and terrorists took control of the train in a remote, mountainous area of the province which borders Afghanistan and Iran.

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“Over 450 passengers onboard are being held hostage by gunmen,” Muhammad Kashif, a senior railway government official in Quetta, the capital of the province, told AFP.

“Passengers include women and children,” he added.

Security sources added that despite the challenging route, forces reached the scene in the Mushqaf area of the Bolan district of Balochistan to initiate the operation.

Emergency measures
The Balochistan government has imposed emergency measures, and all institutions have been mobilised to deal with the situation, spokesperson Shahid Rind said.

A relief train and contingents of security forces were also dispatched to the site.

Meanwhile, an emergency has been imposed in Sibi and Civil Hospital Quetta.

According to the provincial health department, all medical and paramedical staff have been summoned to Civil Hospital and several wards were vacated to deal with the situation.

Following the incident, an emergency information desk has been established at Quetta Railway Station.

A railway official was appointed to share relevant developments regarding the Jaffar Express incident.

Condemnations pour in
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi condemned the attack and prayed for the early recovery of the injured people. He added: “Beasts who opened fire on innocent passengers deserve no leniency.”

“Terrorists are the biggest threat to Pakistan,” said Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari while condemning the attack on the passenger train.

“Targeting innocent citizens by terrorists is a coward act,” he added.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur also condemned the Jaffar Express incident and expressed concern for the safety of the train passengers taken hostage in Balochistan. He expressed wishes for their safe recovery.

Awami National Party (ANP) President Aimal Wali Khan said that attacks on innocent citizens are unacceptable and demanded strict action against the terrorists.

The country witnessed a sharp increase in terror attacks in January 2025, surging by 42% compared to the previous month, according to data released by the Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS), a think tank.

The data revealed that at least 74 militant attacks were recorded nationwide, resulting in 91 fatalities, including 35 security personnel, 20 civilians, and 36 militants. Another 117 individuals sustained injuries, including 53 security forces personnel, 54 civilians, and 10 militants.

Balochistan also experienced a surge in militant activity, with at least 24 attacks, which claimed 26 lives, including 11 security personnel, six civilians, and nine militants.

Dogar questioned whether NDMA is authorized to allocate foreign aid to other countries

Khayam Abbasi

ISLAMABAD: The $30 million aid provided by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for Pakistan’s flood victims was allegedly diverted to assist disaster-affected regions in Turkey and Syria, an audit report revealed on Tuesday.

According to the audit report presented before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of the National Assembly, the ADB’s aid was granted for flood relief, but it was ‘used’ to assist Turkey and Syria disaster regions.

During today’s meeting of PAC, Parliamentary leader Aamir Dogar questioned whether NDMA is authorized to allocate foreign aid to other countries.

In response, NDMA chairman stated that relief aid for brotherly nations is sourced from Pakistan’s own emergency stockpiles, which were later replenished.

PPP leader Shazia Mari criticized the move, stating that the grant was meant for Pakistan’s flood victims but was instead used abroad. PTI leader Riaz Fatyana highlighted that even after two years, clearance from ADB has not been secured.

Opposition Leader in NA Umar Ayub warned that improper utilization of grants and loans damages donor confidence and affects future aid.

He further demanded that the Secretary of Economic Affairs Division be held accountable for the mismanagement of ADB funds.

Audit officials also disclosed that ADB’s Country Director had inquired about fund utilization in 2023, seeking a detailed report, which remains pending.

ISLAMABAD, MAR 11 /DNA/ – A meeting was held under the chairmanship of Muhammad Ali Randhawa Chairman CDA/ Chief Commissioner Islamabad regarding establishment of state of the art Food Street at Blue Area besides initiating other projects. The meeting was attended by Member Planning, Member Engineering, Member Finance, DG Environment, DG Building Control Section (BCS) and other senior officers of CDA.

During the meeting, Muhammad Ali Randhawa Chairman CDA said that all out efforts should be made for making Federal Capital Islamabad, more beautiful, environment friendly as well as to improve modern travel facilities for the public, as well as tourists visiting from Pakistan but abroad. Establishment of a state-of-the-art Food Street in Blue Area with high-quality Food Street at the centre of city which is Blue Area will not only provide citizens with access to delicious and tasty food of high-quality local and international brands at a one place but will also be ensured adequate parking facilities so that people should not only enjoy quality and delicious food but they will be provided ample place for parking which is very rare as compared to other food outlets in Islamabad.

The Food Street in Blue Area will feature beautifully designed pathways. Electric carts will also be provided for the convenience of the elderly and children. Chairman CDA directed that the Food Street be completed and made operational in the shortest possible time. He also instructed that the Food Street be designed with modern and attractive layouts to ensure it meets international standards.

All transactions at the Food Street will be cashless. The Food Street will be adorned with modern and beautiful lighting. Common seating areas will be constructed, keeping in mind the convenience of visitors. The best arrangements will be made to ensure food is prepared in accordance with health and hygiene standards.

Chairman CDA directed the relevant Wings to expedite work on the Food Street and pedestrian tracks according to the estimated timelines.

The meeting also discussed the cable car project for Islamabad. Chairman CDA instructed that the feasibility report for the cable car be prepared promptly.

Chairman CDA also directed the initiation of work to introduce a zip line in Islamabad. During the meeting, instructions were given to take all necessary steps to make the Art and Craft Village operational.

Chairman CDA stated that work should be carried out on projects such as the Safari Park and the establishment of a Cultural Center to promote tourism in Islamabad. He directed that feasibility reports for all tourism ana recreational projects be prepared and work commenced at the earliest.

Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa emphasized that these initiatives and projects will not only provide the best facilities for citizens but will also position Islamabad as a significant hub for tourism and recreational activities. He instructed all officers to intensify their efforts to complete these projects on time.

The CDA administration is committed to the betterment of citizens and the development of the city. Efforts are underway to make Islamabad a modern and attractive city through the Food Street and other recreational projects and initiatives.

ISLAMABAD, MAR 11 /DNA/ – The Centre for Strategic Perspectives (CSP) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), organized a round table discussion titled “Accelerate Action: Strategic Imperatives for Advancing Gender Equality” to commemorate International Women’s Day 2025. The keynote speaker at the event was Dr. Najeeba Arif, Chairperson, Pakistan Academy of Letters. Foreign Secretary Ambassador Amna Baloch participated through a special video message for the occasion. 

In his welcome remarks, DG ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood highlighted both the progress and challenges in advancing gender equality. Citing UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, he acknowledged that while women and girls have broken barriers and defied stereotypes, their rights remain under attack due to violence, discrimination, economic inequality, and emerging threats like algorithmic bias. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s historical commitment to women’s empowerment, inspired by Quaid-e-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah’s vision, and recognized the contributions of trailblazers like Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah, Raa’na Liaquat Ali Khan, and Begum Shaista Ikramullah. Pakistan has achieved significant milestones, including electing the first female Prime Minister in the Islamic world and appointing women to key positions in diplomacy, government, judiciary, and international organizations. Ambassador Sohail Mahmood highlighted the gaps and deficits in the way of gender parity in Pakistan and worldwide and stressed the need for accelerated action to bridge the gaps. He also underscored the importance of the government, Parliament, civil society, media, academia and think-tanks working synergistically and stated that the ISSI would continue to serve as a platform ensuring that women’s voices are heard and their rights are protected. 

In her message, Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch underscored the vital role of Pakistani women in global peace and cooperation, noting that over 500 Pakistani women peacekeepers have served in UN missions. She also recognized the achievements of women entrepreneurs and artists who continue to inspire. However, she acknowledged persistent challenges, often compounded by economic instability, climate change, and conflict, with women in occupied Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine facing severe hardships and human rights violations. She emphasized the need for urgent action, calling for the enactment and enforcement of laws protecting women’s rights, increased women’s leadership representation, bridging the gender pay gap, and ensuring access to quality education. She reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to equality, justice, and empowerment for all.

In her keynote address, Dr. Najeeba Arif emphasized that gender equality is an urgent necessity requiring thoughtful action. However, equality should not be mistaken for uniformity. Rather than expecting women to conform to traditionally male-defined roles, their distinct contributions across all spheres must be valued. She stressed that a nuanced approach must recognize the economic and social worth of women’s work, both within and beyond the household. Institutional recognition and fair compensation for domestic labor can empower women and shift societal perceptions. Future strategies should critically assess norms to avoid reinforcing outdated models. A stable family unit is vital for nurturing well-rounded individuals and fostering social cohesion. Drawing from welfare states that support full-time caregivers, policies must adopt a balanced approach that values diversity while promoting equitable opportunities for all.

Dr. Salma Malik, Professor at QAU, emphasized that while Pakistan has robust legal frameworks for women’s protection, their implementation remains weak, often turning the justice-seeking process into an ordeal due to societal stigma. Deep-rooted stereotypes further marginalize women, discouraging them from asserting their rights. She underscored the need for gender equity as a foundation for gender equality and highlighted the lack of structured mentorship as a major barrier to women’s professional growth and leadership. Similarly, Mr. Rashid Chaudhary, National Coordinator FAFEN, highlighted the limitations of a tokenistic approach to women’s political representation, stressing the need for genuine empowerment. He pointed out that electoral politics remains a patriarchal space, where systemic and cultural barriers limit women’s participation at all levels.

Reem Sharif, Deputy Director at the Transgender Protection Centre, called for informed discourse on gender diversity, emphasizing that gender is not binary. While Pakistan’s 2018 transgender rights law was a milestone, significant gaps remain in ensuring full social and economic inclusion. Ms. Alishba Khan, Member of ACCA’s ESG & Climate Action Committee, stressed the importance of strategic investments in education, economic opportunities, and legal protections to dismantle systemic barriers. Ms. Kosar Bano, a Gender Expert hailing from Gilgit-Baltistan, highlighted the stark gender disparities in mountainous regions, where women face extreme hardships, including limited access to clean water and education. She warned that AI-driven changes and external influences are disrupting traditional roles, further marginalizing women in these remote areas.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Neelum Nigar, Director Centre for Strategic Perspectives (CSP), who also moderated the deliberations.