ISLAMABAD, JAN 14: The federal cabinet approved on Tuesday revised agreements with 14 the independent power producers (IPPs) to ensure significant economic relief.

The adjustments included a deduction of Rs35billion from prior excessive profits, yielding a total benefit of Rs140billion to the country.

PM Shehbaz stated, “The revised agreements with the IPPs will play a pivotal role in eliminating circular debt, ensuring financial stability within the energy sector.”

In addition to the IPP agreements, the cabinet endorsed the merger of the Anti-Narcotics Division into the Ministry of Interior and the Aviation Division into the Ministry of Defence.

The cabinet further approved the submission of the National Commission for Minorities Act 2024.

Meanwhile, the amendments to the Public Procurement Rules 2004 were also sanctioned, including the insertion of a new Section 45-A to streamline regulatory procedures.

ISLAMABAD, JAN 14 (DNA) — Capital Development Authority (CDA) conducted a successful e-balloting process for the allotment of 236 residential plots in Sector C-14, a prime location nestled at the foothills of the Margalla Hills.

The process, held under the direct supervision of Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa, was lauded for its transparency and efficiency. The e-balloting was conducted with the technical assistance of the National Database and Registration Authority to ensure openness and fairness on Tuesday.

Seed numbers were randomly collected from the participants attending the event to maintain integrity in the selection process. Overseas Pakistanis were given the first right of preference for the plots in Sector C-14.

In case, successful applicants fail to pay their dues by the stipulated deadline, the plots will be allotted to citizens on a waiting list formed during the balloting. The CDA received an overwhelming response, with over 1,700 applications submitted for the limited plots.

Sector C-14, touted as the future “E-7” of Islamabad, is a highly sought-after residential area due to its prime location and the promise of all modern civic amenities. The CDA assured applicants that the development work in the sector is progressing rapidly, with 24/7 efforts underway to ensure timely completion.

The list of successful candidates has been made available on the CDA’s official website and social media platforms, ensuring accessibility for all participants.  Chairman Randhawa extended his gratitude to the applicants for their trust in the CDA and congratulated the successful candidates.

In light of the growing interest in Sector C-14, Chairman Randhawa announced plans to launch new residential sectors and accelerate development in previously launched sectors.  He reaffirmed CDA’s commitment to providing timely possession of plots and enhancing the city’s infrastructure.

“We are dedicated to making Islamabad a more beautiful and sustainable city. I urge all citizens to join hands with us in this mission,” Chairman Randhawa said. Sector C-14 continues to attract attention as a prime residential location, and the CDA’s commitment to transparent processes and rapid development work has further solidified public trust in its initiatives. —DNA

RAWALPINDI, JAN 14 /DNA/ – Lieutenant General S M Kamr-ul-Hassan, Principal Staff Officer (PSO) of the Armed Forces Division of Bangladesh, is visiting Pakistan and met with General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff (COAS), at the General Headquarters (GHQ) Rawalpindi.

During their meeting, both held extensive discussions on the evolving security dynamics in the region and explored further avenues for enhancing bilateral military cooperation. The COAS and the PSO underscored the importance of a stronger defence relationship, emphasizing that the enduring partnership between the two brotherly nations must remain resilient against external influences.

COAS reiterated the significance of joint efforts to promote peace and stability in South Asia and the broader region, while ensuring that both nations continue to contribute to regional security through collaborative defence initiatives.

Lieutenant General Kamr-ul-Hassan commended the exceptional professionalism of the Pakistan Army and acknowledged the immense sacrifices made by the armed forces in their relentless fight against terrorism, noting that their efforts serve as a beacon of courage and determination.

RAWALPINDI, JAN 14 /DNA/ – Lieutenant General S M Kamr-ul-Hassan, Principal Staff Officer (PSO) of the Armed Forces Division of Bangladesh, along with his delegation, is visiting Pakistan. Today he held a detailed meeting with General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, NI (M), Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), at the Joint Staff Headquarters (JSHQ).

The discussions focused on matters of mutual strategic interest and explored avenues for enhancing bilateral defence cooperation between the two nations. Both sides emphasized the importance of strengthening military ties and reaffirmed their commitment to insulating this partnership from any external disruptions.

General Mirza and Lieutenant General Kamr-ul-Hassan agreed on the critical need for continued collaboration in promoting regional peace, security, and stability. The CJCSC reiterated that both countries share a common vision for a secure and prosperous future, underpinned by robust defence cooperation.

Lieutenant General Kamr-ul-Hassan lauded the professionalism of the Pakistan Armed Forces and expressed deep admiration for their sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, recognizing the resilience and dedication displayed by the forces.

DNA

ISLAMABAD, JAN 14: The newly commissioned Pakistan Navy Ship YAMAMA, during maiden voyage from Romania to Pakistan, visited Golcuk and Aksaz Naval Bases Turkiye and participated  in Turkish Navy Exercise MAVI VATAN-2025. Earlier, upon arrival, the ship was received by representatives of Turkish Naval Forces along with Naval Attaché of Pakistan.

PNS YAMAMA’s visit to Turkiye was aimed at strengthening brotherly relations and reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to foster wide-ranging bilateral relations and defence ties with Turkiye. In same context, during the visit, a number of professional and social activities such as leadership engagements, visits to Turkish Naval facilities, professional interactions and discourse on professional subjects of mutual interests were conducted. Deputy Commander Turkish Naval Fleet, Vice Admiral Ibrahim Ozden Kocer also visited PNS YAMAMA and received a detailed brief on Ship’s capabilities.

Besides port calls, PNS YAMAMA participated in Turkish Navy Exercise MAVI VATAN-2025. PNS YAMAMA was the only foreign participating unit other than Turkish Naval Ships. The participation of PNS YAMAMA underscores strong bond forged by years of collaboration, brotherhood and mutual respect between Turkish Navy and Pakistan Navy.

PNS YAMAMA is the last of four Offshore Patrol Vessels built for Pakistan Navy by DAMEN Shipyards, Galati, Romania. These versatile, high-tech, and state-of-the-art platforms are designed to operate in contested maritime environments and are equipped to project deterrence across all domains of warfare.

ISLAMABAD, JAN 14 /DNA/ – The Centre for Afghanistan Middle East and Africa (CAMEA) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), in collaboration with the Middle East Monitor (MEMO), hosted a webinar titled, “How are the Dynamics in Palestine Impacting the International and Regional System.” The webinar was moderated by Ms. Amina Khan, Director CAMEA. The speakers at the webinar included Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General ISSI; Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman BoG, ISSI; Dr. Daud Abdullah, Director Middle East Monitor (MEMO); Dr. Afaf Jabiri, Co-Director of the Centre for Social Justice and Change at the University of East London, UK; Dr. Daud Abdullah , Director Middle East Monitor (MEMO); Dr. Moatmer Amin, Department of Political Science, University of Cairo, Egypt; Dr. Jafar Haghpanah, Research Assistant at University of Tehran; Ambassador Mthuthuzeli Madikiza, Former South African Ambassador to Pakistan, and Dr. Ahmet Köroğlu, Distinguished faculty member, Department of Political Science and International Relations, Istanbul University.
DG ISSI Ambassador Sohail Mahmood highlighted the roots of the Palestinian issue in seven decades of illegal occupation, brutal repression, and denial of self-determination. He echoed UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres’ opinion, stressing that the events of 7 October 2023 did not happen in a vacuum and reflected a long history of marginalization and dispossession. He noted that the current dynamics in Palestine were having a profound impact on the international system, as reflected in: (i) contemptuous disrespect of international law, principles of UN Charter, and basic norms of state behaviour; (ii) virtual impunity for the perpetrator despite conducting a genocide; (iii) inability of the UN Security Council to act in the face of the most grievous danger to world peace and an existential threat to the Palestinian people; and (iv) uncertainties in the wake of the incoming Trump Administration with its commitment to Abraham Accords and a new regional security architecture. While noting global support for Palestine — from the Western street to the Global South to like-minded major powers — he urged decisive action from the Arab League, OIC, and the international community. He called for an urgent ceasefire, safe and sustained provision of humanitarian assistance, and start of negotiations for Palestinian statehood, emphasizing that for peace in the Middle East justice for the Palestinians was indispensable.
Ms. Amina Khan highlighted the Palestinian refugee crisis caused by Israel’s systematic occupation since 1948. She condemned the ongoing genocide in Gaza, which has displaced millions and questioned refugees’ right of return, while commending Palestinians’ resilience against oppression. Calling for urgent action, she emphasized their rightful return to an independent homeland with Jerusalem as its capital, noting pivotal legal developments like South Africa’s ICJ initiative and the ICC’s arrest warrant for Israeli leadership.
Dr. Afaf Jabiri highlighted the events of October 7, 2023 as a continuation of the ‘Nakba’, reflecting systemic denial of Palestinian freedom and growing global recognition of their struggle. Critiquing U.S. imperialistic policies, she warned of rising Arab public outrage and emphasized that power now lies with the people to drive change.

Dr. Daud Abdullah noted the re-emergence of the Palestinian issue, previously overshadowed by global focus on Ukraine, and emphasized the need for stronger law enforcement. He highlighted the growing debate on suspending Israel’s UN membership, predicting increased isolation for Israel and renewed momentum for the Palestinian cause.

Dr. Moatmer Amin analyzed the shifting dynamics in Palestine and their broader implications for regional and global systems, particularly against the backdrop of Donald Trump’s upcoming second inauguration. He noted that the Gaza War transcends the Israel-Hamas confrontation, reflecting deeper internal divisions within Palestine, such as those between Hamas and Fatah, and within Israel, including tensions among right-wing factions, leftists, and Haredim.

Dr. Jafar Haghpanah highlighted the impact of the Palestine conflict on recent events in Syria, emphasizing how shared challenges like fragile governance, foreign intervention, and the role of non-state actors link Syria’s crisis to the broader regional instability. He noted Syria’s position in the Levant, close to Palestine, makes it a critical flashpoint where extremist groups like Daesh exploit instability to reorganize and expand.

Ambassador Mthuthuzeli Madikiza emphasized that peace depends on upholding human rights and safety. He noted how the Palestinian struggle has amplified their voice globally, shifting UN dynamics and uniting Middle Eastern nations. While hopeful for the future, he warned of challenges ahead ,before calm can prevail.
Dr. Ahmet Köroğlu highlighted the Gaza Tribunal Initiative’s role in amplifying victims’ voices and shaping global opinion on injustices in Gaza. Despite its non-binding judgments, he emphasized its moral significance in promoting dialogue and advancing peace efforts.

During his concluding remarks, Ambassador Khalid Mahmood highlighted global crises, including conflicts, terrorism, Islamophobia, and power rivalries. He described Gaza’s atrocities as genocide, criticized Western complicity, and called the Arab world’s response inadequate. Citing global support for Palestine, he expressed concern over the region’s bleak outlook under the incoming Trump administration. He concluded by asserting that, ultimately, the Palestinians will be able to realize their inalienable rights to self-determination.

                ISLAMABAD, Jan 14 (APP): Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has commended the security forces for their two successful intelligence-based operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The operations resulted in the elimination of eight Khawarji terrorists, marking a significant success.

Interior Minister praised the security forces for thwarting the terrorists’ nefarious plans, saying that the brave security forces have neutralized the threats and deserve appreciation.

He also acknowledged that the nation stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the security forces and salutes their sacrifices.

He emphasized that khwarji terrorists will be completed eliminated with the nation’s support.

ISLAMABAD, Jan 14 (APP/DNA): Counsel for the Ministry of Defense Advocate Khwaja Haris has argued before the Supreme Court that whoever disrupt the military discipline will be tried in military courts and conspirator and mastermind of the event would also be tried under Army Act.

Khwaja Haris continued his arguments before the seven-member Constitutional Bench of the Supreme Court headed by Justice Amin ud Din Khan and comprising Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhial, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi, Justice Musarrat Hilali, Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan and Justice Shahid Bilal Hasan.

Justice Hasan Ali Azhar questioned the lawyer that how the protester on May 9 entered into the house of the Corps Commander without weapons? Were they interrupted by anyone? Any legal action against someone for letting the protesters enter into such a protected place?

Response of the Counsel for the Ministry of Defense was in negative to questions regarding involvement and legal action.

Justice Musarrat Hilali remarked that what if there is a quarrel between a civilian and a soldier on a check post?

‘There is a difference between interrupting discipline and disagreements, responded Khwaja Haris.

Justice Jamal observed that it seems that the counsel depends on the case of FB Ali while both military men and civilian were accused in that case.

Addressing the Counsel, Justice Mandokhail said you are expending the jurisdiction of the military court to an extent where anyone can be tried under Army Act.

Khwaja Haris referred to the case of Khwaja Liaquat Hussain, in which a civilian was tried by a military court.

Despite the Court desire that the Counsel for the Ministry of Defense should conclude his arguments by today, the proceeding was adjourned for tomorrow and Khwaja Haris will continue his arguments.