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ISLAMABAD: In a recent development regarding solar net metering, Federal Minister for Energy clarified that discussions with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a 'new bailout program' did not involve the termination of the solar net metering, ARY News reported on Tuesday.During his speech in the senate, the Federal Minister for Energy Awais Leghari, stated that the solar net metering was initiated during the tenure of former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, with more than 100 percent increase in the net metering during the last two years.Despite government efforts to address Pakistan's mounting credit with the IMF, Leghari emphasized that the termination of solar net metering was not brought up, as the Pakistani government is not currently in a position to make such demands to the IMF.The Energy Minister further stated that 1500 MW of electricity is currently being generated from private solar systems. He underscored the decreasing prices of solar systems in the international market, expressing that the investors shouldn’t discourage to invest in solar systems.Expressing optimism, he announced his plans to bring reforms in the power distribution companies, along with the energy sector in the next five years to prevent the escalation of revolving debt within the sector.READ: Govt hints at revising solar net metering policyPrior to the energy minister statement, the Senator of Pakistan Peoples’ Party (PPP) Quratulain highlighted that the financially burdened citizens are not afford electricity or solar due to the anti-people policies of the ruling government.Earlier to this, the federal government has announced to revise Pakistan’s solar net metering policy, emphasising reduction of losses in the power sector.Addressing a press conference, Federal Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmad Leghari pointed out that the country was facing an issue of solar net metering these days.“Initially, citizens installing solar systems would recover their investment in three years, but now they are recovering their investment in just one to one and a half years,” he said.The minister said that the PML-N-led government had encouraged solarisation in 2017 and currently, 113,000 connections were present on net meters.Awais Leghari clarified that while the government is willing to review the solar net metering policy if needed, it supports the continuation of the scheme. “We will also take effective steps to eliminate the menace of power theft to reduce the financial burden on the national exchequer,” he added.

ISLAMABAD: In a new round of talks between Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam, former Speaker National Assembly Asad Qaiser held a meeting with Maulana Fazlur Rehman and once again invited him to join the joint opposition alliance, ARY News reported.The sources privy to the development said that Asad Qaiser met Maulana Fazlur Rehman on special directives of PTI founder Imran Khan. The meeting was kept off the record.The sources said that during the meeting, Asad Qaiser once again extended an invitation to Maulana Fazlur Rehman to join the ranks of the Tehreek-e-Tahafuz-e-Ayeen-e-Pakistan.The PTI and JUI-F decided to continue talks as another meeting between leaders of the Imran Khan-founded party and Maulana Fazlur Rehman is scheduled for the next 3-4 days.The sources privy to the development said the meeting will be held at Maulana Fazlur Rehman's residence, where they will discuss possibility of launching a joint movement against the government“The PTI and JUI-F have already agreed on various proposals and strategies to launch an anti-government movement under the banner of the joint opposition alliance or any new platform,” the sources said.Read More:Fazlur Rehman in favour of consensus between JUI-F, PTIEarlier, Maulana Fazlur Rehman said that it would be ‘fortunate’ if his party and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) develop a consensus.In an interview with a private news channel, Maulana Fazlur Rehman said that there were big ‘mountain-sized’ differences between the two parties. “PTI’s delegation has come to us and as per our tradition, we have welcomed them,” Maulana Fazalur Rehman added.The JUI-F chief said that if their issues with the PTI get resolved, it would be good. “If not, every political party has its stance and opinion,” he said.Maulana Fazalur Rehman said that PTI’s delegation had suggested resolving some issues, and both parties agreed to do so.He said one or two people from PTI come up with ‘inappropriate’ statements against the JUI-F, adding that they don’t take those statements seriously.

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday directed the authorities concerned to take practical steps on priority basis to increase Pakistan’s IT exports.The prime minister issued the directives while chairing a review meeting of Ministry of Information Technology (IT) and Telecommunications here today.“Pakistan has a lot of potential in the field of information technology, which needs to be fully exploited,” he said, adding that tech industry can support the government in stabilising the economy.PM Shehbaz appreciated the role played by Pakistani entrepreneurs in promotion and development of the IT sector.The Prime Minister directed to take appropriate measures to improve the quality of 4G services in the country.He also directed the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) to ensure that IT exporters should not face any obstacle from the banks in the debit card and foreign currency issues.The Prime Minister directed that Higher Education Commission, universities and training institutes should work on priority basis to increase the number of IT professionals in the country by aligning the IT curriculum with the latest demands of the industry.Shehbaz Sharif said there should be enhanced coordination between the government and IT industry for solving its problems and private sector should be consulted for the promotion of start-ups and provision of facilities to them.The Prime Minister directed to form a special committee to evaluate the performance of the National Information Technology Board.The meeting was given a detailed briefing by the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications on the action plan for development of IT sector.The meeting was informed that by 2029, Pakistan's IT exports are targeted to reach 25 billion dollars, while the tech services and captive IT business will be expanded to surpass this target.The meeting was informed that Pakistan Digital Commission is being established and necessary legislation is being made in this regard.The meeting was informed that automation of government-to-government, government-to-business transactions will bring innovation in health, education, agriculture and other sectors.Under the Pakistan Digital Nation project, government affairs and economy will be digitised.The meeting was informed that the target of training 15 lakh people in the IT sector has been set for the next five years while international certifications for IT professionals will be ensured through public private partnership.The meeting was informed that three IT parks and 250 e-employment centers will be established in the coming years.The Ministry of Information Technology and telecommunications presented long-term, medium-term and short-term proposals regarding the development and promotion of the telecommunications sector.

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar reached Kyrgyzstan to meet Pakistani students in Bishkek, ARY News reported quoting sources.The deputy prime minister will also visit Iran to attend the funerals of President Ebrahim Raisi. As per Ishaq Dar’s schedule, he will reach Kazakhstan on an official visit first before heading to Kyrgyzstan.The foreign minister will then visit Kyrgyzstan to meet Pakistani students and review arrangements for their return to Pakistan or other assistance required.Earlier, Ishaq Dar's visit to Kyrgyzstan had been postponed. According to sources, Ishaq Dar will travel to Iran to attend the funeral prayer of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi.It is pertinent to mention here that Pakistan has repatriated 347 more citizens from Kyrgyzstan after violence broke out in Bishkek.Flight no ANK-4575 landed at Islamabad International Airport from Bishkek on Tuesday early morning, while Pakistan International Airlines’ flight PK-6252 with 167 students also landed at Islamabad airport.Collectively, 347 Pakistani students were repatriated from Bishkek after violence. Pakistan has so far, airlifted 810 students via five flights.Pakistan announced to airlift of the stranded Pakistani students from Bishkek after reports of violence emerged.On Monday,a special plane, carrying Pakistani students, reached Islamabadfrom Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan Engineer Amir Muqam welcomed the Pakistani students at Islamabad airport.

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to leave for Iran tomorrow to attend the funeral prayers of Iranian President Ibrahim Raisi, ARY News reported on Tuesday, citing sources.The President of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi who lost his life in an unfortunate helicopter crash, will be buried in Mashhad on Thursday evening, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei set to lead the funeral prayer.A high-level delegation from Pakistan will accompany the Prime Minister on this visit, paying homage to the late President and participating in a ceremony to honor the martyrs on Wednesday.Helicopter Crash:Hopes are fading that Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his foreign minister have survived a helicopter crash in mountainous terrain and icy weather, an Iranian official said on Monday after search teams located the wreckage.“President Raisi’s helicopter was completely burned in the crash … unfortunately, all passengers are feared dead,” the official told Reuters.Rescue teams fought blizzards and difficult terrain through the night to reach the wreckage in East Azerbaijan province in the early hours of Monday.“We can see the wreckage and the situation does not look good,” the head of Iran’s Red Crescent, Pirhossein Kolivand, told state TV.Ebrahim Raisi, opens a new tab, 63, was elected president in 2021, and since taking office has ordered a tightening of morality laws, overseen a bloody crackdown on anti-government protests, and pushed hard in nuclear talks with world powers.A Turkish drone identified a source of heat suspected to be the helicopter’s wreckage and had shared the coordinates of the possible crash site with Iranian authorities, Anadolu news agency said earlier on X.State news agency IRNA said Raisi was flying in a U.S.-made Bell 212 helicopter.

ISLAMABAD: A bill has been submitted to the National Assembly Secretariat, proposing a ban on dual nationals from being appointed as judges in the higher judiciary, ARY News reported.The bill submitted by Jamiat Ulema-e-Pakistan MNA Noor Alam Khan suggested amendments to Articles 177, 193, and 208 of the Constitution 1973.As per the drafted bill, no person holding dual nationality or citizenship of another country can be appointed as a judge in the Supreme Court or High Courts.The National Assembly was also proposed through the bill to bar dual nationals from being appointed even as employees at any of the courts.“Those having dual nationality or citizenship of another country should not be appointed to any court,” the bill demanded.Noor Alam Khan, the mover of the bill, maintained that the proposed legislation is aimed at ‘ensuring’ the loyalty of judges to the state, as per the Constitution.Earlier on May 3,Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar opened up a ‘proposal’ to extend the tenure of Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa.The law minister in a statement said that proposals are being circulated related to the tenure of the Chief Justice of Pakistan. “I will not vehemently turn down the proposals related to the tenure of the Chief Justice,” he added.Azam Nazeer Tarar said that the parliamentary committee’s role in judges’ appointments is nothing more than a ‘rubber stamp’. He said that after the 19th constitutional amendment, the parliamentary committee’s role in judges’ appointments has become like a rubber stamp.Read More:Govt mulls extending Chief Justice’s tenureIt is pertinent to mention here that the federal government is ‘considering’ to consolidate the tenure of Chief Justice of Pakistan for three years as CJP Qazi Faez Isa is set to retire on Oct 25, 2024.Sources told ARY News that the government would introduce amendments in the Constitution if a firm decision is taken to consolidate Chief Justice of Pakistan’s tenure for three years.Sources added that a committee, constituted in this regard, has started preparations for the constitutional amendment. A decision in this regard will be made following the Seante elections.According to the Constitution, the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) and each of the other Judges of the Supreme Court shall be appointment by the President in accordance with Article 175A.

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) on Tuesday refrained news channels from airing material about ‘ongoing court cases’ until a final verdict is announced, ARY News reported.In a statement, the media regulatory authority imposed ban on news regarding subjudice cases and directed the channels to only air information that is in the public interest.PEMRA also directed the media outlets to avoid expressing their ‘opinions on subjudice cases’. It also warned against discussing ongoing court cases in TV programmes in a way that could ‘influence’ investigations or the trial.The regulatory body has emphasised that only information that is deemed necessary for the public will be allowed to be disseminated through media channels.

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday ordered the incumbent government to recover missing Kashmiri poet and journalist Ahmed Farhad Shah by Friday, ARY News reported.Ahmed Farhad was allegedly abducted from his home last week. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan had called on the authorities for his immediate release.On May 15, his wife filed a petition in IHC, requesting that he be found and produced before the court and to identify, investigate and prosecute those responsible for his disappearance.The hearing, conducted by IHC Judge Mohsin Akhtar Kayani, was attended by Secretary Interior, IGP Islamabad, Attorney General for Pakistan (AGP) Mansoor Usman, and representatives of Defence Ministry.AGP Mansoor Usman assured the IHC judge of Farhad's rescue and recovery. "We will do whatever it takes. We will rescue and recover the missing poet," the AGP said while addressing the IHC judge.Justice Kayani, while addressing the Attorney General, said, "You have to ensure that no one is picked up from Islamabad. If anyone is picked up, it will be a failure of the state.""If the government is serious about recovering Ahmed Farhad, it should take concrete steps. The court will not interfere in the matter, but it expects the government to fulfill its responsibilities," he stated.Meanwhile, the petitioner's lawyer, Iman Mazari, asked the AGP to share the progress on recovery made in the last six days. "If the agencies don't have him [Farhad] then he can be traced at least," she argued.The court has summoned the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Interior to appear before it on the next hearing.The case has been adjourned until Friday, and the court has directed the Attorney General to ensure the recovery of Ahmad Farhad by Friday.Monday’s hearingIn the last hearing, IHC’s Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani warned of summoning Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif and cabinet members, besides seeking a report based on Sector Commander’s statement in the ‘abduction case’ of Ahmed Farhad Shah.A representative of the Ministry of Defence told the court: “Shah is not under Inter-Services Intelligence’s (ISI) custody.”At this, Justice Kayani remarked: “Now the matter has gone beyond the jurisdiction of the ISI and the Military Intelligence (MI).” The court expressed its dissatisfaction with the progress in the case, with Justice Kayani remarking, “Someone is lying, but the facts are clear.”The judge directed the Secretary of Defense to submit a report tomorrow and also summoned him and the Secretary of Interior to appear before it in person.Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani also said that he would also summon Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif and the cabinet members in the case later. He questioned whether spy agencies would run the country or the law.Meanwhile, an additional attorney general apprised the court that a first information report (FIR) had been lodged and the police were carrying out investigations. At this, the judge said lodging an FIR was police’s duty not a favour.

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday heard appeals filed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, and former Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi against convictions in a cipher case, ARY News reported.A two-member IHC bench comprising Chief Justice Aamer Farooq and Justice Mian Gul Hassan Aurangzebresumed the hearing during which the prosecution informed the court that the cipher being a confidential document was not produced in the trial court.“Which information of the cipher was distorted? The PTI founder maintained that the cipher reads if he is not removed (as the prime minister), the consequences will have to be borne. Are you saying that what the PTI founder said was right? Justice Gul Hasan Aurangzeb asked the prosecutor.“Yes, the PTI founder is admitting it,” FIA special prosecutor Hamid Ali Shah replied.Chief Justice Aamer Farooq remarked that in a criminal case, the prosecution has to prove its case. “Even if the accused confesses the offence, the prosecution still has to prove it,” he added.“The confession from the accused does not mean that the prosecution is discharged (from proving its claims). We have been tired of repeatedly asking what was in that sealed envelope. The cipher may consist of 100 pages or even one paragraph. We (IHC) do not know, the trial court does not know even the prosecution does not know (about the cipher’s text),” Chief Justice Amir Farooq.The FIA prosecutor said the cipher was not produced in the trial court as it was a confidential document. At this Justice Gul Hasan Aurangzeb remarked that the documents could have been presented by taking irrelevant persons out of the courtroom.“Are secret documents not supposed to be produced before the court? Did the head of an institution prohibit the prosecution from presenting it?” Chief Justice Amir Farooq asked.The FIA special prosecutor told the court that the PTI founder also read out the Cipher’s text before representatives of international media organisations.Later, the hearing was adjourned to Wednesday.Cipher caseOn January 30, a special court hearing cipher case handed a 10-year jail term, each, to former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi.Both the PTI leaders were accused of conspiracy to misuse the contents of the cipher to fulfill nefarious purposes.The court in its verdict said the prosecution had enough evidence to prove the charges against the former prime minister and ex-foreign minister.The first information report (FIR) was registered on August 15 under theOfficial Secrets Act. It was registered on the complaint of the Home Secretary.Related:PTI founder files pleas against Toshakhana, Cipher case convictions againFormer prime minister Imran Khan and former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi were nominated in the report, while names of former principal secretary Azam Khan and former planning minister Asad Umar were also mentioned.The FIR stated that the former prime minister and foreign minister distorted the facts of the diplomatic cipher. “A conspiracy was launched to misuse the contents of the cipher to fulfill nefarious purposes”, it added. It further stated that former premier and top diplomat endangered the state interests.The report claimed that former prime minister asked Azam Khan – the then principal secretary – to “manipulate the contents of cipher”. “The former premier deliberately kept the copy of diplomatic cipher, which was sent to the PM office”, it added.

ISLAMABAD: The CCTV footage of the knife attack on Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Central Information Secretary, Raoof Hasan emerged on Tuesday.In the CCTV footage – which is available with ARY News, Raoof Hasan can be seen leaving the premises of a private news channel after he finished recording a segment.Four individuals – who were apparently transgender persons – launched the assault. The assailants used a sharp blade to target the PTI leader, inflicting injuries on his face.Meanwhile, the bystanders immediately intervened and tried to stop the individuals from beating the PTI leader. Following the attack, the perpetrators managed to flee the scene.[video width="478" height="850" mp4="https://arynews.tv/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Raoof-Hasan.mp4"][/video]Hasan has been transferred to a hospital for medical treatment.In another video - supposedly captured with a smartphone, the individuals can be seen attacking the Raoof Hasan in the parking lot.[video width="478" height="850" mp4="https://arynews.tv/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Raoof-Hasan-3.mp4"][/video]In response to the assault, PTI senators staged a walkout from the Senate session today, protesting the attack on their party's spokesperson.Senator Shibli Faraz, Opposition Leader in Upper House of Parliament, condemned the attack on Hasan, saying, "Unknown individuals have attacked our party's spokesperson. We demand a response from the Interior Minister in the Senate."The PTI senators walked out of the session, demanding action against those responsible for the attack.PTI Senator Shibli Faraz raised the incident in the Upper House, calling the incident “unacceptable.” “The spokesperson for the largest party of Pakistan has been attacked. This is shameful and unacceptable,” he added.Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar responded, stating, "The opposition leader has just shared this matter. Who attacked, where the attack occurred – these issues will be examined as per law. Raoof Hasan should file a report, and action will be taken according to the law."He also assured that he would inform the house after obtaining a report from the IG Islamabad or the relevant officials.

KARACHI: As many as four cases of heat stroke have been reported in Karachi's Jinnah Hospital, ARY News reported on Tuesday.In response to the extreme heatwave gripping Karachi, a 20-bed isolation ward has been established in the emergency department of Jinnah Hospital.Medical officers have reported a rise in citizens affected by the severe heat, underscoring the need for immediate medical attention and precautions to prevent further cases.A day earlier, the Pakistan Disaster Management Authority (PMDA) issued a heatwave alert for Punjab.According to details, the PDMA has warned of a week-long heatstroke in the province of Punjab (May 21 to 27) and has advised people to avoid going out in the afternoon needlessly.Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Multan can face severe heatwave, the PDMA alert said and directed the administration to set up heatwave counters at the hospitals.The administration has been directed to ensure the availability of the medicines necessary for treating heatwave patients.Different areas of Punjab are expected to have scorching temperatures up to 46 degrees centigrade in the coming week.Parts of the country are facing scorching hot temperatures.

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif said that Pakistan values its longstanding relation with Germany and considers the latter as its major partner in Europe.Speaking to a delegation of German businessmen led by Chairman Board of Directors of a German NGO Global Bridges Hans Elbert, PM Shehbaz also invited German investors to take benefit of investment opportunities in Pakistan.The prime minister said that Pakistan offers vast investment opportunities, expressing the desire to further expand bilateral trade and investment between Pakistan and Germany.PM Shehbaz said that Pakistan is committed to increase cooperation with Germany in different sectors including industry, alternative energy, minerals, IT, agriculture.He said despite Pakistan's very low carbon emissions, it is among the countries, most vulnerable to climate change. He said that Pakistan wants to benefit from Germany's experience in alternative energy, climate change, agriculture and food security.He said skills and capacity of Pakistani workforce are being enhanced through quality training so they can meet international standards abroad.The delegation expressed keen interest in investing in Pakistan's carbon credit market, climate change and agriculture sectors.PM Shehbaz on the occasion spoke in German language with the delegation was well applauded by them. Ambassador of Germany to Pakistan Alfred Grannas was also present on the occasion.

ISLAMABAD: After the successful launch of iCube Qamar, Pakistan announced to launch multi-mission communication satellite PakSAT-MM1R on May 30 in collaboration with China, terming it a hallmark of cooperation between the two friendly countries.The announcement was made by the national space agency, the Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco). According to the spokesman, PakSAT-MM1R would be launched from China's Xichang Satellite Launch Centre on May 30.The spokesperson added that the multi-mission communication satellite PakSAT-MM1R is a joint effort of Suparco and the Chinese Aerospace Industry, and is designed to meet the country's communication and connectivity needs.According to Suparco, the satellite will be a major driver of Pakistan's digital transformation and improve socioeconomic conditions. The launching ceremony will be telecasted live from the agency’s offices in Islamabad and Karachi.Read More: iCube Qamar: Pakistan’s satellite sends first image from lunar orbitiCube Qamar, Pakistan’s lunar satellite, has sent the first picture from the orbit after completing three rounds of the moon.The iCube Qamar was launched on board China’s Chang’e-6 from Hainan, China, on May 3.According to the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO), iCube Qamar entered Lunar orbit on May 8.The satellite is equipped with two cameras, which is taking pictures of the moon from a distance of200 kilometers.According to the Institute of Space Technology, the satellite ICUBE-Q has been designed and developed by IST in collaboration with China’s Shanghai University SJTU and Pakistan’s national space agency SUPARCO.Chang’e6 is the sixth in a series of China’s lunar exploration missions.

ISLAMABAD: The federal cabinet on Tuesday expressed its dissatisfaction over a report of an inquiry commission into the Faizabad sit-in, observing that the commission had not adhered to its Terms of Reference (ToR), ARY News reported.Back on November 08, 2017, Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) organized a sit-in at Faizabad interchange against the amendments in the Election Bill 2017, changing the word oath to declaration.The protesters demanded the resignation of then Minister for Law and Justice Zahid Hamid to “protect the identity of the country”.The meeting, which was chaired by Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif, directed to constitute a special committee of the cabinet that would submit its recommendations in this regard.The Attorney General for Pakistan submitted an inquiry report in to the Faizabad sit-in and gave a detailed briefing to the cabinet, stated a statement issued here.The commission probing the 2017 Faizabad sit-in termed it the failure of the then Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) led federal and Punjab governments.Theinquiry commissionin its findings revealed that then Punjab government led by Chief Minister Shehbaz Sharif – incumbent Prime Minister – did not attempt to stop the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) protest in the province.According to the report, the provincial government allowed free movement of the protesters and also provided security to the gathering.Read more:Faizabad dharna commission: Shehbaz Sharif’s statement revealedThe report said that the Punjab government was hesitant to take action against the protesters owing to threats to the lives of PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif, Rana Sanaullah and other government officials.The Punjab government was relieved after the protesters entered Islamabad as the Shehbaz Sharif-led provincial government wanted the centre to deal with the matters related to the Faizabad sit-in.During the meeting, the cabinet also adopted a resolution expressing condolences on the shahadat of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and their companions in a helicopter crash.The meeting also granted its approval to the recommendation of Ministry of Interior for duty and tax exemption on the equipment donated to Balochistan police by Guangdong Public Security Department, China. However, under Federal Excise Tax 2005, the federal excise duty would be imposed on these items.The federal cabinet directed that in future, such like donations and grants would be exempted from taxes.It also approved signing of memorandum of understanding between Pakistan and the United Kingdom with regard to handing over of three accused of Pakistani nationality on the recommendation of the ministry of interior.During the meeting, the National Livestock Breeding Policy, 2022 was presented by the Ministry of National Food Security and Research and the cabinet directed it to resubmit it after holding consultations with the private sector.While on the recommendation of ministry of national food security and research, the cabinet approved in principle the legislation work related to National Animal Health, Welfare and Veterinary Public Health Act 2024. A Cabinet Committee on Legislative would comprehensively look into the matter.The prime minister also directed for formulation of a mechanism under a private-public partnership project for establishing a quality slaughterhouse for Islamabad and its surrounding areas.The cabinet on the recommendation of National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) granted its approval to ex-post facto on the relief goods dispatched to the Palestinians by the NDMA.The meeting was apprised that the government of Pakistan had sent 931 tons of relief goods via six airplanes and two ships.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Central Information Secretary, Raoof Hasan, was injured in a knife attack by unidentified assailants, ARY News reported on Tuesday, quoting police.Sources told ARY News that unidentified assailants – who were apparently transgender persons – attacked PTI spokesperson with knife outside a private news channel office in Islamabad, leaving him injured.Sources told ARY News that the PTI leader was leaving the premises of the private news channel after he finished recording a segment.The assailants used a sharp blade to target the PTI leader, inflicting injuries on his face. Following the attack, the perpetrators managed to flee the scene.“Extremely shameful and deplorable,” PTI said in a statement on X, noting: “Central Information Secretary Raoof Hasan attacked by unknown persons outside the office of a private channel.”The party also shared a video footage, showing Hasan bleeding from the face with anchor Shahid Masood with him.نہایت شرمناک اور قابلِ مذمت!!مرکزی سیکرٹری اطلاعات رؤف حسن پر نجی چینل کے دفتر کے باہر نا معلوم افراد کا حملہ pic.twitter.com/7d0Qrz3tI7— PTI (@PTIofficial) May 21, 2024“Such shameful tactics will not deter Raoof Hasan or the PTI from our cause. Attempts to intimidate or silence us will only strengthen our resolve to fight for a just and equitable society,” the party said.In a statement, the Islamabad police spokesperson confirmed the development and said: “Hasan was attacked on the face with a blade by transgenders according to eyewitnesses”.It added that the police were present on the spot and collecting evidence. “Strict action will be taken against the transgenders who have done this,” it said.PTI stages walkoutSenator Shibli Faraz, Opposition Leader in Upper House of Parliament, raised the incident in the Senate, calling the incident “unacceptable.” “The spokesperson for the largest party of Pakistan has been attacked. This is shameful and unacceptable,” he added.Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar responded, stating, "The opposition leader has just shared this matter. Who attacked, where the attack occurred – these issues will be examined as per law. Raoof Hasan should file a report, and action will be taken according to the law."He also assured that he would inform the house after obtaining a report from the IG Islamabad or the relevant officials.Meanwhile, PTI senators staged a walkout from the Senate session today, protesting the attack on their party's spokesperson anddemanding action against those responsible for the attack.Later, Faraz castigated the treasury benches for not condemning the incident, saying that it was “no small matter” and held great symbolic value.He also called for a complete investigation within 24 hours, demanding the government to table inquiry report in tomorrow’s Senate session as well as a briefing from the interior minister on the culprits and their arrests.

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday emphasised that a durable peace in South Asia was contingent upon a just settlement of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute, in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of Kashmiri people.The prime minister made these remarks while talking to a delegation of Kashmiri Diaspora activists, led by Secretary General, World Kashmir Awareness Forum Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai, here today.PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering moral, diplomatic and political support for Kashmiri people’s struggle for realization of their inalienable right to self-determination.He lauded the Kashmiri activists’ efforts to increase global awareness about the Jammu and Kashmir dispute and the plight of people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).The prime minister recalled that he had never missed any opportunity to raise the voice in support of Kashmiri brothers and sisters, as evident from his address at the 2022 UN General Assembly, as well as at other forums including SCO and with other world leaders.The Kashmiri activists thanked the prime minister for Pakistan’s consistent support to the Kashmir cause. They also apprised him of the latest developments in the region and shared their efforts to highlight the Kashmir freedom struggle in various parts of the world.Kashmir issue remains a flash point between Pakistan and India with Islamabad constantly urging the world to hold a plebiscite on Kashmir.Read More:Kashmir Day: Public holiday announced on Feb 5Recently, theIndian Supreme Court ruled that Article 370which guaranteed special status to Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) was a temporary provision and that the occupied territory was an integral part of the country.The Narendra Modi regime in gross violation of the United Nations resolutions and international law scrapped Articles 370 and 35A of the Indian Constitution that granted special autonomous status to Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and imposed military siege in the territory on 5th August 2019.As a result, the state of more than 12 million people was also split into two federally administered territories.Subsequently, a batch of petitions challenged the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution and a five-judge bench led by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Dhananjaya Yeshwant Chandrachud heard the matter for 16 days and reserved its verdict on September 5.While announcing the reserved verdict, Indian SC held that the occupied territory became an integral part of India “which is evident from Article 1 and 370 of the constitution”.Read more:AJK assembly passes resolution against revocation of Kashmir’s special status In its judgment, which was reserved in September, the top court said the Occupied Kashmir was an integral part of India, which had not attained internal sovereignty after joining the Union (India).

KARACHI: Sindh's Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Tuesday said that his government taking steps for development of tourism sector, ARY News reported.Chairing a session of the SIFC, chief minister said that the government will change Gorakh Hill, Keenjhar Lake and Haleji Lake into the best tourism spots.He also vowed plantation of olive trees at Gorakh hill station to boost the provincial economy. "We are also working over a proposal of construction of Gorakh Expressway from Karachi via Dadu," Murad Ali Shah said.He said the Sindh government intends to promote green tourism along with developing tourism points.He also directed for construction of six-kilometer road from Thatta Carriageway to Haleji Lake. "The construction of road will boost tourism to Haleji Lake.Sindh chief minister also highlighted the need of more steps to improve the desert safari sports.Murad Ali Shah also directed for preparation of the agriculture farm model under the agriculture department for public-private partnership.

ISLAMABAD: The prices of medicines are expected to rise exponentially in Pakistan after the imposition of an sales tax up to 18 per cent, ARY News reported on Tuesday.According to the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination (NHS, R&C) official, the government has proposed an 18 percent sales tax on medicines in the next budget on the recommendation of the International Monetary Fund (IMF)Experts warned that medicine prices will become out of reach for many people with the imposition of 18 pr cent GST. The step will allow pharmaceutical companies to set and sell medicines at prices of their choice, they say.It is pertinent to mention here that the IMF’s recommendation for taxing medicines comes at a time when the previous caretaker government had already deregulated medicine prices.Earlier it emerged that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Pakistan will begin policy-level talks on the bail-out package today.The Fund had asked Pakistani authorities to impose tax on monthly pensions exceeding Rs 100,000.The monetary fund demanded stringent economic measures for new loan program and legislation aimed at taxing wealthy pensioners.READ:IMF asks Pakistan to ‘impose’ tax on monthly pensionsAccording to sources, Pakistan has no alternative plan to the IMF loan program, and the government will need to implement the agreed-upon reforms to secure the loan.Sources said that the new program aims to reduce subsidies from Rs 1,550 billion to Rs 800 billion and limit gas subsidies.Additionally, electricity prices may also increase by 10-12%, and retail businesses will be required to document sales and prevent tax evasion, sources added.

GHOTKI: A local journalist, Nasrullah Gadani sustained serious injuries in gun attack in taluka Mirpur Mathelo of Ghotki district, ARY News reported on Tuesday.The incident took place when Nasrullah Gadani was going from his home to Mirpur Mathelo Press Club. Armed men in a car opened fire at the journalist at Jarwar Road near Deen Shah and fled from the scene.Nasrullah Gadani sustained bullet wounds and was carried to Mirpur Mathelo DHQ hospital for medical attendance. He was later shifted to Gambat Institute of Medical Sciences (GIMS)."The injured journalist has sustained three bullet wounds near the chest and abdomen," hospital sources said. "He has been in a precarious condition".Local journalists staged protest at the National Highway and blocked the road for traffic.

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) Tuesday rejected a plea seeking former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan's disqualification for concealing his alleged daughter Tyrian White, ARY News reported.A larger bench of the Islamabad High Court headed by Justice Tariq Mahmood Jahangiri rejected the plea seeking the PTI founder's disqualification in Tyrian White case.Muhammad Sajid, a citizen of Islamabad, last year, had filed a plea seeking Khan’s disqualification.The plaintiff in his plea stated that former prime minister Khan used to deny his ‘daughter’Tyrian White.It was said in the petition that the former prime minister knows that there is evidence against him, Khan cannot hold the position of public office or party chief, Imran Khan should be disqualified under Article 621F.Read more: IHC reserves verdict on admissibility of Tyrian White caseThe case was apparently shelved since May 2023, when the IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq dissolved a three-member bench hearing the case after the opinions of two judges regarding the plea’s maintainability were uploaded on the court’s website.The bench comprising IHC Chief Justice Aamer Farooq, Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani, and Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir hadreserved its verdict on March 30, while Justices Kayani and Tahir had opined against the petition’s maintainability.Later, the IHC CJ formed a new bench comprising Justices Tariq Mehmood Jahangiri, Arbab Mohammad Tahir and Saman Rafat Imtiaz.