SKARDU: Justice (retd) Yar Muhammad has been appointed Caretaker Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan, ARY News reported.The Gilgit-Baltistan Council Secretariat has issued a notification regarding the appointment.The Chairman of the Gilgit-Baltistan Council decided on the appointment of the Caretaker Chief Minister after consultations.According to the notification, the Caretaker CM has been appointed under Article 148-A.The decision regarding the appointment of the CM was taken after consultations between the Leader of the Opposition and the Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs, Amir Muqam. Before this, the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly completed its five-year tenure, and a notification for the dissolution of the assembly has been issued. All the Ministers, advisers, and coordinators have been denotified. This decision was taken through a letter from the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly Secretariat and under Article 56(5) of the Governance Reforms 2019. This action has paved the way for the administrative structure of the caretaker setup. Earlier, President Asif Ali Zardari  called for renewing collective efforts to make Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) a model of development, justice, and equality.Addressing a ceremony marking the 78th Independence Day of Gilgit-Baltistan from Dogra rule, the president praised the people of the region for their historic contributions to Pakistan’s unity and progress. “You have guarded the borders, advanced the progress and carried flag of Pakistan to the world’s highest peaks. This region is not only a crown of Pakistan but also our northern gateway; a symbol of lasting friendship with China,” he added. He highlighted the Karakoram Highway as a living symbol of this enduring partnership and noted that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) had opened new avenues for livelihood, trade, and regional connectivity.“It is our collective responsibility to ensure that the benefits of these developments reach every valley and village, creating shared prosperity for all,” he said, adding that the region’s potential could contribute greatly to the entire country and beyond.The president said that the freedom achieved by the people of Gilgit-Baltistan served as a reminder of the unfinished struggle of the Kashmiri people in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).“While you enjoy liberty and rights under the flag of Pakistan, our brothers and sisters in IIOJK continue to face occupation and repression. We stand with them too till they get freedom in accordance with the UNSC resolutions and their aspirations,” he added.The event was attended by the governor, chief minister, members of the legislative assembly, military, civil officials and a large number of people.President Zardari also expressed his pleasure at witnessing the affection and love of the gathering and said that the region was like a home to him.He said the history of the region had been marked with incidents of unforgettable bravery and sacrifices. 

LAHORE: The Punjab Urban Land Systems Enhancement (PULSE) project has provided citizens with an advanced and convenient facility to access the land records of their properties, ARY News reported.Through the comfort of their homes, without long queues, and without any intermediaries, people can swiftly download their up-to-date land records within seconds by accessing the Registration of Deeds (RoD) portal.Before this facility, it was a difficult and cumbersome process for citizens, as they had to visit government departments multiple times. https://rod.pulse.gop.pk/ Additionally, searching for land records was an arduous task for government employees, sometimes taking months.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Government of Punjab (@govtofpunjabpk) Now, with this latest facility, it is a matter of seconds to check the record of their land from the comfort of their homes—it is just a click away.

KARACHI: The long-dormant Hayli Gubbi volcano in Ethiopia erupted after nearly 12,000 years, with its ash cloud detected south of Pakistan’s coast, the Meteorological Department confirmed on Monday.According to a Met Office spokesperson, volcanic ash from the Hayli Gubbi eruption was observed around 60 nautical miles south of Gwadar. The official said this was the first time Pakistan had issued an alert related to volcanic ash from an international eruption.The spokesperson added that the ash cloud is currently positioned at an altitude of around 45,000 feet.Aviation expert Anjum Nazir Zaigham explained that domestic flights in Pakistan generally operate between 34,000 and 36,000 feet, while international aircraft fly between 40,000 and 45,000 feet, making high-altitude ash a potential risk for jet engines.However, he clarified that Karachi and other urban areas face no threat of air pollution or hazardous conditions from the eruption, as the ash remains far offshore and at high altitude.Authorities said they are continuing to monitor the situation closely to ensure aviation safety.Earlier, AFP reported that a volcano in Ethiopia's northeastern region erupted for the first time in nearly 12,000 years, sending thick plumes of smoke up to 14 kilometres (nine miles) into the sky, the Toulouse Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC) said.The Hayli Gubbi volcano, located in Ethiopia's Afar region about 800 kilometres (500 miles) northeast of Addis Ababa near the Eritrean border, erupted on Sunday for several hours.The volcano, which rises about 500 metres in altitude, sits within the Rift Valley, a zone of intense geological activity where two tectonic plates meet.Ash clouds from the volcano drifted over Yemen, Oman, India, and northern Pakistan, the VAAC said.In videos shared on social media, which AFP could not immediately verify, a thick column of white smoke can be seen rising.The Smithsonian Institution's Global Volcanism Program said Hayli Gubbi has had no known eruptions during the Holocene, which began around 12,000 years ago at the end of the last Ice Age.Simon Carn, a volcanologist and professor at the Michigan Technological University, confirmed on Bluesky that Hayli Gubbi "has no record of Holocene eruptions".Afar authorities have not yet responded to AFP inquiries about possible casualties or the number of displaced people. 

KARACHI: Chief Minister Sindh Murad Ali Shah responded strongly to Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's statement regarding Sindh, declaring that Sindh is an integral and indivisible part of Pakistan.In his reaction to the Indian Defence Minister's venomous comments against Pakistan, the CM Sindh said that Sindh was, is, and will remain a part of Pakistan.Murad Ali Shah urged the Indian extremist leader of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), who believes in Hindutva, to concentrate on India's internal divisions and stop dreaming about "us, Sindh".He stated that the Indian Defence Minister is unaware of history, adding that the Minister's statement is diplomatically irresponsible.Highlighting Sindh's historic move before partition, Murad Ali Shah said that Sindh separated itself from the Bombay Presidency back in 1936, before the establishment of Pakistan."The people of Sindh chose autonomy, respect, and preferred their political identity," he said.The CM Sindh categorically said that Sindh is and will always remain an integral part of Pakistan.Yesterday, Pakistan has strongly condemned the remarks made by Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh regarding Pakistan’s Sindh province, calling them “delusional” and “dangerously revisionist.”In an official statement, the Foreign Office said such statements reflect an expansionist Hindutva mindset that challenges established realities and violates international law, including the inviolability of recognized borders and state sovereignty.Pakistan urged Rajnath Singh and other Indian leaders to avoid provocative rhetoric that threatens regional peace and stability.The Foreign Office urged that India would be better served by focusing on the security of its own citizens, particularly vulnerable minority communities, and addressing discrimination rooted in faith-based prejudice and historical distortions.The statement also highlighted India’s responsibility to address persistent grievances in its northeastern regions, where communities face systematic marginalization, identity-based persecution, and cycles of state-enabled violence.Pakistan called on India to take credible steps toward a genuine resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people living under occupation.The Foreign Office reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to the peaceful resolution of all disputes with India based on justice, equity, and international legal norms, while remaining resolutely determined to safeguard its national security, independence, and sovereignty.

KARACHI: A man arrested earlier for hacking women’s mobile phones and social media accounts has made startling revelations about his activities in Karachi, ARY News reported.According to reports, the suspect, identified as Sameer, also known as “PK,” told investigators that he obtained malicious links from a Lahore resident for Rs 5,000 and used them to hack accounts on multiple social media platforms.Sameer admitted that after hacking the IDs, he collected personal information and lured victims to meet him. He revealed that he is a seventh-grade pass, unemployed, and learned these hacking techniques through online groups.DIG South confirmed that a special Karachi-based investigation team has been formed to probe Sameer’s confessions. The team will also conduct technical examinations of laptops and mobile phones recovered from the suspect.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PnR3fZmkwN8Federal intelligence agencies and the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) are assisting in the Karachi investigation, officials said. Sameer was initially arrested by District South police near Eidgah, Karachi, and his disclosures are now helping authorities uncover the methods used by cybercriminals to exploit women.The revelations have provided Karachi police with critical insights into online predatory networks, enabling them to prevent further attacks in the city.Earlier, in December 2024, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) successfully dismantled a blackmailing ring involved in creating and distributing inappropriate videos of women to extort money.According to reports, the key suspect, identified as Zainul Abideen Shah, was arrested from a private hotel in Karachi. The accused, reportedly a social media worker, allegedly threatened a couple with releasing their private videos online unless a hefty sum was paid.Investigations revealed that the group included self-proclaimed journalists and operators of dummy newspapers, who used unethical content to blackmail individuals.FIA’s lead investigator, Tariq Lashari, disclosed that the suspect had also blackmailed a woman who had left her phone for repairs. Instead of fixing it, the accused stole personal photos and demanded money, threatening to leak the images online.The group has previously targeted a female doctor in a similar scheme, prompting swift action from FIA’s cybercrime unit. The FIA has seized the suspect’s mobile phones, which contain incriminating evidence, including photos already circulated on social media. 

Islamabad/Dubai- November 24, 2025 – The UAE Dirham (AED) held steady but near recent lows against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) on Monday, trading at 76.43 PKR per AED in interbank markets. This rate provides a measure of predictability for the over 1.5 million Pakistani expatriates in the UAE, whose remittances underpin vital household incomes and national foreign reserves, even as broader trends highlight a softening Dirham.According to data from the State Bank of Pakistan and forex aggregators like Wise and Exchange Rates UK, the AED/PKR pair closed at 76.43 today, a marginal 0.05% dip from Friday's 76.47 but within a tight weekly band.Over the past week, the rate has oscillated between a high of 76.43 on November 18 and a low of 76.40 on November 20, reflecting subdued volatility influenced by stable global oil benchmarks and consistent remittance flows.In contrast, the monthly perspective reveals a more pronounced downward trajectory for the Dirham.Last month, in October 2025, the average AED to Pakistani Rupee rate stood at approximately 76.85, with intraday highs reaching 77.02 on several trading sessions. Today's level of 76.43 indicates a roughly 0.54% depreciation of the AED against the PKR over the past 30 days, attributed to Pakistan's resilient current account surplus and Rupee appreciation fueled by multilateral lending inflows.Valuation metrics suggest the AED/PKR pair is trading close to its 30-day floor of 76.40, potentially undervalued relative to purchasing power parity (PPP) estimates and UAE's robust non-oil sector expansion.Experts highlight that the year-to-date average remains at 76.70, with technical signals like a neutral 50-day moving average crossover hinting at possible stabilization around 76.60 if UAE's projected 4.2% GDP growth in 2025 materializes amid diversification efforts. However, persistent US Dollar peg pressures could cap any sharp rebounds.Economically, the implications for Pakistan are nuanced. A firmer PKR alleviates the burden of UAE-sourced imports, including petroleum derivatives and consumer electronics, which could help temper inflation hovering near 9% this quarter and support fiscal consolidation under IMF guidelines. On the flip side, the weaker Dirham erodes remittance purchasing power—UAE inflows hit $7.2 billion in FY2025, comprising about 18% of Pakistan's total—potentially reducing real household value by 0.5-1% and pressuring consumption in high-remittance areas like Sindh and Balochistan.Observers are cautiously positive, pointing to deepening UAE-Pakistan ties through investments in renewable energy and logistics as buffers against flux. 

ISLAMABAD: A viral video has surfaced showing a woman being brutally assaulted at a massage center in the Lohi Bher area of Islamabad, where the owners, along with their accomplices, reportedly cut her hair, ARY News reported.In the viral video, the massage center owner can be seen cutting the woman’s hair while other individuals, including another woman, stand nearby. The footage has quickly gone viral on social media, sparking outrage among the public.The victim is believed to work at the massage center. Police had not taken immediate action against the suspects, which further fueled reactions to the viral video.Following the viral clip, SSP Operations took notice and ordered the immediate registration of a case against the suspects, along with their arrest.The SSP emphasized that violence against women will not be tolerated under any circumstances and assured strict action against the perpetrators.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1IFNJP3wGQkEarlier, a police constable was suspended after a video went viral showing him thrashing an allegedly intoxicated woman in Karachi’s Defence Housing Authority (DHA).The incident took place on Saba Avenue, where an intoxicated woman was creating a disturbance in the middle of the road, yelling, screaming, and obstructing traffic.A Darakhshan police station’s patrol van reached the spot to remove her from the road. However, an altercation broke out between the woman and Constable Nadeem, during which both slapped each other. The cop then forcibly dragged her off the road.The video quickly spread online, sparking criticism over the police’s manhandling of the woman. Citizens questioned why female police officers were not called to manage the matter.Following the public outcry, police authorities suspended Constable Nadeem. The woman was shifted to the police station for legal proceedings, and her medical test was conducted. Police said further investigation is underway.https://youtu.be/_6qpxLh7Y0Y?si=IqayTfBLyeyRCDwj

LAHORE: The Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) has launched a Command and Control Mobile Unit, a specialized vehicle designed to act as a mobile headquarters for monitoring and coordinating sensitive operations, ARY News reported.The mobile unit will be installed in a specially equipped vehicle and can be deployed at major gatherings, including political rallies, religious congregations like the Day of Ashura, cricket matches, and other large public events.It will serve as a mobile operations headquarters, allowing authorities to monitor sensitive programs and coordinate responses from a single platform.The Command and Control Mobile Unit comes equipped with multi-power workstations, a conference corner, and presentation facilities, providing live data, video feeds, and analytical support to on-ground forces during operations. It will also integrate databases, police networks, and telecom services to support special operations teams.For surveillance, the vehicle is fitted with 360-degree PTZ cameras, pinhole cameras, and drone systems. Thermal imaging, live drones, and GIS mapping will allow authorities to track sensitive routes, residences, and identify suspicious individuals during rallies, processions, and public events.The mobile command unit will operate across multiple cities, including Karachi, Quetta, Peshawar, and border areas, acting as a backup command center and enhancing coordination during high-risk operations, the CTD spokesperson added.Earlier, the Sindh Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) announced the arrest of two suspected target killers linked to the banned Zainebiyoun Brigade (ZB), who are allegedly involved in sectarian killings.Speaking at a press conference in Karachi, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of CTD Sindh, Ghulam Azfar Mahesar, identified the suspects as Israr Hussain Gilgiti and Masoom Raza (alias Imran Mota). The duo was detained during an intelligence-based operation in Karachi.Mahesar stated that the suspects were part of a gang responsible for the sectarian killing of members of a religious party. He added that the gang was operating from a neighboring country.The CTD official revealed that Imran Mota was a notorious target killer and had been on the CTD’s red book of most-wanted terrorists. He is implicated in the murder of Qari Anas, who was shot near NED University. 

Islamabad, November 24, 2025 – In a welcome rebound for millions of Pakistani workers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Riyal (SAR) edged higher against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) on Monday, closing the day at 74.90 PKR per SAR in interbank trading. This marks a modest recovery from last week's lows, offering a slight boost to remittance inflows that form a lifeline for countless families back home.The current exchange rate of 74.90 PKR per SAR reflects a 0.18% increase from Friday's close of 74.76 PKR, according to data from the State Bank of Pakistan and major forex platforms. Over the past week, the SAR/PKR pair has fluctuated narrowly between 74.76 and 74.84, with today's rate representing the highest point since November 18. This uptick comes amid steady oil prices and seasonal Hajj-related fund transfers, providing some stability in a volatile global forex market.However, when viewed against the broader monthly trend, the Riyal has softened considerably. Last month, in October 2025, the average SAR to PKR rate hovered around 75.37, with peaks touching 75.70 on several occasions. The dip to 74.90 today signals a roughly 0.6% depreciation of the SAR relative to the PKR over the past 30 days, driven by Pakistan's improving current account balance and a marginally stronger Rupee bolstered by IMF support.From a valuation standpoint, the SAR/PKR pair is trading near its 30-day low of 74.82, suggesting the Riyal may be undervalued against the Rupee based on purchasing power parity (PPP) metrics and recent economic fundamentals.Analysts at Exchange Rates UK note that the pair's year-to-date average stands at 75.10, implying room for appreciation if Saudi Arabia's non-oil GDP growth—projected at 4.4% for 2025—gains further traction. Short-term technical indicators, including a bullish crossover on the 50-day moving average, point to potential upside toward 75.20 in the coming weeks.The implications for Pakistan's economy are twofold. On the positive side, a marginally stronger Pakistani Rupee eases import costs for essentials like Saudi-sourced petroleum products, potentially curbing inflation pressures that have lingered above 10% this year.Yet, the softer Riyal spells caution for remittances, which totaled over $7 billion from Saudi Arabia in FY2025—accounting for nearly 20% of Pakistan's total inflows. A sustained decline could shave 1-2% off the real value of these transfers, straining household spending in remittance-dependent regions like Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.Market watchers remain optimistic, citing upcoming OPEC+ decisions and Pakistan's $1.2 billion Saudi deposit renewal as catalysts for stabilization. 

Karachi, Pakistan – The Pakistani rupee showed resilience against major global currencies in the interbank market on Monday, November 24, 2025, as the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) released its latest Mark-to-Market (M2M) currency rates report.The US dollar remained the focal point, trading at a steady 280.61 PKR in the ready market, reflecting a balanced demand-supply dynamic amid ongoing economic stabilization efforts.This rate, compiled as a weighted average of closing interbank trades, underscores the central bank's commitment to maintaining forex stability despite global uncertainties.Analysts attribute the dollar's position to robust remittances and export inflows, which have cushioned the local currency against inflationary pressures. Forward rates for the greenback indicate a slight upward trajectory, with the one-month tenor at 281.22 PKR and the six-month at 286.16 PKR, signaling market expectations of moderate depreciation over the longer term due to anticipated policy rate adjustments.Turning to Gulf currencies, which are critical for Pakistan's remittance corridor, the Saudi riyal (SAR) held firm at 74.82 PKR, closely mirroring its dollar peg with minimal volatility.This stability is a boon for the millions of Pakistani expatriates in Saudi Arabia, ensuring predictable transfer values. Similarly, the UAE dirham (AED) quoted at 76.40 PKR, benefiting from Dubai's thriving trade ties with Pakistan, while the Qatari riyal (QAR) edged to 77.00 PKR, supported by LNG exports and bilateral investments. The Kuwaiti dinar (KWD), the world's strongest currency, commanded a premium at 912.76 PKR, highlighting Kuwait's oil-driven economic strength and its role as a key bilateral partner.In broader commodity-linked currencies, the Australian dollar (AUD) traded at 181.36 PKR, buoyed by Australia's commodity boom and steady demand from Pakistani importers of raw materials.The Canadian dollar (CAD) followed suit at 199.02 PKR, influenced by energy sector dynamics and North American trade flows. Meanwhile, the British pound (GBP) strengthened to 367.71 PKR, driven by the UK's post-Brexit recovery and increased UK-Pakistan trade in textiles and services. Forward premiums for these currencies suggest cautious optimism, with the GBP's one-year rate climbing to 383.37 PKR, pointing to potential sterling appreciation amid European market shifts.Other notable currencies in the interbank market included: Euro (EUR) at 323.46 PKR; Japanese yen (JPY) at 1.79 PKR; Swiss franc (CHF) at 347.07 PKR; Swedish krona (SEK) at 29.40 PKR; Norwegian krone (NOK) at 27.37 PKR; Danish krone (DKK) at 43.31 PKR; Singapore dollar (SGD) at 215.08 PKR; New Zealand dollar (NZD) at 157.44 PKR; Malaysian ringgit (MYR) at 67.76 PKR; Hong Kong dollar (HKD) at 36.05 PKR; Bahraini dinar (BHD) at 744.32 PKR; Indian rupee (INR) at 3.14 PKR; South African rand (ZAR) at 16.21 PKR; Omani rial (OMR) at 728.86 PKR; Bangladeshi taka (BDT) at 2.29 PKR; Brazilian real (BRL) at 51.93 PKR; Argentine peso (ARS) at 0.20 PKR; Chinese yuan (CNY) at 39.49 PKR; Sri Lankan rupee (LKR) at 0.91 PKR; Thai baht (THB) at 8.64 PKR; Turkish lira (TRY) at 6.61 PKR; Indonesian rupiah (IDR) at 0.02 PKR; Mexican peso (MXN) at 15.22 PKR; Russian ruble (RUB) at 3.56 PKR; South Korean won (KRW) at 0.19 PKR; and Chinese yuan offshore (CNH) at 39.48 PKR.These rates, issued for authorized dealers' daily revaluation, are based on LSEG Workspace quotes cross-referenced with USD/PKR benchmarks. Market participants are advised to monitor SBP updates for any intraday adjustments. 

Pakistan has accused foreign networks of running coordinated propaganda campaigns aimed at spreading misinformation, promoting unrest and fueling divisions within the country, following new revelations emerging from the latest update on social media platform X (formerly Twitter).According to reports, the platform’s recent transparency features have exposed multiple accounts operating from abroad that were falsely presenting themselves as human rights activists and defenders.Authorities claim these X accounts were part of a calculated effort to malign Pakistan under the guise of advocating human rights in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.The findings indicate that several accounts linked to Afghanistan, India and the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) were allegedly advancing foreign agendas. Officials further stated that Indian accounts promoting anti-Pakistan narratives, hate content and divisive rhetoric have also been traced.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f04jI0BZ7_0Investigators revealed that many of these accounts were operating from India and other countries but used VPNs to disguise their true locations. Some accounts reportedly promoted extremist content, while others amplified political messaging designed to create discord inside Pakistan.Authorities said the network included operators spreading misinformation about terrorism-related incidents, human rights issues, and political developments in Pakistan. They added that the activity demonstrates how foreign-based online “propaganda factories” have been working to mislead the international community and influence perceptions of Pakistan.The report further claims that multiple political narratives circulating online were also being driven from outside Pakistan.Officials emphasized that the exposure of these accounts has once again highlighted the role of foreign digital networks in spreading hate speech and destabilizing content. They said the revelations underscore the need for stronger international cooperation to combat deceptive online campaigns against sovereign states. 

Pakistan urged the international community to ensure rapid, grant-based and predictable financing for climate-vulnerable developing countries, warning that repeated extreme weather events were deepening debt distress and slowing development progress in nations least responsible for global emissions.The call was made at a high-level side event titled “Operationalizing Loss and Damage: Financing Resilience and Recovery in Vulnerable Countries” organized jointly by the Climate Change & Environmental Coordination Ministry and UNICEF at the Pakistan Pavilion on the sidelines of the UN climate summit (COP30) in Belém, Brazil.In her keynote address, Secretary for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Aisha Humera Moriani said Pakistan was investing heavily in strengthening national climate resilience, despite contributing less than one per cent to global greenhouse gas emissions.She recalled that the devastating floods of 2022 and 2025 displaced millions, destroyed large-scale infrastructure and caused multi-billion-dollar economic losses. “The scale and frequency of such disasters in developing countries underscore the disproportionate climate burden placed on nations that played almost no role in heating the planet,” she remarked.The event, organised jointly with UNICEF, brought together representatives of the newly created Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage (FRLD), government officials, development partners and experts to discuss practical steps for operationalising the global Loss and Damage architecture.The panel speakers at the event noted that repeated climate shocks had pushed many vulnerable economies into what they described as a “debt emergency,” forcing them to borrow for recovery and reconstruction in the absence of adequate grant-based support. They stressed that new, additional and concessional financing was essential if Loss and Damage assistance was to be transformative rather than short-term.They also highlighted that children were bearing the heaviest share of the crisis, with Pakistan having nearly half of its population below the age of 18. She warned that recurring disasters were undermining nutrition, health, schooling and mental wellbeing. “Climate disasters are not only destroying infrastructure, they are also robbing a generation of its right to safety and opportunity,” she said.The speakers also urged that the Barbados Implementation Modalities (BIM), including simplified application procedures, faster disbursement mechanisms and flexible financial windows, must be prioritised to ensure timely and equitable financing for countries with limited fiscal room. They also called for mechanisms that could respond effectively to slow-onset threats such as glacial melt, sea level rise and desertification, in addition to sudden disasters.Ministry spokesperson Muhammad Saleem Shaikh said a major focus of the discussion was directing support towards the most vulnerable segments, particularly children and young people. He noted that non-economic losses, mainly as trauma, cultural disruption, displacement and the breakdown of community structure, remained under-addressed in global policy frameworks.He added that Pakistan announced its readiness to submit two proposals under the FRLD’s initial funding cycle, aimed at reconstruction of critical social infrastructure and strengthening resilience in key sectors, including agriculture, community systems and water resources. While Pakistan continued to mobilize domestic resources, he said, the scale of loss far outstripped national capacity.Calling Loss and Damage finance a matter of national survival rather than simply an environmental concern, the ministry reiterated Pakistan’s demand for adherence to the principles of climate justice and Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR-RC).“Climate justice demands immediate access. Our people cannot wait,” the ministerial statement said, urging developed economies and multilateral institutions to move from political commitments to on-ground financial delivery.Ms Moriani reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to working with the UN, international partners and climate finance bodies to create a fair global framework for climate recovery. She said the aim was to ensure that vulnerable states receive the resources needed to recover, rebuild and thrive in a world experiencing accelerating climate impacts.“Climate justice demands immediate access. Our people cannot wait,” she stressed, urging international partners to translate political commitments into concrete financial support for the most vulnerable.

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Monday directed to accelerate work on the construction of all proposed medical treatment centers of the Jinnah Medical Complex (JMC), hoping that the project will be completed soon through collective efforts.“This project will not only be exemplary for Pakistan but for the entire region in the field of health,” the prime minister said while chairing a meeting of the Board of JMC.The prime minister also expressed gratitude to the Aga Khan Foundation for providing technical assistance at various stages of the construction of the Jinnah Medical Complex.During the meeting, the JMC Board thanked the prime minister for his continuous support and guidance throughout all phases of the project’s construction.According to the briefing, rapid progress was being made on providing facilities for not only medical services at the Jinnah Medical Complex but also for international-standard medical training, education, and research. To bring the Jinnah Medical Complex up to global standards, modern technology, including the use of artificial intelligence and robotics, will be employed for research, the briefing added. Senior officers from the board and relevant institutions were also present at the meeting.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZsilm67S-U

Pakistan's rooftop solar generation will for the first time exceed power demand on the country's electrical grid during daytime hours in some major industrial regions next year, a senior government official told Reuters.The outlook reflects a record boom in the country's solar panel installations in recent years that has delivered lower emissions and reduced power bills for some, but also disrupted the finances of debt-laden utilities due to a protracted decline in demand for grid-based electricity."Pakistan will experience negative grid-linked demand during certain daytime hours because behind-the-meter solar is offsetting grid consumption completely," Aisha Moriani, secretary of Pakistan's climate change ministry told Reuters on the sidelines of the COP30 climate conference in BrazilWhile regions in Europe and Australia sometimes experience negative electricity prices due to solar oversupply and low demand, Pakistan would be among the first major emerging markets where rooftop generation could exceed grid-linked demand in major areas entirely for lengthy periods."Negative demand" is likely in the northwestern city of Lahore, which has some of the country's highest solar penetration, followed by Faisalabad and Sialkot, where industrial areas are driving solar adoption, she said.Power cuts and tariff hikes have pushed Pakistan's 250 million people to accelerate solar adoption and made it the world's third-largest panel importer, with solar's share in generation exceeding its neighbour China.The south Asian nation will see more frequent negative-demand events, especially during bright summer afternoons, industrial holidays and moderate temperature days with high solar output, said Moriani, Pakistan's lead negotiator at COP30."Pakistan's challenge is not whether renewable energy will grow, it is how fast the grid, regulation, and market design can evolve to keep pace," she said.The south Asian nation is planning to introduce new tariffs for large solar users, as well as changes to fee structures to ensure businesses with panels share equally in the costs of grid upkeep, she said.Pakistan's grid-linked power demand is expected to grow 3-4% this year, slower than historical averages. Next year, consumption is expected to rise more steeply but could be impacted more by higher solar use, Moriani said.The surge in solar use has also pushed Pakistan to renegotiate its LNG contracts with top supplier Qatar and cancel cargoes supplied by Italy's Eni, Moriani said.Pakistan is looking for lower prices, flexible delivery schedules and potentially fewer cargoes, she said.While there were no formal negotiations with Qatar at COP30, the event provided "diplomatic space for engagement with energy ministers and commercial representatives," she said."The key aim is to align Pakistan's gas import strategy with fiscal space, demand outlook, and seasonal patterns. Pakistan seeks stability and affordability, not expansion of LNG dependency."

PESHAWAR: Footage of the suicide blast attempt at the Federal Constabulary (FC) Headquarters in Peshawar has been released, showing a militant detonating explosives at the main gate.According to details, the attack took place at 8:11 a.m., and the video captures the moment the suicide bomber detonates the device, causing panic in the surrounding area.Following the initial blast, two more attackers attempted to enter the premises, but security forces responded promptly, preventing further casualties.Earlier in the day, Pakistan security forces successfully thwarted a suicide attack on the Federal Constabulary (FC) Headquarters in Peshawar, killing three terrorists, confirmed the CCPO Peshawar.Three FC personnel also embraced martyrdom while thwarting the attack.According to officials, two explosions occurred near the FC Headquarters in the Saddar area of Peshawar.The blasts, which were heard from a distance, caused the windows of nearby buildings to shatter. Law enforcement immediately cordoned off the area and launched a search operation.CCPO Peshawar confirmed that the first suicide attacker detonated himself at the headquarters gate at 8:11 a.m., while two others attempted to breach the facility. Federal Constabulary personnel neutralized both attackers at the gate.IG Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Zulfikar Hamid said during the confrontation, two FC personnel were martyred and two others injured, with the wounded immediately shifted to hospital for treatment.

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) has granted bail for YouTuber Saad, popularly known as Ducky Bhai, in the gambling app promotion case on Monday.As per details, Ducky Bhai was granted bail by the high court against surety bonds worth Rs1 million.YouTuber Saad ur Rehman, popularly known as Ducky Bhai, was arrested at Lahore Airport by the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) on the same allegations in August.According to the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), Ducky Bhai is accused of money laundering through online gambling apps. The FIR alleges that he promoted betting platforms on social media, luring people into gambling and unlawful investment schemes.NCCIA investigators confirmed the recovery of mobile phones, suspicious WhatsApp contacts, and other digital data from Ducky Bhai’s possession. Officials claim to have also found evidence of illegal financial transactions linked to gambling networks.The FIR further states that Saad ur Rehman used his online influence to promote gambling apps, encouraging followers to engage in activities deemed unlawful under national laws.Authorities also begun a probe into his assets to trace any wealth generated through these channels.

KANDHKOT: An abandoned shell of rocket launcher exploded near Zor Garh along the Indus Highway leaving four children dead and one injured.Local residents said that the children when herding cattle in forest area, they found an abandoned shell of the munition there, which later went off.All deceased children were belonging to a family of Golo clan, villagers added.Police reached to the spot of the incident after getting report about the deadly incident.Police officials have said that the area has been sealed by the force, and a search operation is initiated.

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) Monday announced its winter vacation, during which the court will remain closed from December 22, 2025, to January 4, 2026.Hearings are scheduled to resume on January 5, 2026.According to the official notification, court offices will remain operational during the vacation period, and hearings for urgent and previously scheduled cases will continue.The Federal Constitutional Court was established under the 27th Constitutional Amendment to strengthen Pakistan’s judicial system and ensure the protection of constitutional rights.The court’s primary mandate is to interpret the Constitution and resolve legal disputes of a constitutional nature.Justice Amin-ud-Din Khan serves as the Chief Justice of the FCC. Other judges include Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi, Justice Amir Farooq, Justice Ali Baqar Najafi, Justice Karim Khan Agha, Justice Rozi Khan Brech, and Justice Arshad Hussain Shah.On the court’s official website, Chief Justice Amin-ud-Din Khan described the establishment of the FCC as a significant milestone in Pakistan’s constitutional journey.He asserted that the court’s mandate is to interpret the Constitution with independence, integrity, and fairness, protect fundamental rights, and provide stability, justice, and balance to all state institutions.

KHAIRPUR: Amid chaos of banditry and other crimes outlaws now stealing even historic inheritance of Sindh by thieving a part of an ancient cannon from Kot Diji site.Unknown thieves had cut a portion of the precious cannon from the site by a cutter machine and take it with them.It is to be mentioned here that the cannons at Kot Diji Fort, have been made of brass.Local residents while inviting attention of the Sindh's Minister of Culture and Archeology has demanded for arrest of the culprits and bringing back the stolen portion of the historic artillery.The Sindh Culture Department had located six cannons missing from Kot Diji in 2023. The cannons were missing for almost 30 years.Two missing cannons were retrieved from the Khairpur Police Line. The Culture Department located the other cannons in sites like the Deputy Commissioner House, Maryam Chowk, and Babbarloi police station in Khairpur.Kot Diji is an ancient archaeological fort site located about 45 kilometers south of Khairpur in Sindh, on the east bank of the Indus River.

ISLAMABAD: Security in Islamabad has been placed on high alert amid heightened vigilance across the federal capital following Federal Constabulary (FC) Headquarters attack .As per details, police checkpoints have been established at all major entry and exit points of Islamabad to monitor movement.Security has been tightened around key government buildings and the Red Zone, while public transport passengers are being subjected to identity checks, according to officials.At Faizabad bus terminal, authorities are recording passengers’ identification card numbers. Transport operators have been instructed to provide relevant passenger data to local police stations as part of the enhanced security measures.Officials asserted that these measures aim to ensure public safety and maintain law and order across the city.Earlier in the day, Pakistan security forces successfully thwarted a suicide attack on the Federal Constabulary (FC) Headquarters in Peshawar, killing three terrorists, confirmed the CCPO Peshawar.Three FC personnel also embraced martyrdom while thwarting the attack.According to officials, two explosions occurred near the FC Headquarters in the Saddar area of Peshawar.The blasts, which were heard from a distance, caused the windows of nearby buildings to shatter. Law enforcement immediately cordoned off the area and launched a search operation.CCPO Peshawar confirmed that the first suicide attacker detonated himself at the headquarters gate at 8:11 a.m., while two others attempted to breach the facility. Federal Constabulary personnel neutralized both attackers at the gate.IG Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Zulfikar Hamid said during the confrontation, two FC personnel were martyred and two others injured, with the wounded immediately shifted to hospital for treatment.