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Express Tribune
a day ago
- Business
- Express Tribune
PM to embark on official visit to Saudi Arabia from June 5-6
Listen to article Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to undertake an official two-day visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on Thursday to express gratitude to the Saudi leadership for its constructive role in de-escalating the recent conflict between Pakistan and India. The PM's visit coincides with Eidul Azha and will be accompanied by a high-level delegation, underscoring the significance of the trip. Read More: Pakistan, Turkiye and Azerbaijan reaffirm unity at trilateral summit According to the statement issued by Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Wednesday, during visit, Premier Sharif will hold talks with Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Key areas of discussion will include enhancing bilateral cooperation in trade and investment, advancing the welfare of the Muslim Ummah, and addressing regional peace and security concerns. The PM is also expected to express gratitude to the Saudi leadership for its constructive role in de-escalating the recent conflict between Pakistan and India, highlighting the importance of Saudi Arabia's support in fostering peace in the region. 🔊PR NO.1️⃣6️⃣2️⃣/2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣5️⃣ Curtain Raiser: Visit of Prime Minister of Pakistan to Saudi Arabia. 🔗⬇️ — Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) June 4, 2025 "This visit underscores the deep-rooted, time-tested ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, anchored in shared faith, mutual respect, and strategic partnership. It reaffirms the leadership's commitment to deepening economic and diplomatic engagement, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and Pakistan's development priorities," read the statement. Last week, Premier Sharif concluded a diplomatic tour, visiting four countries to strengthen regional partnerships in the wake of heightened tensions with India. The tour served as an important opportunity for Pakistan to personally express its gratitude to these nations for their support during the recent escalation. The trip focused on reinforcing bilateral ties and promoting peace, with the PM thanking key allies for their role in de-escalating the situation with India.
Express Tribune
28-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
PM, President mark nuclear anniversary with pledges of resilience and reform
Listen to article Pakistan comemorated on Wednesday the 27th anniversary of Youm-e-Takbeer, the day it became a nuclear power, with top leaders paying tribute to the architects of the nuclear programme and calling for national unity and economic strength amid regional tensions. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a message to the nation, congratulated the public and described the day as a symbol of Pakistan's resolve to protect its sovereignty and independence. He said it should now also serve as a renewed commitment to economic transformation. 'Today, on Youm-e-Takbeer, I thank Allah Almighty and congratulate from the core of my heart the entire nation and all patriotic Pakistanis,' Sharif said. As the nation celebrates Youm-e-Takbeer, we thank Allah Almighty for His countless blessings and for granting us yet another glorious victory in the face of recent Indian aggression. Twenty-seven years ago, on this historic day, PM Mian Nawaz Sharif made Pakistan's defence… — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) May 28, 2025 The anniversary marks the nuclear tests carried out on May 28 1998 in the Chaghi hills of Balochistan, which made Pakistan the seventh nuclear-armed state in the world and the first in the Muslim world. The decision came in response to five nuclear tests conducted by India earlier that month. Before these tests, then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had faced immense external pressure and offers to abandon the program. Today, on Youm-e-Takbeer, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to stand united in safeguarding Pakistan's territorial integrity, sovereignty, and independence against any threat or act of aggression. We remain resolute in our dedication to promoting peace and stability—both in… — Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) May 28, 2025 Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, said the move demonstrated 'iron resolve' in the face of heavy international pressure and economic sanctions. 'Mr Nawaz Sharif represented the aspirations and national interests of the entire nation… and made our geographical borders impregnable forever,' he said. The prime minister also linked this year's commemorations to what he called Pakistan's success in a recent military standoff with India, describing the period of May 6 to 10 as an 'unjustified war imposed by India'. He claimed Pakistan's armed forces and the public had shown 'unbreakable unity' and resolve during the confrontation. 'This year, the joys of Youm-e-Takbeer have further increased for a nation filled with victory,' he stated. Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the scientific and political leadership behind the nuclear programme. He singled out Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who initiated the programme in the 1970s, and Dr Abdul Qadeer Khan, widely regarded as the father of Pakistan's nuclear capability. He also praised the contributions of scientists, engineers, the armed forces and the people. پاکستان کو ایٹمی طاقت بنے 27 سال مکمل آج پاکستان بھرمیں ''یوم تکبیر'' قومی جذبے سے منایا جا رہا ہے 28مئی1998کو پاکستان نے بھارت کے5 ایٹمی دھماکوں کے جواب میں 6 ایٹمی دھماکے کرکے ملک کے دفاع کو ناقابلِ تسخیر بنا دیا آج پوری قوم کا سر فخر سے بُلند ہے اور پہلی اسلامی ایٹمی طاقت… — PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) May 28, 2025 'I salute the nation, which made immense sacrifices for the completion of the nuclear programme and wrote a proud story of its determination and faith,' he said. He called Youm-e-Takbeer not just a celebration of the past, but a call to build a stronger, self-reliant future. 'Today we pledge to make Pakistan an economic power and achieve its true place in the world. Insha Allah. Long live Pakistan.' In a separate message, President Asif Ali Zardari described Pakistan's nuclear capability as a 'calculated decision' to ensure peace and maintain strategic balance in South Asia. 'Becoming a nuclear power was not merely a demonstration of technological advancement,' Zardari said. 'It was to protect the nation from external aggression and safeguard peace through strength.' Zardari said the country's nuclear programme continues to serve as a 'credible minimum deterrent' amid a changing regional security environment, ensuring that no one can undermine Pakistan's sovereignty. He praised the civil and military leadership, scientists and engineers for their efforts, and acknowledged the foundational role of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. He also credited former prime minister Benazir Bhutto for further advancing the programme during her tenure. 'We also pay tribute to Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who laid the foundation of Pakistan's nuclear programme,' he said. 'And we acknowledge the role of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, whose stewardship further advanced and strengthened it.' Touching on recent tensions with India, Zardari highlighted what he called Pakistan's 'calibrated response' under Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos—a military action that, he said, was effective in forcing the enemy to cease hostilities. He said Pakistan remains committed to peaceful coexistence and international law, but warned that the country will never compromise on its sovereignty. 'As we commemorate this important day, let us renew our pledge to uphold and safeguard the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our beloved country.' The day was marked with official ceremonies, national broadcasts, and messages of remembrance, unity and resilience. Public institutions, military establishments and civil organisations also honoured the scientific and strategic achievement that placed Pakistan on the global nuclear map.
Express Tribune
23-05-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
FM Ishaq Dar, Saudi counterpart discuss regional tensions, pledge stronger ties
Listen to article Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, held talks with Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan in Islamabad, reaffirming the longstanding relationship between the two countries. The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors, with both leaders also exchanging views on current regional developments. Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50, spoke with the Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Prince Faisal bin Farhan @FaisalbinFarhan. The two leaders reviewed entire gamut of deep-rooted and fraternal ties between the two… — Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) May 23, 2025 Earlier on Thursday, Dar had announced that Pakistan would upgrade its relations with the Afghan Taliban government, following extensive consultations with all relevant stakeholders. 'We will do due diligence and discuss all pros and cons,' Dar told reporters, regarding the potential diplomatic shift. The announcement comes after China brokered a trilateral meeting in Beijing, which involved Dar, Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The meeting led to an agreement between Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan to cooperate in the fight against terrorism, including addressing groups such as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA). Read more: Ties upgrade with Kabul after due diligence: Dar In the trilateral talks, the three nations agreed to eliminate terrorism from their territories, with Dar emphasising that Pakistan would not accept the use of Afghan soil for attacks against its security. Dar added that while terrorist groups might operate without the Afghan government's knowledge, any government-sanctioned attacks would be unacceptable. Dar also addressed the issue of Afghan refugees, stating that a new policy would allow Afghan refugees to enter Pakistan with a one-year multiple-entry visa for $100. He underscored the importance of the Afghan government ensuring its soil is not used for terrorist activities against Pakistan. In his successful visit to China, Dar discussed a variety of issues, including regional developments, trade, and Afghan refugees. He also confirmed that China and Pakistan had agreed to extend the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan. The proposed projects include a new highway linking Peshawar to Kabul and a trans-Afghan railway to connect Central and South Asia. A month ago, a high-level Saudi delegation, led by Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, arrived in Pakistan to explore investment opportunities. The delegation, which included key Saudi officials, aims to strengthen bilateral economic relations between Riyadh and Islamabad. Read more: High-level Saudi delegation arrives for investment talks This visit follows a recent meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh. During their visit, the Saudi delegation is expected to engage with Pakistan's senior leadership, including the president, prime minister, foreign minister, and military officials, to discuss potential investments. Pakistan is keen to attract significant Saudi investment, particularly in the Reko Diq mining project and the agricultural sector, as part of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) initiative.
Express Tribune
13-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Modi's speech undermines peace, justifies aggression: FO
The Foreign Office has categorically rejected the inflammatory and provocative statements made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi against Pakistan in his speech on Monday. In a statement issued on Tuesday, Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan said that, at a time when international efforts are underway to promote regional peace and stability, Indian Prime Minister Modi's remarks represent a dangerous escalation rooted in misinformation, political opportunism, and a blatant disregard for international law. 'This statement also reflects a propensity to fabricate misleading narratives to justify aggression,' he added. 🔊PR NO.1️⃣3️⃣6️⃣/2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣5️⃣ Pakistan Rejects Provocative and Inflammatory Assertions by the Indian Prime Minister. 🔗⬇️ — Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) May 13, 2025 Khan stated that Pakistan remains committed to the recent ceasefire understanding and continues to take necessary steps towards de-escalation and regional stability. 'This ceasefire was achieved through the facilitation of several friendly countries that reached out to us with messages encouraging de-escalation,' he said. He rejected the portrayal of Pakistan as seeking a ceasefire out of 'despair and frustration,' calling it another blatant falsehood. Calling the Pahalgam attack a politically motivated and concocted story aimed at justifying aggression against Pakistan, the spokesperson said, 'The Pahalgam attack is being exploited without credible evidence to malign Pakistan, justify military adventurism by contriving a casus belli, serve domestic political objectives, deflect attention from rising communal tensions and human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, and reinforce a manufactured narrative of a perpetual external threat.' He said that after India's unlawful and unprovoked aggression against innocent Pakistani civilians on a false pretext of terrorism—and despite Pakistan's restraint—India recklessly escalated the situation by targeting Pakistan's military bases, risking an uncontrollable spiral. The spokesperson warned that Indian actions set a dangerous precedent for aggression and dragged the entire region to the brink of disaster. 'This reflects the mindset of a revisionist actor that seeks to upend strategic stability in South Asia without regard for the consequences,' he said. He further stated that India is attempting to justify the cold-blooded murder of innocent civilians, mostly women and children, while portraying its brinkmanship as the 'new normal' for the region. 'Pakistan totally rejects this assertion. The 'normal' remains that no one will be allowed to challenge the principles and purposes of the UN Charter, as amply demonstrated by Pakistan in resolutely defending its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the security of its people,' he asserted. 'Make no mistake, we will closely monitor India's actions and behaviour in this regard in the coming days,' he warned and urged the international community to do the same. The spokesperson affirmed that Pakistan has the right to self-defence, stating: 'Our response to Indian aggression was calibrated and targeted strictly at military installations.' 'Pakistan demonstrated its strength against Indian military capability and targets. This is now an indisputable and well-known fact that cannot be denied through misinformation and propaganda,' he said. He added that India's illegal and unilateral actions are also evident in its blatant disregard for binding agreements, such as the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), which has governed shared water resources for decades. 'Pakistan will take all necessary measures to preserve its rights under the Treaty,' he maintained. Highlighting India's role in sponsoring terrorism inside Pakistan, Khan said, 'Pakistan is a victim of terrorism that is being directly sponsored by India. We have suffered immensely due to this scourge. Our contributions and sacrifices in the global fight against terrorism are well documented and widely recognised.' Expressing full support for US President Donald Trump's efforts toward resolving the Kashmir dispute, he said, 'Pakistan has always supported a peaceful resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir issue, in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions and the aspirations of the Kashmiri people.' 'In this regard, we reiterate our support for President Trump's efforts aimed at resolving this dispute, which remains a source of instability in South Asia,' he added. The spokesperson concluded by stating that, in this era, peace is the true strength. 'The world is not served by theatrical militarism and grandstanding, but by mature leadership, regional cooperation, and respect for international norms.' He warned that Pakistan's commitment to peace must never be mistaken for weakness. 'Pakistan is a sovereign nation with resilient institutions, a committed populace, and a globally recognised role in maintaining peace and security. Any future aggression will also be met with full resolve. We hope India will prioritise regional stability and the well-being of its citizens over narrow, politically motivated jingoism,' he asserted.
Time of India
28-04-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Pakistan evades accountability for Pahalgam attack, seeks China's support
Islamabad [Pakistan], April 28 (ANI): Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, Pakistan's Foreign Minister, Mohammad Ishaq Dar, held a telephone conversation with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Sunday. #Pahalgam Terrorist Attack India stares at a 'water bomb' threat as it freezes Indus Treaty India readies short, mid & long-term Indus River plans Shehbaz Sharif calls India's stand "worn-out narrative" During the call, Dar tried to avoid taking responsibility and shifted the blame to India, rejecting India's "unilateral actions and baseless propaganda" as false accusations against Pakistan. Sharing a post on X on Sunday, Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs wrote, "Deputy Prime Minister / Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50, today held a telephone conversation with Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister of China, Wang Yi. DPM/FM briefed FM Wang Yi on current regional situation." 5 5 Next Stay Playback speed 1x Normal Back 0.25x 0.5x 1x Normal 1.5x 2x 5 5 / Skip Ads by by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like You will never turn off your computer again. Undo The post added, "Expressing deep appreciation for China's consistent and unwavering support, DPM/FM reaffirmed Pakistan's strong commitment to the iron-clad Pakistan-China friendship and the shared vision of an All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership. He emphasised Pakistan's determination to deepen bilateral cooperation across all spheres further. Both sides reiterated their firm resolve to uphold regional peace and stability, promote mutual respect and understanding, and jointly oppose unilateralism and hegemonic policies." Live Events Meanwhile, Wang Yi during the phone call with his Pakistcounterpart said that China is closely following the evolving situation of the tensions between Pakistan and India following the terrorist attack in the Kashmir region, supporting the prompt initiation of an impartial investigation, hoping both sides will exercise restraint, move toward each other, and work to de-escalate tensions, according to a report by Global Times. Despite Pakistan's Defence Minister Khwaja Asif admitting in a recent viral video conversation with Sky News' Yalda Hakim that Pakistan has been funding and supporting terrorist groups, claiming, "We have been doing this dirty work for the United States for about three decades... and the West, including Britain..." Wang stated that combating terrorism constitutes a shared responsibility of all nations. China consistently supports Pakistan's firm counter-terrorism actions. The conversation between the foreign ministers of Pakistan and China follows Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's statement expressing Islamabad's willingness to participate in a "neutral, transparent, and credible" investigation into the Pahalgam terror attack, as India garnered global support, intensifying pressure on the Pakistani establishment in the aftermath of the attack. Following the terror attack, the Indian government had announced several diplomatic measures against Pakistan, such as closing the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari, suspending the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) for Pakistani nationals, giving them 40 hours to return to their country, and reducing the number of officers in the High Commissions on both sides. India also halted the Indus Waters Treaty signed in 1960 in the wake of the Pahalgam attack . Prime Minister Narendra Modi also assured the country that the terrorists responsible for this attack, along with those who conspired to commit it, will face punishment beyond their imagination. The Prime Minister asserted that the time has come to eliminate the remaining strongholds of terrorism and that the willpower of 140 crore Indians will now break the backbone of the perpetrators of terror. (ANI)
