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TimesLIVE
9 hours ago
- Automotive
- TimesLIVE
Justice in motion: transforming Gauteng's roads with intelligent number plates
On June 5, Gauteng achieved a historic milestone. Under the leadership of Premier Panyaza Lesufi, the Intelligent Number Plate (INP) System was officially launched, markinga bold new chapter in public governance. With crime prevention, economic growth and public trust at its core, this innovative solution reaffirms Gauteng's commitment to building a safer, smarter, and more inclusive future. This initiative isn't just about replacing metal plates with hi-tech alternatives; it's an ambitious leap towards modernising our transport systems and reclaiming the roads ofGauteng for the people. It reflects a shift in government culture from reactive to proactive, from transactional to transparent, from fragmented to united. Above all, this is a story of people and progress, a story of how innovation can restore trust, enable equity, and reaffirm Gauteng's place as a leader on the continent and beyond. Cracking down on crime with intelligent d esign Vehicle-related crime has long plagued Gauteng, undermining public confidence andleaving many feeling unsafe. True to the sentiments echoed by Lesufi at the historic launch; with more than 85% of serious crimes involving vehicles, many equipped with cloned or stolen plates, the need for a robust solution has never been greater. The INP System is Gauteng's direct, comprehensive response to this challenge. Each plate is embedded with tamper-evident features and unique forensic QR codes,linked to a digitised database, enabling real-time verification. For law enforcement, this is a game changer. Police can now track stolen or flagged vehicles instantaneously, verify registrations on the spot and co-ordinate more effectively with metro police, border agencies and other stakeholders. This is crime prevention through design. By embedding safeguards directly into the system, the government has transformed number plates into powerful tools for ensuringaccountability and justice. The INP System replaces guesswork with data, inefficiency with precision, and fear with confidence. Beyond technology, the system underscores a critical principle: safety thrives when we work together. Freight operators, taxi associations, community groups, and municipalities are all vital partners in making Gauteng's roads safer. Technology sets the framework, butcollective commitment brings it to life.
Express Tribune
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Minorities' contribution to defence hailed
Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Yousaf talking to media at the balloting of Hajj application. PHOTO: INP Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf expressed gratitude to the Sikhs and other minorities for their defence support. He visited the historic Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hassan Abdal, where he met with members of the Sikh community. Speaking on the occasion, the minister termed the recent success of the Pakistan army as a "battle for truth" and an achievement. Highl1ighting the importance of upcoming Sikh festivals in the month of June, the minister said that Pakistan was ready to welcome Sikh pilgrims from around the world.
Express Tribune
22-05-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Islamabad, Kabul agree to exchange ambassadors
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar of Pakistan and Acting Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi pose for a photograph during a meeting in Beijing. Photo: INP Listen to article Pakistan and Afghanistan decided to upgrade their diplomatic ties and in principle agreed to exchange full-time ambassadors, Beijing announced on Wednesday, in a major breakthrough in the bilateral relationship that remained strained since the Taliban took over Kabul nearly a four-year ago. The landmark development was announced by the Chinese foreign ministry in a statement issued after Foreign Minister Wang Yi hosted a trilateral meeting with the Pakistani and Afghan foreign ministers in Beijing. "Afghanistan and Pakistan expressed clear willingness to elevate diplomatic relations and agreed in principle to exchange ambassadors as soon as possible," Wang said in a statement at the end of an informal meeting with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Afghan interim Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. "China welcomed this and will continue to provide assistance for the improvement of Afghanistan-Pakistan relations," the top Chinese diplomat added. Pakistan and Afghanistan have maintained diplomatic presence in each other's capitals but the missions were headed by charged affairs and not the full-time ambassadors. Exchanging ambassadors means that Pakistan would move a step closer to recognising the Taliban government. China was the first country which sent a full-time ambassador to Kabul and accepted the Taliban envoy in March this year. A senior Pakistani official said that discussions in Beijing were positive and all sides agreed to work closely to achieve common objectives. A separate statement issued by the Foreign Office did not mention the upgrade in diplomatic ties with Afghanistan. Unlike the past, Pakistan this time decided to go along with the international community on the issue of recognition. Initially, when the Taliban took over, Pakistan was advocating engagement with the new regime and persuaded countries to recognise the government at the earliest. However, Pakistan's own ties with the Taliban government deteriorated within a few months of the change of government in Kabul, forcing Islamabad to change its stance. Pakistan then decided to link the recognition of the Taliban government with Kabul acting decisively against terrorist groups, including the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). It is believed that China was nudging both sides from behind the scenes to resolve their issues through dialogue. The sources said that for the first time the Taliban government had shown not only willingness but initiated certain steps to rein in groups operating out of its territory. The issue of terrorism was one of the key talking points during the three-way talks in Beijing. The Chinese official read out said Wang stressed the need for combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. He also called for joint cooperation to combat the menace of terrorism. At the same time, the Chinese foreign minister cautioned both sides to stay vigilant against external interference in the internal affairs of regional countries. Although no country was mentioned by name, the reference to external interference seems to suggest India. In the wake of recent escalation in tensions into a military conflict between India and Pakistan, New Delhi was trying to reach out to the Taliban government. Breaking from its decades-old policy, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke to the Afghan interim foreign minister. The move seems to be part of India's recalibration in order to put pressure on Pakistan. But the meeting in Beijing appears to have pre-empted that move. The Chinese foreign ministry statement suggested that there was great incentive for the Taliban government to work closely with Beijing and Islamabad. The statement pointed out that Beijing and Islamabad were ready to expand the "China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan in order to strengthen and build regional connectivity networks. Meanwhile, the Foreign Office statement said that the three foreign ministers held a wide-ranging and constructive dialogue to deepen cooperation through enhanced communication and mutual trust. They reaffirmed the importance of the trilateral platform in supporting regional peace, development, and in advancing their strategic vision for regional connectivity. Welcoming the recent improvements in Afghanistan's security environment, they recognised robust economic linkages and connectivity as essential prerequisites for regional growth and prosperity. They also highlighted the significance of continued diplomatic engagement and practical cooperation under the trilateral framework. The deputy prime minister and foreign minister reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to promoting close, cooperative ties with Afghanistan, especially in trade, transit, health, and connectivity. China and Pakistan reiterated their support for extending CPEC to Afghanistan under the broader framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation. China expressed support for Pakistan and Afghanistan in safeguarding their territorial integrity, sovereignty, and national dignity. Recognising the importance of eradicating terrorism and external threats from the region as necessary to achieve economic and connectivity objectives, all sides agreed to enhance security cooperation to promote peace and stability. They reiterated their stance against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. It was agreed that the 6th Trilateral Foreign Ministers' Meeting would be held in Kabul at an early, mutually convenient date.
Express Tribune
11-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
After truce, PM looks to settling IWT, Kashmir disputes
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif interacts with President Asif Ali Zardari during a meeting at the Presidency. PHOTO: INP Listen to article Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday said Pakistan, as a responsible state, responded positively to the ceasefire in view of regional peace and well-being of millions of people living in this region. In a televised address to nation, the premier expressed the hope that all the outstanding issues including the water distribution, Jammu and Kashmir dispute and all other unresolved issues would now be settled by holding negotiations and adopting a peaceful path. The prime minister wholeheartedly congratulated the nation for demonstrating to the world that their self-respect and dignity were more precious than life itself, adding, "If anyone challenges their sovereignty, they stand like an iron wall and overpower their enemies". "What the enemy did was a cowardly and shameful act — naked aggression," the prime minister said, noting that the brave and professional armed forces delivered a highly effective response that would be remembered as a defining chapter in modern warfare. He said under the pretext of the Pahalgam incident, India attempted to drag Pakistan into war, despite Pakistan's immediate offer to cooperate in an impartial and transparent international investigation. In the face of a flurry of false allegations, Pakistan showed restraint and patience, the prime minister said, adding that India attempted to infiltrate Pakistani territory with drones and missile attacks targeting innocent civilians and mosques, while also testing Pakistan's patience with botched strikes on military installations and water resources. The prime minister said that following repeated acts of aggression, Pakistan chose to respond in kinda language the enemy understood well. He said Pakistan made it clear that the negotiations meant for the table would now take place on the battlefield. He praised the armed forces of Pakistan, saying their soldiers were unfamiliar with the concept of "defeat". He said that within a few hours, Pakistan's forces silenced the enemy's guns, and the world would remember how they turned enemy air bases, installations and stockpiles into ashes. "Even the Rafale failed in the encounter." The prime minister said their fight was against an outdated mindset rooted in hatred, aggression, religious bigotry, and anti-humanity. "This is a victory for truth and our principles," he said, adding that Pakistan responded to the enemy in a manner what deemed fit by a respected nation. The 240 million people of the country expressed their unwavering support and affection for the valiant armed forces, standing firmly beside them throughout the conflict. He also thanked the nation for their prayers for the armed forces' success, saying that as a result, Almighty had granted them a tremendous victory. On this historic victory, he paid tribute to Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee Gen Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf and every officer and personnel of the armed forces. The prime minister expressed gratitude to Gen Asim Munir, on behalf of himself and the entire nation, for his wise and bold leadership that led to victory. He also praised the air chief and his eagles for making the nation proud. The prime minister thanked US President Donald Trump for his sincere role in facilitating the ceasefire. He also expressed gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Türkiye, Qatar, the United Kingdom, UN Secretary-General, and other stakeholders for their constructive role in facilitating the ceasefire. The prime minister especially mentioned Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, Mohamed bin Zayed, Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad and President Tayyip Erdogan who stood with Pakistan like brothers. The prime minister expressed gratitude to the Chinese leadership, including President Xi Jinping and the Chinese people for their unprecedented and historic support. He also remembered Irtaza Abbas Shaheed who embraced martrydom during the Indian aggression and expressed sympathies with the bereaved families who lost their members. He thanked all allied and opposition parties, as well as the entire political leadership and parliament, for their unprecedented unity and solidarity. He also acknowledged his leader, Nawaz Sharif, for his wise leadership and experience, and President Asif Zardari for his valuable consultations. The prime minister commended mediapersons and social media users for effectively countering Indian fake news through responsible reporting and professional integrity, expressing hope that this precedent would serve as a guiding example moving forward. Expressing his firm belief, he stated that after overcoming this crisis, all governments and institutions would focus their energies toward Pakistan's progress and prosperity, vowing not to rest until the country secures its rightful place among the comity of nations. Separately, the prime minister reached out to the country's political leadership, including President Asif Ali Zardari, to brief them on Pakistan's effective response to India through Operation "Bunyan-al-Marsous". He called on the president at Aiwan-e-Sadr. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, along with Minister for Law and Justice Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, were also present at the meeting, according to a statement from the President's Office. President Zardari lauded the exceptional professionalism and bravery of the country's armed forces for giving a befitting response to Indian unprovoked aggression and missile attacks. The president reaffirmed that Pakistan, as a responsible and peace-loving nation, had demonstrated considerable restraint in the face of Indian provocations. He regretted that continued Indian belligerence had left Pakistan with no option but to respond decisively in defence of its sovereignty and to protect its citizens. The president emphasised that the entire Pakistani nation stands united and resolutely supports its armed forces in the face of Indian aggression. He reiterated Pakistan's unwavering commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity at all costs. On the ceasefire between Pakistan and India, President Zardari reaffirmed his faith in the country's armed forces, lauding their befitting response to Indian aggression and defending the nation's sovereignty. "I have always had faith in the armed forces of Pakistanthe army, navy, and air force," he said, according to a statement from the President's Secretariat. "Their response to the aggressor India has been befitting, and we have severely dented their so-called military might." President Zardari stated that the bravery and resolve demonstrated by Pakistan's armed forces is a testament to the strength derived from the Two Nation Theory and the country's unshakeable faith in Almighty. "As an Islamic state, our belief gave us the courage and the strength to stand against a country five times our size," he noted. The president extended his heartfelt congratulations to Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshall Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf and all fighting arms of the military, whose restless efforts and bravery led to this victory. "The nation must jubilate, and also pray for those who embraced shahadat," he said. Reiterating Pakistan's principled stance, the president emphasized that enduring peace in South Asia hinged upon the just and final resolution of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute in accordance with the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, besides resolving other outstanding issues with India, particularly the Indus Waters Treaty. President Zardari also expressed gratitude to all friendly countries, including the USA, Turkey, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Iran, and especially China who stood with Pakistan in an hour of turbulence. Reaffirming Pakistan's commitment to peace, the president stated, "Pakistan seeks peace, not provocation. But we will never compromise on our sovereignty." Meanwhile, the prime minister held a telephonic conversation with Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, expressing gratitude for his support of Pakistan's retaliatory action, Operation Bunyan-al-Marsoos, in response to the Indian aggression. He thanked Bilawal for standing firmly with the government and the nation during this critical time, according to a statement from the Prime Minister's Office. "Your support for the country's principled and powerful response to India's hostile actions is deeply appreciated," the prime minister said. In turn, the PPP chairman praised the prime minister for his exemplary leadership during a period of heightened tensions. He also commended the professionalism and determination of the Pakistan Armed Forces in delivering a strong response to Indian provocations. "We salute the armed forces for their courage and professional excellence in responding to Indian aggression," Bilawal said. "The entire nation stands united with our military in the defence of Pakistan's sovereignty." During the conversation, both leaders emphasized the importance of political unity and national resolve in the face of external threats. The premier also held telephonic conversations with Awami National Party (ANP) chief Aimal Wali Khan and Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) leader Abdul Aleem Khan to discuss the regional situation. The prime minister briefed both the leaders on the recent developments and took them into confidence regarding Pakistan's stance and actions in response to rising tensions with India, a statement from the Prime Minister's Office said. Aimal and Aleem expressed gratitude for being consulted and extended full support to the government's retaliatory measures under Operation Bunyan-al-Marsous. The political leaders praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's leadership during the recent crisis, calling it "exemplary" in the face of rising regional tensions. They also praised the professional excellence and unwavering resolve of the Pakistan Armed Forces, commending the military's swift and decisive response to external threats. "The entire nation stands united with our brave armed forces in defending our beloved homeland," both leaders affirmed during their discussions with the prime minister. The premier also held telephonic conversations with PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar, JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, MQM Convener Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, BAP leader Khalid Hussain Magsi and PML-Q's Chaudhry Salik Hussain about the current security situation and Pakistan's measured yet firm response to Indian aggression, a statement from the Prime Minister's Office said. "Alhamdulillah, the armed forces of Pakistan have today given a powerful and well-coordinated response to India's unprovoked aggression," the premier said. "India launched missile and drone attacks on Pakistan, targeting Noor Khan Airbase and other locations early this morning, killing innocent civilians." Despite repeated provocations, he stated, Pakistan had exercised restraint. He recalled how, after the Pahalgam incident, Pakistan had demanded an impartial investigationan offer India rejected. However, Saturday's assaults left Pakistan with no choice but to respond decisively. The prime minister confirmed that Pakistan's retaliatory action under Operation Bunyan-al-Marsous specifically targeted Indian military installations involved in the attacks. "Today, we have delivered a resounding reply and avenged the blood of the innocent," he said. "We are proud of our armed forces." The premier congratulated the nation and praised the armed forces for their valor and professionalism. The country's top political leaders reiterated their support, applauding the military's composure and tactical expertise. They also pledged full solidarity with the government and armed forces during this critical juncture. "The professionalism of our armed forces in defending the homeland deserves the highest praise," said the joint political leadership, assuring the prime minister of their united support. In return, the prime minister expressed gratitude for their clear and unwavering support, emphasizing the importance of national unity in the face of external threats. With input from APP
Express Tribune
09-04-2025
- Business
- Express Tribune
Pakistan courts investors to develop mineral riches
PM Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir visit stalls at the exhibition in Islamabad. Photo: INP Chief of Army Staff Gen Asim Munir assured foreign investors of "full protection" as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif invited global stakeholders to bring investment, technology, research and expertise to Pakistan's mineral exploration sector and benefit from the country's "investment-friendly policies". Addressing the Pakistan's Minerals Investment Forum at the Jinnah Convention Centre, both the prime minister and army chief highlighted Pakistan's immense untapped mineral potential - worth trillions of dollars - and its readiness to become a major player in the global mineral economy. The event, held under the auspices of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), was attended by over 300 international delegates, along with federal ministers, parliamentarians, governors, chief ministers and diplomats. In his remarks, Gen Asim invited global investors to partner with Pakistan in developing its vast mineral reserves. He assured participants that the Pakistan Army would provide a robust security framework and take proactive measures to safeguard the interests and confidence of investors. "I firmly believe that Pakistan is ready to take a leading role in the international mineral economy," the army chief said. "The development of both upstream and downstream mineral industries in Pakistan will be ensured," he added. "With vast mineral reserves beneath our soil, skills in our hands, and a transparent mineral policy in place, there is no room for despair or inaction," he said, adding that there was a dire need for engineers, geologists, operators, and skilled miners to help unlock the sector's potential. "That is why we are also sending students abroad for training to support the development of this sector," he said. "Our aim is to develop skilled manpower and human resources specifically tailored for the mineral sector," he added. Gen Asim underscored the importance of investing in refining and value-addition in order to reduce costs and diversify markets in Pakistan. "Move forward and strive - for your country and yourselves," he stated. "We, the Pakistanis unanimously assure our partners and investors that it is our collective national aspiration to benefit from your expertise in developing our mineral wealth," he said. He also assured foreign entrepreneurs they could trust Pakistan as a reliable and confident partner. Acknowledging the contribution of tribal elders of Balochistan, Gen Asim praised their role in promoting mining activities and fostering development and progress in the province. "Through collective efforts, Pakistan's mineral sector can become a driver of regional development, prosperity, and sustainability." In his address, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif invited foreign investors to avail the investment-friendly policies of Pakistan and bring in their investment, technology, research and expertise to benefit from the huge natural resources worth trillions of dollars, spanning over all regions of the country. "From the rugged mountains of Balochistan to snow covered mountains of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa [K-P] and the pristine tops of Gilgit-Baltistan [G-B] and Azad Jammu and Kashmir [AJK], the valleys of Sindh and the plains of Punjab possess immense natural resources," he said. "If we are able to harvest these great assets, I can say without any contradiction that Pakistan will say goodbye to the IMF [International Monetary Fund] programmes," he said, acknowledging that the global financial institution had been a great source of support for the country for decades. Welcoming the companies from Europe, the US, China, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Turkiye and other countries, the prime minister urged the foreign investors to convert the existing opportunities into reality as the government was looking for solid partnerships with them. The prime minister said that relevant provincial governments had been working to provide conducive environment to the foreign investors. He assured complete support from the federal government, provinces, institutions and the Pakistan Army. Shehbaz pointed out that Sindh had the largest coal deposits which could feed cement plants and other industrial units, thus saving Pakistan's valuable foreign reserves spent on importing coals. Punjab, he added, had discovered the iron ores deposits in Chiniot. Similarly, K-P, AJK and G-B had the enormous potential, he said. He announced that as per the government policy, raw material would not be shipped out of Pakistan; rather the foreign investors were encouraged to set up downstream industries to convert raw materials into finished product. He observed that the investors would bring their technology and train the Pakistani youth in modern skills so that they could become entrepreneurs themselves. He urged them to consider training for Pakistani youth by establishing vocational centres. The prime minister expressed his gratitude and appreciation to Energy Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, his team and all other relevant departments, besides the valuable support from the army chief and his colleagues; and the international partners for arranging and participating in the successful event. The prime minister also appreciated the commitment of Mark Bristow, president and the chief executive officer (CEO) of the Barrick Gold, to the Reko Diq project and said that he was impressed with his acumen and steadfastness. Speaking at the forum earlier, Bristow said that feasibility study of the Reko Diq project had been completed, while the first production from the project was planned for 2028 and targeted 240,000 tons of copper and 300,000 ounces of gold per annum. Addressing the forum, National Resources Limited (NRL) Chairman Muhammad Ali Tabba said that the NRL had discovered significant copper-gold mineralisation in Chagai district of Balochistan. "Over the past 15 months, NRL has identified 18 new prospects in the area." Earlier, in his opening remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar said that Pakistan hosted vast resources of rare earth elements, industrial minerals, non-metallics and gemstones, including globally sought-after peridote and emerald. Du0ring a discussion session Commerce Minister Jam Kamal emphasised that Pakistan was the destination for investment in the minerals. Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said the government has streamlined both fiscal and legal frameworks to encourage investment in the mineral sector. On the occasion of the two-day Pakistan Minerals Investment Forum 2025, different memoranda of understanding (MoUs) and agreements in the minerals sector were signed. The prime minister, chief of army staff and the chief ministers also witnessed the signing ceremony.
