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Thursday, 17 April, 2025 | 18 Shawwal, 1446
Rs 20.00 | Vol XV No 280 | 8 Pages | Lahore Edition
PM REAFFIRMS GOVT’S COMMITMENT TO TRANSFORMING PAKISTAN’S AGRICULTURE SECTOR
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– ANNOUNCES TRAINING FOR 1,000 AGRICULTURE GRADUATES IN CHINA TO ENHANCE FOOD SECURITY AND FARMERS’ LIVELIHOODS ISLAMABAD
Staff RepoRt
RIME Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to transforming Pakistan’s agriculture sector, calling it essential for achieving sustainable economic growth. He emphasized that strengthening the agricultural backbone of the country would help ensure food security, boost exports, and improve livelihoods for millions of farmers. Speaking at a ceremony held here in connection with the PM’s initiative for capacity building of 1000 agriculture graduates in China, the prime minister highlighted the urgent need to revive and modernize the country’s agricultural research institutions. “We must focus on meaningful farming practices, digitalized crop management, and the development of climate-resilient seeds,”
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the prime minister said. Under the initiative, 300 selected graduates are being sent to China for a 3-month training program during the first phase. In the second phase, 400 graduates will undergo a 6-month training program, followed by the remaining 300 graduates who will participate in a 3-month training program in the final phase. PM Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the 300 young graduates who were going to fly to China for train-
ing in agriculture techniques and equip themselves with knowledge. He hoped that upon their return back to Pakistan, they will contribute towards agricultural economy. Recalling his last visit to China, the prime minister said when he visited the Chinese universities, he was much inspired by the research work in various fields of agriculture sector. “I decide then to send 1000 young Pakistani agri graduates to benefit from this great experience.”
MASTUNG
Govt to deepen counter-narcotics cooperation with Gulf countries: Naqvi ISLAMABAD
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Wednesday reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to deepen cooperation with Gulf countries in all areas of counter-narcotics, emphasising the need for joint efforts to curb the spread and impact of illicit drugs in the region. Speaking at a conference hosted by the Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) in Islamabad, Naqvi highlighted the importance of strengthening intelligence sharing, joint training programmes, real-time coordination, and enhanced forensic and technical collaboration. He described the drug threat as a shared challenge that requires a united regional response. “We are not here merely as representatives of our respective states,” Naqvi said. “We are frontline soldiers united on the global stage against the menace of drugs.” He commended the participation of Gulf delegations at the conference, calling it a “powerful symbol of joint resolve” and a reflection of the shared vision for a drug-free world. Naqvi reiterated that regional cooperation is vital to achieving sustainable success in drug control. “Only through coordinated action can we effectively combat this threat and secure a better, drugfree future for our youth and communities,” he stressed. The conference brought together key stakeholders from Gulf nations, reinforcing the government’s commitment to collective strategies aimed at promoting regional stability and public health.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday expressed gratitude to China for supporting Pakistan in securing a $1.3 billion arrangement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), finalized on March 26 under the lender’s ongoing 37-month Extended Fund Facility. Speaking at a ceremony in Islamabad, the prime minister hailed China as “a close friend that has always stood by us in difficult times,” especially during critical economic junctures. He said Beijing remained committed to strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in agriculture. The remarks came during the launch of the Prime Minister’s Initiative for Capacity Building of 1,000 Agricultural Graduates in China, a fully funded international training programme aimed at modernizing Pakistan’s agriculture sector. The first batch of 300 agri graduates is set to depart for China today, according to the Ministry of National Food Security and Research.
Akhtar Mengal ends 20-day protest, vows to continue advocacy for Baloch rights NewS DeSk
Staff RepoRt
PM thanks China for backing Pakistan’s $1.3b IMF deal
Akhtar Mengal, leader of the Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M), announced the conclusion of his party’s 20-day sit-in protest at Lak Pass in Mastung on Wednesday. The protest, which began in response to the arrests of Baloch rights activists including Dr. Mahrang Baloch, leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), had disrupted major trade and transport routes, particularly affecting the Quetta-Karachi and Quetta-Taftan highways. Mengal, addressing supporters, emphasized that the decision to call off the sit-in was made to prevent further inconvenience to the public, especially due to the blockages causing significant economic losses. The protest had stranded over 1,200 cargo vehicles, including LPG tankers, at the Pak-Iran border, with the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry estimating daily financial losses in the millions. Despite this, Mengal vowed the party would not abandon its demands for justice and accountability. The BNP-M leader confirmed that the party
would shift its focus to rallies across Balochistan, with a central committee meeting scheduled for April 18 in Quetta to discuss the next steps. He also hinted at launching a public outreach movement following the sit-in’s end, continuing his commitment to raising awareness on Balochistan’s constitutional rights and its long-standing grievances. The protests had initially erupted following the detention of Dr. Mahrang Baloch and 16 other activists during a protest camp in Quetta, and days earlier, the group accused law enforcement of killing three of their supporters. The arrests, along with the crackdown on sit-ins, sparked the unrest that led to the extensive sit-in. Earlier this week, BNP-M held an All Parties Conference in Quetta, where nine resolutions were passed, including calls for the enforcement of constitutional rights linked to Balochistan’s 1948 Instrument of Accession and a national dialogue to address the province’s enduring issues. Mengal’s statement assures that while the sit-in is over, the fight for justice and accountability for the Baloch people is far from finished.
Pakistan, Afghanistan to hold talks amid rising tensions ISLAMABAD
Staff RepoRt
Tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan are rising as security concerns over terrorist activities and cross-border militant groups remain unresolved. The growing influence of the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP) and other armed groups has been cited as a major obstacle in improving bilateral relations. Pakistan’s Foreign Office confirmed last month that the terrorists responsible for the Jaffar Express hijacking had links to Afghanistan, with phone records traced back to the neighboring country. In response, the Afghan Taliban claimed that militants from ISKP cross into Afghanistan from Pakistan’s Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa regions, though Pakistani authorities have dismissed these allegations as unsubstantiated. In a related development, a delegation from Afghanistan’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce, led by Minister Noor Uddin Azizi, is set to visit Pakistan. Afghan Commerce Ministry spokesman Abdul Salam Jawad confirmed the visit to Dawn.com, adding that talks will focus on enhancing trade relations. Key topics for discussion include the preferential trade agreement, tariff reductions on specific goods, a revised transit agreement, and improving facilities for traders at border points. The outcome of these talks could play a crucial role in shaping the future of economic cooperation between the two neighboring countries.
Police arrest four for attacking Islamabad KFC ISLAMABAD
Staff RepoRt
Islamabad police arrested four individuals on Wednesday after an attack on international food chain outlet, KFC, in the capital’s E-11/2 sector. According to police, a group of around 15 people gathered outside the restaurant to protest, with some attempting to vandalise the premises. A timely response by law enforcement prevented major damage. A spokesperson for Islamabad police confirmed that four suspects were taken into custody at the scene, while further arrests are expected based on CCTV footage and witness statements. The motive behind the protest remains under investigation. Authorities are treating the case seriously, given the rising trend of attacks targeting foreign food chains in various parts of the country. On Sunday, A group of 10-12 armed men stormed the KFC, harassing customers and threatening staff. Police in Rawalpindi have identified the individuals involved in the vandalism of a Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) outlet in Saddar through CCTV footage and vowed to make swift arrests. The police have vowed to take strict action, using NADRA’s database to apprehend the offenders,
‘Even ten generations of terrorists can’t harm Pakistan’: COAS ISLAMABAD
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Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir delivered a powerful address at the first Overseas Pakistanis Convention in Islamabad, asserting that Pakistan’s enemies are mistaken in thinking that a handful of terrorists can dictate the country’s destiny. “Even ten generations of terrorists cannot damage Balochistan or Pakistan,” he declared, adding that Balochistan is not only vital to the country’s future but also a symbol of national pride. He emphasised that as long as the proud people of Pakistan stand behind their armed forces, no challenge is insur-
mountable. COAS Munir expressed deep admiration for the patriotism of overseas Pakistanis, stating, “I am truly moved by your passion for Pakistan. Let me assure you that our bond with you is even stronger.” He rejected the notion of brain drain, calling it instead a “brain gain,” and praised the global Pakistani diaspora as ambassadors and shining lights of the nation. “You are not just representatives; you are the brilliance of Pakistan that reflects across the world,” he said. Urging the diaspora to share the legacy of Pakistan with future generations, Gen Munir reaffirmed that the values and vision for which the country was founded must be preserved and passed
on. He further said that Allah has blessed Pakistan with abundant natural resources, and citizens should be grateful. “Together, we are sending a clear message: whoever stands in the way of Pakistan’s progress will be removed,” he asserted. Addressing national identity and re-
silience, Gen Munir reminded overseas Pakistanis that their heritage is rooted in a noble civilisation and ideology. “We do not fear adversity; we have never bowed to hardships, and we never will.” The COAS also paid tribute to Pakistan’s martyrs, saying the nation views them with utmost honour and dignity. “Their sacrifices are eternal and will never be forgotten.” On regional matters, Gen Munir reiterated unwavering support for the Kashmiri people, calling Kashmir Pakistan’s “jugular vein” and expressing solidarity with Palestinians, saying the hearts of Pakistanis beat with the people of Gaza. He concluded by asserting that Pakistan’s journey of progress is ongoing.