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‘FUTURE OF NATION’: PM VOWS TO EMPOWER YOUTH WITH GLOBAL SKILLS, BOOST EMPLOYMENT Thursday, 2 April, 2026 | 13 Shawwal, 1447
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PREMIER SHEHBAZ SAYS COMPREHENSIVE NAVTTC PROGRAMS ALREADY SHOWING POSITIVE RESULTS NATIONWIDE g
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NOTES MATRIC-TECH AND UPCOMING INTER TECH PROGRAMS TO EXPAND TECH TRAINING
SAYS PM YOUTH HUB, IT, HEALTHCARE, TOURISM, LOGISTICS SECTORS OFFER GROWING JOB OPPORTUNITIES
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HIGHLIGHTS HEC TRACKING EMPLOYMENT OF GRADUATES FROM 282 UNIVERSITIES TO SHAPE POLICIES
PAKISTAN ADDRESSES ECONOMIC, FINANCIAL CHALLENGES EFFECTIVELY AMID REGIONAL CONFLICT: PM sTAFF RePORT
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ISLAMABAD
RIME MINISTER Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday described the youth as the “future of the nation,” highlighting the government’s focus on equipping young Pakistanis with technical and vocational skills in high-demand fields through international certifications, state media reported. Chairing a meeting on enhancing employment opportunities for youth, the Prime Minister said positive results were already emerging from the comprehensive training programs launched under the Na-
tional Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC), aimed at harnessing the full potential of the country’s young population, said a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). Expressing satisfaction over the performance of the Prime Minister’s Youth Program under the leadership of Rana Mashhood Ahmed Khan, he underscored government initiatives to provide professional skills that integrate youth effectively into the workforce. He directed that work on technical and vocational training initiatives be accelerated to align with contemporary industry requirements.
13 terrorists eliminated in KP as security forces intensify crackdown RAWALPINDI
sTAFF cORResPOndenT
Security forces killed 13 militants in two separate intelligence-based operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations on Wednesday. The operations, conducted on March 30, targeted militants described by the military as “Indian proxy Fitna al Khawarij,” a term used by the state for members of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan. In the first operation, carried out in the Bara area of Khyber District, security forces killed 10 militants following what officials described as an intense exchange of fire. The ISPR said troops effectively engaged militant positions, resulting in the elimination of all targets at the site. A second operation in Bannu District led to the killing of three more militants, further underscoring the ongoing counterterror campaign in the region. The military said follow-up sanitisation operations were underway to clear the area of any remaining militants. It reiterated that operations under the “Azm-eIstehkam” strategy — approved under the National Action Plan — would continue at full pace to eliminate what it termed foreign-sponsored terrorism. Asif Ali Zardari and Shehbaz Sharif praised the security forces for the successful operations. In separate statements, both leaders reaffirmed the country’s resolve to eradicate terrorism. President Zardari emphasised that such operations would continue to ensure national security and safeguard citizens, while Prime Minister Shehbaz described the armed forces as a “solid wall” defending the country against militant threats. The operations come amid a surge in militant activity in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. According to the Centre for Research and Security Studies, fatalities in the province rose sharply from 1,620 in 2024 to 2,331 in 2025, reflecting a worsening security environment. In response to the resurgence of militancy, particularly in KP and Balochistan, authorities have stepped up intelligencebased operations targeting militant networks.
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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday said that while several countries are struggling to maintain the demand-supply balance of essential commodities amid global challenges, Pakistan is managing the situation “successfully and effectively,” state media reported. The Prime Minister made these remarks during a review meeting aimed at devising a comprehensive strategy to shield the country from the financial and economic impacts arising from the ongoing regional conflict, said a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO). PM Shehbaz commended the timely and effective measures taken by institutions to prevent any emergency situation concerning the supply of essential goods. He praised the mutual coordination among ministries and relevant institutions to tackle economic and financial
challenges and directed them to further strengthen their cooperation. “After meeting domestic needs for food and essential items, progress is being made on a comprehensive strategy to export surplus production,” the Prime Minister said. He reiterated that the government would continue to take all necessary steps to ensure the stability and development of the national economy and safeguard public welfare. Considering rising global prices, PM Shehbaz directed the formulation of a comprehensive medium- and longterm strategy to address the economic and financial impacts on Pakistan. The strategy, he said, should focus on economic stability, growth, and resilience, and be prepared in close coordination with relevant ministries and institutions. The Prime Minister emphasized that while preparing the strategy, both external and internal macroeconomic impacts must be carefully evaluated.
No major outcome as Pak-Afghan Urumqi talks end amid China push for CBMs ISLAMABAD MiAn AbRAR
A crucial trilateral meeting between Pakistan, Afghanistan, and China in Urumqi ended without a breakthrough on Wednesday, highlighting persistent tensions and deep divisions between Islamabad and Kabul. The talks marked the first significant diplomatic contact since Pakistan launched Operation Ghazab lil-Haq on February 26, an operation that led to a sharp downturn in bilateral engagement. Despite the high stakes, officials familiar with the discussions described the outcome as inconclusive. A Pakistani official, speaking anonymously, said the meeting produced no major progress, though it helped reopen channels of communication. China reit-
erated its commitment to stay engaged with both sides, positioning itself as a stabilising force amid growing regional uncertainty. According to officials, the meeting was not intended as formal mediation but rather as a platform to exchange views on escalating security concerns. Discussions focused heavily on finding a balance between addressing militancy and preserving economic cooperation. Islamabad once again raised alarm over the presence of Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan safe havens in Afghanistan, a concern it has repeatedly flagged since the Afghan Taliban’s return to power. Afghan representatives, while expressing a willingness to engage, maintained that TTP’s cross-border activities are not their direct responsibility.
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Pakistan steps into global carbon market with historic Norway agreement ISLAMABAD
sTAFF RePORT
‘Court Steps In’: KP CM ordered to explain 'Release Force' plan for Imran Khan
EMPHASIZES GOVT FACILITATES INVESTORS IN TELECOM AND DIGITAL SECTORS TO BOOST ECONOMY
ISLAMABAD
sAleeM JAdOOn
Rs 20.00 | Vol XVII No 7 | 8 Pages | Karachi Edition
In what is being hailed as Pakistan’s formal entry into the global carbon market and a major breakthrough in climate diplomacy, Pakistan and Norway on Wednesday signed a landmark carbon market agreement under the Paris Agreement, according to an official statement. The Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination said the deal marks Pakistan’s first bilateral agreement under Article 6.2 of the Paris
Agreement, opening avenues for international carbon trading, climate finance, and large-scale investment in clean energy and climate-smart agriculture. Signed in Islamabad, the memorandum of understanding (MoU) is being seen as a defining step in operationalising Pakistan’s carbon market ambitions and deepening its engagement in global climate cooperation. The Paris Agreement, adopted by world leaders at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP21) on December 12, 2015, commits countries to reducing
ISLAMABAD
sTAFF cORResPOndenT
The Federal Constitutional Court on Wednesday directed Sohail Afridi, Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, to submit a response within 10 days to a petition challenging the proposed mobilisation of a “release force” aimed at securing the freedom of Imran Khan. A three-member bench headed by Chief Justice Aminuddin Khan also issued notices to key respondents, including the KP government, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the federal government, and the Election Commission of Pakistan. The proposed force was announced in February by CM Afridi following a prolonged protest seeking access to Imran Khan, who has been incarcerated at Adiala Jail since August 5, 2023. The initiative was intended to sustain the party’s campaign for his release. The petition, filed by Advocate Ali Nawaz Kharal in the public interest, urged the court to intervene and prevent the formation of any private militia, arguing that such a move would violate constitutional provisions. It also sought a stay on the creation of the force. During the hearing, Justice Ali Baqar Najafi questioned whether the provincial cabinet had approved the formation of such a force. The petitioner’s counsel responded that no such approval had been granted. The court directed the federal government to ensure adherence to the law and safeguard public order, reflecting concerns over the potential implications of such a move. The proposal has sparked divisions within the Pakistan Tehreek-eInsaf itself. Several party leaders expressed unease, drawing parallels with Al-Zulfikar, a militant group formed in 1979, and questioning the necessity of such a force. Others, however, have pushed for immediate protests rather than delaying action through organisational steps like membership drives. In his petition, Kharal argued that the chief minister’s statement violated the oath of office and raised serious constitutional concerns. He warned that references to a “release force” could create fear and uncertainty among the public, potentially fostering unrest. The petition cited Article 256 of the Constitution, which explicitly prohibits private militias, as well as relevant legal provisions under the Private Militias (Abolition and Prohibition) Act. It further emphasised that while Article 17 guarantees freedom of association, it is subject to restrictions in the interest of public order and national integrity. According to the plea, any attempt to establish a force capable of organised physical action would fall outside constitutional limits and could be deemed unlawful. It also questioned how such a force would operate to “secure” Imran Khan’s release, raising concerns about its intended methods. The court proceedings mark a significant legal challenge to the proposal, placing the issue of political mobilisation and constitutional boundaries under judicial scrutiny.
greenhouse gas emissions and strengthening resilience against climate impacts through collective action over time. Under the new agreement, Pakistan will be able to develop carbon creditgenerating projects across key sectors,
including clean energy, agriculture, transport, and waste management, and potentially trade the resulting emission reductions with Norway.
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China, Pakistan launch joint peace initiative as Iran, US war escalates BEIJING
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China's State Councilor and Minister for Foreign Affairs Mr Wang Yi on Wednesday praised Pakistan for its active diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and promote peace in West Asia, reaffirming Beijing’s support during high-level talks with Ishaq Dar. The meeting took place during Deputy Prime Minister Dar’s official visit to China from March 31 to April 1, held at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart. Discussions were marked by traditional warmth, with both sides reviewing bilateral ties and exchanging views on evolving regional dynamics. Dar briefed Wang Yi on Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic outreach aimed at halting conflict and reviving dialogue in West Asia. He highlighted a recent meeting in Islam-
abad involving foreign ministers from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and Egypt as part of these efforts. Both leaders expressed deep concern over the deteriorating regional security environment and its socio-economic impact, particularly on developing countries. In response, Pakistan and China jointly launched a five-point initiative aimed at restoring
peace and stability in the Gulf and the broader Middle East. The talks also underscored the growing momentum in bilateral relations, with both sides committing to advance high-quality development and deepen strategic cooperation under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) 2.0 framework. Enhanced highlevel exchanges were also emphasised as both countries approach the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Dar expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality extended by the Chinese leadership, reaffirming Islamabad’s commitment to strengthening ties with Beijing. The two sides further exchanged views on Afghanistan, stressing the importance of peace, stability, and effective counterterrorism efforts, while agreeing to maintain close coordination on regional and global issues.
Trump discusses Iran ceasefire talks with Saudi crown prince WASHINGTON Agencies
President Donald Trump spoke by phone on Wednesday with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the US-Israeli war against Iran and efforts for a possible ceasefire, Axios reported. Citing two sources with knowledge of the call, Axios said Trump briefed the crown prince on "talks over a possible ceasefire". The White House has not responded to Anadolu's inquiry on the reported call. The US has sent Iran a proposal to end
the war via Pakistan, reportedly including steps on Tehran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programmes, as well as maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has denied holding direct talks with the US, insisting that contacts have been limited to messages passed through intermediaries and describing Washington’s proposals as “excessive and unrealistic”. The US and Israel have been carrying out airstrikes on Iran since February 28, killing more than 1,900 people, according to Iranian authorities.
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