Pakistan

ISLAMABAD — Khalid Mahmood Khokhar, President of Pakistan Kissan Ittehad, has issued a warning for a nationwide protest scheduled for Sunday. This move seeks to pressurize the government into revising its existing budgetary and agriculture-related policies. Farmers’ Concerns Khokhar emphasized that farmers are left with no alternative but to protest. Current government policies are viewed as detrimental to the agriculture sector, prompting widespread dissatisfaction. Need for Immediate Relief There is an urgent need for relief measures to support farmers. The protest aims to underscore the agricultural community’s urgent requirements if policy changes are delayed. Urgent Government Action Required Pakistan Kissan Ittehad calls on the government to act swiftly in addressing these critical issues. Taking action can prevent potential unrest among farmers. Importance of Supportive Policies The association insists that proactive and supportive policies are vital for the agricultural sector’s sustainability and growth in Pakistan.

ISLAMABAD — Female school attendance in Pakistan has increased to 57%, marking significant progress in expanding educational opportunities for girls. Official documents indicate that the proportion of females aged 10 and above attending school rose from 50% in 2018-19 to 57% in 2024-25. Provincial Improvements The data reflects notable improvements across various provinces: Punjab: Attendance increased from 59% to 65%. Sindh: Improved from 45% to 49%. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Attendance rose from 38% to 47%. Balochistan: Increased from 24% to 34%. These figures demonstrate enhanced access to education for girls across the nation. Rural and National Trends Rural regions also showed significant improvement, with attendance rising from 53% to 59% over the period. Additionally, the percentage of females aged 10 and above completing at least primary education increased from 42% to 48%. Literacy Rates In terms of literacy, females aged 10 and above reached a literacy rate of 54% by 2024-25. Expanding educational access for girls has positively impacted Pakistan’s education sector. National Impact A decline in the national out-of-school children rate from 38% in 2023 to 28% in 2025 was observed. Moreover, the national literacy rate for individuals aged 10 and above rose from 61% to 63%.

KARACHI — Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has expressed profound sorrow over the death of Naeem Ahmed Kharal, a respected leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party and a Member of the Sindh Assembly. Chief Minister’s Statement On Wednesday, Chief Minister Shah issued a statement sharing his deep sadness over Naeem Ahmed Kharal’s passing. He described Kharal as a dedicated and active leader centered on public service, earning him widespread respect. Legacy and Contributions Shah highlighted the loss felt by the Pakistan Peoples Party and acknowledged Naeem Kharal as a valued colleague. Known for his commitment to public welfare, Kharal’s contributions to society and politics were significant. The Government of Sindh and the party pledged to honor his legacy.

KARACHI — Sindh Governor Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi and Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah paid tribute to fathers at a Father’s Day event on Sunday. Significance of Fathers Both leaders emphasized fathers as blessings from Almighty Allah, embodying love, sacrifice, and guidance. The Governor talked about the profound impact of a father’s love and nurturing on children’s growth. Fathers as Society’s Pillars The Governor described fathers as guiding lights throughout their children’s lives. He highlighted their crucial role in building a strong and successful society. He urged everyone to respect, serve, and honor fathers. Prayers for Progress Governor Hashmi and Chief Minister Shah offered prayers for national progress. They also prayed for the health, safety, and well-being of fathers across Pakistan.

ISLAMABAD — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has established a committee to review the Telecommunication Reorganization (Amendment) Bill. The committee, led by Federal Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazir Tarar, aims to address specific concerns related to the bill’s provisions. Committee Members and Objectives The committee comprises several notable members, including: Senator Sherry Rehman Federal Minister for IT Shaza Fatima Khawaja Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema Attorney General Mansoor Awan Experts in law and IT Focus Areas The committee is focusing on the right-of-way framework detailed in Sections 2(qb), 2(ma), 27A, and 27B. This aspect of the bill is crucial for setting up telecommunication facilities and conducting operations on private property. Prime Minister’s Directive The Prime Minister has stressed the urgency of this matter, directing the committee to expedite their review process and submit proposals swiftly. This effort is part of the broader strategy to enhance the legislative landscape affecting Pakistan’s telecommunication sector.

ISLAMABAD — Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir are participating in critical talks in Burgenstock, Switzerland, on June 21. These discussions come in the wake of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding signing. Prime Minister’s Delegation Departure Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif departed from Islamabad, leading a high-level delegation to these essential talks. Their aim is to advance the goals set out in the recently signed memorandum. Importance of the Islamabad Memorandum The Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding marks a vital step for Pakistan in boosting international partnerships. These technical talks will concentrate on refining the implementation strategies and outlining further details of the agreement.

GUJRANWALA — On Saturday, notable religious scholars and spiritual leaders from various denominations gathered to renew their commitment to the Paigham-e-Pakistan Code of Conduct. They pledged full cooperation with the National Paigham-e-Aman Committee (NPAC) to uphold peace and order during Muharram-ul-Haram across Pakistan. Unified Support for Paigham-e-Pakistan Religious leaders from different sects voiced unanimous support for the principles outlined in the Paigham-e-Pakistan document. This initiative seeks to promote harmony and understanding among various religious groups. Their reaffirmation comes at a crucial time as the nation prepares for Muharram, a significant month in the Islamic calendar. Commitment to Peaceful Observance The Paigham-e-Pakistan initiative receives endorsement from both religious and state institutions. It aims to foster peace through a cohesive strategy that discourages sectarian violence. This commitment by religious figures underscores efforts to unite the nation and ensure a respectful and peaceful Muharram.

ISLAMABAD — Senator Sherry Rehman, Vice President of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), paid tribute to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto on her 73rd birth anniversary. Rehman highlighted Bhutto’s significant legacy as Pakistan’s first female Prime Minister. Benazir Bhutto: A Global Symbol Bhutto, who served twice as Prime Minister, remains a global icon of democracy and women’s empowerment. Her leadership continues to inspire female leaders worldwide. Impact on Pakistan’s Political Landscape Rehman stressed Bhutto’s lasting impact on Pakistan’s political landscape. Her dedication to democratic ideals and trailblazing achievements enriched the country’s policies. Challenges and Resilience Benazir Bhutto is fondly remembered for her resilience in facing challenges. She played a crucial role in shaping democratic policies, and her legacy is honored both domestically and internationally. Her efforts championing rights and equality continue to influence current and future leaders.

ISLAMABAD — The Federal Government Employees Housing Authority (FGEHA) has initiated an eco-friendly transformation of Sectors F-14 and F-15. This project seeks to develop these areas into modern and environmentally sustainable residential spaces within Pakistan. Project Objectives and Leadership The project follows directives from Captain (Retd.) Muhammad Mahmood, Secretary of the Ministry of Housing & Works, and the Director General of FGEHA. The leadership aims to integrate advanced infrastructure with environmental objectives, promoting a sustainable living environment. Implementation of Sustainability Standards FGEHA is dedicated to implementing several strategies to achieve high sustainability standards. This aligns with Islamabad’s growing commitment to eco-conscious urban development. Transforming these sectors into eco-friendly spaces marks a significant advancement for the capital city.

ISLAMABAD — The Francophonie Film Festival 2026 in Karachi saw Romania making a significant mark with its feature film, Warboy. This 85-minute adventure, directed by Crisan, expertly blends war drama and western genres, capturing European audiences with its engaging narrative. Romanian Cinema in Pakistan The Francophonie Film Festival provides a platform for Romanian filmmakers to exhibit their artistic talents to Pakistani viewers. Warboy was praised for its innovative storytelling, enhancing Romania’s reputation on the international film stage. Festival Highlights Known for its diverse film selection, the festival showcased Warboy as a standout feature. The film drew substantial interest from both film enthusiasts and critics. This event highlights the increasing collaboration between the cultural sectors of Pakistan and Romania.