KARACHI: PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Friday inaugurated the 39-kilometre-long Shahrah-i-Bhutto Expressway, linking Karachi’s Qayyumabad to the M-9 Motorway.

He also laid the foundation stone for the construction of an expressway project linking Karachi Port to Qayyumabad.

Speaking on the occasion, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah said that the expressway has six interchanges, six lanes and a 5-kilometre elevated section.

He said the PPP chairman had inaugurated the first 9-kilometre segment of the project in January 2025. The second 4-kilometre segment was inaugurated in June last year, and the remaining portion is now being inaugurated in May 2026.

CM Murad emphasised that the project took 4 to 4.5 years to complete, and that it could have been finished earlier had the government not prioritised avoiding the displacement of any population along the route.

“If you need to travel outside Karachi, whether to Sindh, Punjab or Balochistan, this project will reduce travel time by around an hour.”

He added that projects worth Rs1,700 billion were underway in Karachi, adding that he had approved over Rs70 billion worth of projects in the past three months alone.

‘Healthcare capital of the country’

Addressing the ceremony, PPP Chairman said, “If one compares the projects completed between 1947 and 2008, one will realise that the PPP is the only government that has undertaken meaningful development projects.”

“Due to the PPP, people from across the country want to visit, work and live in Karachi. We invite them to come here and contribute to this province and its economy,” he said.

He maintained that Karachi is not just the commercial capital of Pakistan, but also the healthcare capital of the country.

He said the Sindh government assumed administrative control of the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD) in Karachi after the 18th Constitutional Amendment.

“I invite our political rivals to assess the hospital’s situation before and after the 18th Amendment. It has become one of the largest free healthcare institutions in the world,” Bilawal said.

Bilawal said that the Shahrah-i-Bhutto project was completed under a public-private partnership model.

During his speech, Bilawal said that the Pakistani nation was currently facing financial difficulties. “In particular, the Israel–US war with Iran is causing a global financial burden. Poor and hardworking people around the world are bearing that burden.”

“I believe that whoever is working for peace at this time is doing God’s work,” he said.

He thanked Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for their efforts to prevent war.

“We thank them because the PPP has always been against war, especially in view of the country’s financial difficulties,” he said.

He added that his party was also working to ease the financial burden. “We will create opportunities that provide financial relief.”

“We need to launch initiatives that create economic opportunities,” he emphasised.

He also said the Sindh government was leading the country in public-private partnerships.

“We have received global recognition for these partnerships. We have proven that the PPP can deliver on its promises. Through these partnerships, we will create opportunities for the entire nation.”

The PPP chairman also announced the establishment of the Sindh International Financial Centre in Karachi, adding, “It will help improve Karachi’s business growth.”

“Once this project is built, Sindh will compete with the rest of the world.”

He said Pakistan needed to improve its port infrastructure so that the economy could grow.

“The port authority is the government’s responsibility, but I will also try to develop a public-private partnership port,” he said.

Bilawal also said he wanted to ensure that Karachi plays a role in defence production.

“When I was foreign minister, I noted that we were not meeting demand in those years. Now, since the war with India in May, the demand for ‘Made in Pakistan’ defence production has increased.”

“Everyone wants to buy ‘Made in Pakistan’ defence equipment. So I want to establish a defence and security production zone in Karachi. The goal would be to manufacture defence equipment such as drones, ammunition and fighter jets,” he said.

The PPP chairman further added that these projects would also be implemented through public-private partnerships.

Bilawal said some critics in the country often criticise the PPP.

“I encourage my workers to ignore what they say. I am here, and I will not let any of their plans succeed.”

“It is the right of our rivals to criticise us. Right now, Sindh has the most democracy in the country. Karachi has the highest level of democratic freedom of all cities in the country,” he said.

He said the PPP considers criticism part of democracy. “In any other province, political rivals cannot criticise the ruling party.”

“I say that the problems in my city are mine. Anyone sitting elsewhere cannot solve these problems,” he stressed.

On May 14, Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Memon announced that the government would fully open the Shahrah-i-Bhutto Expressway in Karachi to the public by the end of May.

Earlier this week, Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab launched the Urban Forest project along the Shahrah-i-Bhutto, aiming to plant 100,000 saplings along the route.

He said it would play a significant role in environmental improvement, reducing air pollution and providing citizens with a healthier environment.

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has warned that any attempts to exert political pressure, abuse influence or exploit a woman by threatening to release “personal content” in the case involving actor Momina Iqbal and PML-N MPA Saqib Chadhar will be met with “firm and uncompromising action”.

In a tweet posted on Friday evening, the CM said the matter is a “personal issue” that will be “addressed strictly on merit and in accordance with the law”.

In a post on social media in which she tagged the PML-N leadership, Momina alleged that she had been subjected to “online harassment, cyberbullying, and death threats for a long time.”

She claimed that both she and her family had suffered severe mental stress and trauma because of the alleged conduct of the MPA, whose identity she did not disclose publicly. His identity was made public after the NCCIA summoned both of them to record their statements.

“A member of the provincial assembly belonging to the PML-N has been threatening me for an extended period. I repeatedly reported the matter to the NCCIA and the Federal Investigation Agency, but no action was taken,” she stated.

“Instead of ensuring justice, attempts were allegedly made to suppress my complaints. Even individuals associated with the office of the chief minister tried to discourage me and silence the issue rather than allowing a fair investigation,” she claimed.

In her tweet, CM Maryam said she would not spare anyone found involved in attempting to harass, threaten, or exploit a woman. “No individual, regardless of status, position, or political connections, is above the law. State institutions will perform their duties independently, impartially, and in accordance with the Constitution and the law,” she said.

“Any attempt to exert political pressure, abuse influence, or exploit a woman through threats of releasing personal content publicly will be met with firm and uncompromising action. Consider this a clear and serious warning to anyone involved.”

On Thursday, Momina and Chadhar appeared before the NCCIA to record their statements.

The same day, Momina’s sister Advocate Rimsha Iqbal, who is fighting her case, told reporters that hurdles were being created in Momina’s marriage that was going to take place next month and threats were even hurled at her fiancé.

“We have evidence to the claim Momina made against the MPA and presented it to the NCCIA,” she said and expressed the hope her sister would get justice.

Chadhar’s lawyer, Mian Ashfaq told reporters that his client and Momina had been friends since 2020-21. “Both came close to marrying but couldn’t. Mr Chadhar provided massive social, administrative and financial benefits to Ms Momina during the last five years. We will provide the details of these benefits to the NCCIA,” he said and added that harassment allegations levelled against his client by the person who remained in relationship with him for such a long period of time did not make any sense.

Chadhar is an electable. He defeated both PML-N and PTI-backed candidates in PP-97, Chiniot, in the last polls held in 2024. After winning the seat, he joined the PML-N.

RAWALPINDI: The Pakistan Air Force and the Turkiye Air Force reaffirmed their “growing strategic convergence” in defence, aerospace innovation and emerging technologies, the military’s media wing said on Friday.

Air Chief Marshal (ACM) Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, during an official visit to Turkiye, held high-level meetings with Turkish Air Force Commander General Ziya Cemal Kadıoğlu, Defence Minister Yaşar Güler, and Baykar Technologies Chief Technology Officer (CTO) Selçuk Bayraktar, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.

During these engagements, ACM Sidhu reaffirmed “the growing strategic convergence and shared commitment of both nations towards enhanced collaboration in defence, aerospace innovation and emerging technologies”.

At the headquarters of the Turkish Air Force, the air chief was accorded a guard of honour. During the engagement, ACM Sidhu “discussed enhancing interoperability through joint exercises, training programmes, and professional exchanges”.

“The Turkish air chief appreciated Pakistan Air Force’s support in training Turkish pilots,” ISPR said.

ACM Sidhu, in his meeting with Güler, “reaffirmed the strong historical and strategic ties between Pakistan and Turkiye,” the ISPR stated, adding that the two sides also explored “deeper cooperation in training, capacity building and aerospace collaboration”.

The air chief also met Baykar Technologies CTO Selçuk Bayraktar, where discussions focused on “advancements in aerospace innovation, unmanned aerial systems and emerging technologies,” the military’s media wing said.

ISPR added that the discussion reflected the “shared vision of both sides to pursue greater collaboration in next-generation defence technologies”.

Pakistan and Turkiye share robust bilateral relations spanning across various sectors.

Earlier this year, Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir, in a meeting with Turkiye’s Chief of General Staff General Selcuk Bayraktaroglu, discussed the regional security landscape and bilateral defence cooperation.

It was also reported earlier this year that the country was seeking to join a defence alliance between Saudi Arabia and Pakis­tan, which was signed in September 2025.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Wednesday hit back at India’s allegations at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), with Pakistani diplomat Saima Saleem slamming New Delhi as being “a state that exports terrorism abroad, occupies people by force, persecutes minorities at home, weaponises water, commits aggression in the region.”

Her remarks came during a right of reply at the UNSC’s Annual Debate on the Protection of Civilians after India accused Pakistan of ignoring international humanitarian obligations and targeting civilians.

Pakistan had raised concerns over the situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) during the session. Saima criticised India’s remarks and said New Delhi had appeared before the council “wearing the mask of a victim.” “But the world can see the face behind that mask,” she said.

Earlier in the debate, India’s Permanent Representative to the UN Harish Parvathaneni accused Pakistan of failing to uphold international humanitarian obligations and alleged that it had targeted civilians. He also referred to what he described as Pakistan’s “long-tainted record of genocidal acts,” according to Indian media reports.

The Indian envoy further repeated allegations made by the Afghan Taliban regarding an alleged strike on a hospital in Kabul earlier this year.

Responding to the accusations, Saima said India’s “state-sponsorship of terrorism against Pakistan” had caused significant civilian casualties through militant groups operating from Afghan territory.

“Its terrorist proxies — including the TTP, BLA and Majeed Brigade — have killed thousands of civilians, including women and children in our mosques, markets, schools and streets,” she added.

Saima further said Pakistan’s counterterrorism operations were carried out on the basis of credible intelligence and targeted militant hideouts, training camps, and logistical networks involved in attacks against Pakistani civilians, security personnel, and infrastructure.

“These operations were directed solely against terrorists and their infrastructure, not against the brotherly people of Afghanistan or civilian facilities,” she said.

Saima also dismissed allegations raised by the Taliban administration and echoed by India, calling them part of a “disinformation campaign” intended to conceal attacks against Pakistani civilians.

On IIOJK, the Pakistani diplomat said India could “neither conceal nor deny its occupation of Jammu and Kashmir,” describing the issue as “an internationally recognised dispute that remains on the agenda of this Council.”

“In the occupied territory, civilians are killed, detained, dispossessed, and silenced; homes are demolished, freedoms are crushed, and an entire people are denied their right to self-determination,” she added.

She also criticised India’s treatment of minorities, particularly Muslims, saying the situation should “alarm the conscience of the world.”

“Under state-sponsored Hindutva extremism, Islamophobia has been normalised as policy, hate speech rewarded in politics, mob violence met with impunity,” she said, adding that Muslims, Sikhs, Dalits, and Christians faced discrimination.

Referring to the Indus Waters Treaty, Saima said India’s decision to keep the agreement “in abeyance” reflected disregard for international law. “A State that threatens the water, food security and livelihoods of millions of Pakistanis cannot certainly speak of civilian protection,” she said.

Concluding her remarks, she said Pakistan remained committed to “peace, dialogue, peaceful settlement of disputes and adherence to international law,” while accusing India of “terrorism, occupation, aggression, repression and disregard for international law.”

RAWALPINDI: Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir reaffirmed on Thursday that Pakistan’s fight against terrorism “will continue with full national resolve” until “enduring peace and stability” were achieved across the country, the military’s media wing said.

CDF Munir made the declaration at an investiture ceremony held at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi to confer military awards on officers and soldiers of the Pakistan Army,” Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.

The CDF was the chief guest at the ceremony, where he “conferred awards on the families of shuhada (martyrs), officers and soldiers in recognition of exceptional gallantry in operations and distinguished services rendered to the nation”, the statement said.

It added that awards conferred on the occasion included 50 Sitara-i-Imtiaz (Military) and 12 Tamgha-i-Basalat. “Medals awarded posthumously were received with honour by families of shuhada,” it said.

“Shuhada and Ghazis remain the enduring pride of the nation. Their honour and sacrifice are a sacred trust for every Pakistani. Peace and security of our motherland are owed to their supreme sacrifices and unwavering devotion to duty,” ISPR quoted the army chief as saying at the ceremony.

It added that CDF Munir also “expressed profound admiration for the resilience, dignity and steadfastness demonstrated by the families of shuhada, acknowledging their unparalleled sacrifices and unwavering commitment to the homeland”.

He further appreciated the “operational preparedness and unwavering resolve” of Pakistan’s armed forces and law enforcement agencies (LEAs).

According to the statement, he also “lauded their sustained efforts against terrorists and reaffirmed that the fight against terrorism will continue with full national resolve until enduring peace and stability are achieved across the country”.

ISLAMABAD: Prince Rahim al-Hussaini Aga Khan V on Thursday expressed the desire to continue cooperation with Pakistan in various human development initiatives during a breakfast meeting hosted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said.

Prince Rahim is undertaking his first visit to Pakistan since being named the spiritual leader of the Ismaili community last year.

According to a statement by the PMO, the premier warmly welcomed Prince Rahim and appreciated his commitment to fostering peace, stability, and constructive engagement with governments and international partners. The prime minister also assured him of Pakistan’s shared commitment to these ideals.

PM Shehbaz also highlighted the longstanding partnership between Pakistan and the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), and commended the organisation’s contributions in rural development, healthcare, education, disaster resilience, climate adaptation, renewable energy, digital skills training, and youth entrepreneurship, it said.

He particularly appreciated AKDN’s impactful work in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Chitral, especially in remote and vulnerable communities.

“The prime minister encouraged AKDN to deepen and expand its partnership with Pakistan, particularly in GB and Chitral, where the network’s institutional presence and community outreach are highly valued. He also welcomed enhanced engagement with Aga Khan University, noting its major contributions in healthcare and higher education,” the PMO statement added.

Recognising Prince Rahim’s advocacy for environmental stewardship, the prime minister emphasised that AKDN remained a “natural and trusted partner in Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen climate resilience, particularly in glacially vulnerable northern areas”.

The statement added that PM Shehbaz thanked Prince Rahim for visiting Pakistan and assured him that the country would always remain his second home. The premier expressed the hope that his “regular visits would further strengthen the longstanding bonds between Pakistan and the Ismaili community”.

The prime minister also expressed his gratitude to Prince Rahim for his generosity in making the Serena Hotel available on a gratis basis for the Islamabad Talks, it added.

Further, the prime minister extended heartfelt condolences on the passing of Prince Rahim’s father, Prince Karim Aga Khan IV. He paid tribute to the late Aga Khan’s enduring humanitarian legacy and his longstanding association with Pakistan spanning nearly seven decades.

According to the PMO, PM Shehbaz also presented a commemorative stamp issued by Pakistan Post to honour the late Aga Khan’s services to the country.

Meanwhile, Prince Rahim thanked the prime minister for a warm welcome extended to him and “expressed his desire to continue cooperation with Pakistan in various human development initiatives”.

Prince Rahim al-Hussaini Aga Khan V was named the 50th spiritual leader of the Ismaili community last February, following the death of his father, Prince Karim Al-Husseini Aga Khan IV, in Lisbon at the age of 88.

ISLAMABAD: Prince Rahim Aga Khan V, the spiritual leader of the Ismaili community, arrived in Islamabad on Wednesday, the Presidency confirmed.

On arrival at Nur Khan airbase, Prince Rahim was received by President Asif Ali Zardari. He received an honour guard at President House, where he was flanked by the president as the national anthem was played.

According to a statement, Prince Rahim is visiting Pakistan from May 20-26. Among his many engagements, he is expected to meet officials from the government and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) in the federal capital.

Preparations in GB reached a fever pitch, prompting a large-scale mobilisation of federal and regional resources, officials said earlier on Friday.

The plans were reviewed at a meeting where Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan, Amir Muqam, was briefed on the details.

Officials anticipate large gatherings in the Passu Cones area of Hunza; Gilgit City, Gahkuch Bala, and Taus Yasin. The administration is considering holding multiple sessions at certain venues to manage the expected crowds, officials told the minister.

For security and travel, the federal government has been requested to provide a bulletproof vehicle. Recommendations were also made to immediately open Babusar Road as an alternative route and to keep the National Highway Authority on alert at sensitive points.

Prince Rahim al-Hussaini Aga Khan V was named the 50th spiritual leader of the Ismaili community last February, following the death of his father, Prince Karim Al-Husseini, Aga Khan IV, in Lisbon at the age of 88.

The US-educated, Swiss-based Rahim has served on the boards of many agencies of the Aga Khan Development Network and chairs its Environment and Climate Committee, according to the website.

The late Prince Karim is renowned in GB for his unwavering commitment to the region’s socio-economic development and efforts to lift the population out of poverty and deprivation.