One year ago, Pakistan was put to the test, and it did not blink.
The events of April and May last year were not simply a military episode. They were a moment of national reckoning. When India, under the guise of the Pahalgam false flag operation, launched unprovoked strikes on our soil, targeting mainly civilian areas besides military installations, Pakistan responded with discipline, precision, courage and unity. Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, the decisive centrepiece of Maarka-e-Haq, demonstrated what our armed forces are capable of when the country stands behind them as one. Our response was calibrated, measured, precise and proportionate. Our message was unambiguous.
Maarka-e-Haq showed the world that Pakistan’s deterrence is not a slogan. It rests on professional competence, tri-service coordination and the resolve of a people who shall not accept aggression lying down. We salute our men and women in uniform and we bow our heads in honour of every martyr who gave their life so that this nation could stand tall. It is part of our DNA that when a war is imposed on us, every Pakistani becomes a soldier, some in uniform and most without.
Pakistan today is recognised as a state that not only knows how to defend itself but also serves as a guarantor of peace and stability. In the context of recent tensions in West Asia, Pakistan, through responsible and balanced diplomacy, played a key role in facilitating a ceasefire between the United States and Iran and bringing both sides to the negotiating table. Our efforts helped avoid further bloodshed and contributed to stabilising the broader regional environment. Pakistan will continue its efforts to promote peace, dialogue and stability wherever it can make a difference.
I would like to take this opportunity to reiterate that the Kashmir dispute remains the root cause of instability in this region. No honest account of South Asia’s security challenges can avoid that truth. The aspirations of the Kashmiri people, enshrined in United Nations Security Council resolutions, have not been extinguished by decades of occupation. They shall not be. Pakistan’s commitment to a just and lawful resolution remains unchanged.
India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty is tantamount to weaponisation of water. The Treaty, brokered by the World Bank and signed in 1960, has survived four wars and sixty-five years of bitter rivalry between two nuclear-armed neighbours. It was designed to be beyond the reach of political crises. India’s decision to put it in abeyance, without any legal basis for unilateral suspension, is a threat to the livelihoods of millions. Water is not a bargaining chip. Pakistan shall defend its water rights with the same resolve it has shown in defence of its territory.
We also reiterate our position on terrorism with complete clarity. Pakistan is a victim of terrorism. We remain determined to root out the Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan in all their manifestations. We have engaged the Afghan de facto authorities with seriousness and expect that commitments made under the Doha framework, that Afghan territory will not be used against Pakistan or any other state, are honoured fully.
Pakistan seeks no conflict. But it shall never accept thuggish, coercive behaviour. We are committed to sovereignty, to international law, and to a stable region where differences are resolved through dialogue rather than domination.
Maarka-e-Haq is now etched into our national consciousness. It was not a moment we sought, but the one we met with everything we had. Let it stand, each year, as a reminder that a nation which knows its worth will always find the strength to defend it.

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I extend my appreciation to the dedicated volunteers, staff and partners of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, particularly the Pakistan Red Crescent Society, established under the Pakistan Red Cross Order, 1947, issued by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, for their unwavering commitment to humanitarian service.

This day provides an opportunity to recognise the invaluable role played by humanitarian actors in strengthening health systems, responding to emergencies and reaching the most vulnerable populations. In alignment with the vision of the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulation and Coordination, Pakistan continues to advance toward Universal Health Coverage, ensuring that essential health services are accessible, equitable and resilient.

The Red Crescent Movement has been a vital partner in supporting public health initiatives across the country, ranging from disaster preparedness and response to community-based healthcare, maternal and child health services and health awareness campaigns. Their contributions complement national efforts to improve health outcomes, especially in underserved and remote areas.

As we face evolving challenges such as climate-related disasters, viral diseases and public health emergencies, it is necessary to strengthen collaboration between government institutions, humanitarian organisations and communities. Building resilient health systems requires not only infrastructure and resources but also compassion, volunteerism and a spirit of service, values that define the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.

The Government of Pakistan remains committed to enhancing partnerships with humanitarian organisations to ensure timely and effective healthcare delivery. Through integrated approaches and evidence-based policies, we aim to safeguard the health and well-being of all citizens, leaving no one behind.

I call upon all stakeholders to renew their commitment to humanity, solidarity and service. Let us work together to build a healthier, safer and more inclusive Pakistan.

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Pakistan People’s Party Parliamentarians have issued the party ticket to Syed Muhammad Abbas Mousavi for GBLA-14 [Astore-2] constituency in the Gilgit-Baltistan Legislative Assembly.

The Pakistan People’s Party Parliamentarians have awarded another ticket to its arrow-bearing candidate for the upcoming Gilgit-Baltistan elections. Syed Nayyer Hussain Bukhari, Central Secretary General of Pakistan People’s Party Parliamentarians, has issued the party ticket to Syed Muhammad Abbas Mousavi for the forthcoming elections in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Syed Nayyer Hussain Bukhari stated that Syed Muhammad Abbas Mousavi is a strong and capable candidate who will enter the electoral field in Constituency Astore-2 with a spirit of public service. Pakistan People’s Party Parliamentarians have expressed its resolve that the party will participate fully in the Gilgit-Baltistan elections and will continue its struggle for the resolution of public issues. Syed Nayyer Hussain Bukhari further said that the party candidate will play a proactive role in protecting the rights of the people, promoting development work, and ensuring prosperity in the region.

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Pakistan Peoples Party Central Secretary General, Muhammad Humayun Khan, has expressed profound grief and sorrow over the martyrdom of Sheikh-ul-Hadith Maulana Muhammad Idrees. He termed the incident as tragic and strongly condemnable, stating that it has plunged the entire nation into mourning.
In his statement, he said that Maulana Muhammad Idrees was a distinguished religious scholar and a respected figure who dedicated his life to the betterment of society. His martyrdom is an irreparable loss not only for religious circles but for the entire nation. He added that such incidents pose a serious threat to peace and stability in the country and must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.

Muhammad Humayun Khan strongly condemned the attack and demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible. He emphasized that the perpetrators must be brought to justice and given exemplary punishment to prevent such heinous acts in the future.

He further stated that the provincial government has failed to maintain law and order, and the protection of citizens’ lives and property is the foremost responsibility of the state. However, the current situation reflects otherwise. He urged the authorities to take immediate and effective measures to restore peace and ensure public safety.

In conclusion, he prayed for the elevation of the departed soul’s ranks and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. He affirmed that Pakistan Peoples Party stands firmly with the grieving family in this difficult time.

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Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has described “Marka-i-Haq” as “a triumph of unity,” saying that its commemoration is a powerful reaffirmation of Pakistan’s enduring spirit, collective resolve, and unyielding sovereignty.

He paid rich tribute to the country’s armed forces, saying, “Our armed forces fought with courage, discipline, and honour.”

According to the press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, the PPP Chairman, while addressing a ceremony organised by the Sindh government here to mark the first anniversary of Marka-i-Haq, said the success of Marka-i-Haq was not merely a military victory, but a triumph of resolve, unity, and the collective will of the people. “From the mountains of the north to the shores of the Arabian Sea, from the fields of Punjab to the deserts of Sindh and Balochistan, Pakistan stood as one,” he said.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari paid tribute to the armed forces for their courage, discipline, and honour, and lauded the role of diplomats as well as the resilience of the people who stood firmly behind the country during testing times. “Let us remember, victory is not measured by territory held or battles won. Victory is measured by dignity preserved, by sovereignty defended, by the message sent to the world—that Pakistan will never be coerced, silenced, or made to surrender,” he added.

He also paid homage to those who sacrificed their lives, saying that the nation owes them not only gratitude but a Pakistan worthy of their sacrifice.

Chairman PPP criticised attempts by hostile elements to distort facts and rewrite history, asserting that history is ultimately shaped by nations that endure. “There are those beyond our borders who seek to rewrite history, distort facts, and bury the truth under propaganda. But history is not written by noise—it is written by nations that endure, and Pakistan has endured,” he added.

Underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to peace, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said the country neither sought conflict nor glorified war, but when tested, it stood firm out of necessity and duty. He emphasised that peace is a sign of strength, but must be just, dignified, and mutual.

Chairman PPP stressed that the moment calls for reflection and responsibility rather than complacency, adding that victory brings with it the obligation to build a stronger and more inclusive Pakistan. He underscored the need to invest in education, health, and economic strength to ensure resilience against external pressures. Addressing the youth, he said they are the true custodians of this victory and must transform resilience into progress and courage into creativity.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari recalled that a year ago the country stood at the edge of uncertainty amid rising tensions, but those who believed Pakistan could be bent or broken had failed to understand its spirit. He said that while the world once doubted Pakistan, today it stands as a testament to strength, unity, and perseverance. He added that the commemoration of “Marka-i-Haq” is not merely a remembrance of events, but a reflection of the endurance of a nation and the vindication of the very idea of Pakistan.

He reaffirmed that Pakistan will never bow to pressure or compromise on its sovereignty, and will continue to rise stronger, prouder, and more united.

President Pakistan Peoples Party Women Wing Faryal Talpur, Chief Minister Sindh Murad Ali Shah, Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, officers of the armed forces, and other dignitaries were also present.

Reaffirming the party’s unwavering belief in freedom of the press, Bukhari stressed that a credible and impartial media is indispensable for national unity and for strengthening democratic values. He underlined that journalistic ethics demand reporting rooted in verified facts, adding that the spread of unverified information violates the core principles of the profession.

Recalling the PPP’s legacy, Bukhari noted that Shaheed Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto approved the Wage Board Award for journalists, while Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto abolished the draconian laws of the dictatorial era that curbed freedom of expression. He said the Pakistan Peoples Party has always stood shoulder to shoulder with the press in the struggle for media freedom.

Paying tribute to journalists who endured imprisonment and hardship during dark periods of censorship, Bukhari described them as “democratic heroes” who fought alongside political forces against dictatorship.

President Asif Ali Zardari, currently on an official visit to Sanya in China’s Hainan province, held a telephone conversation with H.E. Mr. Ali Falih Khadim Al-Zaidi, Prime Minister-Designate of the Republic of Iraq, and conveyed his congratulations on his elevation to the coveted position as the head of the government.

The President extended his sincere wishes for the success of the Prime Minister-Designate in forming a stable government, noting that his choice as the PM reflects confidence placed in his leadership at an important moment for the republic of Iraq.

During the conversation, the President underlined that Pakistan and Iraq enjoy a relationship grounded in shared values and mutual respect, and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthen this brotherly bond.

He highlighted the potential to expand economic engagement, including in trade and investment, energy cooperation, infrastructure, agriculture and renewable energy. He also emphasised the importance of enhanced academic collaboration and people-to-people exchanges to sustain a long-term partnership.

The Prime Minister-Designate thanked the President for his warm wishes and extended an invitation to visit Iraq at a mutually convenient time.

Commissioning ceremony of 1st HANGOR Class Submarine, PNS/M HANGOR was held at Sanya, China. President Asif Ali Zardari graced the occasion as Chief Guest; Admiral Naveed Ashraf, NI, NI (M), T Bt, Chief of the Naval Staff, was also present at the ceremony.

President Zardari described the commissioning of HANGOR as a historic milestone in Pakistan Navy’s modernization, affirming Pakistan’s resolve to maintain a robust, balanced and credible defence posture. He stated that Pakistan is fully capable of defending its sovereignty, protecting its maritime interests and ensuring the security of its economic lifelines.

Naval Chief highlighted that disruptions at critical maritime choke points increasingly threaten global trade and energy security, and maintaining a stable, rule-based maritime order demands technologically advanced naval forces. He stated that HANGOR Class Submarines – armed with state-of-the-art weapons, advanced sensors and Air Independent Propulsion – will be key in preserving maritime order and stability in the region. These submarines will play a pivotal role in deterring aggression and ensuring security of vital Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) across the Arabian Sea and the wider Indian Ocean region.

Naval Chief reiterated that the name HANGOR holds a significant place in our national history. In 1971, earlier HANGOR became the first submarine since World War II to sink a warship. PNS/M HANGOR will carry this illustrious legacy forward as this is an important milestone for Pakistan Navy that will bolster our maritime defence and modernize our fleet with cutting-edge technology.

The commissioning of 1st HANGOR Class Submarine marks another chapter in the time-tested and enriching friendship between Pakistan and China. The ceremony was attended by senior officials from Pakistan Navy and PLA (Navy).

The Prime Minister of Pakistan and COAS & CDF have congratulated the entire nation and the Pakistan Navy on achieving this historic milestone..

Human Rights cell PPP has welcomed the passage of the Punjab Child Marriage Restraint Bill 2026 as a long overdue step toward strengthening the protective legal framework for vulnerable girls

President of the Cell Ex-Senator Farhatullah Babar said that for years, minority communities, especially Hindus and Christians, have raised concerns over the abduction of underage girls, their forced conversion, and subsequent marriages. These practices continued due to the absence of a uniform minimum age for marriage in all provinces even though Sindh had passed this legislation several years ago but its purpose was defeated as girls were brought to Punjab and married off.

It is a win-win for all, he said.

For the minorities it is a triumph of their long struggle; for the girls and women of Pakistan it is a step toward affirming their dignity; it is also an endorsement of the decade-old Sindh Assembly legislation on minimum age for marriage.

He said that underage marriage is not a “societal value” as is claimed by some. Harmful practices if existed in society cannot be made an excuse to perpetuate a grave injustice. It is unjust and cruel to make young girls bear the burden of such injustices. There have been shameful instances where minor girls were used to settle disputes, he said adding “childhood cannot be bartered away under the guise of custom”.

The provision in the bill which places ‘the best interests of the child’ at the heart of all legal proceedings, from investigation to sentencing and protective custody is particularly welcomed as well as the provision that no child shall be treated as an offender merely for being party to a child marriage. These are highly significant provisions in the interest of vulnerables

Courts have, in the past, relied on claims of “willing consent”. This loophole is also closed as a child’s purported “consent” shall not override evidence of coercion and enticement.

Credit must be given where it is due. What is needed now is to implement this legislation. “Pakistan does not suffer from a lack of laws but suffers from a lack of enforcement”.

He also called for proper documentation, such as national identity cards and birth certificates, to verify age as a vital safeguard against manipulation and abuse.

​President Asif Ali Zardari met Mr Wang Jian, CEO of Hangzhou Jinjiang Group, and encouraged the company to expand its footprint in Pakistan, particularly in energy, industrial and agricultural sectors.

During the meeting, the President was briefed that the group is already engaged in multiple projects in Pakistan and ranks among the top 100 business groups in China, with operations spanning heavy industry, fertiliser, oil and gas, coal gasification, renewable energy, agriculture and irrigation.

The President noted that Pakistan is actively encouraging foreign investment in various sectors, especially water treatment, electric vehicle battery systems and alternate energy. He emphasised that such partnerships could support sustainable growth and industrial development.

He further stated that the Government of Sindh would extend all possible facilitation to foreign companies seeking to invest in the province, particularly under public-private partnership frameworks.

The meeting was attended by Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, Mr Sharjeel Inam Memon, Senior Provincial Minister, Sindh, Syed Qasim Naveed Qamar, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of Sindh for Investment and Public-Private Partnership Projects and Chief Secretary, Sindh.