Party leaders from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Multan called on Chairman PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari at Zardari House Islamabad on Thursday evening.

President PPP Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Muhammad Ali Shah Bacha, General Secretary PPP Shazi Khan Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, Farzand Ali Wazir, Najumuddin Khan and Humayun Khan met the Chairman PPP. They discussed party matters and political situation of the province.

The newly elected member National Assembly from Multan, Ali Qasim Gilani also called on Chairman PPP Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

The former Chief Minister KP Mehmood Khan also called on Chairman PPP. The members KP Assembly Arbab Waseem and Iqbal Wazir, former member KP Assembly Nadia Sher, former ticket holder PTI Parliamentarians Ikram Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed Bacha and Provincial office bearers of PTI Parliamentarians Malik Abid Noor and Mian Syed Naeemkhani also met Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. Mehmood Khan appreciated the role of Pakistan Peoples Party for stability and progress of the country.

After meeting the Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari the former member KP Assembly Khalid Waqar Chamkani announced joining the PPP. 

The meeting of the parliamentary committee of Pakistan Peoples Party was held in the meeting room of the National Assembly under the leadership of the chairman of the party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. Bibi Asifa Bhutto Zardari also participated in this meeting.

After the meeting, Member of National Assembly and Secretary Information of Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians, Shazia Marri briefed the journalists. In this meeting, the members of the National Assembly of the party informed the party leadership about their views and reservations.

Responding to the questions of the journalists, Shazia Marri said that the members informed about the problems of their respective constituencies. The attitude adopted by the federal government towards our members is causing problems to our members because the members are accountable to the people. Not giving relief to the agricultural class, difficulties in purchasing wheat etc. were discussed. We have to be accountable to our people when the farmer does not get relief in fertiliser, does not get relief on tractor and no one listens to the problems of electricity, then all these concerns are valid. No input from our party was taken in preparing the budget. Even in the federal PSDP, our opinion was not taken. We had tried to prevent this time from coming so senior members of our party approached the government but it did not yield any result and we did not expect that our voice would not be heard.

The National Economic Council was established after a long time, the meeting of which was held yesterday and the Sindh Chief Minister presented his case there, Balochistan  presented its case. The reservations of PPP are for the people of the entire country. We are a political party, we have an ideology and a manifesto and we wanted to give our input in light of that. So does this government want the PPP to protest? Does the government want us to express our displeasure on the floor of the National Assembly? Now it has to be seen by the government as it is in a responsible position. We did not expect this behavior from Shahbaz Sharif. If this attitude continues, we will go to our people. Our commitment is with solar energy and agriculture, with farmers, so tell us what we should do?

On the question whether PPP is parting ways, Shazia Marri said that you should ask this question to the government. We are having another meeting on Wednesday before the budget at 2.30 pm so we are giving the government another chance. We also have to look at our constituencies, the people and the implementation of our manifesto. She said that PPP is not going to be a part of the cabinet and PPP is supporting the government from outside for economic and political stability in the country. After the concerns of members, Chairman PPP will have to take a decision. The members of South Punjab also told the Chairman about the injustices done to them. The Chairman wants to address the concerns of the members. Time is with the government and now it is the responsibility of the government to address these concerns if it wants to retain the support of this large political party.

President Asif Ali Zardari conferred the Award of “Nishan-i-Pakistan” upon Prince Rahim Aga Khan in recognition of his meritorious services and role in the development, progress, and betterment of Pakistan and its people, during a special investiture ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr, today. The ceremony was attended by ministers, members of Parliament, diplomats, and government officials.

The award was conferred on Prince Rahim Aga Khan in recognition of his leadership role in advancing path-breaking initiatives in Pakistan in commercial banking, microfinance, insurance, sustainable tourism, and the renewable energy sector through the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). He has spearheaded the establishment of environmental stewardship policies and best practices to address climate change. The Network has also enabled access to financial services for nearly 50 million people in Pakistan.

Later, Prince Rahim Aga Khan called on President Asif Ali Zardari, in which the two discussed the role of the Aga Khan Development Network in Pakistan’s socio-economic development. Chairman HBL, Sultan Ali Allana, and senior government officials also attended the meeting.

The President was briefed about the role and development projects being undertaken by AKDN in various areas of the country. The President thanked Prince Rahim Aga Khan for visiting Pakistan and expressed the hope that he would frequently visit the country.

During the meeting, the President underscored the need to focus on the country’s educational development. He appreciated Prince Rahim Aga Khan for upholding the multi-generational legacy of the Aga Khan family which had enormously contributed to the socio-economic development of Pakistan.

The Prince thanked the President for conferring upon him the award of Nishan-i-Imtiaz.

President Asif Ali Zardari has underlined the need for focusing on the socio-economic uplift of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), adding that investment in GB would bring economic prosperity to the region.

The President expressed these views while talking to members of the GB Council, who called on him, at Aiwan-e-Sadr, today.

Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and GB, Engineer Amir Muqam, Chief Minister GB, Mr Gulbar Khan, members of the GB Council, and senior government officials attended the meeting.

The delegation apprised the President about the developmental and financial needs of GB.

The President assured the delegation that steps would be taken to develop health, education and road infrastructure to provide basic facilities to the people of GB at their doorsteps. He highlighted the need to expand the airport in Gilgit, besides finding new ways and means for the development of GB. He said that GB was the gateway to China, having immense vast economic potential that needed to be fully capitalized upon for the people’s benefit.

The President informed the delegation that the issue of compensation to the affectees of the Diamer-Bhasha dam would be taken up at the appropriate forum.

The delegation told the President that the discontinuation of the Sehat Sahulat Programme was causing problems as the people of GB were unable to avail health insurance services.  

The President suggested that the Sehat Sahulat Programme could be included in the Benazir Income Support Programme so that the people of GB could avail of medical treatment.

The delegation thanked the President for taking interest in the development of GB and the resolution of its issues.

The President assured the delegation of his cooperation and support for addressing the problems of the people of GB.

President Asif Ali Zardari has emphasised the need for building “technology highways” in the country by enhancing students’ access to IT infrastructure, strengthening educational programmes, and equipping them with modern skills to help them fully benefit from the knowledge economy. He said that providing laptops to students would increase their access to education, bridge the digital divide, and equip them with technology skills to help them compete in the national and international job markets.

The President expressed these views while talking to Professor Dr Niaz Ahmad Akhtar, Vice Chancellor of Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) Islamabad, who called on him, at Aiwan-e-Sadr, today.

The Vice Chancellor of QAU briefed the President about the role of QAU in providing quality education, its educational programmes, and other administrative affairs of the University.

Talking to the Vice Chancellor, the President said that Pakistan was blessed with abundant human resources, which needed to be converted into a strength by imparting the latest education and skills to them. He highlighted that Pakistan needed to train and educate its human resources, which could be exported to foreign countries facing a shortage of trained professionals to help Pakistan earn foreign exchange.

The President stated that universities were pivotal in producing skilled professionals, who could fulfil local and international market needs. He remarked that Pakistan needed to focus on producing more professionals such as doctors, engineers, nurses, and teachers.

During the meeting, the Vice Chancellor informed that QAU was one of the top-ranking universities in Pakistan and was at 315th position in global rankings. He apprised that the QAU was focusing on research that could have a positive impact on society, adding that digitalization was the top priority of the University.

The President urged the need to further improve the quality of education, besides focusing on the character-building of students. He said that top position holders of QAU should be given Presidential Awards with cash to encourage students in their studies.

The President appreciated the role of QAU in Pakistan’s academic sector and assured the Vice Chancellor of his support in getting the financial issues of the University addressed by taking it up at the appropriate forum.

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP)  Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has highlighted the global environmental crisis, emphasizing that environmental protection and combating climate change are among the most significant challenges we face today.

 In a press release from Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP underlined the severe impact of environmental imbalances on Pakistan, marking World Environment Day. He noted that Pakistan ranks among the top countries suffering from the adverse effects of climate change, including floods, droughts, and extreme weather conditions.

 He mentioned that during his tenure as Foreign Minister, he presented Pakistan’s environmental case to the international community, stressing that Pakistan is doubly afflicted by climate change and climate injustice. He pointed out that Pakistan continually faces the repercussions of climate change, including floods, droughts, and extreme weather conditions.

 Chairman PPP reiterated that combating climate impact and protecting the environment are top priorities for his party, the PPP. He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to constructing homes for the victims of the devastating 2022 floods and supporting their livelihoods. The Sindh government’s initiative to build climate-resilient homes for two million flood victims stands as a model for the world, he said.

 Bilawal Bhutto Zardari asserted that development at the cost of environmental degradation is not true development. He said that environmental protection is a collective responsibility that spans countries, political parties, institutions, and individuals. “Let us all join hands to save this planet, which is the only home for us and future generations,” he urged.

 He also paid tribute to the organizations and individuals dedicated to environmental protection, recognizing their crucial contributions to this global cause.

Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic loss of 13 miners in two separate incidents in Balochistan.

In a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP conveyed his deepest condolences to the families of the 11 miners who lost their lives due to a gas leak inside a coal mine in the Sanjadi area. He also condemned the fatal shooting of two laborers in the Duki area and called for the immediate arrest of those responsible.

Chairman Bhutto Zardari voiced his concern over the frequent accidents and fatalities within the mining sector, emphasizing the urgent need for the Balochistan government to enforce stringent safety regulations to protect miners. He reiterated the PPP’s commitment to being a representative party for workers nationwide, dedicated to safeguarding their rights and welfare.

Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has extended warm greetings to all Pakistanis across the world on the anniversary of the day when Pakistan emerged as nuclear power. 

According to the press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP, in his message, said that today, we honor the legacy of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, the founding chairman of the PPP and the country’s first elected Prime Minister, whose visionary dream of a nuclear Pakistan, realized amid immense international pressure, laid the unshakable foundation of our nuclear program.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also paid tribute to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, who steadfastly carried forward her father’s vision as her contributions, particularly the advancement of modern missile technology, remain pivotal to Pakistan’s defense. “Her leadership, even as the leader of the opposition in 1998, was crucial in urging the government to respond decisively to nuclear threats from India, ensuring our national security,” he noted.

Chairman PPP salutes the dedication and expertise of our scientists and all those who have been instrumental in making Pakistan a formidable nuclear power. “These heroes embody the resilience and brilliance of our nation,” he added.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that PPP remains committed to maintaining a policy of minimum nuclear deterrence, while advocating against global arms races, including nuclear proliferation. “Our principles of peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and democracy guide our actions on both national and international stages,” he continued.

Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has expressed profound sorrow over the martyrdom of two army personnel during an operation in the Hasan Khel area of Peshawar.

In a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP honored the ultimate sacrifices of Captain Hussain Jahangir Shaheed and Havaldar Shafiqullah Shaheed. He emphasized that the nation will forever remember their bravery and sacrifice. He extended his deepest condolences and solidarity to the bereaved families of Captain Hussain Jahangir Shaheed and Havaldar Shafiqullah Shaheed.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari commended the security forces for their successful operation, which resulted in the elimination of five terrorists. He reiterated his steadfast commitment to pursuing justice for the martyrs, vowing that he will not rest until every drop of their blood is avenged.

Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has expressed profound sorrow over the tragic and untimely demise of journalist Nasrullah Gadani from Ghotki district. Gadani, who sustained serious injuries in an attack by unidentified gunmen a few days ago, succumbed to his wounds.

In a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP extended his heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the bereaved family of Nasrullah Gadani Shaheed, saying that he shares their grief and loss.

Chairman Bhutto Zardari expressed hope that the perpetrators of this heinous crime would soon be brought to justice.

Reaffirming the PPP’s commitment to press freedom and freedom of expression, Chairman Bhutto Zardari highlighted that the Sindh Government maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards crimes against journalists. He has instructed the Sindh Home and Information Ministers to enhance measures ensuring the safety and protection of journalists throughout the province.

A press conference was held today by the Peoples Labor Bureau Pakistan, led by Chaudhry Manzoor Ahemd, President of Peoples Unity PIA Employees, Hidayatullah, and other leaders, to oppose the proposed privatization of Pakistan International Airlines. During the conference, Chaudhry Manzoor Ahmed and Hidayatullah delivered strong statements against the privatization efforts, raised critical concerns and urged the government to reconsider its approach.

Chaudhry Manzoor Ahmed emphasized that it is premature to sell PIA, highlighting that the previous caretaker government hastily tried to sell PIA without consulting all stakeholders. He questioned whether the positions of opposing sides were adequately considered, “I don’t understand why there is such a rush. Why and to whom do you want to sell PIA? The nation deserves transparency about who the potential buyers are,” he stated.

Chaudhry Manzoor also raised concerns over the true motives behind the privatization efforts, suggesting that there is a clear interest in PIA’s valuable assets. He strongly believes that the motive behind privatization is to hand over PIA to their favorites and declared that they will strongly resist this move.

Hidayatullah added his voice to the opposition, stating that the attempt to privatize PIA is completely wrong and lacks legal authority. “PIA is not someone’s personal property; but a national asset. Privatization without proper legal backing and national consensus is unacceptable,” he asserted.

Both leaders highlighted the importance of keeping PIA under public ownership and management, noting that PIA was previously profitable and could be turned around with the right management and strategic reforms. They called for accountability and transparency in any decision-making process regarding the future of the airline.