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The Pakistan Peoples Party’s nominee for the post of the Governor of Punjab, Sardar Saleem Haider while expressing his thoughts in an informal conversation with the media at Punjab House, Islamabad said that he is grateful to President Asif Ali Zardari, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Adi Faryal Talpur for trusting him and nominating him.

Sardar Saleem said that he began politics with the PPP, and would remain with it till the end. He further said that he would like to play a role in bridge-building between PML-N and PPP. Punjab’s Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz is a sister to me, Sardar Saleem Haider said.

The country is facing a plethora of difficulties. All my efforts are dedicated to playing an effective role in solving the problems plaguing Punjab, he said.

Sardar Saleem said that the doors of the Governor House would not only be accessible to the PPP workers but also to the entire population of Punjab. It is our right to take political space in Punjab, he expressed. The country cannot move forward without political stability, Governor Punjab nominee Sardar Saleem Haider said.

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In a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP, in his message, emphasized the invaluable contributions of Syed Qamar Abbas Shaheed and Shaheed Zahir Shah to the party, declaring that their sacrifices will forever be etched in the annals of party’s history. He lauded their unshakable commitment to the party’s ideals, noting how they proudly waved the PPP flag until their last breaths, with Syed Qamar Abbas Shaheed in Peshawar and Shaheed Zahir Shah in Dir Lower.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari earnestly appealed to all party office-bearers and workers to observe a moment of remembrance and offer prayers for the eternal peace of their departed comrades today. He concluded with a prayer, beseeching Allah Almighty to bestow upon Syed Qamar Abbas Shaheed and Shaheed Zahir Shah the highest ranks in Jannah.

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Shaheed Abdul Razzaque Jharna was executed during dictatorship of Zia on May 07, 1984 in Lahore. He entered the gallows with a defiant dance, courageously placing the noose around his neck while chanting ‘Jeay Bhutto’

According to the press release issued by Media Cell Bilawal House, Charman PPP, in his message, said that in the face of tyranny and oppression, Shaheed Jharna exemplified the true essence of the PPP – a movement rooted in the principles of democracy, equality, and social justice. His sacrifice serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless brave men and women who laid down their lives for the cause of democracy and the rights of the people.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed his hope that the memory of Shaheed Abdul Razzaque Jharna will serve as an enduring inspiration as we advance towards a brighter and more equitable future for Pakistan.

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Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has expressed deep sorrow over the bus accident in the Diamer district of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has expressed grief over the loss of precious lives in the accident on the Karakoram Highway. He extended heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones in the incident.

Efforts should be made to ensure proper treatment and speedy recovery of the injured, Chairman PPP stated. Relevant authorities and the public should work together to prevent such incidents in the future, he said. 

Chairman Bilawal also prayed for a speedy recovery of all those injured.

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Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has strongly condemned the terrorist bomb blast in Khuzdar.

Chairman Bilawal expressed deep sorrow over the martyrdom of Press Club President, Muhammad Sadique Mengal in the blast. He extended heartfelt condolences to the affected families and the journalist fraternity.

Such cowardly acts will not dampen the spirits of the Pakistani nation, Chairman Bilawal stated. He further said that the despicable elements involved in this heinous crime will receive nothing but humiliation. 

Chairman Bilawal also prayed for a speedy recovery of all those injured.

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Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has extended sincere solidarity to journalists and media professionals worldwide on the World Press Freedom Day. Emphasizing the paramount importance of press freedom, he reaffirmed his party’s staunch support for the invaluable role of a free and independent press in fostering democracy.

According to a press release by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP, in his message, underscored that press freedom is not merely a cornerstone of democracy, but also vital for nurturing transparency, accountability, and the proliferation of diverse ideas within society. He urged that safeguarding and upholding this fundamental right should be the responsibility of every democratic government and party. 

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that historically, the press in Pakistan has served as a watchdog, uncovering injustices, exposing corruption, and amplifying the voices of the marginalized. Expressing concern over challenges such as censorship, fake news, and violence faced by journalists, he urged media organizations to uphold journalistic integrity, impartiality, and professionalism in their reporting.

Chairman PPP reiterated the party’s unwavering support for press freedom, grounded in democracy and liberty principles. He underscored the 1973 Constitution’s guarantee of freedom of expression, including press freedom, a legacy of Quaid-e-Awam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. “Under his leadership, reforms liberalized media policies, fostering greater independence,” he noted. He highlighted Prime Minister Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s efforts to promote press freedom, including abolishing censorship laws and supporting independent media growth, adding that she also championed press freedom and human rights globally, underscoring their significance in democratic governance and seeking international support during dictatorial regimes.

Chairman PPP noted that President Asif Ali Zardari honored the vision and guiding principles of Shaheed Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto by enshrining the “Right to Know” into the Constitution through the 18th Constitutional Amendment.

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed PPP’s solidarity with journalists in conflict zones like Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) and Gaza, Palestine, praising their courage in reporting on human rights abuses despite grave risks.

“Let us carry forward the torch of press freedom, illuminating pathways of accountability and fostering dialogue. Through our unwavering support, let’s empower journalists to fearlessly navigate the realms of truth, shaping a brighter future for all,” he concluded.

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Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has advocated for a pragmatic approach towards managing key institutions such as Pakistan Airlines and Pakistan Steel Mills. He emphasized the importance of exploring public-private partnerships as an alternative to outright privatization. Additionally, he called upon the federal government to address the pressing issue of inflation by proposing salary increases for employees in the forthcoming budget.

According to a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP, while addressing a function organized by the People’s Labor Bureau (PLB) at the Karachi Arts Council on the occasion of International Labour Day, said that economies, businesses, and institutions worldwide, including Pakistan, thrive due to the dedication of workers. He reiterated the PPP’s philosophy: ensuring that workers receive their rightful dues.

He pointed out that Quaid-e-Awam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto not only granted workers the right to form unions but also established vital institutions like the Employees Old Age Benefits Institution (EOBI) for their welfare. 

Additionally, he emphasized that when Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto assumed office as Prime Minister, her inaugural act was to release workers’ representatives who had been unjustly imprisoned during the dictatorship. “Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto carried forward the noble struggle of the workers,” he noted.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that during the first tenure of President Asif Ali Zardari, significant strides were made in favor of labor rights. 

He noted the removal of anti-labor clauses from the constitution, originally introduced during the regimes of General Zia-ul-Haq and General Pervez Musharraf. Additionally, Chairman Bilawal highlighted substantial increases in salaries and pensions, asserting, “I believe that no government in Pakistan’s history has elevated salaries and pensions to such an extent, barring the tenure of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.” Furthermore, he underscored the legislative achievements of the Sindh Assembly, stating that no other province rivals its commitment to enacting laws for the rights and welfare of workers.

Chairman PPP highlighted that the Sindh government, under the PPP, has launched the Benazir Mazdoor Card initiative. However, he noted that its full implementation hinges upon the federal government’s transfer of ministries and institutions, as stipulated by the 18th Amendment. He advocated for the devolution of institutions like EOBI to the provinces. 

Expressing optimism, he stated his hope that PPP-led governments in Sindh and Balochistan would prioritize salary increases in the forthcoming budget.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reiterated the PPP’s longstanding stance on the privatization of institutions like PIA, emphasizing the preference for operating them under the public-private partnership (PPP) mode instead. He cited successful PPP-mode projects in Sindh as examples of effective collaboration between the public and private sectors. Chairman advocated for a similar approach for institutions under consideration for privatization, suggesting that the government sell some shares and engage with the private sector to foster their development, thereby benefiting Pakistan and its economy.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto highlighted the success of the Thar Coal Project completed by the People’s Government of Sindh through a public-private partnership, contrasting it with previous failures under both provincial and federal administrations. He noted the current finance minister’s favorable view of Sindh’s PPP model and expressed the intent to persuade the government to transition from privatization to PPP-mode.

Talking about the Pakistan Steel Mills, Chairman Bhutto said that the land belongs to the Sindh government and decisions regarding the institution should involve Sindh’s consent. He emphasized for collaborative discussions between the federal and provincial governments, proposing that if the federal government intends to divest from the Steel Mills, Sindh should have the opportunity to acquire and operate it more efficiently under PPP-mode, ensuring the welfare of its workers.

Chairman Bilawal also stressed the need for increased activity within the People’s Labor Bureau, a subsidiary organization of the PPP. 

He announced former Senate Chairman Mian Raza Rabbani’s appointment to mobilize People’s Labor Bureau nationwide.

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Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, reaffirmed the founding vision of the Party – Roti, Kapra Aur Makaan, on the International Labour Day, with a conviction that the prosperity of Pakistan is interwoven with the welfare and dignity of its labor force.

According to the press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP, in a message on International Labour Day, paid homage to the martyrs of Chicago. He also paid glowing tribute to Quaid-e-Awam Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto for the latter’s pioneering efforts in enshrining labor rights through the first-ever Labour Policy in 1972, laying the groundwork for equitable representation and empowerment. 

He highlighted that as Prime Minister, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto restored the trade union rights unjustly seized by a dictator from the workers. “Shaheed Bibi tirelessly endeavored to expand job opportunities for the underprivileged, fostering employment growth even during her brief tenures in government,” he pointed out. Reflecting on President Asif Ali Zardari’s previous tenure, he proudly recalled the launch of the Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) and Benazir Employees Stock Option Scheme (BESOS), a testament to the party’s unwavering commitment to fostering economic prosperity and opportunity for all.

Among the progress made by the PPP, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari praised his party’s governments in Sindh for leading initiatives like the Labour Policy, Benazir Mazdoor Card scheme, and building flats for laborers. “The PPP continues its commitment to helping the working class with programs like the ‘Benazir Mazdoor Card’ and ‘Benazir Kisan Card’ in Sindh and Balochistan, showing its dedication to empowerment,” he affirmed.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari recognized the ongoing challenges faced by the labor class in Pakistan, often ignored by other political groups. He invited the hardworking people to join the PPP, a stronghold of hope and determination, committed to supporting their cause and protecting their rights. 

Looking ahead, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari vowed to introduce the significant legislative reforms, reinforcing PPP’s commitment as a strong supporter and protector of the labor class. He promised to oppose exploitation and to remain a source of hope and unity for hardworking individuals, who are the foundation of both the Party and society.

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President Asif Ali Zardari conferred the award of Nishan-i-Imtiaz (Military) upon General Selcuk Bayraktaroglu, Commander of Turkish Land Forces, during a special investiture ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr, today. He conferred the award in recognition of his services in promoting and strengthening defence relations between Pakistan and Turkiye.

Later, the visiting Commander of Turkish Land Forces, General Selcuk Bayraktaroglu, also called on the President, at Aiwan-e-Sadr, today. The meeting was also attended by the Chief of Army Staff, General Syed Asim Munir.

The meeting discussed matters pertaining to defence cooperation between the two brotherly countries. Both sides emphasised the need for further expanding bilateral ties for the mutual benefit of Pakistan and Turkiye.

Talking to the Commander of Turkish Land Forces, the President said that Pakistan was proud of its relations with Turkiye, which had always supported Pakistan on core issues. He expressed satisfaction over the collaboration between Pakistan and Turkiye on a number of projects that would further strengthen bilateral ties.

The President highlighted the need for increasing people-to-people contacts, as well as promoting cooperation in the areas of agriculture, education, art and culture to bring the people of Pakistan and Turkiye further closer. He said that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan was a true and sincere friend of Pakistan who had made telephonic calls to him on his election as well as at the beginning of Ramzan-ul-Mubarak. This, he added, showed his commitment to broadening Pak-Turkiye ties.

Commander of Turkish Land Forces, General Selcuk Bayraktaroglu, reiterated the desire to further improve defence cooperation with Pakistan. He said that both countries could significantly contribute to the promotion of regional peace and stability.

The President congratulated the Commander of Turkish Land Forces on receiving the Nishan-i-Imtiaz (Military) and hoped that he would continue to play his role to further strengthen defence cooperation between the two brotherly countries.

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Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has extended warmest congratulations to the people of Pakistan, especially those in Sindh, and their esteemed democratic institutions on the momentous occasion of the Sindh Assembly commemorating 87 years of its parliamentary journey.

According to a press release from the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP remarked in his message that the inaugural session of the Sindh Legislative Assembly was convened on April 27, 1937. He emphasized the enduring legacy of democratic perseverance, noting that even prior to the formation of Pakistan, our forefathers steadfastly championed democratic ideals. Highlighting the pivotal role of Sir Shahnawaz Bhutto in the inception of the first Sindh Assembly, he lamented that a conspiracy deprived him of participation in its maiden session. “Despite the concerted efforts to sideline his party, both Sir Shahnawaz Bhutto and Sir Abdullah Haroon’s party secured a majority in the Sindh Assembly. However, despite this majority, Sir Shahnawaz Bhutto’s party was denied the opportunity to form the government. Instead, the then Governor extended the invitation to a party with merely three members in the House, disregarding the mandate of the majority party,” he pointed out.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reiterated that despite facing numerous conspiracies and injustices, our predecessors remained steadfast in their commitment to fortifying democratic institutions. He emphasized that the annals of his party’s history are replete with a relentless struggle to bolster democracy and its institutions, spanning from the pre-partition era to the present day.

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