Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, in his message on the occasion of International Women’s Day, extended heartfelt greetings to women in Pakistan and all around the world. He paid tribute to the strength, resilience, and invaluable contributions of women in every sphere of life and reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the protection and promotion of women’s rights.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that no society can progress without ensuring equal rights, dignity, and opportunities for women. He emphasised that gender equality is not merely a slogan but a fundamental principle of justice and democracy. Chairman Bilawal paid tribute to Madar-e-Millat Fatima Jinnah, whose dedication to Pakistan’s independence made her a beacon of hope. On this occasion, he also paid homage to his grandmother, Begum Nusrat Bhutto and mother, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. He said that Begum Nusrat Bhutto rendered great sacrifices and firmly fought tyranny with unmatched courage. Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, Pakistan’s first female Prime Minister, shattered barriers and paved the way for countless women to rise in leadership, inspiring generations of women to fight for their rights.

Chairman Bilawal urged for the creation of an inclusive and safe environment where women can thrive as equal partners in progress.

On this International Women’s Day, Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reiterated the PPP’s historic commitment to building a Pakistan where every woman’s voice is heard, valued, and respected.

Chairman  Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari held a series of high-level diplomatic meetings at Zardari House, Islamabad, on Friday, engaging with envoys from the United Kingdom, France, and the United States. The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations, expanding trade partnerships, and addressing mutual interests.

Chairman Bilawal met with British High Commissioner Jane Marriott to discuss Pakistan-UK relations and explore avenues for enhanced cooperation. Both sides emphasised the importance of expanding trade ties and economic collaboration. The meeting also covered regional stability and diplomatic engagements. PPP Secretary General Nayyer Hussain Bukhari was also present.

In a separate meeting, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari welcomed French Ambassador Nicolas Galey to discuss strengthening Pakistan-France trade relations and economic cooperation. The discussion highlighted the need for deeper collaboration in investment, commerce, and cultural exchange, alongside key regional and global issues of mutual concern.

Chairman Bilawal also met with U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker to review Pakistan-U.S. relations, focusing on enhancing economic and trade ties, fostering diplomatic cooperation, and promoting regional peace and stability. Both sides exchanged views on pressing regional issues, including security and economic development, and reaffirmed their commitment to deeper engagement in trade, investment, and strategic cooperation.

These meetings reaffirm PPP’s commitment to engaging with the international community and strengthening Pakistan’s diplomatic and economic partnerships. Chairman Bilawal emphasised the importance of fostering mutually beneficial relations with key global partners, particularly in trade, economic growth, and regional peace efforts.

The engagements at Zardari House underscore Pakistan’s proactive diplomatic outreach and PPP’s dedication to promoting international cooperation.

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, in a message has extended his heartfelt greetings to Muslims across Pakistan and around the world on the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. He prayed that this sacred month brings peace, prosperity, and countless blessings to all.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari emphasised that Ramadan is not only a time for fasting but also a period of self-reflection, spiritual growth, and renewed devotion. It is a month that instills the values of patience, humility, and compassion, reminding everyone of their duty to care for the less fortunate and to uphold the principles of justice, tolerance, and unity.

Chairman Bilawal urged all Pakistanis to come together in the true spirit of Ramadan, helping those in need, extending kindness to one another, and fostering an environment of inclusivity and harmony. He reaffirmed the PPP’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people and its vision of a progressive, democratic, and just society where everyone has access to opportunities and basic necessities.

Chairman Bilawal also prayed for the well-being of the country and the entire Muslim Ummah, hoping that this month strengthens the bonds of brotherhood and reinforces the values of peace and understanding. He called upon the people to embrace the essence of Ramadan by promoting unity, forgiveness, and mutual respect in all aspects of life.

President Asif Ali Zardari has urged the nation to participate in the charity and alms-giving activities during the holy month of Ramadan and take special care of those in need.

“We must go beyond our means to support the poor. These are the principles which play a vital role in building a strong, progressive, and compassionate society. By doing so, we will fulfill the true objectives of Ramadan and attain its rewards,” the president said in a message at the advent of holy month of Ramadan 1446 Hijrah.

The president extended his heartfelt congratulations to the entire Pakistani nation and the Muslim Ummah on the commencement of the blessed month of Ramadan.

He said that Ramadan was a month of mercy, forgiveness and salvation. “It teaches us self-purification, patience, perseverance, compassion, equality, and unity. This holy month provides an excellent opportunity to attain piety, sincerity, and closeness to Allah Almighty. It creates an environment to reform ourselves both at individual and collective levels, thus allowing us to restart our lives with a renewed sense of purpose,” President Secretariat Press Wing, in a press release, quoted the president as saying.

President Zardari further stressed that the sacred month also reminded them of the suffering of the needy and underprivileged.

The message was to rise above personal interests and extend a helping hand to others, fulfill the needs of the poor and destitute and promote the spirit of sacrifice and generosity in society, he added.

The president prayed to Allah Almighty to grant them the ability of taking benefits from the blessings of Ramadan, to embody patience and piety and to contribute towards the welfare of the Muslim Ummah.

He also prayed that this month might bring peace, stability, development and prosperity to Pakistan.

Secretary General Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians (PPPP) , Nayyer Hussain Bukhari, has invited applications from candidates aspiring for party tickets to contest the by-election for the NA-213 Umerkot.

In a statement, Nayyer Hussain Bukhari announced that PPPP ticket seekers must submit their applications along with a non-refundable fee of PKR 50,000 in the shape of a bank draft against Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians by March 3 at Bilawal House, Karachi.

The NA-213 Umerkot seat fell vacant following the demise of Nawab Yousuf Talpur. According to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), the deadline for submitting nomination papers for the constituency is March 6. The polling for by election is April 17.

The Government of Sindh, in collaboration with the Oxford Pakistan Programme (OPP), has announced two prestigious scholarships named after Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. These scholarships will be part of OPP’s annual graduate scholarship program and will support highly talented students from Sindh in pursuing graduate studies at the University of Oxford.

Historically, access to institutions like Oxford has been largely limited to privileged students, leaving behind talented individuals from underprivileged areas. OPP is committed to breaking this barrier to ensure that world-class educational opportunities are not restricted to a specific class. Last year, OPP awarded scholarships to two students from Sindh and one from Balochistan, taking a step towards bridging this educational gap. To further this objective, OPP is working with various government institutions to establish sustainable educational pathways for students from underprivileged areas, ensuring that educational opportunities are determined by merit rather than background.

Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and Chief Minister of Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah, announced these two prestigious scholarships during their official visit to the University of Oxford. Chairman Bilawal was invited to a luncheon by the Principal of Lady Margaret Hall (LMH), Professor Stephen Blyth. During this event, he was briefed on the vision and initiatives of the Oxford Pakistan Programme (OPP) and discussed the fundamental support provided by Lady Margaret Hall to OPP. The luncheon was also attended by Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto’s sister, Mohtarma Sanam Bhutto, renowned author, historian, and LMH alumna, Victoria Schofield, along with senior delegations from the Governments of Sindh and Balochistan.

Both Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and Zulfikar Ali Bhutto studied at the University of Oxford. These scholarships pay tribute to their legacy and offer young individuals from Sindh the opportunity to pursue world-class education and bring positive change to their communities.

Speaking on this occasion, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari stated:

“OPP is creating opportunities for Pakistanis, especially talented students from underprivileged backgrounds. I want to thank the Governments of Sindh and Balochistan for launching scholarship programs in collaboration with OPP for students from their provinces.”

The Oxford Pakistan Programme is led by a team of Oxford University academics and alumni, including Professor Adeel Malik (University of Oxford), Dr. Talha J. Pirzada (Lecturer in Material Science), Haris Zaman (corporate lawyer in London), and former Oxford student Manahil Saqib. OPP supports students and researchers of Pakistani origin through scholarships, hardship funds, the annual Iqbal Lecture, and the Graduate Access Programme.

On this occasion, Chief Minister of Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah, said:

“These scholarships will provide students from Sindh the opportunity to study at one of the world’s best universities. Not only will these students benefit from this opportunity, but Sindh as a whole will also gain when these scholars return to their communities with knowledge and skills to drive progress.”

This initiative reflects the commitment of the Government of Sindh and OPP to invest in education and nurture future leaders. Under this fund, each year, six outstanding students from Sindh will receive financial support for graduate degrees at Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford. Three of these scholarships will be awarded to women under the “Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Scholarship” and three under the “Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Scholarship.” Pakistani scholar and former Oxford Union President, Israr Khan, has also played a key role in facilitating these scholarships.

Secretary of Finance for the Government of Balochistan, Imran Zarkoon Khan, stated:

“We take pride in the fact that Balochistan was the first province to launch these scholarships. We hope this initiative will create new opportunities and enable talented students from Balochistan to succeed at Oxford and contribute to the development of the province.”

The Oxford Pakistan Programme is playing a transformative role in supporting Pakistani students at Oxford through various initiatives. So far, OPP has provided financial assistance of over £600,000, enabling 48 Pakistani graduate scholars to pursue their studies at Oxford. The partnership between OPP and the Government of Sindh is part of this larger mission to ensure that talented students from Sindh, Balochistan, and other underprivileged areas have access to world-class education.

Senator Sherry Rehman, chairing the meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Climate Change addressed critical climate financing issues, environmental challenges, and the progress on EV policy in Pakistan. During a comprehensive briefing, conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, Senator Sherry Rehman underscored the pressing need for structured financial solutions to bridge the estimated $340 billion funding gap necessary for sustainability. She emphasized that Pakistan’s financial capacity remains significantly lower than that of Bangladesh, a critical disparity that requires immediate intervention.
“Climate finance is not just about pledges; it’s about ensuring timely access to funds and building institutional capacity for climate resilience,” Senator Rehman stated. “Our existing financing structures are inadequate, and without robust financial solutions, Pakistan will continue to lag behind in climate adaptation and mitigation.”

The Finance Minister acknowledged the significant challenges in climate adaptation and financing, emphasizing the need for a structured approach that incorporates key enablers such as the National Adaptation Plan and National Climate Finance strategy. He noted, “Green technology is pivotal for sustainability, but clear definitions and parameters are essential for effective monitoring and reporting. The World Bank’s Country Partnership Framework prioritizes climate financing, while discussions with the IMF under the Extended Fund Facility are ongoing, with around one billion dollars expected. However, bureaucratic hurdles continue to obstruct access to climate funds, highlighting the need for streamlined processes. To advance climate resilience, we must optimize existing resources and collaborate closely with partners like UNDP.” It was mutually agreed by Senator Sherry Rehman and the Finance Minister that climate financing must be creatively programmed to ensure effective resource mobilization and project execution.    
Addressing the Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy, Senator Sherry Rehman emphasized the importance of launching and incentivizing EV adoption to reduce carbon emissions and combat urban pollution. “We must ensure that the EV Policy is not just on paper but actively implemented with proper incentives. This will not only reduce Punjab’s smog but also set the stage for a green energy transition across the country,” she stated.
The Finance minister supported this stance, reiterating that policy mapping in the budgeting process is essential to align EV initiatives with broader economic objectives. He further announced the establishment of an advisory board to oversee various policy matters. Stakeholders, including the Finance Minister agreed with Senator Sherry Rehman that addressing taxation anomalies is crucial for the successful implementation of the new EV policy. Senator Rehman emphasized “Removing these barriers would incentivize both importers and manufacturers. As seen globally, such measures are essential to reduce pollution and facilitate the transition to an electric vehicle ecosystem. Given its environmental challenges, Pakistan stands to benefit from this shift more than any other country.”
Senator Sherry Rehman further emphasized the need for urgent policy reforms to address limitations in carbon sinks and forestry projects, which have reached their maximum capacity. She stressed that mangrove restoration efforts, currently managed through private-sector partnerships and federal government-issued NOCs, require a policy shift to allow Sindh to utilize the entire delta without bureaucratic restrictions.
“Reliance on private funding alone is unsustainable. Innovative financing solutions, including targeting foreign markets for waste management, must be explored,” Senator Rehman asserted. “Biogas and other waste management models offer potential, yet bureaucratic inefficiencies continue to hinder progress. Institutional capacity gaps prevent the effective utilization of vertical funds, and securing $50 billion annually remains unrealistic without proper financial management.”
She further called for a structured approach, including measurable project metrics and debt swaps, to significantly improve financial viability. “Engaging experts and enhancing institutional agility, including within UN agencies, is critical. Above all, climate action cannot succeed without the direct involvement of both the Finance and Planning Ministries, underscoring the urgent need for a dedicated financial cell within the Ministry of Finance.”
Senator Rehman concluded the session by highlighting the committee’s outreach to provincial governments, “We are actively engaging with all provinces to ensure cohesive climate action across the country.”
The session brought together Senators Bushra Anjum Butt and Sarmad Khan, the Minister of Finance and Revenue, the Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Romina Alam, and senior officials from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination.

On the occasion of International Mother Language Day, Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has called upon federal and provincial governments to take concrete measures for the preservation and promotion of local languages. He emphasized the need for establishing language research centers, incorporating mother tongues into educational curricula, and encouraging literary and cultural initiatives to safeguard Pakistan’s rich linguistic heritage.

According to a statement issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP said that a mother language is not just a means of communication but the essence of identity, history, and cultural heritage. Highlighting the vital role of mother-tongue education, he pointed out that children learn best in their native language, which enhances cognitive development, nurtures creativity, and strengthens self-confidence.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reaffirmed that PPP has always been a champion of linguistic diversity and envisions a Pakistan where every mother tongue is valued, every cultural identity is respected, and no language faces marginalization. “As we celebrate the Silver Jubilee of International Mother Language Day, let us renew our commitment to protecting and promoting our diverse linguistic heritage. Our mother languages carry the lullabies of our childhood, the prayers of our elders, and the songs of our future. It is our duty to preserve them for generations to come,” he concluded.

According to a press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP said that the security forces’ operations against terrorists are a testament to the unwavering resolve of the Pakistani nation.

Chairman Bilawal Bhuo Zardari expressed sorrow over the martyrdom of Lieutenant Muhammad Hasan Ashraf, Naib Subedar Muhammad Bilal, Sepoy Farhatullah, and Sepoy Himmat Khan during the operations, and said that the officers and soldiers who embraced martyrdom will forever remain the heroes of our nation.

Chairman extended his heartfelt condolences and solidarity to the families of the martyred soldiers and prayed for them to find strength and patience in this difficult time.

President Asif Ali Zardari desired that Pakistan, due to its closer geographical proximity with China, would like to take advantage from the Chinese advancements in different fields including agriculture, communication space, technology and industry.

In an interview with CCTV during his recent visit to China and broadcast by the national Tv channels on Saturday, the president said Pakistan accorded high priority to all-weather friendship with China as the latter had always been a steadfast friend and stood by Pakistan in difficult times.

He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering support to China, its leadership and the nation, saying that they firmly believed in their strongest friendly bonds.

He said Pakistan, due to its geographical location and owing to mutual extensive cooperation and partnership, wanted maximum benefits from the Chinese advancements and experiences in different fields.

He also termed the Chinese achievements in the realms of science and technology as the ‘good thing’ for the entire world and the region.

The president said agriculture was a sector where China could help as Pakistan’s per acre yield was less when compared with China.

Responding to a query to China-Pakistan cooperation in space technology, he said Pakistan wanted to take advantage from the Chinese technology, adding Pakistan was growing its capacity in this regard by forging partnership with China, ‘which is a good thing’.

He said Pakistan could use the Chinese technology for its advancement, in every field, whether it was utility of water or it was climate change. Pakistan wanted to take advantage from the Chinese lessons.

The president expressed his satisfaction over the pace of connectivity and development under the umbrella of CPEC which was fast transforming the economic landscape of Pakistan.

The president said, during his recent visit to China, the two sides had discussed the industrial development. The industrial parks would be only for China; and worked upon by the Pakistani labourers while the chief executive of a company could be running a business online while sitting in China.

The president said that China and Pakistan were known as all-weather friends.

“If I cannot develop myself to China’s standards, I can bask in China’s glory,” he said, underscoring to take advantage from the Chinese technology for their coming generations.

Responding to a query, he said Pakistan wanted to take advantage of its position and its ties with the Chinese people that spanned over centuries.

Expressing his affection for the Chinese people, he said that he loved them and would always stand with China.

“Goodwill, goodwill and goodwill”, it is always the trust and goodwill and in-depth relationship,” the president said while summoning up his recent visit.

The president also lauded President Xi as a ‘very strong and very steadfast’ who understood a lot of things, adding that he wanted to convey to the world that they were all-weather friends.

Further admiring President Xi’s political philosophy and his governance; he observed that China had made strides in different fields, showing ‘a very vast difference’ under the Chinese president’s leadership.

To another question, President Zardari said that the relationship between Pakistan and China was centuries old as people from the two countries had been travelling and interacting with each other.

This relationship was based upon humanity and trust, he said, adding the Chinese people had never been inhuman and never gone to another country to massacre people. China had never been an occupier.

President Zardari, who held meetings with the Chinese leadership during his visit, said that Pakistan had been home to the world’s oldest civilizations like Harrapa and Mohenjo-daro while the Chinese had their own oldest global civilization that tied them together.

To a query about China’s progress, he said that every time he arrived there, he was impressed with the new developments in different cities and cited Beijing city where he had last visited ten years back.

It was the fact that the Chinese people were hard-working. Everybody was working in his own field for the collective advantage of the Chinese nation, he opined.

The president said China has been home to 1.4 billion people and the world could not compete because it was all about the new technology.

About China’s rapid advancements in different sectors, he said the world should not be scared of such rapid growth.

He said Pakistan as a neighbour knew that the Chinese were not the kind who wanted to interfere in other country. “I will never be scared of China” in terms of its fast progress,” he maintained.