As we mark the 40th anniversary of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation(SAARC), I extend greetings to the peoples and governments of our region.

SAARC began in Dhaka in December 1985 with a simple understanding that South Asia’s future would be more secure and more prosperous if its nations worked together. Islamabad has played its part in advancing that vision, hosting the 4th Summit under Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto during her first tenure and later the 12th Summit.

The 19th Summit was to be held in Islamabad in 2016, in line with Pakistan’s turn to host, but India’s refusal to attend halted the process and for the past 11 years SAARC has remained stalled. With disputes across nearly all its borders, India’s approach has become the central impediment to meaningful regional cooperation, leaving the region’s peace and progress unnecessarily captive to its narrow choices.

This impasse has led several member states to reflect on whether South Asia can afford continued paralysis. There is now growing interest in exploring a revived regional format that keeps the door open for all, yet does not allow one country to block collective progress. Important regional countries like Iran and China, can also be made part of the revival plan. Their participation would strengthen connectivity, economic integration and stability across the wider neighbourhood.

Pakistan remains committed to a cooperative, inclusive and forward-looking regional order. Our geography places us at the meeting point of South Asia, Central Asia and the Middle East. We are ready to work with all willing states to promote trade, transit, energy linkages and people-to-people ties that benefit the entire region.

On this Charter Day, I encourage South Asian nations to approach the future with clarity and sincerity. The region’s challenges are shared and so must be the solutions. With a spirit of respect and practical cooperation, we can shape a more peaceful and prosperous South Asia for our future generations.

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Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari graced the opening ceremony of National Games 2025 in Karachi as the chief guest, hosted by the Government of Sindh, and expressed his delight at the return of this prestigious sporting event to the city after 18 years.

According to the press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP, while addressing the opening ceremony of the 35th National Games, warmly welcomed the young athletes and delegations from Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and Balochistan to Karachi, saying, “Welcome to Karachi.” He said that after 18 years, the city is once again hosting the National Games and hoped that the event would mark the “beginning of a positive and inspiring environment” for young athletes from Sindh and across the country.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also expressed his joy at the impressive turnout of youth at the ceremony held at the National Stadium Karachi, emphasizing that the young people of Pakistan are the nation’s future and will lead the way in every field, including sports. “These children sitting before me today will, in the years to come, win medals for Pakistan at major international sporting events. You are our future Olympic champions,” he said.

The event was also attended by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, Provincial Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs Sardar Muhammad Bux Mahar, along with other government, political, and social dignitaries.

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On behalf of the Government and the people of Pakistan, and personally, I extend my heartfelt felicitations and best wishes to Your Excellency and the people of the Republic of Finland on the auspicious occasion of the 108th Independence Day of Finland.

Since its independence, Finland has made remarkable progress in education, technology, innovation, research, biotechnology, forestry and several other sectors. The country’s consistent top ranking on the Global Happiness Index for eight consecutive years stands as an indicator of the extraordinary talent, resilience and creativity of the Finnish people.

Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with the Republic of Finland. We share convergence of views on major international issues and uphold common values of democratic pluralism and economic liberalism.

There exists immense potential for cooperation, particularly in the fields of business, education, green transition, digitalisation, mining and telecommunications.

Pakistan remains committed to working closely with the Republic of Finland for the promotion of political, commercial and people-to-people linkages. It is our sincere desire that the friendly relations between our two countries continue to grow from strength to strength in the years ahead.

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At this difficult time, I wish to express Pakistan’s deepest sympathy and solidarity with the Government and people of the Kingdom of Thailand in the wake of the recent devastating floods in the southern provinces. The tragic loss of life and the impact on over one million households is a stark reminder of the urgent need for regional and global cooperation to confront the challenges of climate change, which is affecting South and South East Asia more severely than many other parts of the world. Pakistan, too, is experiencing the increasing consequences of climate change and stands ready to work with Thailand and the wider region to enhance resilience and preparedness.

I extend my sincere felicitations to the Government and people of Thailand on their National Day. Pakistan and Thailand have enjoyed a warm friendship for many decades, built on mutual respect and shared interests.

Pakistan values its longstanding ties with Thailand and remains committed to deepening cooperation in areas that serve our mutual interests. Our engagement at regional and international fora reflects a shared understanding on many issues.

We appreciate Thailand’s efforts to promote peace, development and regional stability. Pakistan values its constructive role in encouraging dialogue, economic links and people-to-people contact. We will continue to support initiatives that advance regional harmony and collective well-being.

As Thailand celebrates its National Day, the people of Pakistan join the Thai nation in wishing lasting peace, prosperity and progress. Pakistan looks forward to working more closely with Thailand to build a future shaped by shared priorities and steady friendship.

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Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has paid tribute to persons with disabilities on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, urging the nation to move from sympathy to concrete inclusion.

According to the press release issued by the Media Cell Bilawal House, Chairman PPP said that dignity, opportunity and participation are fundamental rights. “Persons with disabilities are sources of strength and resilience. Our progress depends on removing the barriers that limit their ability to learn, work and participate,” he added.

Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reaffirmed the PPP’s commitment to building an inclusive Pakistan where public spaces, schools, workplaces and essential services are fully accessible, where assistive technologies and healthcare are prioritised, where laws protecting equal rights are implemented in letter and spirit, and where persons with disabilities are included at every stage of decision-making. “Inclusion is not charity; it is justice. A Pakistan where no one is left behind is a stronger and more humane Pakistan,” he concluded.

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On the 58th Foundation Day of the Pakistan Peoples Party, we pay tribute to our Founder Chairman, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, whose vision, courage and sacrifices strengthened Pakistan’s democratic foundations and inspired generations.

Throughout its history, the PPP has risen to meet the central challenges of its time. When Pakistan faced authoritarian rule, the PPP stood firm as the party of democratic resistance and led the struggle for the restoration of people’s rights. The Party has consistently worked to stabilise the democratic system, foster unity and keep the political process on track.

It was under the leadership of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto that Pakistan received its first consensus Constitution in 1973, a national covenant that continues to guide our democracy. The PPP also takes pride in its role in strengthening the federation, initiating reforms in Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, laying the foundations of the country’s nuclear programme and advancing landmark reforms in land rights, labour protections, education and social justice.

From the MRD and ARD movements to the Charter of Democracy, the Eighteenth Amendment and the National Action Plan, the PPP has remained central to Pakistan’s democratic evolution.

Since its inception, the PPP has been the voice of workers, peasants, women, minorities and all marginalised communities. Their inclusion and empowerment have shaped our political direction and remain at the heart of our mission.

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On the occasion of the 58th Youm-e-Tasees of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), the party’s Vice President, Senator Sherry Rehman, reiterated the PPP’s steadfast dedication to democracy, justice, and the empowerment of the people of Pakistan.

“This Youm-e-Tasees signifies not only the founding of the PPP but also the beginning of a historic struggle for democratic restoration and the protection of the rights of every citizen. On this momentous day, we pay homage to our visionary founder, Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, whose leadership uplifted the unheard and offered hope to the marginalized. His decision to establish the PPP on November 30, 1967, marked a pivotal moment in our national history, and his ideals continue to guide our political outlook,” Senator Rehman said.

She reiterated “The PPP introduced the 1973 Constitution, which remains the cornerstone of our federal structure. Our party laid the foundation of the nuclear program, carried out landmark agricultural reforms, established an independent foreign policy, and pioneered missile technology. Initiatives such as the Benazir Income Support Program and our contributions to CPEC reflect PPP’s commitment to the people and the nation.”

She also paid tribute to the sacrifices of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, whose leadership preserved and advanced her father’s mission while reinforcing Pakistan’s democratic pillars.
“ Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto faced terrorism courageously and, like her father Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, embraced martyrdom. Her struggle for democracy, human rights, and gender equality continues to inspire generations. Her bravery and foresight are central to the PPP’s identity and its enduring mission to serve the people,” she added.

Under the leadership of Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Senator Rehman noted, the PPP remains fully committed to realizing the vision of its founding chairman. “Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has led the party with resolve, ensuring that the PPP remains a symbol of hope and an engine for progress, even in the face of extraordinary challenges. His leadership reflects our enduring commitment to building a peaceful, progressive, and prosperous Pakistan,” she stated.

Emphasizing the significance of Youm-e-Tasees, Senator Sherry Rehman said, “Today, we honour our proud legacy while renewing our commitment to continue the struggle for a Pakistan rooted in democracy, equality, and justice. The PPP has always stood by the people and will carry on fighting for their rights, dignity, and development.”

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he Consul General of the United Arab Emirates in Karachi, H.E. Bakheet Ateeq Al Remeithi, called on First Lady, Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, at Bilawal House today.

He extended a formal invitation to the First Lady to join the event taking place on the occasion of the UAE National Day, marked each year on 2nd December.

The First Lady thanked the Consul General for the invitation and reaffirmed the value Pakistan attaches to its relations with the country.

A full spectrum of relations between both countries, specially women empowerment, education, healthcare and rights of children were discussed in the meeting.

Mayor of Karachi, Mr Murtaza Wahab, was present during the meeting. 

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On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the First Lady MNA Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari stated, “No society can progress if its women live in fear or silence.”

She reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to safeguarding the dignity, rights, and safety of all women and girls.

Highlighting the urgency of the issue, the First Lady emphasised, “Breaking the culture of impunity is not optional, it is essential for justice.”

She stressed the need for stronger laws including strict implementation of those laws, expanded survivor support and accountability at every level.

Reflecting on the importance of societal change, the First Lady said, “We must choose respect over prejudice, courage over silence and accountability over complacency.”

Addressing women and girls across Pakistan, the First Lady stated, “Your voice matters. Your safety matters. Your dreams matter.”

She reiterated her commitment to creating a safer and more equal society for future generations.

First Lady further said, “A Pakistan that protects its women is a Pakistan that prospers.”

She called on all citizens, institutions and communities to join hands in ending violence against women and build a future where every woman and girl can live free from fear and full of opportunity.

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First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, accompanied by Ms. Bakhtawar Bhutto Zardari, visited the Supreme Council for Motherhood & Childhood, where she was received by Her Excellency Rym bint Abdullah Al Falasy, Secretary-General of the Council.

During the visit, the First Lady commended the Council’s vital contributions to advancing the care, safety, and well-being of mothers and children. She highlighted the Council’s practical initiatives across health, education, and culture, noting its leadership in developing child empowerment and protection frameworks, inclusive programmes for children of determination, and comprehensive maternal health services both within the UAE and internationally.

They were also briefed on the Children’s Parliament, launched in 2020 in partnership with the Federal National Council, as well as on broader initiatives aimed at amplifying young voices through platforms such as the Children’s Advisory Council. The First Lady described these efforts as inspiring examples of meaningful youth engagement.

She further paid tribute to the lifelong dedication of H.H. Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak to women’s empowerment, stating that her visionary leadership continues to inspire generations and strengthen initiatives that support families, mothers, and children.