Author: Asghar Ali Mubarak
Asghar Ali Mubarak
(The writer is a senior journalist covering various beats, can be reached at news@metro-morning.com)
PM Shehbaz Sharif honored nation’s profound sacrifices—over 90,000 lives lost and $15 billion in economic damage—underscoring the unparalleled role in global counter-terrorism By Asghar Ali Mubarak ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has spoken optimistically about the future of Pakistan’s relationship with the United States, describing it as entering a new era marked by mutual respect and shared democratic values. Addressing a gathering at the US embassy in Islamabad to celebrate America’s 249th Independence Day, he extended warm congratulations to the US government, embassy staff, and people. Shahbaz Sharif reflected on the longstanding cooperation between Pakistan and the US, recalling numerous…
By Asghar Ali Mubarak ISLAMABAD: China has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering improved relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan, expressing readiness to play an active role in supporting peace and stability in the region. This comes after Pakistan took a significant diplomatic step by upgrading its mission in Afghanistan to ambassadorial status—a move welcomed warmly by Beijing. A spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the elevation of diplomatic representation was a positive development that would deepen cooperation and strengthen mutual trust between the neighboring countries. The spokesperson emphasized that such gestures are vital in creating a more stable and…
By Asghar Ali Mubarak ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has declared that Pakistan has decisively rejected India’s so-called “new normal”, asserting that the country has shattered New Delhi’s ambitions of regional dominance. In a statement issued on Wednesday, Dar said Pakistan had “blown away India’s monopoly” and crushed its illusion of superiority. “India’s dream of regional hegemony has come crashing down,” he said. The deputy prime minister also confirmed the downing of six Indian aircraft and drones, including four Rafale fighter jets, in what he described as a clear show of strength. While he did not…
By Asghar Ali Mubarak ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has written a formal letter to Opposition Leader Omar Ayub, inviting him for consultations on the appointment of the Chief Election Commissioner and two commission members. In the letter, the Prime Minister pointed out that the constitutional tenure of the current Chief Election Commissioner and two members expired on 26 January. However, he noted that they have continued to serve under Article 215 of the Constitution. Shehbaz Sharif added that, according to Article 218, proposals for these appointments must be forwarded to the parliamentary committee, making it essential to begin consultations.…
Building on recent military triumphs, the prime minister expressed unwavering confidence that Pakistan will defend its water resources with the same resolve it showed on the battlefield By Asghar Ali Mubarak ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has issued a stark warning about the growing risks India poses to peace and security in South Asia. Speaking at a recent National Economic Council meeting, Sharif highlighted the tense regional environment, while praising Pakistan’s armed forces for their role in what he described as a historic victory in the recent conflict. The Prime Minister credited the triumph to the professionalism and bravery of…
By Asghar Ali Mubarak ISLAMABAD: At a Fourth of July celebration in Islamabad, US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker highlighted the enduring strength of US-Pakistan ties, describing security cooperation as a pillar of their long-term partnership. Speaking to a gathering that included Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and senior Pakistani officials, Baker thanked attendees for their presence, saying their participation was “an honor” and a reflection of shared values between the two nations. Baker, currently on her second diplomatic assignment in Islamabad, reflected warmly on her earlier posting in Pakistan, recalling the warmth of its people, the richness of its culture, and…
By Asghar Ali Mubarak ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has urged the government to prioritize public relief and welfare measures in the forthcoming budget, highlighting the critical need for political allies to unite and work collaboratively for the national interest. His call came during a high-profile meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the Governor House in Lahore, signaling a renewed emphasis on consensus-building amid the country’s complex political landscape. The gathering brought together key figures including Speaker of the National Assembly Ayaz Sadiq and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, alongside Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider and Senator Saleem Mandviwala. This…
Field Marshal Munir firmly reminded the academic delegation that Pakistan’s stance on Kashmir is unwavering, insisting that any agreement compromising its claim is entirely unacceptable By ISPR/Asghar Ali Mubarak ISLAMABAD: Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir has reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering stance on the Kashmir dispute, stating unequivocally that the country will never relinquish its claim over the territory. Speaking during a meeting with vice chancellors and senior faculty members from various universities, the Army Chief made it clear that any notion of compromising on Kashmir is out of the question. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Field Marshal Munir told…
By Asghar Ali Mubarak ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif lashed out at Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, declaring that “Modi has finally been cut down to size” following India’s electoral setbacks and perceived regional failures. Asif stated that leaders like Modi endanger not just their own nations but global peace. He compared Modi’s leadership to that of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying both have destabilized their regions through extremist policies. “People like Narendra Modi bring ruin upon their countries and the world when they come to power,” Asif remarked, adding, “Modi now sees his political demise looming —…
By Asghar Ali Mubarak ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has issued a strong condemnation of recent Israeli provocations against the Al-Aqsa Mosque, underlining that any challenge to the mosque’s historic and legal status is wholly unacceptable. A spokesperson for Pakistan’s Foreign Office described Israel’s actions as a clear violation of international law, highlighting the gravity of the situation. The spokesperson stressed Pakistan’s firm demand for the protection of the sanctity of all holy sites, including Al-Aqsa, which holds profound religious and cultural significance for Muslims worldwide. In a separate statement, the Foreign Office also condemned a deadly Israeli military attack on a school…