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Imran Khan’s party says no talks with Pakistan government unless it forms judicial commissions

Imran Khan’s party says no talks with Pakistan government unless it forms judicial commissions
Opposition Leader in Pakistan National Assembly Omar Ayub Khan speaks during a press conference in Islamabad on January 22, 2025. (Photo courtesy: PTI)
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Updated 22 January 2025
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Imran Khan’s party says no talks with Pakistan government unless it forms judicial commissions

Imran Khan’s party says no talks with Pakistan government unless it forms judicial commissions
  • Khan’s party has demanded judicial commissions to probe protests of May 2023, November 2024
  • Government’s negotiation committee says will respond to demands by Khan’s party in writing on January 28
Updated 22 January 2025
Muhammad Ibrahim
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ISLAMABAD: Former prime minister Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party leader, Omar Ayub Khan, on Wednesday ruled out further negotiations with the government unless its forms judicial commissions to probe the May 9, 2023 and November 2024 anti-government protests, amid efforts by both sides to break the prevalent political deadlock in the country. 
Khan last month set up a negotiation committee of PTI members, including Omar Ayub Khan who is also the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, to hold talks with the government to ease political tensions. During the third round of talks between the two sides on Jan. 16, the PTI presented its “Charter of Demands” in writing to the government. 
The party’s key demands include the release of political prisoners and the establishment of judicial commissions to investigate the May 9, 2023, and November 2024 protests. Khan’s brief detention on graft charges on May 9, 2023, had sparked countrywide protests that saw his supporters attack and ransack military installations in an unprecedented backlash against Pakistan’s powerful army generals. 
In November 2024, Khan supporters from across the country defied blockades from various parts of the country to arrive in the capital to demand his release from prison. The government says four troops were killed while the PTI says 12 of its supporters died in clashes between law enforcers and Khan supporters.
“I wrote this in a tweet last night and this is Imran Khan’s directives too: no commissions, no negotiations,” Omar Ayub Khan told reporters outside the National Assembly. “End of discussion, we don’t accept it. The [judicial] commission of May 9 and the commission of Nov. 26.”
The opposition leader’s statement came shortly after Irfan Siddiqui, a key member of the government’s negotiation committee, said it would respond to the PTI’s written demands on Jan. 28. 
When asked whether the committee had decided to form the judicial commissions, Siddiqui responded:
“We have not decided on the question of whether to form or not form [judicial commissions],” Siddiqui told reporters after a consultative meeting of the committee ended. 
“That is why deliberations are taking place. Had this decision been taken today, there would be no need to hold meetings tomorrow and the day after that,” he added. 
Siddiqui hoped negotiations between both sides would produce fruitful results. 
The talks opened last month as Khan had threatened a civil disobedience movement and amid growing concerns he could face trial by a military court for allegedly inciting attacks on sensitive security installations during the May 9 protests.
The negotiations also began two days after 25 civilians were sentenced by a military court to periods of two to 10 years of “rigorous imprisonment” in connection with the attacks on military facilities on May 9, 2023. Just days later on Dec. 26, another 60 civilians were sentenced by a military court to jail time ranging from 2 to 10 years.
Khan, facing a slew of legal cases from jail, says all charges against him are politically motivated to keep him and his party out of power. Khan had to sit out February 2024 general election as convicted felons cannot run for public office in Pakistan.
An anti-graft court last Friday sentenced the former premier to 14 years in jail and his wife, Bushra Khan, to seven years in prison, on charges of receiving land as bribe for a real estate tycoon in exchange for favors. Khan, his wife and the real estate tycoon have denied any wrongdoing in the case.

Topics: Imran Khan Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party

Pakistan looks forward to strengthening ties with Canada under Mark Carney, PM Sharif says

Pakistan looks forward to strengthening ties with Canada under Mark Carney, PM Sharif says
Updated 9 sec ago
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Pakistan looks forward to strengthening ties with Canada under Mark Carney, PM Sharif says

Pakistan looks forward to strengthening ties with Canada under Mark Carney, PM Sharif says
  • Carney was sworn in after overwhelmingly winning a Liberal Party vote to replace Justin Trudeau
  • Islamabad has friendly ties with Canada, which was one of the first countries to recognize Pakistan
Updated 9 sec ago
Arab News Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is looking forward to strengthening its relations with Canada under Prime Minister Mark Carney, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Saturday, as he felicitated his new Canadian counterpart.
Ex-central banker Carney was sworn in as prime minister of Canada on Friday after overwhelmingly winning a Liberal Party vote to replace Justin Trudeau as leader.
Pakistan enjoys friendly relations with Canada, which was one of the first countries to recognize Pakistan as a sovereign independent state in 1947.
The two countries regularly hold bilateral consultation on political matters, while Pakistani diaspora in Canada numbers around 500,000. Islamabad has also awarded the Reko Diq gold mine project to a Canadian firm which is the largest in terms of foreign direct investment in Pakistan.
“I congratulate Mr. Mark Carney on being sworn in as the Prime Minister of Canada,” Sharif wrote on X. “Wish him a successful tenure in office and look forward to working with him to further strengthen Pakistan-Canada relations in all spheres.”
Over the years, the bilateral cooperation and engagement in the political, economic, and cultural arenas between Pakistan and Canada has witnessed a consistent upwards trajectory, according to the Pakistani foreign office. At present, there are two Pakistan-origin senators and six House of Commons members in the Canadian parliament, who act as a bridge between the two countries.
Carney’s election, however, comes at a time Ottawa has been rattled by collapsing cross-border relations since Donald Trump returned to power in January, launching a trade war and demanding that Canada surrender its independence to become the 51st US state.
Carney, a political novice, said he will fly to Paris and London next week, part of an effort to reinforce alliances overseas as ties with the United States unravel. Those talks will include trade and security.

Topics: Pakistan Canada Ties Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Mark Carney

OIC expresses solidarity with Pakistan after militant attack on passenger train kills 31

OIC expresses solidarity with Pakistan after militant attack on passenger train kills 31
Updated 15 March 2025
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OIC expresses solidarity with Pakistan after militant attack on passenger train kills 31

OIC expresses solidarity with Pakistan after militant attack on passenger train kills 31
  • Militants took over the Jaffar Express train in a remote mountain pass in Balochistan province this week, blowing up train tracks in the attack
  • A final count showed 23 soldiers, three railway employees and five passengers had died in the day-long train hijacking, an army spokesman said
Updated 15 March 2025
Arab News Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) condemns the militant attack on a passenger train in Pakistan’s southwestern Balochistan province that killed over 30 people this week, it said on Saturday, expressing solidarity with the families of the victims and the Pakistani people and government.
Militants had taken over the Jaffar Express in a remote mountain pass in the Balochistan province on Tuesday, blowing up train tracks in the attack then holding passengers hostage in a day-long standoff.
The Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) separatist group, which claimed responsibility for Tuesday’s attack, released a statement saying its fighters had escaped with 214 hostages and since executed all of them, without giving any evidence to back that up.
Pakistan security forces killed 33 insurgents, rescued 354 hostages and brought the siege to a close a day later, according to army spokesperson Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry. A final count showed 23 soldiers, three railway employees and five passengers had died in the attack.
“OIC Secretary-General Hissein Brahim Taha extended his deepest condolences and sincere sympathy to the families of the victims,” the OIC said in a statement shared on X.
“He reiterated the OIC’s rejection of all forms and manifestations of terrorism and underscored the OIC’s solidarity with the people and government of Pakistan in the fight against terrorism.”
Pakistan has been battling twin insurgencies — one mounted by religiously motivated groups like the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in the country’s northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province and the other by ethnic Baloch separatists in Balochistan.
The BLA is the largest and strongest of several ethnic Baloch insurgent groups which have been fighting for decades to win independence for the mineral-rich province, home to major China-led projects including a port and gold and copper mines.
Lt. Gen. Chaudhry said on Friday that Pakistan had evidence that India and Afghanistan had backed the insurgents, echoing accusations made by the Pakistani foreign ministry after Tuesday’s attack. Both countries have denied the accusation.

Topics: Jaffar Express Balochistan Attacks militancy in Pakistan

In Rawalpindi, century-old mosque blends history, architecture and faith to attract worshippers in Ramadan

In Rawalpindi, century-old mosque blends history, architecture and faith to attract worshippers in Ramadan
Updated 15 March 2025
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In Rawalpindi, century-old mosque blends history, architecture and faith to attract worshippers in Ramadan

In Rawalpindi, century-old mosque blends history, architecture and faith to attract worshippers in Ramadan
  • Surrounded by busy markets, the Markazi Jamia Masjid is an architectural marvel that offers a unique retreat to devotees
  • Its foundation was laid in 1896 by Amanullah Khan, who later became Afghanistan’s King, along with a local religious leader
Updated 15 March 2025
Muhammad Ibrahim

RAWALPINDI: Sheikh Sajid Mahmood, a Pakistani entrepreneur in his late 50s, soaks the winter sun after offering Zuhr prayers at a mosque in the garrison city of Rawalpindi. The worship place, which stands as a spiritual and cultural beacon, draws thousands like Mahmood, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan, with its tranquil appeal.
Surrounded by busy markets and towering buildings, the Markazi Jamia Masjid, or central grand mosque, is an architectural marvel that not only offers a unique retreat to devotees, but also captivates visitors with its vibrant frescoes and intricate design, offering a glimpse into the rich religious and cultural heritage of Rawalpindi.
The mosque’s foundation was laid in 1896 by Amanullah Khan, who later became the King of Afghanistan, alongside a prominent local religious figure, Peer Mehar Ali Shah of Golra Sharif in Islamabad. Since its completion, the mosque has served as a central place of worship for Sunni Muslims in the city, whose numbers multiply in Ramadan.
“I am from the second generation [of devotees praying here]. I am almost 60 years old now. [We] get a lot of spiritual satisfaction by praying here,” Mahmood told Arab News, explaining how the vastness of the space provides him a sense of serenity.
“Look at the sunlight, there are rows of prayer mats laid out in the courtyard. You can also get an idea from this, smaller mosques are confined on the sides.”

This photo, taken on March 12, 2025, shows the main entrance of the century-old Markazi Jamia Mosque in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. (AN Photo)

Mufti Muhammad Siddiq-ul-Hasnain Sialvi, who leads prayers at the mosque, shares a “deep connection” with the place.
“This mosque is the largest in the Rawalpindi division, accommodating up to 7,000 worshippers,” he said. “The arrangements for [late night] Taraweeh prayers during Ramadan are excellent, and we also have a grand arrangement for Iftar. A large number of people perform Itikaf [or seclusion in the last ten days of Ramadan] here as well.”
The Markazi Jamia Masjid’s architectural beauty is a sight to behold as it blends elements of Mughal architecture with local designs. The main prayer hall, dominated by three domes and several minarets, reflects the grandeur of traditional Mughal architecture, featuring arches and intricate floral motifs. Local adaptations imbue the mosque with a unique identity that speaks of Rawalpindi’s heritage.

Worshippers offer prayers inside the main hall of the century-old Markazi Jamia Mosque in Rawalpindi, Pakistan on March 12, 2025, during Arab News’ Ramadan special coverage. (AN Photo)

Inside, the walls are adorned with hand-painted frescoes, some of which have been meticulously restored over the years. The frescoes, with their detailed floral patterns and geometric symmetry, evoke the splendor of Mughal craftsmanship. Though some of the vibrant blues, reds and yellows have faded with time, they still retain their beauty, telling the story of an era long past.
The mosque’s spacious courtyard serves as the heart of the complex, where worshippers gather before entering the prayer hall. During Ramadan, the worship place comes alive, especially during Iftar and Taraweeh as the open space allows for a comfortable congregation, offering a welcoming environment for all.
“There is more rush here in Ramadan, the open courtyard makes it comfortable for people,” said Waqas Iqbal, a jeweler who regularly visits the mosque. “You don’t feel cramped, whether it’s summer or winter.”

Worshippers gesture inside the main hall of the century-old Markazi Jamia Mosque in Rawalpindi, Pakistan on March 12, 2025, during Arab News’ Ramadan special coverage. (AN Photo)


But for Mahmood, the mosque is a sanctuary of peace.
“The open courtyard and the peaceful surroundings make it a special place to pray,” Mahmood said, explaining how the vastness of the space provides a sense of serenity that “smaller mosques often lack.”
More than just a place of worship, Rawalpindi’s Markazi Jamia Masjid offers visitors a chance to connect with the city’s past. Its management, which falls under the Punjab Auqaf and Religious Affairs Department, ensures the mosque undergoes maintenance every 10 to 15 years, so that it stays in pristine condition for the future generations.
“Many prominent personalities have offered prayers in this grand mosque and the Imam of Haram Sharif [in Makkah] has visited and led prayers here,” said Sialvi, the prayer leader, adding all these factors makes it a special place for the residents of the neighborhood and an honor for Rawalpindi.

Topics: Rawalpindi Masjid Ramadan in Pakistan

Pakistan stresses need to reverse ‘alarming tide’ of Islamophobia on international day to combat it

Pakistan stresses need to reverse ‘alarming tide’ of Islamophobia on international day to combat it
Updated 15 March 2025
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Pakistan stresses need to reverse ‘alarming tide’ of Islamophobia on international day to combat it

Pakistan stresses need to reverse ‘alarming tide’ of Islamophobia on international day to combat it
  • The UN adopted a resolution, co-sponsored by Pakistan, in 2022 to mark the day amidst increasing hatred, discrimination and attacks against Muslims
  • The date was chosen as the anniversary of the mass shootings in Christchurch, New Zealand, in which 51 people were killed during Friday prayer in 2019
Updated 15 March 2025
KASHIF IMRAN

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has stressed the need to reverse an “alarming tide” of Islamophobia in the world, his office said on Saturday, as the world marked the international day to combat the phenomenon.
The International Day to Combat Islamophobia is an international observance designated by United Nations (UN) in 2022, which takes place on March 15 each year. The date was chosen as the anniversary of the mass shootings in Christchurch, New Zealand, in which 51 people were killed during Friday prayer in 2019.
The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution, which was co-sponsored by Pakistan, to mark this day amidst increasing prejudice, hatred, discrimination and attacks against Muslim communities as well as their sacred symbols and places of worship in the world.
In his message, Sharif said March 15 not only serves as a “stark reminder” of the gravity of the challenges being faced by Muslims worldwide, but also as a powerful call to action, reflecting the collective will of the international community to combat Islamophobia through concrete legislative and policy measures.
“However, much more is urgently needed to reverse the alarming tide of Islamophobia and end the flagrant violations of fundamental human rights and religious freedoms,” he said in a statement issued from his office.
“At a time when religious intolerance is on the rise, we reaffirm that no justification exists for blasphemy or the desecration of sacred symbols under the guise of freedom of expression.”
In his message on the day, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said the world was witnessing a “disturbing rise” in anti-Muslim bigotry that had led to attacks against religious groups, urging the international community to act toward its resolution.
“We are witnessing a disturbing rise in anti-Muslim bigotry that is part of a wider scourge of intolerance & attacks against religious groups & vulnerable populations,” Guterres said on X.
“This International Day to Combat Islamophobia, let’s work together to uphold equality, human rights & dignity.”
Sharif said Pakistan was extremely proud to have led this important initiative at the UN and welcomed actions taken by some member states to outlaw the desecration of the Holy Qur’an as well as to address systemic marginalization of Muslims.
“Respect for all faiths and their revered figures is essential for global peace and harmony,” he said. “It is imperative that international forums recognize the profound hurt caused by such acts and work collectively to prevent them.”
Sharif urged the international community, human rights organizations, and global leaders to raise awareness against Islamophobia as well as to prevent incidents of desecration of the Holy Qur’an, attacks against mosques, and other acts of religious intolerance against Muslims.
“In line with the decision of the United Nations General Assembly, we also look forward to the early appointment of a UN Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia as an important milestone toward addressing this challenge,” he said.
“Let this day serve as a catalyst for global unity and solidarity not only in speaking out and acting against the rising tide of Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hatred but also in promoting dialogue, harmony, and mutual understanding across religions, faiths, cultures, and civilizations.”
The prime minister said it was important to take these measures to overcome divisions and build mutual respect across diverse communities and his country remains steadfast in its commitment to spreading Islam’s true message — one of love, peace, and tolerance.

Topics: Islamophobia Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif

Trump administration weighs travel restrictions on Pakistan, several other countries, memo says

Trump administration weighs travel restrictions on Pakistan, several other countries, memo says
Updated 15 March 2025
Reuters
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Trump administration weighs travel restrictions on Pakistan, several other countries, memo says

Trump administration weighs travel restrictions on Pakistan, several other countries, memo says
  • A total of 26 countries including Belarus, Pakistan and Turkmenistan would be considered for a partial suspension of US visa issuance
  • A US official cautions there could be changes on the list and that it was yet to be approved by the administration of President Trump
Updated 15 March 2025
Reuters

WASHINGTON: The Trump administration is considering issuing sweeping travel restrictions for the citizens of dozens of countries as part of a new ban, according to sources familiar with the matter and an internal memo seen by Reuters.
The memo lists a total of 41 countries divided into three separate groups. The first group of 10 countries, including Afghanistan, Iran, Syria, Cuba and North Korea among others, would be set for a full visa suspension.
In the second group, five countries — Eritrea, Haiti, Laos, Myanmar and South Sudan — would face partial suspensions that would impact tourist and student visas as well as other immigrant visas, with some exceptions.
In the third group, a total of 26 countries that includes Belarus, Pakistan and Turkmenistan among others would be considered for a partial suspension of US visa issuance if their governments “do not make efforts to address deficiencies within 60 days,” the memo said.
A US official speaking on the condition of anonymity cautioned there could be changes on the list and that it was yet to be approved by the administration, including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The New York Times first reported on the list of countries.
The move harkens back to President Donald Trump’s first term ban on travelers from seven majority-Muslim nations, a policy that went through several iterations before it was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018.
Trump issued an executive order on January 20 requiring intensified security vetting of any foreigners seeking admission to the US to detect national security threats.
That order directed several cabinet members to submit by March 21 a list of countries from which travel should be partly or fully suspended because their “vetting and screening information is so deficient.”
Trump’s directive is part of an immigration crackdown that he launched at the start of his second term.
He previewed his plan in an October 2023 speech, pledging to restrict people from the Gaza Strip, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Yemen and “anywhere else that threatens our security.”
The State Department did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters.

Topics: US travel ban Pakistan US Ties US President Donald Trump

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