Russia’s Putin is a ‘great’ leader, says US’ Witkoff

WASHINGTON: White House envoy Steve Witkoff has showered Russian President Vladimir Putin with praise and said the leader had told the US official that he had prayed for his “friend” US President Donald Trump when he was shot while campaigning in Philadelphia last year for the presidential election.  The envoy met with Putin over multiple hours last week in Moscow and told US media the talks — which involved discussions about forging a path towards ending Russia’s war in Ukraine — were constructive and “solution-based.” In an interview with right-wing podcast…

May 9 apology could pave way for Imran Khan’s release: PM’s aide

Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah has hinted on the possibility of release of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan from jail if the latter apologised for the May 9, 2023 riots which saw military installations being targeted by angry mob following his arrest in a corruption case. Speaking on Geo News‘ programme “Jirga” — scheduled to be aired tonight — Sanaullah said Khan had pushed the country into a political deadlock, believing he could bring about a revolution through his actions. “But no, there are no chances of a…

The International Day of Nowruz

By: ABID SIDDIQUE CHAUDHRY Nowruz or in Persian language نوروز is the Persian New Year celebrated in the ancient Persian civilization basin in various countries worldwide, a part of which is Iran. Nowruz has been celebrated by diverse communities for over 3,000 years in Western Asia, Central Asia, the Caucasus, the Black Sea Basin, the Balkans, and South Asia. It is a festival based on the Persian Solar Hijri calendar, on the spring equinox around 20th or 21th March on the Gregorian calendar. Nowruz marks the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere i.e. the moment at which the Sun crosses the celestial equator. In Iran, it is the…

On World Water Day: Water Scarcity and Pakistan’s Future

Here’s the English version of the article: By:ABID SIDDIQUE CHAUDHRY Water is a fundamental necessity of life, yet water scarcity is becoming an increasing global issue. Every year on March 22, World Water Day is observed to highlight the importance of water conservation. Unfortunately, many countries, including Pakistan, are facing severe water shortages, which may lead to serious challenges in the future. Potential Problems Due to Water Scarcity If water shortages are not addressed in time, the world could face severe consequences: Water Situation in Pakistan Pakistan is an agricultural…

Gohar, Asif share rare light moment in Parliament corridor

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and Defence Minister Khawaja Asif were seen sharing smiles and laughter during a brief encounter in a Parliament corridor. Their warm handshake and light-hearted exchange caught the attention of reporters, prompting one journalist to ask: “Why isn’t there unity for the sake of the country as well?” In response, both leaders dismissed the suggestion that even hallway greetings should be off-limits. “Are you suggesting we shouldn’t even meet in the corridor?” Barrister Gohar quipped, while reiterating his party’s position: “We have already…

Trump’s ‘tough’ letter to Iran sets two-month nuclear deal deadline: Axios

President Donald Trump has reportedly sent a letter to Iran’s Supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, setting a two-month deadline for a new nuclear deal, Axios reported.  According to the report, the timeline’s start date is unclear, but if Iran refuses to negotiate, military action from the US or Israel could become more likely. The letter outlines Trump’s intention to negotiate but also warns of consequences if Iran continues advancing its nuclear program.  Trump is said to have insisted on a fixed two-month timeline for an agreement. Delivered last week by UAE diplomat Anwar…

CDA Takes Bold Steps Towards a Green, clean and Healthier Islamabad.

Islamabad, March 19, 2025: Muhammad Ali Randhawa, Chairman CDA, Chief Commissioner Islamabad chaired a high level meeting in which all Board Members and senior officers of CDA and experts participated. During the meeting, Chairman CDA directed that all steps and means yes should be taken in coordination with all stakeholders to enhance the Federal Capital Islamabad’s environmental sustainability, this CDA has initiated not only removal of paper mulberry trees with replacing them environment friendly spring trees with a special focus on expanding the city’s green cover and combating environmental challenges.…

Govt hints at ‘hot pursuit’ against terrorists in Afghanistan

In the light of recent surge in terrorist attacks in Pakistan, the government has hinted at going after terrorists present in Afghanistan to protect the country’s national security concerns.  He said that in some instances, Afghan authorities were even providing shelter to TTP elements. An in-camera meeting of the Parliamentary Committee on National Security — consisting of the top civil-military brass — resolved to deal with the terrorist groups with an “iron hand”. The committee also emphasised strategic and unified political commitment to counter the terror threat with the full…