First 100 days: Afridi vows to protect country against terror

Cricketer-turned-politician was named premier on Friday


News Desk August 18, 2018
Imran Khan takes oath. PHOTO: President House

With the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) emerging victorious in the 2018 general elections, people's expectations from the government are high.

Promising to bring about a "Naya Pakistan", Prime Minister Imran Khan has a formidable task ahead of him. The Express Tribune will be tracking the PTI-led government's first 100 days in office on this account.

In May, the PTI presented a post-poll 100-day plan wherein it pledged to transform governance standards, strengthen the federation, revitalise the economy, revolutionise social services, ensure national security and overhaul the agricultural sector among other goals.

day 99

 

day 98

EAC approves social protection network

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday approved a social protection framework for vulnerable segments of society, ensuring that they were protected against certain issues affecting them.

Afridi vows to protect country against terror

Minister of State for Interior Shehryar Khan Afridi has vowed not to let enemies destabilise the country through terror attacks, saying ÔÇ£we will foil all such nefarious designsÔÇØ.

day 97

Tents set up in Lahore for homeless on PM Imran's direction

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Saturday directed the government of Punjab to set up tents for the homeless and provide them with meals as temperatures drop across the country. He then shared pictures of such tents being set up to accommodate the homeless community in Lahore.



day 96

PM condemns Chinese consulate attack

Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned the terror attack on the Chinese Consulate General in Karachi and said the ÔÇ£incident is part of a conspiracy against Pakistan and China economic and strategic cooperationÔÇØ.



day 95

Pakistan hails India's decision to open Kartarpur corridor

Pakistan and India have decided to open the Kartarpur border corridor to facilitate Sikh pilgrims visiting one of their holiest sites on the banks of River Ravi in a move that analysts say might thaw the frosty relationship between the two neighbours.

94

Pakistan intends to replicate Malaysian economic model: PM Imran

Prime Minister Imran Khan, on a two-day official visit to Malaysia, said Pakistan intended to learn from MalaysiaÔÇÖs economic development and progress through the years.

The premier also invited Malaysian counterpart Mahathir Mohammad to attend Pakistan Day celebration in 2019. The two countries agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in trade, privatisation, foreign direct investment, food and tourism.



day 93

PM Imran in Malaysia

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday arrived in Malaysia on a two-day official visit.

He was welcomed by Deputy Foreign Minister Marzuki bin Yahya and senior minister Dr Muhammad bin Rafique at the Kuala Lumpur airport.



Pakistan helped track down bin Laden, says FO

For the first time, Pakistan on Tuesday publicly acknowledged its role in hunting down al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden, debunking the oft repeated assertions that the country had provided shelter to the worldÔÇÖs most wanted man.

According to an official handout ÔÇô issued after the acting US ambassador to Islamabad was summoned to the foreign office to protest against US President Donald TrumpÔÇÖs recent statement ÔÇô it was PakistanÔÇÖs intelligence cooperation that provided the ÔÇÿinitial evidenceÔÇÖ to trace the whereabouts of bin Laden.

day 92

FM says Pakistani cannot be held responsible for US failures

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Tuesday made it clear that Pakistan cannot be held responsible for US failures in Afghanistan as Islamabad has been striving for a positive role in the Afghan reconciliation process, Radio Pakistan reported.

Qureshi stated that the US would have faced more losses in Afghanistan, had Pakistan not provided its support and, in the process, incurred huge losses.



day 91

PM Imran, Trump engaged in war of words

US President Donald Trump sparked off a Twitter spat with PM Imran when he reiterated the allegations he had leveled in a Fox News interview a day earlier.

The prime minister took to Twitter to ÔÇ£put the records straightÔÇØ. He said the United States should do serious soul-searching to get to the reasons for its failures in Afghanistan despite the presence of tens of thousands of Nato and Afghan troops in the war-ravaged country.

ÔÇ£Instead of making Pakistan a scapegoat for their failures, the US should do a serious assessment of why, despite 140,000 Nato troops plus 250,000 Afghan troops and reportedly $1 trillion spent on war in Afghanistan, the Taliban today are stronger than before,ÔÇØ he wrote on the microblogging site.



day 90

PM Imran in Dubai

Pakistan and the UAE resolved to strengthen bilateral trade and economic ties, besides fostering cooperation to deal with transnational organised crime, including money laundering, drug and human trafficking.

The bilateral ties were discussed in the meetings between the UAE leadership and Prime Minister Imran Khan, who paid a day-long visit to the Emirates.

imran uae

Information minister berates opposition for non-serious attitude

Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Fawad Chaudhry on Sunday came down hard on the opposition for showing a non-serious attitude towards accountability.

ÔÇ£They [the opposition] claim that democracy is in danger when we stress accountability into corruption of billions of rupees,ÔÇØ the minister said while addressing a workersÔÇÖ convention at Fatehpur (Jhelum).

89

PM to visit Malaysia

Prime Minister Imran Khan will travel to Malaysia on November 20. He will be the first foreign leader to visit the country since Mahatir Mohamad  assumed office in May.

Finance minister meets UK investors

Finance Minister Asad Umar reaffirmed the government's resolve to facilitate foreign investment while speaking to a delegation of the Pak-Britan and Pak-Scotland business councils in Islamabad. The delegation's briefing included plans for financing projects in the country including a network of hospitals.

88

'One who does not take u-turns is not a leader'

Prime Minister Imran Khan told senior journalists that one who does not take ÔÇ£u-turnsÔÇØ is not a leader and Hitler and Napoleon suffered heavy losses because they did not take said ÔÇ£u-turnsÔÇØ.

NA speaker meets Saudi ambassador

Ambassador of Saudi Arabia Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malkiy called on Speaker National Assembly Asad Qaiser in Islamabad. Qaiser said the bilateral relations between both countries will be further strengthened by activating the Pak-Saudi Friendship Group.



SC seeks PM aide's hiring record

The Supreme Court on Friday directed the federal government to submit the credentials of Zulfikar Bukhari, special assistant to the prime minister, as well as complete record of his appointment. The chief justice said the court intended to see whether such appointments had been made on the basis of friendships or in accordance with the law.

day 87

PM chairs federal cabinet meeting

The federal cabinet discussed the countryÔÇÖs political and economic situation during its weekly meeting.

Chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan at the PM Office the meeting had a 12-point agenda.

PM orders inquiry into SP Dawar's murder

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday ordered an inquiry into the abduction and killing of Police Superintendent Tahir Khan Dawar.

In a tweet, the premier tasked State Minister for Interior Shehryar Afridi to oversee the inquiry and ordered the K-P government to coordinate with Islamabad police in the inquiry.



Information minister barred from attending Parliament session

Finding Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Fawad Chaudhry guilty of inciting uproar in the ParliamentÔÇÖs joint session, Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani barred the Pakistan PTI leader from entering ThursdayÔÇÖs session.

FO rubbishes Modi's terror accusation

The Foreign Office has strongly dismissed a recent statement of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi accusing Pakistan of sponsoring terrorism, calling it an attempt to divert worldÔÇÖs attention from the gross human rights violations in Indian-occupied Kashmir.

day 86

'Austerity at PM House saved Rs147m'

Adviser to Prime Minister on Media Affairs Iftikhar Durrani has said that the government has introduced a comprehensive austerity drive in all departments and the Rs147 million so far saved from the Prime Minister House is expected to increase at the end of the year.

FM rules out possibility of peace talks before India elections

Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs Shah Mehmood Qureshi has ruled any progress on the issue of peace talks with India before upcoming general elections in the neighbouring country.

Qureshi was speaking to media after attending a meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs in Islamabad.

day 85

PM promises visible change in few months

PM Imran Khan said the PTI government came to power at a difficult juncture but expressed his confident that the masses would witness a visible change in all sectors within a few months.

The PM, while talking to a delegation of parliamentarians from Karachi led by Sindh Governor Imran Ismail, said he was certain that the government would take all steps to solve people's problems.

FM meets Aafia Siddiqui's sister

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi met with Dr Fauzia Siddiqui, sister of Dr Aafia Siddiqui in Islamabad on Tuesday, Radio Pakistan reported.

During the meeting, FM Qureshi informed Dr Fauzia about the governmentÔÇÖs ongoing efforts┬áfor Dr AafiaÔÇÖs case.



day 84

Govt approves Rs17b bailout package to keep PIA afloat

The government approved a Rs17-billion bailout package for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to keep the national flag carrier in the skies for the next two months amid a phenomenal increase in its losses that shot up to Rs360 billion.

It is the first bailout package approved by the government of PM Imran Khan.

Land mafia will not be tolerated, says PM

Land mafia in the federal capital was issued a final warning on Monday to clear out with a line drawn by the highest seat of executive power.

ÔÇ£I will not tolerate land mafia in the federal capital at all,ÔÇØ declared the PM as he chaired a high-level meeting regarding issues in the federal capital.

83

'Conspiracies can do us no harm'

Prime Minister Imran Khan has said the governmentÔÇÖs agenda is to steer the country out of the current crisis and make it stand on its feet.

ÔÇ£Conspiracies can do us no harm nor do we care about them,ÔÇØ said the prime minister during a meeting with Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Mahmood Khan at Bani Gala.

Information minister urges clerics to help fight 'war of ideology'

Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Fawad Chaudhry has asked religious leaders and members of society to play their role in order to avoid the ÔÇÿwar of ideologiesÔÇÖ.

82

PM lays foundation for homeless shelter in Lahore

PM Imran Khan laid the foundation for the first of five shelters for the homeless in Lahore and one in Rawalpindi. In a tweet, he said the government is "committed to building a social net for our poor citizens so everyone has a shelter over their head."



day 81

PM seeks performance report from ministers

Prime Minister Imran Khan sought a report on the performance of his federal ministries during the first 100 days of the PTI government. He also sought a report on austerity measures.

Pakistan delegation in China to discuss trade opportunities

A delegation arrived in China on Friday to discuss trade opportunities and avenues for enhancing bilateral cooperation between the two countries, Express News reported.

The meetings with Chinese┬ácounterparts┬áwill┬ábe led by governor State Bank of Pakistan and the finance secretary. Officials from the two countries will also discuss the economic package and currency swap agreement signed between Pakistan and China during Prime Minister Imran KhanÔÇÖs recent visit.

day 80

Govt to bring reforms in foreign ministry

The federal government has decided to prepare a comprehensive summary based on the recommendations sought from officers to bring reforms in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Prisoner swap treaty with England approved

The federal cabinet approved the treaty on swapping prisoners with England, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Fawad Chaudhry said.

The minister, while briefing the media about the cabinet decisions, also said the prime ministerÔÇÖs China visit was highly successful as several agreements and memorandums of understanding were signed between the two countries.

79

Yemen ambassador calls on PM

Ambassador of Yemen Mohammed Motahar Alashabi called on PM Imran Khan at his office.

China 'willing to assist Pakistan for social uplift'

A┬áChinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson has termed Prime Minister Imran┬áKhanÔÇÖs visit to China as successful, saying that both countries agreed to work together to implement all agreements signed during the visit and further elevate the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership.

day 78

Trump's aide in Pakistan for 'ties reset'

Islamabad and Washington agreed to continue efforts to promote ÔÇÿshared objectives of peace and stabilityÔÇÖ in the region and ÔÇÿdiversifyÔÇÖ bilateral relationship.

The understanding was reached during a day-long visit of Ambassador Alice Wells, the principal deputy assistant secretary of state for the US Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs. She called on the Finance Minister Asad Umar and also held delegation level talks at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

PM calls security committee meeting

Prime Minister Imran Khan chaired a meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC) to discuss national and regional security, Express News reported.

PM Imran further briefed the committee on his recent visit to China and his interaction with Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev.

PM, COAS discuss security situation

Army chief Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa called on Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday, Express News reported.

The premier shared the details about his recent China visit with the chief of army staff. They also discussed the current security situation after the three-day countrywide protest sit-ins led by the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP).

Imran COAS

The COAS also called on President Dr Arif Alvi at Aiwan-e-Sadr.



77

PM Imran meets Russian counterpart

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday met his Russian counterpart Dmitri Medvedev on the sidelines of the China International Imports Expo.

The meeting was also attended by Finance Minister Asad Umer and Advisor to the PM on Commerce Abdul Razzak Dawood.



day 76

Inciteful speeches amount to rebellion, warns information minister

Minister for Information and Broadcasting Fawad Chaudhry on Sunday said the government would neither turn a blind eye to nor forget inciteful speeches made by religio-political leaders during the countrywide protest sit-ins against the acquittal of Aasia Bibi.

ÔÇ£No one should think the government will condone such behaviour,ÔÇØ the minister said while addressing a news conference in Karachi.

day 75

China says more talks needed on economic aid for Pakistan

China will provide Pakistan with economic aid but more talks will take place to fix the details, a senior Chinese diplomat said, after Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan met Chinese Premier Li Keqiang.

Pakistan safe from terror threat: President Alvi

Paying tribute to the armed forces and martyrs who helped the country attain peace, President Dr Arif Alvi has said Pakistan has been saved from terrorism, which has deeply hurt other Muslim countries like Libya, Syria, Afghanistan and Yemen.

Minister of state for revenue reiterates Pakistan's resolve to achieve objectives

Minister of State for Revenue Muhammad Hammad Azhar has reiterated PakistanÔÇÖs strong commitment and continued support for achieving the objectives of the Developing Eight (D-8) Organisation for Economic Cooperation.

The minister is heading PakistanÔÇÖs delegation to the 18th Session of the D-8 Council of Foreign Ministers being held at Antalya, Turkey.

day 74

TLP sit-in called off after agreement with govt

Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) called of its countrywide protest sit-ins late Friday night following reaching of an agreement with the federal and Punjab governments.

PM Imran meets Chinese President Xi

Prime Minister Imran Khan told Chinese President Xi Jinping of PakistanÔÇÖs ÔÇ£very difficultÔÇØ economic situation, on a trip seen as vital to IslamabadÔÇÖs efforts to obtain fresh loans.

Xi told Imran that he highly valued the two countryÔÇÖs relations, reaffirming they were ÔÇ£all-weatherÔÇØ friends.



PM condemns assassination of Maulana Samiul Haq's

Maulana Samiul Haq was assassinated in a knife attack at his residence in Rawalpindi. Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is currently in China on an official visit, has ordered an inquiry into the incident, saying that those responsible would be brought to justice.



73

Govt reaches out to opposition, seeks cooperation

The government reached out to the opposition as protesters blocked roads in the countryÔÇÖs major cities for a second day opposing a Supreme Court verdict to acquit a Christian woman on death row for blasphemy allegations.

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry has said the government, the opposition and┬áall the ÔÇÿstate institutionsÔÇÖ are on the same page regarding the strategy to deal with protesters.

PM in China

The prime minister flew to China in an official visit, aimed at reviewing the entire range of bilateral relations and to participate in the First China International Import Expo in Shanghai.

The premier is accompanied by Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Finance Minister Asad Umar, Railways Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, Minister for Planning Makhdoom Khusro Bukhtiar, Advisor to Prime Minister on Commerce, Industry and Investment Abdul Razzak Dawood and Chief Minister of Balochistan Jam Kamal.

day 72

PM warns against challenging writ of state

Prime Minister Imran Khan said that the Supreme Court judgement in the Aasia Bibi case was in accordance with the Constitution.

ÔÇ£Do not harm our country otherwise the state will fulfil its responsibility and take all possible steps to protect the lives and properties of the people,ÔÇØ he stated firmly.

day 71

Iran FM in Pakistan

Iranian Foreign Minister Jawad Zarif arrived in Pakistan after 14 Iranian security personnel, including Revolutionary Guards intelligence officers, were abducted on the volatile south-eastern border with Pakistan earlier this month.

'PM Imran orders Punjab ministers to get the ball rolling'

Prime Minister Imran Khan has issued directives to all ministers of Punjab to leave no stone unturned in providing relief to the masses, saying he himself will review their performance.

ÔÇ£For the helpless and the destitute, five shelter homes will be established around bus stands and railway stations on state land in Lahore,ÔÇØ announced the prime minister while reviewing the governmentÔÇÖs 100-day plan at the Punjab Chief Minister Secretariat.

day 70

PM Imran approves promotions to grade-22

The Central Selection Board meeting chaired by Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday approved promotion of a number of civil servants from grade-21 to grade-22.

Will not let Shehbaz become PAC chairman, says Imran

Prime Minister Imran Khan vowed not to let Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) President Shehbaz Sharif become the chairman of  the Public Account Committee (PAC) at any cost.

ÔÇ£We will not be blackmailed by the opposition,ÔÇØ the┬ápremier said while addressing a meeting of Pakistan Tehreek-e-InsafÔÇÖs (PTI) parliamentary board,┬áExpress News┬áreported.

day 69

Govt needs support for South Punjab: FM

Foreign Minister┬áShah Mehmood Qureshi has said creation of South Punjab as a separate province is a necessity which can no longer be ignored as it was a part of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-InsafÔÇÖs manifesto.

day 68

'Will not negotiate with Israel secretly'

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry on Saturday said the country would not negotiate in secret with either Israel or India after sections of the media reported the alleged arrival of an ÔÇÿIsraeliÔÇÖ business jet at Islamabad International Airport.

Govt proscribes INGO for 'dubious activities'

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-led government has imposed a ban on Al-Rahmah Welfare Trust Organisation, an international non-government organisation (INGO), due to its alleged involvement in dubious activities in Pakistan.

PM restricts cabinet members to three foreign trips a year

In pursuance of his governmentÔÇÖs policy of adopting austerity measures, Prime Minister Imran Khan has put a restriction of three foreign trips per year to all members of the federal cabinet san foreign and trade ministers.

The cabinet members will also not be allowed to take their personal staff along in the tours. However, they will be able to use services of the staff stationed at all international missions of Pakistan.

67

Pakistan seeks $6b from UAE

Pakistan has sought $6 billion financial assistance package from the United Arab Emirates in the shape of cash deposits and oil on deferred payments in an attempt to meet all its financing needs for the current fiscal year with the help of friendly countries.

66

'Kashmir key plank of Pakistan's foreign policy'

Minister for Foreign Affairs Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said that Pakistan wanted good neighbourly ties with India but bilateral relations will naturally remain strained until Kashmir dispute is taken to its logical end.

PM urges roadmap for national water policy

Prime Minister Imran Khan emphasised an integrated approach for conservation, storage, management and efficient utilisation of available water resources.

The premier expressed these views while chairing first meeting of the National Water Council (NWC) at the PM Office.

65

PM addresses nation

Prime Minister┬áImran┬áKhan, in his televised address to the nation, reiterated his governmentÔÇÖs policy of zero tolerance against corruption and corrupt practices, promising that all crooked elements, who had done injustice to the country with their misdeeds and sent it into the debt trap, should not expect any legislation like the defunct National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO).

PTI leader faces backlash for misogynistic comments

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leader┬áFaisal Vawda was criticised on social media after ridiculing a fellow politician ÔÇô PML-NÔÇÖs┬áAzma Bokhari ÔÇô on a television show.

In a recent appearance on Javed ChaudhryÔÇÖs┬áKal Tak, VawdaÔÇÖs misogynistic comments about Bokhari went viral on social media.

During a heated argument on the show, Vawda asked Bokahri, ÔÇ£Jayen, jayen. Apnay ghar ka choohla jalayen. (Go, go! Tend to your┬ákitchen.)ÔÇØ

SC admits petition challenging Zulfi Bukhari's appointment

The Supreme Court set aside the objections raised by the registrarÔÇÖ office┬áand admitted a petition┬áchallenging the appointment of Zulfiqar Abbas Bukhari, popularly known as Zulfi Bukhari, as special assistant to the prime minister.

Mirza Moiz Baig and Adil Chattha, two recent university graduates filed a constitutional petition challenging the appointment.

Mazari favours inviting UN rights commission to AJK

Minister of Human Rights Shireen Mazari expressed intent to invite the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights for a visit to AJK to highlight conditions prevalent in Indian-occupied Kashmir (IoK).

day 64

Govt secures $6b lifeline from Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia on Tuesday provided a $6 billion lifeline to Pakistan on an annual basis in the shape of cash assistance and oil on deferred payments for one year, providing a much-needed breathing space to the government of Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The Foreign Office announced the details of the deal after the end of two-day visit of the prime minister to Saudi Arabia.

PM Imran speaks at Riyadh conference

Prime Minister Imran Khan spoke at the first day of the Davos in the Desert conference on the special invitation of Saudi King Salman bin Abdul Aziz in Riyadh.

The premier talked about seeking loans to remedy PakistanÔÇÖs economic┬ácrisis and how┬áthe government had been┬ástriving to foster an environment conducive to investment.

Prime Minister Imran Khan in a discussion with a presenter during the opening ceremony of the Future Investment Initiative FII conference on October 23, 2018 . PHOTO:AFP Prime Minister Imran Khan in a discussion with a presenter during the opening ceremony of the Future Investment Initiative FII conference on October 23, 2018 . PHOTO:AFP

63

PM in Saudi to attend investment conference

Prime Minister Imran Khan has arrived in Saudi Arabia to attend a key investment conference being held in Riyadh from October 23 to 25.

PM ImranÔÇÖs visit comes as Pakistan continues to court ÔÇ£friendlyÔÇØ nations in search of billions of dollars to shore up its deteriorating finances as it faces a balance of payment crisis and upcoming talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) over a potential bailout.

PM directs ministry to reduce electricity tariff

Prime Minister has directed the ministry of power to take urgent measures to reduce electricity tariff and burden on consumers caused by power theft and line losses.

62

Zulfi Bukhari stresses investments in real estate sector

Special Assistant to Prime Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Zulfiqar Bukhari aka Zulfi has said one of the reasons for the development of foreign countries was the thriving investment in the real estate sector.

Addressing a ceremony in Islamabad the minister said, it was inevitable to invest in the housing sector.

Three ministers face graft probe

Three members of Prime Minister Imran KhanÔÇÖs cabinet are facing graft charges and may be shown the door if the allegations proved true,┬áThe Express Tribune┬áhas learnt.

The prime minister has ordered an inquiry into the corruption allegations levelled against his three aides, sources said, without naming the trio.

61

Human Rights Minister takes note of tortured child maid

Minister for Human Rights Dr Shireen Mazari took prompt notice of a video gone viral over social media depicting a woman physically assaulting a girl maid.



PM Khan condoles victims of Indian train accident

IndiaÔÇÖs northern state of PunjabÔÇÖs chief minister said 59 people were killed and 57 injured in a railway accident on Friday in which a train ran over scores of┬ápeople gathered on the railway tracks for a festival in the city of Amritsar.

PM Imran Khan sent his condolences to the families of those deceased



day 60

Imran to visit Saudi Arabia in hopes of aid

Prime Minister Imran Khan would visit Saudi Arabia ÔÇö his second in less than five weeks ÔÇö to seek financial aid, with the aim to avoid the International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout programme, or at least negotiate with the fund┬áfrom a position of ÔÇÿstrengthÔÇÖ.

ÔÇ£The prime minister will visit the Gulf country from October 22 to 23,ÔÇØ said sources in the PMÔÇÖs Office.

'Pakistan cautions against US pullout from Afghanistan'

Pakistan cautioned against the US forcesÔÇÖ withdrawal from Afghanistan without first achieving the complete peace and security in the┬áwar-torn country.

ÔÇ£Pakistan has been reiterating that the US forces should stay in Afghanistan till the achievement of complete peace and stability,ÔÇØ Foreign office spokesperson Dr Muhammad Faisal said at the weekly briefing.

'Pakistan will respond to any act of aggression'

President Arif Alvi said that the country faced both internal and external challenges but stressed that the country remained fully prepared and was capable of responding to any acts of aggression.

Reiterating on┬áPakistanÔÇÖs policy of maintaining friendly relations with its neighbours, the president said the country┬ádesires warm foreign relations based on mutual respect with the international community.

day 59

Supplementary budgets back in cabinet's hand

The government has linked authorisation of supplementary budgets with prior approval of the federal cabinet, tightening the slack fiscal controls that were exploited in the past by both bureaucrats and politicians for whimsical spending of the taxpayersÔÇÖ money.

Finance Minister Asad UmarÔÇÖs decision to return his discretionary powers to the federal cabinet to grant money during course of the fiscal year would ensure implementation of a historic judgment of Supreme Court in letter and spirit.┬áIn its last year in power, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government had sanctioned Rs860 billion worth supplementary grants.

'Accountability threatens looters not democracy'

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry denied opposition claims of a nexus between the ruling party and the countryÔÇÖs anti-graft watchdog and said┬ádemocracy was not under threat by accountability but looters are.

ÔÇ£People because of whom Pakistan is suffering will be held accountable.ÔÇØ

128 more fake bank accounts traced, says PM Imran

Prime Minister Imran Khan has revealed that authorities have found 128 more bank accounts through which billion of rupees were laundered outside the country.

ÔÇ£The opposition is raising a hue and cry over ÔÇÿthreats to democracyÔÇÖ as it is afraid of going to jails. Even enemies do not treat you the way previous governments treated the country,ÔÇØ Imran Khan said.

day 58

PM Imran to pay fine if Bani Gala not regularised: SC

Chief Justice Saqib Nisar said Prime Minister Imran KhanÔÇÖs Bani Gala┬áresidence will be the first property to be regularised during the hearing of a case related to illegal construction in the suburbs of the federal capital.

President Alvi advocates strong naval defence

President Arif Alvi on Tuesday called for a strong seaward defense while speaking as a guest of honour at the commissioning ceremony of Pakistan Navy ship in Karachi.

Alvi pointed out that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor Project (SPEC) will increase activity along the coast and this will call for an enhanced deployment of naval assets┬áand affirmed the governmentÔÇÖs commitment to developing the maritime sector.

day 57

ECC likely to approve an increase in tariff

The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the cabinet, scheduled to meet on Tuesday, is likely to approve an increase of up to 26% in power tariff for different categories of consumers.

day56Reports PM unhappy over Asad Umar's performance refuted

Hours after a section of media reported that Prime Minister Imran Khan has expressed serious reservations over Finance Minister Asad UmarÔÇÖs performance, Special Assistant to PM on Media Iftikhar Durrani dismissed the news calling it ÔÇÿfabricatedÔÇÖ and ÔÇÿbaselessÔÇÖ.

According to the reports, Prime Minter Imran had criticised Finance Minister UmarÔÇÖs approach to seek a bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) during an informal meeting with senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders.

Durrani said neither such a meeting chaired by the premier took place nor had he expressed such views regarding performance of the finance minister.

PM Imran Khan launches Clean Green Pakistan campaign

The premier launched Clean Green Pakistan campaign by planting  a sapling at a girls college in Islamabad. He also took part in the cleanliness drive.





President, CM K-P promote Clean Green Pakistan





day55

PM Imran announces measures to facilitate overseas Pakistanis

The government abolished the mandatory requirement for overseas Pakistanis to obtain National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP), one of the sources of revenue for the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). It also reduced biometric verification charges for the labourers going abroad.



PM reiterates applying LG system in ex-Fata

In a meeting with Senators belonging to ex-Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata), PM Imran reiterated government's resolve to complete the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa-Fata merger. He asserted on implementation of local government system in the tribal districts.



PM Imran met students from various districts of Balochistan



day54

Review of ECL ordered

PTI-led government directs Interior Ministry to review the Exit Control List (ECL) and remove the names of innocent people.

Govt seeks parliamentary probe into financial woes
The government has decided to seek the formation of a parliamentary committee to probe the financial decisions taken during the last 10 years that resulted in the worst financial crises currently faced by the country. The decision came in a federal cabinet meeting chaired by PM Imran.

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PM Imran, Sarwar discuss matters pertaining to petroleum ministry

Minister for Petroleum Ghulam Sarwar Khan called on Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad.

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day53

PM housing scheme launch

PM Imran inaugurated Naya Pakistan Housing Project at a ceremony in Islamabad. Five million affordable houses for under-privileged classes will be built during the next five years.

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Cabinet meeting

PM Imran promises provision of all possible facilities to labourers and overseas Pakistanis.


Finance minister in Bali

The cooperation between Islamabad and World Bank reviews in a meeting between Pakistan's delegation led by Finance Minister Asad and President of World Bank Dr. Jim Yong Kim on the sidelines of the World Bank and IMF Group Annual meetings in Bali.



day52

Azad Kashmir Prime Minister Raja Farooq Haider called on Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad.

1539079125PM Imran assures equal rights for minorities

Prime Minister Imran Khan assured the countryÔÇÖs Christian community that incumbent government would protect ÔÇ£at every costÔÇØ all the rights the Constitution of Pakistan guarantees to them.



Bureaucrats reject PMÔÇÖs proposed civil service reforms body

Provincial bureaucrats refused to cooperate with a task force created by the prime minister on reforming the civil services, stating that unless their issues were addressed, they would reject the committeeÔÇÖs proposed reforms.

An association of PCS officers termed the meeting an ÔÇ£eyewash and a sham,ÔÇØ and announced that they will reject reforms which the task force may suggest to the civil services in Pakistan.



day51
Pakistan knocks at IMF door to avoid default

After weeks of dilly-dallying, PTI-government announced approaching the IMF for a bailout package aimed at avoiding default on international debt obligations and restoring confidence among the investors.



PM Imran chairs high-level meeting

PM Imran chairs high level meeting at the PMO to discuss the premier's upcoming visit to China. The meeting is being attended by Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Finance Minister Asad Umar, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry, Railways Minister Sheikh Rasheed and others.

President Arif Alvi confers Nishan-i-Imtiaz upon Italian army chief

President Arif Alvi conferred the Nishan-i-Imtiaz (Military) upon Chief of Staff of the Italian Air Force Lieutenant General Enzo Vecciarelli during an Investiture Ceremony at the Aiwan-e-Sadr, Islamabad on Monday. Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan, Senior Military and Civil Officers were also present on the occasion.
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"Clean and Green Pakistan"

Prime Minister Imran Khan inaugurated a countrywide cleanliness drive titled "Clean and Green Pakistan" in Islamabad.



day50

Imran vows to go after the corrupt

In his day-long trip to Lahore, Prime Minister Imran Khan warned of tough time ahead. He said the entire nation has to bear the brunt of inflation because of corruption and wrong policies of successive governments in the past.



ÔÇ£Bringing back the billions of rupees of public money that have been stolen over the last few decades and laundered out of the country is the only way to stabilise the national economy and to stop relying on foreign loans,ÔÇØ said Imran while addressing his maiden news conference after assuming office of the prime minister.
Govt shows door to 18 INGOs over failure to comply with rules

18 International non-governmental Organisations (INGOs) were notified on Sunday by the government to wrap up their operations over failing to comply with prescribed rules in the country.

day49

PM Office gets ÔÇÿfavoured officerÔÇÖ appointed in FBR

In what appears to be a sign of realpolitik in the PTI government, the PM Office manoeuvred appointment of its favourite officer as chief of international taxes by pressurising the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) chairman.

The PM Office pressurised FBR chief Jehanzeb Khan to withdraw the posting order of Aftab Alam, a grade-20 officer, as chief international taxes within hours of its issuance and forced the FBR chairman to appoint Mohammad Ashfaq Ahmad as new chief of international taxes, sources told The Express Tribune.
PM Imran vows greater CPEC share for Balochistan

On his first official trip to Balochistan after assuming office, PM Imran Khan vowed to give Balochistan more than its due share in the multi-billion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects.

He said said the CPEC projects are being reviewed to safeguard rights of people of all provinces.

Accompanying his on the trip was Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa.



Pakpattan incident inquiry report

Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar rejected an inquiry report of the Pakpattan incident. He said the report treated "presumptions as facts" and merely "rubberstamps the DPO's statement.

day48

PM's NA-95 victory challenged

An election tribunal issued a notice to the premier on a petition challenging his victory from NA-95 (Mianwali) for allegedly concealing facts and omitting details about his children in nomination papers.

Court issues notice to federal govt, Tareen

LHC issued notices to PTI leader Jahangir Khan Tareen and federal government for allegedly chairing an official meeting of government officials despite being disqualified for life by the apex court.

Govt launches website

The information ministry launches a website to track Prime Minister's 100 days agenda.



Shehbaz Sharif arrest

The government distanced itself from the dramatic arrest of Leader of the Opposition Shehbaz Sharif by National Accountability Bureau. Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said the PTI-govt was impartial and had nothing to do with the arrest of the former Punjab chief minister.

day 47IMF only viable option, PM Imran Khan told

In a meeting on International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme, PM Imran was told that an International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout package remains the only viable option for Pakistan to arrest deterioration in macroeconomic situation and restore shattering confidence of markets.

Federal cabinet green-lights Saudi investment in Gwadar

The government gave green signal to Saudi Arabia to set up an oil refinery in deep-water port of Gwadar. The decision was made during a federal cabinet meeting chaired by PM Imran.

PM Imran calls for e-governance in govt offices

In a meeting with Ministry of Information Technology, the premier expressed serious concerns over negligible progress in some important government ministries towards employing e-solutions for conducting official business.

The PM said he would soon chair a meeting of Digitisation Transformation Committee which could never take place since its formation. Taking ownership of the e-office initiative, he said the Prime Minister Office would take the lead towards e-office to be followed by all the ministries.

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CJCSC Hayat calls on PM Imran

Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Zubair Mahmood Hayat called on Prime Minister Imran Khan at PM Office.

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day 46
Govt about-face on tax non-filers

The government conceded to opposition's demand to retain ban on purchase of vehicles and property by non-filers of income tax returns except for certain categories.


Ignoring PakistanÔÇÖs sacrifices for Afghan peace unfair: Qureshi

Speaking at the United States Institute of Peace, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said PakistanÔÇÖs efforts for bringing back peace in Afghanistan should not be overlooked and it will be unfair to ignore its sacrifices in the war against terrorism.

He shared Imran Khan-led governmentÔÇÖs strategy for engaging with the United States and stressed that Pakistan was willing to bring Taliban to the dialogue table as peace in Afghanistan is linked with peace in Pakistan.



Religious clerics call on PM Imran at PMO

PM Imran said equating religious seminaries with terrorism and ignoringtheir contribution in progress of society was unjustified. He discussed madrassa reforms and other issues in a meeting with a delegation of clerics. He said improving the education system and curriculum was his governmentÔÇÖs top priority.

PM Imran, Sheikh Rasheed discuss Pakistan Railways

Matters related to Pakistan Railways were discussed in a meeting between Prime Minister Imran Khan and Railways Minister Sheikh Rasheed.

The premier advised the minister to ÔÇ£work 24 hours a dayÔÇØ to drag the ministry out of the vicious circle of loss as it would be a victory for the government. Rasheed said that he wants the strategic entity to be the best in the world.

Chief of Naval Staff calls on PM

Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi also called on PM Imran at the Prime Minister's Office. Professional matters pertaining to the maritime force were discussed during the meeting.

chief of naval staff

day 45

Govt launches Twitter handle to combat 'fake news'

The cyber wing of the federal Ministry of Information and Broadcasting created┬áa new Twitter account to ÔÇÿidentify and expose fake news and documents.ÔÇÖ

Govt slashes investment in CPEC rail

Citing debt concerns, Railways Minister Sheikh Rasheed has announced to bring down the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) investments in Pakistan Railways to $6.2 billion, a move that could halt many projects related to upgrade of the organisation.

Pakistan hints willingness to bridge gap on Shakil Afridi

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi hinted that Islamabad may be willing to discuss the contentious issue of Dr Shakil Afridi which has plagued bilateral relation between the two countries.

ÔÇ£Openings are always there,ÔÇØ said the foreign minister in an interview with┬áFox News.

New PTI secretary general appointed

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Monday elevated veteran party member Arshad Daad to the post of secretary general after Jahangir Khan Tareen earlier resigned from the position.

day 44

PM Imran to appoint ISI chief

Prime Minister Imran will soon appoint a new head of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) after the incumbent chief of the countryÔÇÖs premier spy agency is set to retire this month.

Minister vows drastic steps to save 'insolvent' institutions

Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Fawad Chaudhry said the government would take drastic steps to save ÔÇÿinsolventÔÇÖ state institutions from incurring further losses to the exchequer.

day 43

FM addresses UNGA

Reacting strongly to Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma SwarajÔÇÖs verbal attack on Pakistan, Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi said that the neighbouring country rejected the Pakistani offer of resuming peace talks on ÔÇÿflimsy groundsÔÇÖ.

Addressing the 73rd United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session in New York, Qureshi also blamed India for exporting terrorism to Pakistan and other countries in the region

FM Qureshi meets UN chief

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Friday urged United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to resolve the issue of Kashmir in accordance with resolutions passed by the intergovernmental organisation, reported Express News.

day 42

SC rejects petition challenging Zulfi Bukhari's appointment

The Supreme Court refused to entertain a constitutional petition against the appointment of Syed Zulfiqar Abbas Bukhari (Zulfi Bukhari) as a special assistant to Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The SC registrar objected that the petitioners did not approach the proper forum and the prime minister has been impleaded as a respondent which can not be done under Article 248 of the Constitution.

Qureshi advises US not to lose 'old friends'

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said the United States should not lose time-tested ÔÇÿold friendsÔÇÖ despite changing its priorities and making new strategic partners in South Asia.

Addressing a discussion held by the Asia Society on the occasion of the 73rd session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, the foreign minister said that the US and Pakistan needed each other.

India FM walks out of SAARC meet before Pakistan statement

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi termed India an impediment to┬áSouth Asian Association for Regional CooperationÔÇÖs (SAARC) progress after his Indian counterpart,┬áSushma Swaraj, left a SAARC meeting before hearing PakistanÔÇÖs statement.

Qureshi was speaking to the media after an annual ministerial meeting of SAARC on the sidelines of the 73rd UNGA. The meeting was hosted and chaired by the foreign minister of Nepal and was attended by the foreign ministers of SAARC member state.



Defence minister appointed to probe election 'rigging'

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday appointed Defence Minister Pervez Khattak to head the parliamentary committee tasked with probing alleged rigging during general elections held in July, Express News reported.

COAS calls on PM Imran

Chief of the Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa called on Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday, said a statement released by the ArmyÔÇÖs media wing.

Director General Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Lieutenant General Naveed Mukhtar also accompanied the army chief.

day 41

Army offers assistance on housing plan

Pakistan Army has offered to assist the federal government in implementing its ambitious Prime MinisterÔÇÖs Housing Programme aimed at building five million residential units for lower- and middle-income segments of society.

Govt mulls over strategy to facilitate overseas Pakistanis

After facing immense criticism for lifting the ban on non-filers of tax returns, which had earlier prevented them from buying expensive property and new cars, the government is planning to take special measures in a bid to facilitate non-resident and overseas Pakistanis.

40

PM intervenes to save Dasu dam project

Prime Minister Imran Khan directed the authorities concerned to resolve the lingering issue of land acquisition for the Dasu hydroelectric dam at the earliest.

This intervention was made after the World Bank warned about possible delays and cost escalation in the $4.3 billion project.

Zulfi Bukhari's appointment challenged in SC

The appointment of Syed Zulfiqar Abbas Bukhari as a special assistant to Prime Minister Imran Khan was challenged in the Supreme Court on.

The petition filed under Article 184(3) of the Constitution takes issue with BukhariÔÇÖs dual nationality and┬ástates that he is currently under investigation by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB)

day 39

PM chairs NACTA meeting

Prime Minister Imran Khan chaired his first meeting of the Board of Governors of National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) at Prime MinisterÔÇÖs Office.

National Coordinator of NACTA briefed the attendees about the mandate and the role of the organisation since its establishment as a premier body for policy formulation and implementation of national terrorism and counter violent extremism strategy.

The meeting also reviewed the progress on implementation status of 20-point National Action Plan.

FM meets Trump on UN sidelines

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Tuesday said President Donald Trump intended to rebuild the US relations with Pakistan.

ÔÇ£I met with President Trump at the reception where I had the opportunity to discuss Pakistan-US relations with him. I requested him that we have had cordial relations and need to rebuild them,ÔÇØ he said while speaking to PTV after meeting the US president on the sidelines of the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly.

Qureshi┬áheld various high-level diplomatic engagements as part of his trip to the United Nations to attend the upcoming general assembly session. Qureshi held meetings with the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO), KuwaitÔÇÖs foreign minister and Congressman Joe Wilson.

day 38

Finance minister rebuts Shehbaz's objections

Disregarding the tradition in lower house about budget debate, Finance Minister Asad Umar directly responded to the speech of the Leader of Opposition Shehbaz Sharif, rejecting his various claims about economy, power, dams and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Earlier,┬áleader of the opposition Shehbaz Sharif likened the mini-budged to dropping an ÔÇ£inflation bombÔÇØ, but at the same time offered to chalk out a charter of economy to ÔÇ£break the begging bowlÔÇØ.

Fawad soothes Radio Pak employees

Federal Minister for Information, Broadcasting and Communication convinced disenchanted Radio Pakistan employees who held demonstration outside the headquarters against the decision of government to shift the building to a new location.

PM Imran chairs CCI meeting

Prime Minister Imran Khan chaired his first Council of Common Interests (CCI) meeting at the Prime Minister Office (PMO) in Islamabad.

The meeting was attended by Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination Dr Fehmida Mirza, Finance Minister Asad Umer, Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Mehmood Khan and Balochistan Jam Kamal Khan.

Zulfi Bukhari assumes charge as special assistant to PM

Syed Zulfiqar Abbas Bukhari assumed charge as a special assistant to the prime minister for overseas Pakistanis and human resource development.

Zulfi Bukhari, as he is popularly known, is a close friend and aide of Prime Minister Imran Khan. After assuming charge, the new special assistant will enjoy the status of a state minister as per norm.

Zulfi

FM Qureshi terms Indian attitude disappointing

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi termed IndiaÔÇÖs decision to withdraw from holding dialogue with Pakistan as disappointing and a violation of diplomatic norms, reported┬áExpress News.

ÔÇ£Agreeing to talks and then cancelling them is beyond comprehension, Indian attitude is disappointing and in violation with diplomatic norms.ÔÇØ FM Qureshi stated.

day 37

Pakistan to ink investment deal with Saudi Arabia

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia will determine the quantum and areas of investment in their meeting scheduled to take place in Islamabad in the first week of October, said Federal Minister for Finance Asad Umer.

Talking to┬áArab News,┬áthe┬áminister rejected recent media reports that Riyadh would ÔÇ£invest $10 billion in Pakistan,ÔÇØ clearing the assumption that the volume of investment had already been decided.

PM calls for trade with India

Prime Minister Imran Khan has said that PakistanÔÇÖs quest for better relations with India should not be construed as weakness because the objective behind this pursuit is to bring people of the subcontinent out of poverty by starting trade activity.

ÔÇ£They have some misunderstanding. When we want friendship, it means we desire to end poverty in the subcontinent. Trade will also revive. Someone should not misunderstand it. This should not be construed as weakness,ÔÇØ the prime minister said while addressing the government servants.

day 36

PM Imran disappointed by India's decision to call off talks

Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed disappointment over ÔÇ£arrogant and negativeÔÇØ response by the Indian side to PakistanÔÇÖs call for resumption of peace process. ÔÇ£All my life I have come across small men occupying big offices who do not have the vision to see the larger picture,ÔÇØ he said in a tweet.

https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1043432600046632960

FO regrets India's decision to call of planned meeting

The Foreign Office (FO) also regretted the cancellation of a planned meeting between foreign ministers of India and Pakistan on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

FO Spokesperson Muhammad Faisal said the development was an emblem of how India had once again squandered an opportunity for peace. Faisal said the reasons cited for cancellation were ÔÇ£entirely unconvincingÔÇØ.

FM leaves for UNGA

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi left for New York to attend the annual United Nations General Assembly. He will present IslamabadÔÇÖs stance on various topics including Kashmir and hold meetings with foreign leaders.

35

President, PM eulogise Hazrat Ali (RA)

President Arif Alvi and Prime Minister Imran Khan on Friday emphasised the importance of the martyrdom of Hussain (RA) at Karbala in separate messages to the nation on the occasion of Ashura, Radio Pakistan reported.

US welcomes Pakistan-India FM meet

The United States welcomed as 'terrific' a planned meeting between Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi and his Indian counterpart Sushma Swaraj on the sidelines of the forthcoming United Nations General Assembly session in New York.

India calls off FM meet

In a surprising development, India called off a meeting scheduled for next week between its foreign minister and the Pakistani counterpart, Hindustan Times reported.

The meeting between Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi and IndiaÔÇÖs External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj was scheduled to take place in New York┬áon the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session.

day 34

PM Imran writes to Modi

Prime Minister Imran Khan has called for the resumption of talks with India in a letter to Indian premier Narendra Modi, Express News.

The Foreign Office (FO) said the premier has responded to Modi in a ÔÇ£positive mannerÔÇØ and urged the┬áIndian government to talk and resolve all issues.

ÔÇ£We await formal response from India.ÔÇØ



'No deal for Nawaz's release'

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry made it clear that release of former premier Nawaz Sharif and his family members from Adiala jail in the wake of a high court judgement is neither part of any deal nor the Sharifs are not being given any concessions.

'Riyadh to join as third CPEC partner'

Pakistan said Saudi Arabia is set to join the multibillion dollar China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) project as its third major economic partner ÔÇô a development that may rescue the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) led government from the precarious economic condition.

'PM offers to play mediator role'

Prime Minister Imran Khan reaffirmed PakistanÔÇÖs support for Saudi Arabia and offered to play a reconciliatory role to end all conflicts in the Middle East, which were ÔÇÿweakening us allÔÇÖ.

33

PM Imran in UAE for state visit

Prime Minister Imran held talks with United Arab Emirates (UAE) Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed al Nahyan in which both leaders vowed to foster bilateral ties.

Imran reached Abu Dhabi, the countryÔÇÖs capital city, where he was received by Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed at the Abu Dhabi airport upon his arrival.



day 32

PTI presents mini-budget

PTI''s newly elected government has unveiled Rs5.3 trillion revised budget for this fiscal year. Presenting the Finance Supplementary (Amendment) Bill 2018 on Tuesday in the National Assembly, Finance Minister Asad Umar claimed that the mini-budget will help the economy teetering on the brink of collapse.

Zulfikar Bukhari appointed PM's Special Assistant on Overseas Pakistanis

Syed Zulfiqar Abbas Bukhari, a close aide of Prime Minister Imran Khan, was appointed the special assistant to the premier on overseas Pakistanis and human resource development.



PM jets off to Saudi Arabia in first foreign trip

PM Imran and  his select entourage members left for Saudi Arabia marking the premier's first foreign trip.

He is undertaking the state visit on the invitation of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman.┬áHe will meet with the kingdomÔÇÖs top brass and seek to bolster bilateral ties, as well as, discuss the regional security situation besides touching upon issues of mutual interest.



day 31

Arif Alvi addresses parliament

President Arif Alvi broached upon a host of issues in his maiden speech to a joint sitting of parliamentarians at the National Assembly, including strengthening institutions and eradicating corruption, besides highlighting the need to capitalise on the countryÔÇÖs youth bulge to build a ÔÇÿNaya PakistanÔÇÖ.

Government commences auction of luxury cars

The government commenced the auction of 102 luxury cars as part of a wider austerity drive by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf-led government.┬áThe┬áfleet includes 27 bullet-resistant vehicles and several non-protected ones ÔÇô both latest and vintage models ÔÇô one of which┬áwas sold for 1.1 million rupees soon after the auction started, according to reports.

70 cars were auctioned above the market price while the remaining bomb proof and bullet proof vehicles classified as protected would be auctioned in the next phase, the information minister said.

day_30

Pakistan-born refugees offered citizenship

The government will grant nationality to all Pakistan-born refugees of Afghan and Bangladeshi origins, Prime Minister Imran Khan said during his maiden visit to Karachi.

PM Imran's maiden visit to Karachi

Prime Minister Imran Khan arrived in Karachi on his first official visit after assuming office. He was received by Governor Sindh Imran Ismail and Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. The trio then headed to Quaid's mausoleum to offer prayers.

PM Imran is scheduled to hold meetings with Sindh Police, Sindh Ranger and intelligence officials. He will review pace of development projects under federal government's Karachi package.

day 29Local govts will be allowed to complete term: PM Imran

The government decided in principle not to wrap up the existing local government (LG) system in provinces, especially in Punjab, before the incumbent governments complete their tenures.

The PTI-led govt plans to roll out an upgraded version of the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa LG system across the country with power and resources devolved down to the village level.

President Alvi receives flak over excessive 'protocol'

Despite the top court orders and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) governmentÔÇÖs claims of having discarded elitist culture, Karachi on witnessed heavy traffic jam due to security protocol of Dr Arif Alvi who paid his maiden visit to Sindh capital after being elected as the countryÔÇÖs 13th president.

FM visits Afghanistan

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi held a one on one meeting with Afghan President Ashraf Ghani in Kabul where the regionÔÇÖs security situation and bilateral relations were discussed.

Qureshi arrives in Kabul to meet senior Afghan leadership during his maiden trip to Pakistan western neighbour after assuming office.

Sheikh Rashid asks private sector to invest in railways

Railways Minister Sheikh Rasheed has invited the private sector to invest in railway infrastructure for its renovation and betterment.

The minister also urged officials to ensure availability of clean drinking water at railway stations and passed other directives aimed at improving services and efficiency.

day 28

PM woos bureaucracy 

Exhorting civil servants to support the government in implementing its ambitious reforms, Prime Minister Imran Khan said ÔÇÿliberating them from political interferenceÔÇÖ would be the governmentÔÇÖs foremost priority.

Assuring bureaucrats of keeping to the highest norms of merit in promotions, he said that protection of bureaucratsÔÇÖ service tenures, an end to humiliation during the accountability process, and enhanced pay and incentive packages were necessary for maintaining their dignity.

Imran inaugurates two new trains

PM Imran inaugurated two new trains from Rawalpindi to Lahore and Rawalpindi to Mianwali. He also announced┬áhe will visit China in November to discuss BeijingÔÇÖs progress in all areas, particularly in the railways sector.

Govt to abolish fund allocation for gifts

PTI government has decided to abolish budgetary allocation amounting to Rs516 million for gifts and entertainment under its austerity drive.

day 27

Federal cabinet defers gas price hike

The federal cabinet remained indecisive on the issue of increase in the prices of gas as PM Imran sought more clarifications from the authorities concerned.

Later briefing the media, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said ÔÇÿso farÔÇÖ no such decision has been made on either to increase gas and electricity prices or to enhance income tax on the salaried class.

PM Imran speaks to French president

French President Emmanuel Macron had a telephonic conversation with Prime Minister Imran Khan, in which he acknowledged the ÔÇ£high priceÔÇØ Pakistan has paid in the fight against terrorism.

According to a statement released by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the French president congratulated Imran on his partyÔÇÖs election win and also for assuming the┬áprime ministerÔÇÖs office. Macron doubled down on the need to foster bilateral dialogue.

day 26

Punjab Cabinet expanded by 12 ministers

The provincial cabinet of Punjab was expanded by 12 ministers after an oath-taking ceremony at the Governor House.

Punjab Governor Chaudhry Sarwar administered the oath and Chief Minister Usman Buzdar was also present during the ceremony.

PM praises ISI as best intelligence agency of the world

Paying a visit to the headquarters of the countryÔÇÖs top spy agency, Prime Minister Imran Khan termed the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) as the best┬áintelligence agency of the world and the countryÔÇÖs first line of defence.

day 25

Six inducted in PM's cabinet

Prime Minister Imran KhanÔÇÖs cabinet was expanded by six as three federal and three state ministers were administered the oath in a ceremony held at the PresidentÔÇÖs House.

Omer Ayub, Ali Muhammad Khan Mehar and Syed Ali Haider Zaidi were sworn in as federal ministers while Muhammad Shabir Ali, Murad Saeed and Muhammad Hammad Azhar took the mantle of state ministers.

'US won't block Pakistan's bid to seek IMF bailout'

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo assured Pakistan last week Washington would not try to block any request for a bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Pakistani Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said.

PM Imran condoles Kulsoom Nawaz's death

PM Imran sent his condolences to the Sharif family after Begum Kulsoom Nawaz passed away in London. "She was a courageous woman of great dignity and confronted her disease with fortitude", the premier said in a tweet.



day 24

Prime Minister Imran Khan referred to government-owned land as ÔÇÿdead capitalÔÇÖ in a tweet, suggesting land used for government residences and other┬ástate buildings could be used to generate income instead of resorting to foreign aid.



PM meets WAPDA chief

Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) chief Muzammil Hussain met Prime Minister Imran Khan at his official residence in Islamabad.

Speaking out via Twitter, the countryÔÇÖs premier doubled down on the┬á urgency of building the Diamer Bhasha and Mohmand Dams. ÔÇ£I may supervise dams project myself, given the urgency,ÔÇØ the PM said.



day 23

PTI's Arif Alvi takes oath as president

Dr Arif Alvi was sworn in as PakistanÔÇÖs 13th head of state in a ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad. Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Mian Saqib Nisar administered the oath┬áin a ceremony which was attended by top civil-military brass.

arif alvi

Saudi information minister, Chinese FM meet PM Imran

Saudi Information Minister Awwad Bin Saleh al Awwad called on Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad and invited him to visit the kingdom.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who is on a three-day visit to Pakistan, also met Premier Imran. The two leaders discussed Pak-China bilateral relations at the PM House and he renewed his government's commitment to implementing CPEC.

Imran CPEC

Imran Ismail, Asad Qaiser donate salaries to dam fund

Governor Sindh Imran Ismail has stated he will donate his annual governor's salary to the Diamer-Bhasha dam fund.



Speaker National Assembly Asad Qaiser is also donating his first salary to the Prime Minister-Chief Justice fund for construction of dams.



day 22

Imran Rasul resigns from EAC in solidarity

London-based economist Imran Rasul became the third member of Prime Minister Imran Khan-led Economic Advisory Council (EAC) to resign after the government asked Atif Mian to step down from the body following a backlash over his faith.

ÔÇ£With a heavy heart, I have resigned from the EAC this morning,ÔÇØ said Rasul, a professor of economics at University College London.



Punjab cabinet to donate one month salary to dam fund

Members of the Punjab cabinet have decided to donate a monthÔÇÖs salary to the chief justiceÔÇÖs fund for the construction of Diamer-Basha and Mohmand dams after the Prime Minister Imran KhanÔÇÖs earlier appeal┬áto the nation┬áencouraging donations.

FM Qureshi meets Chinese counterpart

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi reiterated that the country will not let its territory to be used terrorism in a joint press conference with his Chinese counterpart.

ÔÇ£Pakistan will not let its land be used for terrorism,ÔÇØ said Qureshi after a high-level huddle with Chinese Foreign Minister┬áWang Yi which also focused on the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and other regional issues.

day 21

Atif Mian steps down from Economic Advisory Council

Economist Atif Mian is no longer part of the Economic Advisory Council after he was "asked to step down", a tweet by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Senator Faisal Javed stated.



CJCSC calls on PM

Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Zubair Mahmood Hayat called on Prime Minister Imran at his office. Professional matters pertaining to the armed forces were discussed during the meeting.

cjcsc

PM appeals for dams' donation

Prime Minister Imran Khan appealed to the countrymen, especially overseas Pakistanis, to generously contribute for building new dams.

ÔÇ£Overseas Pakistanis, especially those living in European countries, should contribute at least $100 to the PM/CJPÔÇÖs fund for dams,ÔÇØ Imran said.

He said┬áthe Prime MinisterÔÇÖs Fund for Dams would be merged with the Chief JusticeÔÇÖs Fund. According to him, Rs1.8 billion had so far been collected in the Chief Justice fund for dams.

Dr Asim Ijaz Khwaja resigns from EAC in protest

Protesting the governmentÔÇÖs decision to withdraw the nomination of Dr Atif Mian on the Economic Advisory Council (EAC), Dr Asim Ijaz Khwaja I┬áresigned from the newly-formed body, saying ÔÇ£being a Muslim I canÔÇÖt justify thisÔÇØ.



Chinese foreign minister arrives for three-day visit

ChinaÔÇÖs Foreign Minister Wang Yi began his three-day official visit to Pakistan.┬áThe top Chinese official was received by a senior Foreign Office official at the Noor Khan Airbase at Chaklala, drawing a strong reaction from PML-N Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed, who suggested that some senior government functionary should have welcomed him at the airport instead.

During his stay in Islamabad, the top Chinese official will hold talks with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi and meet Prime Minister Imran Khan as well as the Army Chief.

Finance minister says govt will not increase energy prices

Finance Minister Asad Umar gave a commitment to influential industrialists that the government would stick to the pre-election announcement of providing gas and electricity to five export-oriented sectors at regionally competitive rates

day 20

PM Imran pays tribute on Defence Day

In his message, Prime Minister Imran Khan said the┬ácommemoration┬áof┬áthe day reiterates that the nation and its armed forces will ÔÇ£spare no effort to protect the motherlandÔÇØ.

PM Imran said Pakistan believed in peaceful co-existence and wanted to promote mutual cooperation on the basis of equality with the world including the neighbours.

ÔÇ£Furthermore, we all collectively will face our problems following the QuaidÔÇÖs principles of faith, unity and discipline. LetÔÇÖs play our role with diligence and devotion for the progress of the country.ÔÇØ

PM attends Defence Day ceremony

PM Imran attended a ceremony at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi to mark the anniversary of 1965 war with India. Speaking at the ceremony, he declared that Pakistan would no more participate in someone elseÔÇÖs war, insisting that there was no civil-military divide in the country.

ÔÇ£I will promise that Pakistan will never fight someone elseÔÇÖs war,ÔÇØ he stated in categorical terms.

PM forms task force on K-P, FATA merger

Prime Minister Imran has set up three different task forces respectively for civil service reforms, restructuring of the government, and identification of impediments and facilitation of tribal areas merger with Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P).

day 19

Pompeo arrives in Islamabad

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo arrived in Pakistan for crucial talks with the new government against a backdrop of deteriorating ties between the two allies.

Pompeo, who was accompanied by Chairman of Joint Chief of Staff General Joseph Dunford and TrumpÔÇÖs special envoy Zalamay Khalilzad, first held talks with the foreign minister and then met with Prime Minister Imran Khan.





Fourth federal cabinet meeting

The government, during a federal cabinet meeting headed by PM Imran, decided to activate diplomatic channels to accelerate the ratification of a bilateral treaty for exchanging information with Switzerland, removing a major bottleneck in accessing crucial information about hidden assets abroad.

The meeting also discussed an eight-point agenda.

day 18

Ehsan Mani elected PCB chairman

Ehsan Mani has been elected unopposed as the new chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in the┬áboardÔÇÖs election which was held at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore.



PTI's Arif Alvi elected 13th President of Pakistan

PTI's┬áDr Arif Alvi was elected as the 13th president of Pakistan as the countryÔÇÖs electoral college ÔÇô comprising of the Senate, national and provincial assemblies ÔÇô cast their votes.



FM Qureshi meets AJK President

FM Qureshi met AJK president and assured him Pakistan would continue to support Kashmir politically, morally and diplomatically. He also welcomed the Office for the High Commissioner for Human RightsÔÇÖ (OHCHR) report on Kashmir in June 2018. It is the first ever UN report detailing human rights abuse in Kashmir.



Fawad Chaudhry defends Atif MianÔÇÖs appointment

After Pakistan Peoples Party leader Shehla Raza critcised MianÔÇÖs inclusion, the information minister denounced the sentiment while speaking to media.

ÔÇ£Should we throw minorities out of the country? Atif is part of our economic council. The world is raving about him. People who say negative things about minorities are extremists. Every Muslim has a duty to protect minorities,ÔÇØ Chaudhry said.

PM Imran addresses oil and gas sector issues

PM Imran directed the petroleum division to devise a comprehensive plan for mitigating gas theft while chairing a briefing at the PM office.

Minister for Petroleum, Ghulam Sarwar Khan, Additional Secretary Incharge Petroleum Division, Mian Asad Hayaud Din and senior government officers were present at the meeting.

The PM was briefed on the current state of demand and supply in the oil and gas sector, progress on construction and operationalisation of Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India pipeline (TAPI) and Pak-Iran gas pipeline and other projects being developed to address the countryÔÇÖs growing energy needs.

Babar Awan resigns

Adviser to the Prime Minister on Parliamentary Affairs Zaheeruddin Babar Awan on Tuesday resigned from his post after a reference was filed against him and six other politicians by the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in the Islamabad Accountability Court for causing delay in the completion of the Nandipur Power Project.

ÔÇ£I have resigned from the post of adviser to the PM on parliamentary affairs so I may prove the allegations levelled against me in the NAB reference are false,ÔÇØ Awan stated in his resignation letter.

day 17

Afghan FM calls Shah Mehmood Qureshi

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi discussed the closure of the countryÔÇÖs consulate in Jalalabad during a phone call with his Afghan counterpart. Afghan foreign minister, Salahuddin Rabbani, congratulated Qureshi on his appointment. The foreign minister asked Rabbani to restore the previous security arrangements at the Pakistani mission in order so that the consulate could be reopened.



Imran, COAS meet

Ahead of a crucial visit by the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to Pakistan, Prime Minister Imran Khan and army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa on Monday held a meeting to discuss the US-Pakistan relations in the backdrop of recent spat between Islamabad and Washington.

Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa meets Imran Khan at PM secretariat. PHOTO: PID Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa meets Imran Khan at PM secretariat. PHOTO: PID



day 16

'Plant for Pakistan' campaign kicks off

Prime Minister Imran Khan officially launched ÔÇ£Ten Billion Tree TsunamiÔÇØ campaign by planting a tree sapling in Haripur.



Initially started at 200 points in the cities, PM Imran said that the campaign will be carried out in all cities across the country.

ÔÇ£This is the beginning. Our target is to plant 10 billion trees in the whole country and this campaign will continue for 5 years. We had planted 1.18 billion trees in K-P and now we are starting plantation in the rest of the country,ÔÇØ he said.

PM meets CM Punjab, orders revamping of local government system

Prime Minister Imran ordered revamping of the prevailing local government system in Punjab, besides directing authorities concerned to initiate an audit of the Orange Line project.

The prime minister also stressed the need to free the police from political influence, ordering the chief minister of Punjab to take stern action against all encroachment mafias.



PTI reacts to US 'aid' cancellation

The PTI government reacted cautiously to the US cancellation of $300 million in aid to Pakistan, insisting the money is not assistance but reimbursements for the countryÔÇÖs expenses in the fight against terrorism.

It was decided not to react strongly at this stage and instead wait for the visit of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, who is due in Islamabad on Wednesday.

day 15

Economic advisory council formed

Prime Minister Imran Khan has formed an 18-member economic advisory council. The council includes experts from renowned educational institutions and banks. The finance minister, minister of planning and development and the state bank governor are also part of the board.

council1 council2

First lady visits orphanage

First Lady Bushra Maneka shared a meal with children during her trip to an orphanage in Lahore. The premierÔÇÖs wife was accompanied by a friend, Farah Khan, during the trip to┬áDarul Shafqat orphanage. She had also brought food with her, which was distributed┬áamong the children.

Bushra bibi and her friend Farah Khan (left). PHOTO: EXPRESS Bushra bibi and her friend Farah Khan (left). PHOTO: EXPRESS

Day14

State minister for interior takes oath

PTI MNA Shehryar Afridi took oath as state minister for interior at a ceremony held at the President House. The oath was administered by President Mamnoon Hussain and the ceremony was attended by political workers and top officials.

FM Qureshi meets Iranian counterpart

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi┬ámet his Iranian counterpart┬áJavad Zarif and assured him of IslamabadÔÇÖs support for TehranÔÇÖs stance on the countryÔÇÖs nuclear deal with major world powers.

PM meets Imran Ismail, MQM delegation

Prime Minister Imran Khan met Sindh Governor Imran Ismail and assured him that the government is determined to fix issues faced by the citizens of Karachi.

A delegation of the Muttahida Quami Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) also met the premier. The delegation included Khalid Maqbool, Dr Farogh Naseem, Nasreen Jalal, Kunwar Naveed and Mayor Karachi Waseem Akhtar.

'Give us time to perform'

Prime Minister Imran asked the media to give the PTI government time to settle in before being judged for its actions.

ÔÇ£Give us three months before criticising our performance,ÔÇØ the prime minister said while talking to a select group of senior journalists.

Bureaucratic shuffle

The PTI government continues to reshuffle senior bureaucrats and assigned new assignments to nine grade-21 officers.

[jtrt_tables id="1792787"]

'Pakistan needs $9b for running domestic economy'

Pakistan needs $9 billion to run the countryÔÇÖs economic affairs, Finance Minister Asad Umar told the Senate. He said Pakistan was facing an adverse economic situation because of flawed policies of previous governments.

day 13

PM visits GHQ

Prime Minister Imran Khan visited the General Headquarters (GHQ) to attend a crucial briefing by the army chief on defence and internal security matters, said a statement by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).



Iran FM arrives in Pakistan

IranÔÇÖs Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif arrived in Islamabad for a two-day state visit. He will meet senior military and civilian officials.┬áThis is the first visit┬áby┬áa foreign minister after the formation of the new government.

Iran FM

New AGP notified

The federal government has appointed Anwar Mansoor Khan as the new Attorney General for Pakistan. Notification about his appointment has been issued by the law ministry.

AGP notification

Asad Umar briefs PM on state of economy

The finance ministry briefed Prime Minister Imran on the current state of PakistanÔÇÖs economy, as the country actively tries to seek a workable solution where it can avoid the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme.

PM releases message over blasphemous caricatures issue

Prime Minister Imran Khan, in a video message, said the government would raise the issue of the blasphemous caricatures at all international forums. The prime minister said  the issue of blasphemy was troubling for every Muslim.

Dutch lawmaker Geert Wilders decided to cancel the controversial blasphemous caricatures contest after being at the receiving end of death threats.

Cleric Khadim Rizvi-led Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) called off its protest march to Islamabad after WildersÔÇÖ announcement.

In his media talk, the foreign minister congratulated the nation on their moral victory, and termed the cancellation a diplomatic victory for Pakistan.



day 12

11-member K-P cabinet takes oath

The 11-member cabinet of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was sworn in a ceremony held at the Governor House. The Speaker K-P Assembly Mushtaq Ahmed Ghani, who is also serving as the acting governor of the province, administered the oath of the cabinet members

PM meets NAB chairman

National Accountability Bureau (NAB) Chairman met Prime Minister Imran and congratulated him on assuming office.

During the meeting, the premier expressed his commitment to absolving the nation of corruption and promoting transparency.

The prime minister reiterated that accountability remains the first priority for his government.

The premier also informed the accountability bodyÔÇÖs chairman that he had complete support to further strengthen the institution and increase its efficiency.

Concluding the meeting, PM Khan expressed satisfaction with NAB's current performance.

Chairman NAB-Imran

Media regulatory authorities to be merged

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry said existing media regulatory bodies will be merged and a new authority will be formed to oversee all mediums. The new regulatory body will be called the Pakistan Media Regulatory Authority.

Disgruntled Aamir Liaquat leaves WhatsApp group

Disgruntled┬áMNA Aamir Liaquat Hussain left a PTI WhatsApp group, made for communication between the partyÔÇÖs lawmakers, after being snubbed from an earlier gathering at the Governor House in Karachi.

Massive bureaucracy reshuffle

The newly-installed PTI government continues to reshuffle senior bureaucrats and assigned new assignments to 22 grade-21 and grade-22 officers.

[jtrt_tables id="1791364"]

day 11

Chief of Naval Staff calls on PM

Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Zafar Mahmood Abbasi called on the premier at PM Office and congratulated him on assuming office. Professional matters regarding Pakistan Navy were also discussed.

Naval Staff-Imran

PM decides to appoint Shaheryar Afridi as minister of state for interior

Prime Minister Imran Khan has decided to appoint Shaheryar Khan Afridi as minister of state for interior. The notification for the new appointment is expected to be issued later.

ÔÇ£Decided in principal, not notified yet,ÔÇØ a senior party leader confirmed to┬áThe Express┬áTribune.

FM expresses desire to better relations with US

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi┬á stressed upon PakistanÔÇÖs desire to┬áimprove its bilateral relations with the US while speaking on the floor of the Upper House.┬áFM maintained that national security and foreign policies are interlinked and given the challenges faced by the country, the ParliamentÔÇÖs guidance would be taken when formulating the countryÔÇÖs foreign policy.

Federal cabinet approves six taskforces

The federal cabinet approved constitution of half a dozen taskforces and three committees to review and suggest reforms in different sectors in line with ruling partyÔÇÖs agenda for its first 100 days in power.

Mazari rebukes Human Rights Watch

The government reacted strongly to Human Rights WatchÔÇÖs (HRW) letter to Prime Minister Imran Khan, urging him to make human rights a priority of his government since Pakistan is facing multiple challenges on that front.┬áFederal Minister for Human Rights Shireen Mazari said that the government does not need to be reminded of its obligations from outside.

mazari-1535470750

PM to skip UN General Assembly to focus on country's economy

Prime Minister Imran Khan will skip the upcoming session of the United Nations General Assembly and will instead focus on the countryÔÇÖs economy, Reuters reported.

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi will lead the countryÔÇÖs delegation to the 73rd UNGA session scheduled for September 18.

ÔÇ£No, the prime minister is not going. I will lead PakistanÔÇÖs delegation,ÔÇØ the foreign minister informed the media.

ÔÇ£The prime minister of Pakistan thinks that the present situation in country needs attention,ÔÇØ Qureshi told the media.

day 10

Arif Alvi submits nomination papers for president

PTI's Arif Alvi submitted his presidential nomination papers to the Islamabad High Court (IHC). Joint session of parliament to elect new president will be held on September 4.



COAS congratulates PM Imran on assuming charge

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa called on Prime Minister Imran Khan at PM Office and extended his congratulations to the premier on assuming office.

Both discussed security situation and expressed resolve to bring enduring peace and stability in the country while also continuing efforts for regional peace.

PM-COAS

PM makes maiden address to Senate

PM Imran addressed the Senate and said he would take up the issue of blasphemous cartoons at the United Nations in September. He also reiterated his resolve to make the government accountable before parliament.

PHOTO: INP PHOTO: INP

PM seeks suggestions to recover wealth stashed abroad

Prime Minister Imran Khan has given an ambitious deadline of two weeks to a task force set up to recover unlawfully acquired foreign assets by suggesting a way forward for expeditious retrieval of the ill-gottenwealth.

day-9

Prime Minister Office (PMO) denies finalising Dr Ameer Mohammad Khan Jogezai for the post of Balochistan governor. A statement issued by the spokesperson said Jogezai's name was recommended, however, no final decision had been made in the matter.

PTI announced 23-member Punjab cabinet and a 15-member K-P cabinet.





day 8

PM Imran was recommended by an inquiry committing  to remove senior NADRA officials including its chairman for RTS failure during results compilation process on polling day.

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry claims that the ruling party would not face any difficulty in getting its candidate, Dr Arif Alvi, elected as PakistanÔÇÖs next┬á president in the upcoming presidential polls scheduled for September 4 as it had garnered the required support.

PM Imran nominated Dr Ameer Mohammad Khan for the post of Balochistan governor, a statement issued by PTI said. A pediatrician by profession, Jogezai has over 30 years of experience in medicine.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) nominated renowned poet Ahmad Faraz's son Syed Shibli Faraz as the leader of the house in the Senate.

The position was previously occupied by Senator Raja Zafarul Haq who represented deposed premier Nawaz Sharif in the Upper House.

Shibli is currently chairman of the Senate's standing committee on commerce and is also a member of committees responsible for planning and development, water and climate change according to his Twitter.

Day 7

PM Imran visits FO

Prime Minister Imran Khan made his maiden visit to the Foreign Office (FO).

The premier was received by Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua and FO Spokesperson Mohammad Faisal.



The newly-elected premier was briefed on the countryÔÇÖs foreign policy towards India, Afghanistan, Iran, United States, China and Saudi Arabia.

PM Imran meets CM Balochistan

Prime Minister Imran Khan met Chief Minister Balochistan Jam Kamal at the Prime Minister Office with Chairman Senate Muhammad Sadiq Sanjrani and Federal Minister for Defence Production Zubaida Jalal in attendance.

The security situation of the province was discussed along with problems faced by the people.

PM-CM

Federal cabinet meeting held

Federal cabinet meeting headed by PM Imran was held at PM office. The agenda of the meeting was shared by Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry on Twitter.

https://twitter.com/FawadPTIUpdates/status/1032917702489399296

The newly elected federal government announced eliminating discretionary funds for the president, prime minister, federal ministers and members of parliament.

The cabinet also decided to carry out forensic audit of all mass transit projects initiated in Lahore, Islamabad, Multan and Peshawar as well as the Orange Line project in Lahore.

The government also revised public offices working hours with a decision to maintain two public holidays in a week ÔÇôon Saturday and Sunday. Daily office working hours have been changed from earlier 8am to 4pm to 9am to 5pm.

Mike Pompeo to visit Pakistan

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Friday confirmed that US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo would visit Pakistan on September 5.

During the press conference, the foreign minister also revealed that ChinaÔÇÖs foreign minister would visit on September 8.

Day 6

PM offers assistance to Kerala

PM Imran offered to "provide any humanitarian assistance that may be needed" to those affected by the floods in Kerala, India.



PM receives call from US Secretary of State

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo phoned Prime Minister Imran Khan and congratulated him on forming government.

PM Imran emphasised the importance of strengthening bilateral relations on the basis of mutual trust and mutual benefit.

The call created tension after the State Department spokesperson Heather Nauert said in a statement that ÔÇ£Secretary Pompeo raised the importance of Pakistan taking decisive action against all terrorists operating in Pakistan and its vital role in promoting the Afghan peace process.ÔÇØ

https://twitter.com/ForeignOfficePk/status/1032673343097524225

ÔÇ£Pakistan takes exception to the factually incorrect statement issued by the US State Department on todayÔÇÖs phone call between PM Khan and Secretary Pompeo,ÔÇØ Foreign Office spokesperson Dr Mohammad Faisal said in a tweet.

day-1-1534571904 (1)

PM Imran congratulated the nation on Eidul Azha and urged citizens not to forget people who are deprived in this hour of happiness.



The premier, in his message, prayed to Almighty Allah to accept our sacrifices and prayers.┬áÔÇÿSacrifice is a universal devotion without which no nation can progress,ÔÇÖ he said. ÔÇÿSacrifice aims at submitting oneself before the will of Allah.ÔÇÖ

The prime minister also reminded the nation to remember the sacrifices rendered for protection, reconstruction and development of the country.

Day 4

Canadian PM calls Imran Khan

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and PM Imran spoke on the phone. Trudeau congratulated the PTI chairman on forming government as the two leaders discussed human rights, girls' education, climate change and refugees.

"I look forward to working together for people in both our countries", Trudeau wrote on Twitter.



Pakistan's Press Information Department (PID) in a press release stated that Trudeau also appreciated PM Khan's illustrious career in cricket and politics and wished him well for implementing his partyÔÇÖs agenda for the welfare of Pakistani people.

The Pakistani premier "also underscored the contributions of over 400,000 Canadians of Pakistani origin to Canada."

Alice Wells welcomes Imran's stance on peace with India, Afghanistan

US Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Alice Wells welcomed Prime Minister Imran KhanÔÇÖs stance on ÔÇ£the importance of having peace on both sides of Pakistan's borders."

The senior US envoy added that Pakistan has a critical role to play in the stabilisation of Afghanistan. (edit



Nawaz, Maryam names put on ECL

Deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif and daughter Maryam's names added to Exit Control List (ECL), reported Express News.

PM thanks Navjot Singh Sidhu for attending oath taking

PM Imran thanked Indian cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu for attending his oath taking ceremony and referred to him as an ÔÇ£ambassador for peaceÔÇØ.

"Those in India who targeted him are doing a great disservice to peace in the subcontinent," the premier added.



The PM further added that Pakistan and India must engage in dialogue and resolve their conflicts including Kashmir.



day 3

PM Imran's federal cabinet have taken oath administered by President Mamnoon Hussain.

 

Cabinet oath

Following are the ministers of the Federal Cabinet:

[jtrt_tables id="1785118"]

PM Khan also has five advisors in his cabinet:

[jtrt_tables id="1785128"]

FM Qureshi gives maiden address

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi in his maiden address on Monday, insisted dialogue between India and Pakistan is the only way forward.

"We are aware of our issues. In my opinion, we have no other solution than dialogues, there might be no other immediate solution, we have to accept realities. Kashmir is an issue, it's a reality. Both countries have acknowledged it. Unfortunately, former Indian PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee is no more, but we need to hold uninterrupted dialogue," Qureshi said.



The FM also said that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the newly sworn in PM and has given a positive message of dialogue. Taking everyone on board will be part of policy, we are all united in the interest of the country.

Qureshi also said that the Chinese Ambassador Yao Jing has also been in contact, and there is great stress on infrastructure. "I would like to discuss the next phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and how to enter into the socio-economic phase."

First meeting of federal cabinet

Prime Minister Imran Khan chaired first meeting of the federal cabinet at the Prime MinisterÔÇÖs Office (PMO) in Islamabad.

General Zubair Mahmood Hayat, Chief of Air Staff call on PM Imran

Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Zubair Mahmood Hayat and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Mujahid Anwar Khan called on PM Imran at his office and congratulated him on assuming premiership.

Imran-Zubair

Air Chief-Imran

Malaysian PM extends felicitations

Dr Mahatir Mohamad the Prime Minister of Malaysia took to Twitter to congratulate PM Imran on his appointment, adding that he looked forward to working with him closely.



Premier of the State Council of China calls PM Khan

Premier of the State Council of China Li Keqiang had a telephonic conversation with PM Imran. Keqiang congratulated him on forming the government and expressed willingness to work together to improve relations.

He also extended an invitation to PM Imran to visit China.

Committee to advise future use of heritage buildings

Federal Minister for National History and Literary Heritage Shafqat Mehmood has formed a committee to devise ways for best possible use of heritage buildings in the country.



Najam Sethi steps down

Najam Sethi announced his resignation from the post of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman in a tweet.

ÔÇ£I wish the PCB all the best and hope our cricket team goes from strength to strength,ÔÇØ he said.



PM nominates Ahsan Mani for PCB chief

Imran has nominated former International Cricket Council (ICC) president Ehsan Mani as the new chairman of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Naeemul Haque appointed Special Assistant for Political Affairs

PM Imran has appointed Naeemul Haque as his Special Assistant for Political Affairs.



day-1-1534571904

PTI candidate Sardar Usman Ahmad Khan Buzdar elected Punjab chief minister after securing 186 votes against PML-N candidate Hamza Shehbaz's 159 votes.

The premier calls for a parliamentary meeting of PTI leaders and coalition partners to discuss presidential elections and other government matters.

The Prime Minister received a congratulatory call from Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.

While conveying his compliments, the Sri Lankan PM underscored the importance of both countries working together in diverse areas of mutual interest to further strengthen bilateral relations

PM Imran addresses nation for the first time as head of government.

He makes the following major promises during his maiden address.

  • Court cases to be dealt in a year

  • Reform Punjab police

  • 50 million housing units to be constructed

  • Youth loans sans interest

  • More than a billion trees to be planted

  • Rights to services department will be created to deal with civilian issues.


[/fbvideo]

The transcript of the PM's first speech:



Day 1

Imran Khan was sworn in as the 22nd prime minister of Pakistan on Saturday at the President's House. Mamnoon Hussain, the president, administered the oath.

Imran's wife Bushra Maneka was present on the occasion, seated in the front row alongside National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser. Former caretaker prime minister Hasan Askari and PTI heavyweights including Asad Umar, Jahangir Tareen and Shah Mehmood Qureshi were also present on the occasion. Indian cricketer-turned-politician Navjot Singh Sidhu also witnessed proceedings.



Mohammad Azam, a BS-21 Pakistan Administrative Service (PAS) official, has been posted secretary to prime minister. Suhail Aamir, a BS-22 bureaucrat who held the post earlier, has been transferred to the Establishment Division.

notification1

notification2

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres congratulated Prime Minister Imran Khan after the PTI chairman assumed office.

"UN chief hopes for deepening of UN-Pak cooperation in various fields, including the world body's flagship peacekeeping operations around the globe," the Government of Pakistan twitter account said.



PTI spokesperson Fawad Chaudhry confirmed Arif Alvi's nomination for the coveted post of the President of Pakistan.



PM Khan on his first day also approved a 21-member cabinet. The cabinet comprises 16 federal ministers and five advisers.

Shah Mehmood Qureshi has been assigned the foreign affairs portfolio. Former K-P CM Pervez Khattak will be the defence minister while Dr Farogh Naseem will be the law and justice minister. Asad Umer has been given the finance portfolio.



PM Imran dismisses objections over Sardar Usman BuzdarÔÇÖs nomination as new chief minister of Punjab, insists upon his partyÔÇÖs lawmakers to implicitly trust his judgment.

The premier received a letter from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan congratulating him and thanking him for his support.

"The solidarity that you have displayed and the support that you have extended to us in the recent critical period that our country has been passing through, reinforces our belief that your sapient leadership will help further advance bilateral relations between Turkey and Pakistan to new heights," the letter read.

COMMENTS (4)

Muhammad | 6 years ago | Reply We need to be fair and realistic about the change. We cannot change and fix one house in 100 days then how we can expect model and prosper country to emerge only in 100 days. More realistically, 100 days will set the direction to move forward and halt tghe bull of corruption and then the ball will start rolling in the right direction. Please consider and think in fair manner that will also be a big change. So start changing your self first to ease and receive change.
Adnan Khalid | 6 years ago | Reply Why we expect from IK to clear the flints of 71 years in just 100 days.. Let him move ahead, let him do all what he feels fit for his country and compare every day with the previous day .. U ll know how and what changes have been coming up
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