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.
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.
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.
I have asked CM Punjab to set up tents for people sleeping on footpaths and provide them food until the Panah Gahs (shelters) are built, as the weather is turning increasingly cold. Peshawar and Karachi spots also being located.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) November 24, 2018
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.
I am absolutely clear both these attacks are part of a planned campaign to create unrest in the country by those who do not want Pakistan to prosper. Let there be no doubt in anyone's mind that we will crush the terrorists, whatever it takes. https://t.co/AhPpjsUGEq
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) November 23, 2018
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.
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.
وزیراعظم پاکستان عمران خان کی ملائشیا کے وزیر اعظم ڈاکٹر مہاتیرمحمد سے ملاقات.#PMIKVisitsMalaysia 🇵🇰🇲🇾 pic.twitter.com/cqwjATPXG3
— Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) November 21, 2018
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.
Prime Minister Imran Khan reaches Malaysia for a two day visit.
— PTI (@PTIofficial) November 20, 2018
PM Imran Khan will meet Malaysian Prime Minister, Dr Mahathir Mohammad to discuss bilateral relations and cooperation as well as identify new areas for future collaboration. #PMIKinMalaysia 🇲🇾 🇵🇰 pic.twitter.com/iaYxxbP73v
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.
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.
Pakistan has paid with blood in the war on terror. We lost 75000 people and our economy lost an estimated $123 billion. The United States is safer today because of our contributions and its a shame to hear statements that don’t take those facts into account.
— Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) November 19, 2018
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.
Instead of making Pakistan a scapegoat for their failures, the US should do a serious assessment of why, despite 140000 NATO troops plus 250,000 Afghan troops & reportedly $1 trillion spent on war in Afghanistan, the Taliban today are stronger than before.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) November 19, 2018
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.
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).
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.
'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.
Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Nawaf bin Saeed Al-Malkiy called on Speaker National Assembly Asad Qaiser in Islamabad today.
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) November 16, 2018
Asad Qaiser said the bilateral relations between the two countries will be further strengthened by activating the Pak-Saudi Friendship Group. pic.twitter.com/bfC2q0XsYN
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.
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.
Have followed the shocking tragedy of the murder of SP Tahir Khan Dawar & ordered KP govt to coordinate with Islamabad police in holding an inquiry immediately. MOS Interior Shahryar Afridi has been tasked to oversee it with an urgency & present the report to me.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) November 15, 2018
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.
'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.
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.
Met Dr Fauzia Siddiqui today and assured her of my full support. I’ve asked our Counsel General in Houston to seek regular Consular visits and ensure Dr Siddiqui’s well being in line with her legal & human rights. Also discussed possible way forward for Dr. Afia’s repatriation. pic.twitter.com/cuzfA4d9WC
— Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) November 13, 2018
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.
'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.
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."
Today I laid the foundation for 1st of 5 shelters for the homeless in Lahore & one in Pindi to be followed by shelters in other cities. We are committed to building a social net for our poor citizens so everyone has a shelter over his/her head & access to health & education pic.twitter.com/4QCXfEzgJK
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) November 10, 2018
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.
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.
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.
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).
The COAS also called on President Dr Arif Alvi at Aiwan-e-Sadr.
COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa called on President Dr Arif Alvi at Aiwan-e-Sadr. President commended unmatched sacrifices rendered by the Armed Forces of #Pakistan in fight against terrorism and extremism. Matters relating to national security were discussed during the meeting. pic.twitter.com/GIK3qpG3aT
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) November 6, 2018
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.
PM Imran Khan meets Russian Prime Minister D A Medvedev in Shanghai.
— PTI (@PTIofficial) November 5, 2018
Minister for Foreign Affairs @SMQureshiPTI Qureshi, Minister for Finance @Asad_Umar and Adviser to Prime Minister on Commerce Mr. Abdul Razzak Dawood were present during the meeting.#PMIKatCIIE pic.twitter.com/E6zNmp0gUL
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.
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.
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.
Prime Minister Imran Khan meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping along with delegation of senior dignitaries from both countries. Matters related to mutual & regional cooperation, CPEC and strengthening bilateral ties were discussed. @PakPMO #PMIKVisitsChina
— PTI (@PTIofficial) November 2, 2018
🇵🇰 🇨🇳 pic.twitter.com/4wFvtiYE31
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.
Prime Minister Imran Khan has strongly condemned the assassination of Maulana Sami-ul-Haq. Prime Minister Imran Khan is grieved to learn about the death of Maulana Sami-ul-Haq.
— Tehreek-e-Insaf (@InsafPK) November 2, 2018
The Prime Minister has expressed sympathy and solidarity with his family. #MaulanaSamiulHaq pic.twitter.com/bNzVBAYuwc
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
'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.
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.
'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.
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).
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
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.
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.
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.
#JusticeForKinza Minister for Human Rights Dr. @ShireenMazari1 took urgent action for the safe custody of the child. pic.twitter.com/v6Quc7nKe1
— Ministry of Human Rights (@mohrpakistan) October 20, 2018
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
Saddened to learn of the tragic train accident in Amritsar India. Condolences go to the families of the deceased.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) October 20, 2018
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.
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.
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.
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.
Reports PM unhappy over Asad Umar's performance refutedHours 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.
Prime Minister Imran Khan has launched #CleanGreenPakistan campaign by planting a sapling & participating in the cleanliness drive at the F-6/2 Model college for girls in Islamabad. He urged students & youth to lead the campaign as it is connected with the future of the country. pic.twitter.com/KjuHsfNVRp
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) October 13, 2018
Today I launched our #CleanGreenPakistan campaign - a 4-pronged strategy for next 5 yrs: clean our air, our rivers, our land & make Pak green through tree plantation drive. I want all our nation to be involved, esp youth & children to lead from the front & change ppl's mindsets pic.twitter.com/DzsuQtnk8S
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) October 13, 2018
President, CM K-P promote Clean Green Pakistan
President of Pakistan Dr. Arif Alvi's message on #CleanGreenPakistan. @CleanGreenPK https://t.co/r89u2yUsbn
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) October 12, 2018
Clean and Green #Pakistan campaign is being launched in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa today. KPK Chief Minister Mahmood Khan will inaugurate the campaign in #Peshawar. All district administration and government authorities have been directed to actively participate in the campaign.🌳🇵🇰 pic.twitter.com/YXWhrowlzx
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) October 13, 2018
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.
Special package of incentives would be announced for #OverseasPakistanis to encourage them to send remittances through banking channels.
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) October 12, 2018
~Prime Minister Imran Khan pic.twitter.com/PoduUgvr5f
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.
Prime Minister Imran Khan reiterated government's resolve to complete the process for merger of former FATA with KPK
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) October 12, 2018
Talking to a delegation of Senators belonging to former FATA, he said government is also striving to implement local government system in the tribal districts. pic.twitter.com/ExLKHrGQuf
PM Imran met students from various districts of Balochistan
Prime Minister Imran Khan meets students from various districts of #Balochistan at PM Office Islamabad. pic.twitter.com/X1AHdFCGY9
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) October 12, 2018
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.
PM Imran, Sarwar discuss matters pertaining to petroleum ministry
Minister for Petroleum Ghulam Sarwar Khan called on Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad.
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.
Cabinet meeting
PM Imran promises provision of all possible facilities to labourers and overseas Pakistanis.
Provision of all possible facilities to the labourers and Overseas Pakistanis is the top priority of the government.
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) October 10, 2018
~Prime Minister Imran Khan pic.twitter.com/eDOUhgRZKS
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.
Finance Minister Asad Umar held a meeting with the President of World Bank, Dr. Jim Yong Kim on the sidelines of the World Bank and IMF Group Annual meetings in #Indonesia. During the meeting, the current level of cooperation between Pakistan and World Bank was reviewed. pic.twitter.com/Yl611ZXGwC
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) October 10, 2018
Azad Kashmir Prime Minister Raja Farooq Haider called on Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad.
PM Imran assures equal rights for minoritiesPrime 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.
Prime Minister Imran Khan says the government will continue to protect rights of minorities and ensure equal opportunities for them to participate in national life while talking to a delegation of Bishops in Islamabad today. pic.twitter.com/6Ohu9j7skW
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) October 9, 2018
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.
PM Imran Khan has said being a backbone of the state, the bureaucracy has a huge responsibility to deliver and come up to the expectations of the nation.
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) October 10, 2018
He was addressing participants of 109th National Management Course from National School of Public Policy in Islamabad. pic.twitter.com/kI7dDzurF9
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.
Since taking power, the PTI government had reiterated that it would explore multiple avenues in order to bring back a destroyed economy to stabilisation point. - @Asad_Umar pic.twitter.com/9mRJT4DmNH
— PTI (@PTIofficial) October 8, 2018
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.
"Clean and Green Pakistan"
Prime Minister Imran Khan inaugurated a countrywide cleanliness drive titled "Clean and Green Pakistan" in Islamabad.
Prime Minister Imran Khan has launched "Clean and Green Pakistan" initiative at a ceremony in Islamabad today.
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) October 8, 2018
Imran Khan urged members of the civil society to complement efforts of the government in creating necessary awareness about sanitation and environmental issues. pic.twitter.com/N99ENnzjht
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.
Prime Minister Imran Khan says government will remove the faults in existing local government system to serve the people in the best possible way. pic.twitter.com/crmBzh1NA0
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) October 7, 2018
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.
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.
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.
PM at HQ SC. PM acknowledged & appreciated contributions of security forces towards improving peace, stability & socio-economic dev of Province. “Only a cohesive national effort shall IA take provinces & Country to the rightful destination of peace, progress & prosperity”, PM. pic.twitter.com/4oD5Z4hKws
— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) October 6, 2018
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.
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.
[ Prime Minister's 100 Days Agenda Progress Tracker Website Launched ]
— Ch Fawad Hussain (@fawadchaudhry) October 5, 2018
Now you can track the progress of our 100 days Agenda.
Please follow: https://t.co/zFjB0281RG
for all the latest updates and actions are taken to accomplish.#PMIK100DaysPlan.
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.
IMF only viable option, PM Imran Khan toldIn 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.
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.
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.
Foreign Minister @USIP FM will shortly speak at USIP. Link for live streaming - https://t.co/czcpn3NQgy pic.twitter.com/4rQsH5DYmI
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) October 3, 2018
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Shah Mahmood Qureshi Media Talk after SAARC Council of Ministers Meeting on the sidelines of UNGA Session in New York (27.09.18)#PTI #SAARC #UNGA @SMQureshiPTI pic.twitter.com/FgjqOCwUqB
— PTI (@PTIofficial) September 27, 2018
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.
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.
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)
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
PM has responded to PM Modi, in a positive spirit, reciprocating his sentiments. Let’s talk and resolve all issues. We await formal reaponse from India.
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) September 20, 2018
'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.
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.
Prime Minister Imran Khan warmly received by Crown Prince HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the Presidential Apron, Abu Dhabi Airport.
— PTI (@PTIofficial) September 19, 2018
🇵🇰 🇦🇪 pic.twitter.com/qgcUSBN4lp
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.
Prime Minister Imran Khan has Appointed Sayed Zulfiqar Abbas Bukhari as His Special Assistant on Overseas Pakistanis & Human Resource Development with the status of Minister of State. #PTI @sayedzbukhari pic.twitter.com/aJQSNgs2J0
— PTI (@PTIofficial) September 18, 2018
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.
PM Imran Khan reaches Saudi Arabia on his first official foreign visit: he is accompanied by few cabinet members, including foreign minister @SMQureshiPTI and finance minister @Asad_Umar. #PMIK @ImranKhanPTI pic.twitter.com/1MTZ7k8dLC
— PTI (@PTIofficial) September 18, 2018
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.
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.
Local govts will be allowed to complete term: PM ImranThe 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Sad to learn of Begum Kulsoom Nawaz's death. She was a courageous woman of great dignity and confronted her disease with fortitude. My condolences and prayers go to the Sharif family.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) September 11, 2018
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.
I have just got figures of 90% of state-owned land in KP, Punjab & federal areas & rest houses/official residences built on this land. The figures are startling: 34,459 kanals are rural & 17,035 kanals are urban.Just the urban land with buildings is worth over Rs.300 billion!
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) September 10, 2018
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.
Pakistan has only 185 dams - & only 2 large ones. In contrast India has 5000 dams and China has 84000 dams including 4000 large ones. We need to avert the looming water crisis confronting Pakistan. https://t.co/gvdyABHErj
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) September 10, 2018
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.
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 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.
I would like to donate my 1 year salary as Governor Sindh to the Diamer-Bhasha Dam. Pakistan zindabad
— Imran Ismail (@ImranIsmailPTI) September 9, 2018
Speaker National Assembly Asad Qaiser is also donating his first salary to the Prime Minister-Chief Justice fund for construction of dams.
میں اپنی پہلی تنخواہ وزیراعظم اور چیف جسٹس ڈیم فنڈ کے لئے عطیہ کر رہا ہوں اور تمام پاکستانیوں سے اپیل کرتا ہوں کہ اپنے بچوں کے مستقبل کو بچانے کےلئے اس کار خیر میں حصہ لیں
— Asad Qaiser (@AsadQaiserPTI) September 8, 2018
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.
With a heavy heart, I have resigned from the EAC this morning. The circumstances in which Atif was asked to step down are ones I profoundly disagree with. Basing decisions on religious affiliation goes against my principles, or the values I am trying to teach my children. (1/5)
— Imran Rasul (@ImranRasul3) September 8, 2018
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.
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.
Atif Mian was asked to step down from the Advisory Council and he has agreed. A replacement would be announced later.
— Faisal Javed Khan (@FaisalJavedKhan) September 7, 2018
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.
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.
Have resigned from EAC. Painful, deeply sad decision. Grateful for chance to aid analytical reasoning but not when such values compromised. Personally as a Muslim I can't justify this. May Allah forgive/guide me&us all.Ever ready to help.Pakistan Paindabadhttps://t.co/j80LHEhfRK
— Asim Ijaz Khwaja (@aikhwaja) September 7, 2018
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
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).
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.
#GenDunford just arrived in Islamabad #Pakistan to join @SecPompeo for meetings with senior government and military leaders.#GenDunfordTravels pic.twitter.com/ycHJwaqdA2
— The Joint Staff 🇺🇸 (@thejointstaff) September 5, 2018
A fresh start for #Pakistan and #US relations with Prime Minister Imran Khan taking the lead.Confident body language from the PM,and smiles from US Secretary of State #MikePompeo. It marks an understanding of a relationship of mutual benefit and respect between the two countries. pic.twitter.com/HTmzV0z0KM
— PTI (@PTIofficial) September 5, 2018
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.
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.
Mr. Ehsan Mani has been elected Chairman PCB by the Board of Governors (BoG.) Mr. Mani was elected unopposed in the BoG meeting convened at the Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore today for a period of three years. pic.twitter.com/Bd893OwN1L
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) September 4, 2018
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.
Prime Minister Imran Khan casts his vote at Parliament House for #PresidentialElection https://t.co/UF69T94RFF pic.twitter.com/inw47w3Gkc
— Radio Pakistan (@RadioPakistan) September 4, 2018
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.
President AJK met FM today. FM said that Pakistan would continue to extend political, moral and diplomatic support to Kashmiris The Commission of Inquiry as recommended by OHCHR report on Kashmir was welcomed. FM urged the int community to stop human rights violations in IOK. pic.twitter.com/Bz8GIJ5Pdo
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) September 4, 2018
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.
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.
Afghan FM Rabbani called FM Qureishi. FM reiterated Pakistan’s commitment towards peace and stability in Afghanistan. Both sides agreed on continued cooperation under APAPPS and to resolve security issues concerning Pakistan Consulate in Jalalabad pic.twitter.com/PEMhIRHTva
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) September 3, 2018
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: PIDCOAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa called on Prime Minister Imran Khan in PM secretariat today. Matters related to Defence Day, US-Pakistan relations, internal and external security situation were discussed. #Pakistan 🇵🇰 pic.twitter.com/atQUCRaZr7
— PTI (@PTIofficial) September 3, 2018
'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.
Today we launch our tree plantation drive #Plant4Pakistan across the entire country. I want everyone to join this #GreenPakistan drive so we can counter the twin threats of climate change and pollution confronting our future generations.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) September 2, 2018
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.
Had very constructive meetings with Punjab CM & cabinet; & the senior Punjab bureaucracy yesterday. Informed them all that priority must be given to achieving our 100-Days prog. We are determined to change governance in Pak, focusing on austerity, anti-corruption & meritocracy.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) September 2, 2018
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.
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.
 
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
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.
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).
Prime Minister Imran Khan arrived to visit GHQ. Received on arrival by COAS. PM being briefed on defence, internal security and other professional matters.
— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) August 30, 2018
Ministers of Defence, Foreign Affairs, Finance, Information and Minister of State for Interior are accompanying the PM.
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.
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.
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.
ہالینڈ میں گستاخانہ خاکوں کے مقابلے کی منسوخی پاکستان کی حکومت اور عوام کی بڑی کامیابی ہے ، آج وزیر اعظم کا پیغام اور ان کی ہدائیت پر وزارت خارجہ کے روابط اس کامیابی کا باعث بنے، عشق رسول سلامت رہے پاکستان زندہ باد۔
— Ch Fawad Hussain (@fawadchaudhry) August 30, 2018
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.
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"]
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.
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.
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.
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.
Presidential Elections 2018: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's nominee @ArifAlvi is preparing to file nomination papers for contesting the presidential vote. pic.twitter.com/2MvYjHP9xc
— PTI (@PTIofficial) August 27, 2018
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 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: INPPM 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.
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.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf has announced a twenty-three member cabinet for Punjab. #Punjab #PTI pic.twitter.com/sUTLICn8n5
— PTI (@PTIofficial) August 26, 2018
خیبر پختونخوا کی 15رکنی صوبائی کابینہ کا اعلان کر دیا گیا#KP #PTI pic.twitter.com/T7i2dsaiS3
— PTI (@PTIofficial) August 26, 2018
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.
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.
Prime Minister in MOFA today pic.twitter.com/t3wzKRFnT3
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) August 24, 2018
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.
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.
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.
On behalf of the people of Pakistan, we send our prayers and best wishes to those who have been devastated by the floods in Kerala, India. We stand ready to provide any humanitarian assistance that may be needed.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) August 23, 2018
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.
PM Imran congratulated the nation on Eidul Azha and urged citizens not to forget people who are deprived in this hour of happiness.
Prime Minister Imran Khan congratulates whole nation on Eid-ul-Azha. In his message on the occasion, he prayed to Allah almighty to accept our sacrifices and prayers. He said sacrifice is a universal devotion without which no nation can progress. #EidulAzha #عيد_الأضحى_المبارك pic.twitter.com/az0Jf5sSGG
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) August 22, 2018
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.
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.
In discussing human rights, girls’ education, trade, climate change, and refugees, PM @ImranKhanPTI & I had a great phone conversation today. Congratulations again, Imran, on forming Pakistan’s new government – I look forward to working together for people in both our countries. pic.twitter.com/4cslV0VnHn
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) August 20, 2018
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.
I want to thank Sidhu for coming to Pakistan for my oath taking. He was an ambassador of peace & was given amazing love & affection by ppl of Pakistan. Those in India who targeted him are doing a gt disservice to peace in the subcontinent - without peace our ppl cannot progress
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) August 21, 2018
The PM further added that Pakistan and India must engage in dialogue and resolve their conflicts including Kashmir.
To move forward Pakistan and India must dialogue and resolve their conflicts incl Kashmir: The best way to alleviate poverty and uplift the people of the subcontinent is to resolve our differences through dialogue and start trading https://t.co/V2UkXp0WwS
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) August 21, 2018
PM Imran's federal cabinet have taken oath administered by President Mamnoon Hussain.
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.
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.
My warmest congratulations to Your Excellency @ImranKhanPTI on your appointment as the Prime Minister of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/ChmTAJlL8g
— Dr Mahathir Mohamad (@chedetofficial) August 20, 2018
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.
On the directive of PM Imran Khan I formed a committee to advise on the future public use of heritage buildings pic.twitter.com/koSrU6cSHi
— Shafqat Mahmood (@Shafqat_Mahmood) August 20, 2018
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.
I was waiting for the new Prime Minister to take oath before submitting my resignation as PCB Chairman, which I have done today. I wish PCB all the best and hope our cricket team goes from strength to strength. Eid Mubarak. Pakistan Zindabad. pic.twitter.com/uiIVoiRAtq
— Najam Sethi (@najamsethi) August 20, 2018
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.
Thank you Prime Minister for appointing me as your Special Assistant for Political Affairs. This challenging assignment can only be fulfilled thru the hard work and dedication which you inspire in millions.
— Naeem ul Haque (@naeemul_haque) August 20, 2018
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:
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.
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.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres congratulated Imran Khan on assumption of office as prime minister.
— Government of Pakistan (@GovtofPakistan) August 18, 2018
UN chief hopes for deepening of UN-Pak cooperation in various fields, including the world body's flagship peacekeeping operations around the globe. 🇺🇳🇵🇰#PrimeMinisterIK pic.twitter.com/XuOl6BOA1r
PTI spokesperson Fawad Chaudhry confirmed Arif Alvi's nomination for the coveted post of the President of Pakistan.
PTI has nominated Dr Arif Alvi as its candidate for President of Islamic Republic of Pakistan #PTI
— Ch Fawad Hussain (@fawadchaudhry) August 18, 2018
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.
Name of ministers and portfolios pic.twitter.com/txlLJ2UZZP
— Ch Fawad Hussain (@fawadchaudhry) August 18, 2018
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)
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ