Author: Sajjad Ali

RAWALPINDI:  Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Munir held a meeting with Commander US Central Command General Michael Eric Korella in Washington DC. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) issued a statement, stating that Army Chief General Asim Munir discussed mutual interests and cooperation on regional security with General Michael Eric. The ISPR mentioned that General Munir visited the CENTCOM Joint Operations Center, where they reviewed defense training and communication enhancement between CENTCOM and the Pakistan Army.

The United States administration expressed anticipation for collaboration with Pakistan on regional security and defense cooperation, recognizing it as a ‘major non-NATO ally.’ US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller highlighted the army chief’s meetings with key officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense General Lloyd J Austin. Discussions encompassed bilateral interests, global and regional security issues, and ongoing conflicts. Miller affirmed US support for free and fair elections in Pakistan, emphasizing non-interference in the country’s political dynamics. Pentagon Press Secretary Maj Gen Pat Ryder underscored Pakistan’s significance as a regional partner, particularly in counter-terrorism efforts. Chief…

At least 116 lives were tragically lost as an earthquake devastated northwest China, causing buildings to collapse, according to state media reports on Tuesday. The powerful and shallow tremor struck Gansu province around midnight, claiming at least 105 lives and leaving nearly 400 injured. Additionally, 11 people were reported dead and 100 injured in the city of Haidong in the neighboring province of Qinghai. The earthquake caused homes to crumble and significant damage, prompting people to flee to the streets for safety. Witnesses described the terrifying experience, with one woman sharing her fear in a video posted on a social…

Pakistan’s challenging start to their Australia tour worsened with a two-point deduction in the World Test Championship for a slow overrate during the first Test in Perth. Additionally, the players faced a 10 percent fine of their match fee for the overrate violation. Australia dominated the first Test, handing Pakistan a 360-run defeat as they were dismissed for just 89 in the final innings, chasing a formidable 450. Falling short by 2 overs in the stipulated time led to the ICC’s action and the imposition of fines. Looking ahead, Abbas Afridi, Abrar Ahmed, and Usama Mir are expected to bolster…

ISLAMABAD: Telenor Microfinance Bank (TMB) and easypaisa reassured their valued customers that their operations remain unaffected by the recent news regarding Telenor Pakistan’s sale. TMB and easypaisa, being independent financial entities licensed by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), are not part of the recent transaction, ensuring the complete security of customer deposits. As an independent financial institution, TMB, backed by dedicated shareholders Telenor B.V. and Ant Group, is fully committed to its ongoing transformation into a Digital Retail Bank, pending regulatory approvals. This commitment guarantees a promising future for customers and employees, providing an expanded range of products and…

Due to security concerns following recent terrorist attacks in the Tank and DI Khan (Dera Ismail Khan districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the polio vaccination drive has been suspended by the provincial administration. Originally scheduled to commence on December 18, the drive was also postponed in November. The decision comes in the wake of heightened security risks, including an attack on a building in the Police Lines area in Tank, resulting in the death of three policemen. The Inter-Services Public Relations reported that all five terrorists involved were killed during the operation. This move follows a series of attacks in the…

Google is set to shift its approach in handling Maps users’ location history by storing it locally on their devices rather than in the cloud. This significant change aims to heighten privacy protection, making it more challenging for law enforcement to access this data, particularly through controversial “geofence warrants.” These warrants allow authorities to collect data from tech companies on mobile phones that have been in a specific area during a defined time frame. Google’s decision, expected to be implemented over the next year, responds to longstanding privacy concerns and the potential misuse of geofence warrants, turning individuals near alleged…

PESHAWAR:  The total number of Afghans who left Pakistan since the launch of an operation against illegal immigrants last month has reached 435,152. The government launched an operation against foreigners living in Pakistan illegally on November 1 after a deadline expired on October 30. Even before the launch of operation, a large number of Afghans left Pakistan for fear of arrest. According to statistics released, 1,634 Afghans left on Saturday. They included 377 men, 325 women and 932 children belonging to 97 families. They were repatriated in 66 vehicles.

Prominent Pakistani television and film actress Saboor Aly recently became the subject of pregnancy speculations following her participation in the Pantene Hum Bridal Couture Week (BCW). Happily wedded to fellow actor Ali Ansari, Saboor Aly graced the ramp at the esteemed fashion event, showcasing the latest in bridal couture. Rumors surrounding Saboor’s potential pregnancy gained traction after a behind-the-scenes video from the BCW rehearsal session emerged on social media, captivating the interest of fans and followers. The video ignited a spirited discussion among fans, with many sharing their opinions and thoughts on the prospect of Saboor Aly expecting.

A devastating storm claimed the lives of at least 13 individuals on Saturday in the Argentine port city of Bahia Blanca, as the roof of a sports club collapsed under the force of heavy rains and winds. The tragic incident occurred during a skating competition at the facility, with authorities reporting the casualties and ongoing efforts to rescue individuals trapped beneath the rubble. In an official statement, the municipality confirmed the unfortunate deaths at the Bahiense del Norte club, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. Firefighters were actively engaged at the site, striving to free those still trapped amidst the…