Bleed Green

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to boost Pakistan’s annual exports to $60 billion within three years, aiming to strengthen foreign exchange reserves amid a severe economic crisis. Sharif emphasized the need to address exporters’ complaints and urged practical steps to achieve this target.

At a National Export Development Board meeting, he highlighted Pakistan’s previous fiscal year exports of over $30 billion, with IT exports exceeding $3.2 billion. Sharif called for reducing delivery times to Europe and America, improving export quality, and providing low-cost electricity to industries. He also urged the tax authority to expedite refunds to exporters and directed trade officers to promote exports.

At a press conference on Monday, Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry criticized the politicization of the Azm-e-Istehkam operation by a “political mafia.”

He clarified that this counter-terrorism campaign is not purely a military operation, emphasizing its comprehensive nature aimed at uplifting society.

He noted the significant sacrifices made by security forces, with 137 officers and soldiers killed this year and over 22,000 intelligence-based operations conducted.

He also condemned “digital terrorists” spreading fake news and propaganda about the army.

Rahimuddin Khan (July 21, 1926 – August 22, 2022) was a distinguished general of the Pakistan Army, serving as the 4th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee from 1984 to 1987 and as the 7th Governor of Balochistan from 1978 to 1984. He was also the 16th Governor of Sindh in 1988.

During the Partition, Rahimuddin chose to serve Pakistan and became the first cadet at the Pakistan Military Academy. His military career included notable actions during the 1953 Punjab disturbances and leadership roles as Commander of the 111 Brigade in Rawalpindi and II Corps in Multan.

His tenure as the longest-serving Governor of Balochistan was marked by significant achievements, including declaring a general amnesty, halting military operations, and fostering development such as opening the Sui gas fields to Quetta and constructing nuclear test sites in Chaghai. Known for his financial integrity, Rahimuddin also took a firm stance against mujahideen entering Balochistan during the Soviet-Afghan war. He chose not to extend his service as Chairman Joint Chiefs and retired in 1987.

Pakistan's IT exports surged by nearly $300 million in June, announced the state minister for IT, reflecting the country's robust growth in the sector. Amid efforts to attract foreign investments and trade opportunities, Pakistan secured a $7 billion IMF loan to support economic stability.

Collaborations with countries like Saudi Arabia, China, and Qatar have significantly boosted IT exports. "IT exports rose by 32.44% in June 2024, reaching $298 million," said IT Minister Shaza Fatima. From July 2023 to June 2024, IT exports totaled $3.223 billion, up from $2.596 billion the previous year.

Government initiatives, including support from SIFC and the Pakistan Software Export Board, are driving further increases in IT exports, showcasing Pakistan's thriving IT industry.

Economic growth in Pakistan is forecasted to increase from 2.4% in FY24 to 3.2% in FY25, driven by monetary easing, improved agricultural output, and slowing inflation, according to BMI's "Pakistan-Country Risk Report." Inflation is expected to drop to 6.2% by December 2024, with interest rates decreasing to 16% by the end of 2024 and 14% by December 2025. Additionally, a stable exchange rate is anticipated to help reduce inflationary pressures, contributing to a more robust economic outlook.

On Thursday, the General Headquarters (GHQ) hosted the 97th anniversary celebration of the founding of China's People's Liberation Army (PLA). Mr. Jiang Zaidong, Ambassador of China to Pakistan, was the Chief Guest, with Major General Wang Zhong and officials from both countries' militaries in attendance.

General Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), welcomed the Chinese delegation, congratulated the PLA, and praised its contributions to China's defense and development. He highlighted the enduring and exceptional Pakistan-China relations, built on mutual trust and support.

Ambassador Jiang Zaidong thanked the COAS for hosting the event and commended the Pakistani military's efforts against terrorism. He reiterated China's readiness to work with Pakistan against terrorism, emphasizing the strong, unwavering friendship between the two nations and their militaries.

The Pakistan Army is striving to integrate the youth from tribal districts.
Recently, an ISSB Cadre was held to prepare North Waziristan's youth for Army commissions.
Fourteen candidates participated, receiving comprehensive training for all ISSB tests, excluding the final interview preparation.

Eight security personnel martyred in a su***de attack on Bannu cantonment were buried with full military honours.

Senior Pakistan Army officers, soldiers, families, and local elders attended their funerals. ISPR affirmed that their sacrifices will not be in vain and the fight against terrorism will continue.

Two more security personnel martyred in Dera Ismail Khan were also laid to rest with full honours, with ISPR stating that these sacrifices strengthen the resolve in the war on terrorism.

In early hours of 15 July 24, a group of ten terrorists attacked Bannu Cantonment. The attempt to enter the cantonment was effectively thwarted by the security forces personnel, which forced the terrorists to ram an explosive laden vehicle into perimeter wall of the cantonment.

The su***de blast led to collapse of portion of the wall and damaged the adjoining infrastructure, resulting in shahadat of eight brave sons of soil that include: Naib Subedar Muhammad Shehzad (age: 44 years, resident of: District Poonch, AJK), Havildar Zil-e-Hussain (age: 39 years, resident of: District Khushab), Havildar Shahzad Ahmed (age: 28 years, resident of: District Neelum, AJK), Sepoy Ashfaq Hussain Khan (age: 30 years, resident of: District Muzzafarabad, AJK), Sepoy Sobhan Majeed (age: 22 years, resident of: District Muzzafarabad, AJK), Sepoy Imtiaz Khan (age: 30 years, resident of: District Karak), Sepoy Arsalan Aslam (age: 26 years, resident of: District Bahawalpur) of Pakistan Army and Lance Naik Sabz Ali (age: 34 years, resident of: Lakki Marwat) of Frontier Constabulary.

In an attack on Monday, ten terrorists targeted Bannu Cantonment in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, resulting in the martyrdom of eight soldiers, the military reported.

The attackers, repelled by troops, detonated an explosive-laden vehicle against the perimeter wall. The fallen heroes included Naib Subedar Muhammad Shehzad and others from the Pakistan Army and Frontier Constabulary.

All ten terrorists were killed in the ensuing operation. The attack was linked to the Hafiz Gul Bahadur group operating from Afghanistan.

ISPR emphasized the need for Afghanistan to prevent the use of its soil for such acts. Pakistan continues to face increased terrorist activities, particularly in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

Gloves come off as govt loses patience with PTI

Minister unveils plans to ban Imran Khan’s party

• Tarar refers to prohibited funding and cipher cases, May 9 events, US House resolution to justify move

• Says Imran, Alvi, Suri, and others to face treason charges for ‘circumventing’ no-trust vote in 2022

یہ جو سوھنی دھرتی ہے
اسکے پیچھے وردی ہے

بنوں کینٹ آپریشن مکمل بنوں کینٹ پر حملہ کے دوران دہشتگردوں سے بہادری سے لڑتے وطن عزیز کے لیے ہووئے اپنی جانیں قربان کرنے والے پاک فوج کے بہادر جوان🇵🇰حملے کے دوران 7 دہشتگردوں کو جہنم واصل کر دیا

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev visited the National Aerospace Science and Technology Park (NASTP) in Rawalpindi on Friday, accompanied by Air Chief Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu. He was briefed on JF-17 Thunder fighter jets and other defense equipment. After a two-day visit, President Aliyev has returned home.

On Thursday, Pakistan and Azerbaijan agreed to boost bilateral investment to $2 billion, focusing on mutually beneficial projects. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced this during a joint press briefing with President Aliyev following the signing of various agreements and MoUs.

The funeral prayers for Sepoy Muhammad Idrees and Sepoy Badam Gul of the Pakistan Army were held at Peshawar Garrison, announced ISPR on Thursday. On July 10, 2024, security forces and police conducted a joint operation in Hassan Khel, Peshawar District, targeting a high-profile terrorist. During the operation, four personnel were martyred: Sepoy Muhammad Idrees (34, Swabi), Sepoy Badam Gul (34, Kohat), Sub Inspector Tajmir Shah (38, Peshawar), and Assistant Sub Inspector Muhammad Akram (34, Mansehra). Senior police officers, army officials, and relatives attended the funeral.

Justice Aalia Neelum made history on Thursday as she took the oath as the first woman Chief Justice of the Lahore High Court (LHC), following President Asif Ali Zardari's approval. The LHC, crucial for constitutional and rights-related cases in Pakistan, has had several esteemed female jurists, but Justice Neelum is the first to lead it. Notably, Supreme Court Justice Ayesha Malik also served at the LHC before her promotion.

The Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) highlighted Justice Neelum's dedication to gender equality and women's empowerment, including her role in establishing Gender-Based Violence Courts. Beginning her legal career in 1996, she has handled cases in constitutional law, white-collar crime, anti-terrorism, accountability, and banking laws. Appointed as an LHC judge in 2015, her recent elevation was made by the Judicial Commission of Pakistan, chaired by Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa.

General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, is on an official visit to Russia. During his visit, he met with Colonel General Alexander Fomin, Deputy Defence Minister; Aleksandr Venediktov, Deputy Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation; and Colonel General S. Y. Istrakov, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation.

The meetings emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation in connectivity, trade, energy, and security. Both parties discussed mutual interests, including bilateral military and technical cooperation, regional security, and counter-terrorism efforts. There was a shared interest in strengthening the bilateral military-to-military relationship.

On 10 July 2024, a joint intelligence-based operation was conducted by Security Forces and Police in the Hassan Khel area of Peshawar District, targeting a high-profile terrorist.

Following an intense exchange of fire, three terrorists, including the high-value target, Terrorist Commander Abdul Raheem, were neutralized. Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the scene.

Abdul Raheem, who had a bounty of PKR 6 million on his head, was actively involved in numerous terrorist activities, including the attack on 26 May 2024, which resulted in the deaths of Captain Hussain Jehangir Shaheed and Havildar Shafiq Ullah Shaheed. Today's operation has avenged this heinous act and brought the main perpetrator to justice.

However, during the operation, four brave personnel embraced martyrdom: Sepoy Muhammad Idrees (34, Swabi District), Sepoy Badam Gul (34, Kohat District) of the Pakistan Army, Sub Inspector Tajmir Shah (38, Peshawar District), and Assistant Sub Inspector Muhammad Akram (34, Mansehra District) of CTD KPK.

Pakistan’s Security Forces, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, remain committed to ensuring peace and stability across the country. The sacrifices of our brave men only strengthen our resolve.

The closing ceremony of the Pakistan – United States Infantry Rifle Company Exercise – 2024 was held at the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in Pabbi.

This inaugural exercise in the counter-terrorism domain commenced on 29 June 2024 and spanned two weeks. Companies from both professional armies participated with dedication and enthusiasm.

The ceremony was graced by the General Officer Commanding 17 Division as the Chief Guest, and Major General Charles G. Kemper, Commanding General of the 34th Infantry Division from the United States Army, was also in attendance. The troops demonstrated the highest standards of professional excellence throughout the exercise.

The Infantry Rifle Company Exchange aimed to refine drills and procedures, and share vital counter-terrorism experiences to address the ongoing terrorism threats faced by both nations. The exercise focused on marksmanship and tactical skills in urban warfare, enhancing both individual and collective expertise.

The funeral prayers for Captain Muhammad Osama Bin Arshad Shaheed (24, resident of District Rawalpindi), who was martyred while defending the nation in North Waziristan District, were held at Chaklala Garrison Rawalpindi.

The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Defence Minister, Information Minister, COAS, and numerous serving and retired military officers, soldiers, and relatives of the Shaheed attended the funeral.

The Prime Minister emphasized that these sacrifices strengthen our commitment to eradicating terrorism for a peaceful and prosperous Pakistan. He affirmed the nation’s resolve to defeat foreign-supported terrorists and their facilitators through a comprehensive, multi-domain strategy.

Captain Osama Bin Arshad will be buried in his hometown with full military honors.

A Pakistan Army captain was martyred in an exchange of fire with terrorists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s North Waziristan district on Tuesday, according to the military's media wing. Captain Muhammad Osama bin Arshad, 24, from Rawalpindi district, was martyred during the confrontation. The Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that the troops effectively engaged the terrorists, resulting in the elimination of two militants. Captain Arshad led his troops valiantly and made the ultimate sacrifice.

The ISPR announced that a sanitization operation is underway to eliminate any remaining terrorists in the area. It emphasized the determination of Pakistan's security forces to eradicate terrorism and noted that such sacrifices strengthen their resolve.

The banned militant group Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) claimed responsibility for the incident. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the martyr, reaffirming the nation's commitment to continue the fight against terrorism until it is completely eradicated. "The nation salutes the soldiers who stand like an iron wall against terrorists," he said.

Pakistani mountaineer Samina Baig has been transferred to CMH Rawalpindi via a special C130 flight from Skardu. Currently, she is receiving care in the hospital's intensive care ward. The Pakistan Army rescued her on Sunday during an international mountaineering mission due to her ill health. At CMH Rawalpindi, a dedicated team of Pakistan Army doctors and paramedical staff are providing continuous care and treatment. Her condition is stable, and she is recovering.

The Pakistan Army, in collaboration with doctors from District Health Quarters Umerkot, organized a free medical camp at Government Boys Public School Shah Panjo Sultan in Taluka Mehar, District Dadu. Over 1,360 patients, including men, women, and children, received comprehensive medical services. Specialist doctors from fields such as gynecology, pediatrics, general medicine, and pathology, along with paramedic staff from Mehar, participated.

Services included laboratory tests for dengue, malaria, hepatitis B and C, typhoid, pregnancy, urine RE, and blood sugar. Patients received free medications, supplements, medical advice, vaccinations, and hygiene and first-aid kits. The camp addressed various health issues including anemia, URTI, malaria, dengue fever, gastroenteritis, nutrition, diabetes, UTI, high blood pressure, and prenatal care. The local residents appreciated and welcomed the initiative, expressing gratitude for the free medical services provided.

The federal government has approved the deployment of the Army across the country during Muharram due to security concerns. The approval includes the deployment of the Pakistan Army and civil armed forces in Islamabad, Azad Kashmir, Gilgit Baltistan, and other provinces, as outlined in a federal government notification. The notification states that the specifics of the deployment will be discussed with relevant authorities and that the deployment is for an indefinite period. Decisions regarding the return of troops will be made through mutual consultation. The provinces will determine the location and number of troops needed. The Sindh government had previously approved the deployment of Army, Rangers, and FC personnel.

A $5 billion investment has been pledged for oil and gas exploration, with a 3-year plan to excavate 240 potential sites. Chinese shoe manufacturers are considering a $5 billion investment in Pakistan, and talks are ongoing for relocating solar panel manufacturing units. The Prime Minister reviewed plans to send 1,000 students to China for agricultural training, prioritizing students from Balochistan.

Bill Winters, CEO of Standard Chartered Bank, stated Pakistan could achieve over 6% annual growth by addressing business confidence and the rule of law. Saudi Arabia's Asyad Holding has acquired a 77.42% stake in Shell Pakistan Limited. Services exports rose by 7.9% in May, marking the fourth consecutive month of growth. The financial sector’s asset base expanded by 27% in 2023, mainly due to banking investments in government securities.

Interloop Limited became Pakistan's largest textile exporter, recording $530 million in exports for 2023-24. The State Bank of Pakistan aims to increase the agricultural finance portfolio to Rs 1,000 billion and double SME financing to Rs 1,100 billion by June 2025 as part of Vision 2028.

Sir Muhammad Iqbal, also known as Allama Iqbal, was a prominent philosopher, poet, and politician in British India, born on November 9, 1877, and passing away on April 21, 1938. He is highly regarded in Urdu literature and earned the title of a significant Muslim philosophical thinker. He was also known as "Shair-e-Mushriq" or the "Poet of the East." In Iran and Afghanistan, he is celebrated for his Persian works.

Iqbal's literary contributions encompass various works in both Urdu and Persian, with well-known works including "Bang-i-Dara," "Bal-i-Jibril," "Zarb-i Kalim," and more. He also delivered lectures later published as "The Reconstruction of Islamic Religious Thoughts in Islam." Iqbal's academic journey took him to England and Germany, where he earned his higher education, including a PhD in 1908.

Iqbal's writings primarily focused on the spiritual and intellectual development of society, influenced by his experiences in Western Europe and the Middle East, particularly the poetry and philosophy of Mawlana Rumi.

He played a significant role in the Muslim political movement, actively engaging with the Muslim League and advocating for the unity of Indian Muslims under the leadership of Muhammad Ali Jinnah. His visionary address in 1930 outlined the concept of a consolidated Muslim-majority state in northwestern India, a precursor to the formation of Pakistan.

Iqbal was a patron of "Tolu-e-Islam," a pivotal journal for Muslims in British India. He authored books on metaphysics and religious thought and expressed his views on various topics, including Persian ideology, Islamic Sufism, and philosophy. His views on the Western world received recognition and acclaim.

Sir Muhammad Iqbal passed away on April 21, 1938, due to a prolonged throat infection, leaving a lasting legacy.

The Lahore Diamond Necklace, a significant and renowned part of the Queen's jewelry collection, was meticulously crafted for Queen Victoria in 1858 by her spouse, Prince Albert. It has been subsequently worn by succeeding Queens during coronations and various state functions. Comprising 28 precious diamonds with a combined weight of 161 carats, this necklace ranks among the world's most costly adornments. Notably, the centerpiece, the Lahore Diamond, alone weighs 22.8 carats.

Formally designated as 'The Lahore Necklace,' its name hints at colonial origins. The necklace's history is entwined with the British occupation of the Lahore Fort in 1849, where they discovered the fabled 'Toshakhana' treasures. These treasures, cataloged by Dr. John Login, the fort's administrator, included five bags of diamonds, 134 substantial pieces of gold jewelry, an assortment of precious gemstones, valuable cashmere (pashmina) shawls and choghas, and relics of the Holy Prophet, such as his shoes, walking stick, shirt, cap, and locks of his hair. These are just a fraction of the treasures taken from the fort, and the full extent of the loot remains uncertain, likely residing in private collections or going undocumented.

The diamonds obtained from this treasure cache are the source of the diamonds used in creating this extraordinary necklace, which carries its current name. The Lahore Diamond Necklace stands as one of the world's most opulent necklaces to this day, and now, you possess insight into its origin.

A.K. Fazlul Huq, also known as "Sher-e-Bangla," made significant contributions to politics, society, and education for Muslims in the Indian subcontinent. He dedicated nearly five decades to the cause of a separate Muslim nation.

Born on October 26, 1873, in Chakhar, Barisal, to Kazi Wazeed Ali and Syed-un-Nisa, Fazlul Huq received traditional Islamic education at home, later excelling in secular studies. He earned multiple academic distinctions, including a law degree in 1897, becoming the second Muslim in India to do so.

Fazlul Huq's political journey began under the mentorship of leaders like Sir Khawaja Salimullah and Syed Nawab Ali Chauhdry. He played key roles in the Muslim League, advocating for farmers and laborers. Notably, he helped create the Lucknow Pact of 1916 and was elected as the president of the All India Muslim League in 1916. He was a strong advocate for educational improvements.

He interacted with Muhammad Ali Jinnah and participated in round table conferences, serving as a representative of Bengali Muslims. He held positions in the Indian legislative assembly, became the first Muslim mayor of Kolkata in 1935, and was elected Chief Minister of undivided Bengal in 1937.

In the 1940 All India Muslim League conference in Lahore, Fazlul Huq presented a resolution advocating for Muslim rights in India, gaining recognition.

Fazlul Huq was known for his simplicity and dedication to helping the less fortunate. He recognized the importance of education and established various educational institutions. He had a notable family and career in politics, law, and journalism.

Fazlul Huq passed away on April 27, 1962, at the age of 89. His funeral was attended by many, with offices and institutions closing to honor him. He was buried in Dhaka alongside other prominent leaders.

In remembrance of Ismail Gulgee's death anniversary, it is worth noting that he was a distinguished Pakistani artist who made significant contributions to the world of art. Born on October 25, 1926, in Peshawar, Pakistan, he was not only a qualified engineer in the United States but also a self-taught abstract and portrait painter.

Before 1959, Gulgee gained recognition as a portrait artist, notably painting the entire Afghan Royal Family. After 1960, his artistry took a different direction, as he became renowned for his abstract works, influenced by Islamic calligraphy and the American "action painting" style.

Gulgee's artistic journey began while pursuing his engineering education in the United States, starting at Columbia University and later at Harvard. His first exhibition took place in 1950. Over the years, he received numerous requests for his art from various international figures, including the Saudi royal family and the Islamabad presidency. Many of his creations are on display in the Faisal Mosque in Islamabad.

Ismail Gulgee received multiple awards from different countries, including Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Japan, and France, acknowledging his artistic excellence.

It is important to mention that Ismail Gulgee, his wife Zarrin Gulgee, and a maid were discovered deceased in their home on the evening of December 19, 2007, with signs of strangulation. Their bodies had reportedly been lifeless for three days, suggesting a death date of December 16, 2007. They were found bound and gagged in separate rooms of their residence, with the initial cause of death attributed to suffocation. There were reports of Gulgee's missing car and driver. He was laid to rest in Karachi on the evening of December 20, 2007.