Author: Web Desk

Islamabad, The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has opened applications for its 2024 Leaders Forum, inviting young leaders who are actively involved in innovative nature conservation and biodiversity projects. The forum aims to connect these changemakers with global leaders to foster dialogue and develop impactful environmental solutions.

According to Pak NGOs, the IUCN Leaders Forum will be held in Geneva in October 2024, where selected young changemakers will have the chance to pitch their initiatives to influential figures from the private sector, government, and civil society. This event is part of the IUCN’s ongoing effort to address critical global challenges through innovative, nature-positive solutions at the nexus of energy, food, agriculture, and human health.

The forum will focus on convening influential leaders to facilitate dialogue, build trust, and identify collective solutions to environmental challenges. It also aims to provide a platform for discussing and monitoring global environmental trends and progress towards the 2030 targets. Young leaders participating in the forum will benefit from networking opportunities, travel to Geneva, accommodation, and a platform to advance their projects.

Participants are expected to be between the ages of 18 and 35 with a track record in fields related to nature conservation, biodiversity, or sustainable development. The IUCN encourages a diverse range of applicants, particularly from the Global South, minority groups, and young women leaders.

Karachi, The Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, in collaboration with the Honorary Consulate General of Mongolia, hosted a cultural event titled “Echoes of the Ancients,” which brought ancient Mongolian culture and traditions to life through music and performance. The event, held at Auditorium I, drew a large crowd, including dignitaries and cultural enthusiasts, highlighting the deepening cultural ties between Pakistan and Mongolia.

According to Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, the event was marked by the presence of notable figures such as Muhammad Ahmed Shah, President of the Arts Council of Pakistan Karachi, and Mr. Munkhtushig, Consul Minister of Mongolia. The program included performances by Mongolian artists, who presented their traditional music and culture for the first time in Pakistan, an initiative warmly welcomed by local audiences.

Muhammad Ahmed Shah expressed his enthusiasm for hosting Mongolian performers, noting that such cultural exchanges are vital for strengthening the bonds between the two countries. He also discussed future collaborations, including the involvement of Mongolian theatre groups in an upcoming International Theatre Festival planned for September and October. Mr. Munkhtushig reciprocated the sentiment, appreciating the efforts to promote Mongolian culture in Pakistan and emphasizing the longstanding diplomatic relations since 1962.

The event concluded with a cultural exchange gesture, as President Ahmed Shah presented a bouquet to Mr. Munkhtushig, symbolizing the mutual respect and admiration between the two nations. The successful event not only showcased the rich cultural heritage of Mongolia but also reinforced the cultural diplomacy that both countries continue to foster.

Islamabad, On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, President Asif Ali Zardari of Pakistan delivered a message highlighting the essential role of the media in addressing environmental issues and advocating for press freedom. He underscored the importance of an independent press in fostering societal accountability and educating the public about critical global challenges such as climate change.

According to Pakistan Peoples Party, President Zardari detailed the significance of this year’s theme, “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the face of the environmental crisis,” calling on the media to use its platform to combat misinformation about climate change and promote sustainable practices. He stressed that the media’s active participation is crucial in promoting forestation, clean technologies, and biodiversity to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change.

The President also acknowledged the difficulties journalists face worldwide, advocating for a safe and intimidation-free environment that supports their work. While emphasizing the constitutional guarantee of press freedom in Pakistan, he reminded the media of its duty to adhere to ethical journalism and contribute positively to societal and democratic values.

Lahore, Hafiz Naeemur Rahman, the Amir of Jamaat-e-Islami, has issued a four-day ultimatum to the Punjab government, threatening to stage a sit-in in front of the Chief Minister’s House if the decision not to purchase wheat from farmers is not reversed. He expressed concerns over a purported $1 billion wheat import scandal, demanding a judicial inquiry into the matter.

According to Jamaat-E-Islami Pakistan, Rahman announced the start of farmers’ protest camps across the country beginning Friday, particularly targeting Punjab’s district and divisional headquarters. He criticized the provincial government’s decision as unprecedented and detrimental to farmers’ interests. The protest, he stated, would remain peaceful unless obstructed, at which point more aggressive actions could be initiated.

Rahman also addressed discrepancies between the statements of the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister regarding wheat purchases. He called for the government to adhere to fixed wheat prices and support farmers adequately. Highlighting the rapid importation of wheat amidst a dollar shortage, he accused certain individuals of profiteering, thereby demanding high-level resignations and a transparent, public investigation led by the Chief Justice.

Furthermore, Rahman ridiculed the government’s online subsidy for farmers as impractical, given the limited digital access of small-scale farmers, and condemned the harsh treatment of protesting farmers by authorities. He emphasized the need for land reforms and announced plans for future movements to address agricultural and land distribution issues in Pakistan.

Lahore, Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, the Amir of Jamaat-e-Islami, has issued a strong call for resistance against what he describes as a corrupt system and the exploitation of workers and farmers by the current government. Speaking at a ceremony in Mansurah on the occasion of International Workers’ Day, Rehman criticized the government’s handling of agricultural policies and its treatment of farmers.

According to Jamaat-E-Islami Pakistan, Rehman highlighted the unity required among the working class to combat oppression and injustice. He condemned the government’s actions, including the arrest of farmers during peaceful demonstrations, and called for their immediate release. Rehman stated that the struggle against oppressors is mandated by Islam, and only through organized resistance can the exploited classes hope to reclaim their rights.

During the ceremony, which was attended by various officials of Jamaat-e-Islami, Rehman emphasized the nobility of labor, referring to it as the profession of the Prophet Muhammad. He criticized the current system for fostering conditions conducive to corruption and social evils, such as drug addiction and unemployment. He also lamented the lack of minimum wage enforcement and social security for workers.

Furthermore, Rehman accused major political families of monopolizing government positions and exploiting state resources, leading to widespread nepotism within the political landscape of Pakistan. He called on all oppressed groups to unite and join Jamaat-e-Islami in the fight against these injustices, promising a platform for struggle and advocacy.