By Irfan Siddiqui

In politics, positions change, governments come and go, and circumstances often test even the strongest loyalties. What ultimately distinguishes a committed political worker is not the office he holds, but the consistency with which he stands by his beliefs during both favourable and difficult times. Chaudhry Shakeel, a prominent Pakistan Peoples Party figure now based in New York, represents a political journey defined by his long association with the PPP and his deep attachment to the political legacy of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto.

Originally from Sialkot, Chaudhry Shakeel has remained associated with the Pakistan Peoples Party through different phases of his political life. His relationship with the party has not merely been symbolic. The PPP placed its confidence in him by awarding him a ticket to contest a provincial assembly election from Sialkot, giving him an opportunity to represent the party in electoral politics.

For Chaudhry Shakeel, however, political commitment has never been limited to contesting elections. His journey with the PPP has extended far beyond Pakistan’s borders. During his years in Dubai, he remained active in party affairs and worked to strengthen its presence among overseas Pakistanis. Today, living in New York, he continues to play an active role within the overseas Pakistani community and remains an important voice for the PPP among its supporters in the United States.

His political philosophy is rooted deeply in the Bhutto legacy. He speaks with affection and admiration about Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, whose politics transformed Pakistan’s political landscape and brought ordinary citizens into the centre of national political discourse. He has an equally strong emotional attachment to Benazir Bhutto, whose courage, political struggle and ultimate sacrifice left a permanent mark on Pakistan’s democratic history.

For Chaudhry Shakeel, loyalty to Benazir Bhutto’s memory is inseparable from loyalty to the party she led through some of its most difficult years.

That loyalty, he says, has also come at a personal cost.

Over the course of his political struggle, Chaudhry Shakeel says he has faced difficult circumstances, legal cases and imprisonment, yet none of these experiences persuaded him to abandon his political affiliation. He takes pride in describing himself as a “Jiyala”, the traditional term associated with committed PPP workers who have stood with the party through political adversity.

This perhaps explains why his connection with the PPP has survived geographical changes as well. Sialkot remained his political foundation, Dubai became another chapter of his political activities, and New York has now become the place from where he continues his engagement with the party and the Pakistani diaspora.

Chaudhry Shakeel believes that one of the PPP’s greatest strengths is its federal character. In his view, Pakistan needs political forces capable of speaking to citizens across provincial, ethnic and regional boundaries. He considers the PPP a party with the potential to connect Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa under a broader national political vision.

He also strongly supports President Asif Ali Zardari, whom he regards as a politically experienced leader carrying forward the mission associated with Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto. In Chaudhry Shakeel’s assessment, Zardari’s emphasis on political dialogue and reconciliation has played an important role in keeping democratic forces engaged with one another during challenging periods in Pakistan’s politics.

But when the conversation turns towards Pakistan’s political future, Chaudhry Shakeel places particular hope in Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

He sees Bilawal as the representative of a new generation of Pakistani political leadership: young, internationally exposed and capable of communicating Pakistan’s position to the wider world. Chaudhry Shakeel particularly praises Bilawal’s tenure as Pakistan’s foreign minister, believing that his international engagements helped present a confident and modern face of Pakistan on important global platforms.

In his view, Bilawal possesses the political inheritance of the Bhutto family while also understanding the expectations of a younger generation of Pakistanis. Chaudhry Shakeel believes these qualities make him a serious contender for national leadership in the years ahead, and he openly hopes to see Bilawal Bhutto Zardari become a future prime minister of Pakistan.

Yet Chaudhry Shakeel’s political story is not solely about senior leaders. It is equally about the thousands of political workers who remain attached to their parties without necessarily occupying major public offices. Political parties survive not only because of their leadership but because of workers who organise meetings, maintain community connections and defend their political identity during difficult periods.

This role becomes even more significant within overseas Pakistani communities.

New York is home to a large and politically engaged Pakistani diaspora. Pakistani political developments are closely followed there, and almost every major political party has supporters and activists among the community. Chaudhry Shakeel believes overseas Pakistanis should have a meaningful connection with their homeland and should be recognised for the economic, social and diplomatic contribution they make to Pakistan.

Despite living thousands of miles away, his political compass continues to point towards Pakistan. His roots remain in Sialkot, his political identity remains connected with the PPP, and his emotional attachment remains firmly associated with the Bhutto legacy.

There is an old truth in politics: winning an election may require popularity, but remaining committed through years of changing circumstances requires endurance. Chaudhry Shakeel’s journey, from Sialkot to Dubai and eventually New York, is a story of that political endurance.

Cities changed, circumstances changed and Pakistan’s political landscape changed many times, but Chaudhry Shakeel’s commitment to the Pakistan Peoples Party and his belief in the Bhutto political legacy remained constant. For him, being a Jiyala is not simply a political description. It is an identity he has carried from Sialkot to New York, and one he intends to carry into the future.

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Chairman Senate Syedal Khan Nasar has stressed the need for transparency, accountability, quality development and effective use of public resources, as the Senate House Committee raised serious concerns over delays and construction standards in the new Parliament Lodges project.

Chairing a meeting of the Senate House Committee at Parliament House, Syedal Khan Nasar reviewed progress on the construction of 104 new Parliament Lodges as well as repair and maintenance issues concerning the existing lodges.

The meeting was attended by Senators Danesh Kumar, Hidayatullah Khan, Jan Muhammad, Kamil Ali Agha and Naseema Ehsan, along with officials from the Capital Development Authority, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives and Senate Secretariat.

The Committee expressed serious concern over the absence of senior representatives of the relevant ministries and the CDA, observing that non-participation by responsible officials reflected a lack of seriousness towards parliamentary oversight.

During the meeting, the inspection committee presented its findings regarding the construction of the 104 new lodges. Senator Kamil Ali Agha informed the Committee that despite claims of substantial progress, the inspection found that only around 20 percent of the project appeared to be functionally complete.

Members highlighted several deficiencies, including changes to the originally approved central air-conditioning system, inadequate ventilation arrangements, design issues affecting the installation of ceiling fans, impractical placement of storage areas near lodge entrances and concerns regarding the overall standard and quality of construction.

Responding to the observations, CDA’s Member Engineering informed the Committee that the grey structure had been completed and finishing work was underway. He said imported lifts were yet to be installed, while furniture had already been ordered. An architect had also been engaged to prepare a model lodge for renovation of the existing Parliament Lodges, including upgrades to electrical and allied systems.

Senator Jan Muhammad told the Committee that only a token allocation had been provided for repairs to his allotted lodge despite repeated requests over the past three years. CDA officials said first-quarter funds had now been released and tendering would begin shortly, with repair work expected to start in the first week of September 2026.

The Chief Planning Officer of the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives informed the Committee that the total cost of the 104 New Parliament Lodges Project stood at Rs7.1 billion. Of this amount, Rs3.5 billion had already been utilized, while Rs1.1 billion had been allocated during the current financial year.

CDA officials also informed the Committee that the Auditor General of Pakistan had initiated an external forensic audit of repair and maintenance works and its report was awaited.

Syedal Khan Nasar proposed an independent forensic audit covering both the existing Parliament Lodges and the construction of the 104 new lodges by a professional consultancy firm headed by Syed Shabbar Zaidi. Senator Kamil Ali Agha strongly supported the proposal, and the Committee unanimously recommended engaging the firm to ensure transparency, accountability and quality assurance.

The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring timely completion of the project, maintaining high construction standards and safeguarding public money through effective parliamentary oversight.

Separately, Deputy Chairman Senate Syedal Khan Nasar held meetings with Chairman Senate Standing Committee on Religious Affairs Senator Maulana Atta-ur-Rehman, Chairman Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat Senator Rana Mahmood-ul-Hassan, parliamentarians, lawyers, intellectuals, representatives of civil society, the business community and chambers of commerce.

Discussions focused on Pakistan’s political and economic situation, law and order, national development and regional developments.

Speaking during the meetings, Syedal Khan Nasar described the Makkah Defence Agreement between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye as an important development for regional and global peace and stability. He said enhanced defence cooperation and mutual consultation could strengthen unity, trust and collective security in the Muslim world.

He said Pakistan was playing an active role in promoting regional peace and stability, while political and military leadership continued efforts to combat terrorism and strengthen internal security.

The Deputy Chairman Senate also emphasized the economic potential of Pakistan’s natural and mineral resources, particularly those in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and other regions. He said effective policymaking, investment and modern technology could transform these resources into a major source of economic growth and public prosperity.

Syedal Khan Nasar called for political stability, national unity and collective efforts to overcome Pakistan’s challenges, saying political parties, national leadership, the business community and civil society should rise above differences and work together to place the country firmly on the path of sustainable development, stability and prosperity.

By. Irfan Siddiqui

Tokyo, Japan: Former Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Overseas Secretary General, former President of PML-N Japan, and senior central party leader Sheikh Qasim Mahmood received a warm welcome during his recent visit to Japan, where a grand dinner reception was organized in his honor by prominent Pakistani community figure Asad Nawaz Khan.

The gathering brought together a large number of distinguished members of the Pakistani community, political workers, and senior leaders of PML-N Japan, reflecting the strong unity and camaraderie among overseas party members.

Among those in attendance were Asad Nawaz Khan, Malik Noor Awan, President of PML-N Japan; Chaudhry Ansar, Senior Vice President of PML-N Japan; Sheikh Amir; Malik Kashif Awan; Malik Ali Awan; Khushmat Khan; Hashmat Nawaz Khan; Chaudhry Zafar; Shahid Ali; Muhammad Usman; Muhammad Anwar; Malik Afzal, along with many respected members of the Pakistani community residing in Japan.

The dinner provided an opportunity for participants to exchange views on the Pakistani community’s role abroad, strengthen relationships among party workers, and discuss matters concerning Pakistan and overseas Pakistanis. The atmosphere was warm and cordial, with guests expressing their appreciation for the spirit of unity and mutual respect that characterized the event.

Speaking on the occasion, Sheikh Qasim Mahmood expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Asad Nawaz Khan for hosting such a memorable and generously organized reception. He also thanked Malik Noor Awan and the leadership of PML-N Japan for their hospitality and for bringing together party members and community representatives.

Addressing the gathering, Sheikh Qasim Mahmood said that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz government is serving the country with dedication and responsibility. He remarked that the government is making determined efforts to place Pakistan on the path of sustainable economic growth and national development. He added that the leadership remains committed to improving the country’s economy, strengthening public institutions, and creating better opportunities for future generations.

He further appreciated the continued support and commitment of overseas Pakistanis, describing them as an invaluable asset to the nation. He acknowledged the important contributions made by the Pakistani community in Japan through their professional achievements, remittances, and positive representation of Pakistan abroad.

Participants at the reception praised the efforts of PML-N Japan in maintaining close coordination among party workers and fostering meaningful engagement with the wider Pakistani community. They also commended Asad Nawaz Khan for organizing a successful and well-attended event that reflected the unity and strength of overseas Pakistanis in Japan.

The evening concluded with friendly discussions, photographs, and renewed commitments to work together for the welfare of the Pakistani community overseas while supporting initiatives aimed at Pakistan’s continued progress and prosperity.

War Risk Insurance Costs to End, Boosting Trade and Investor Confidence

By Irfan Siddiqi

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has achieved a landmark success in the maritime sector as the country’s territorial waters have officially been removed from the Lloyd’s Joint War Committee Listed Areas, a development expected to significantly reduce shipping costs, strengthen investor confidence, and enhance Pakistan’s position as a regional maritime and trade hub.

Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry described the achievement as a historic milestone, crediting the success to the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and the coordinated efforts of the Ministry of Maritime Affairs over the past four months.

According to the Minister, the federal government constituted a dedicated committee on the instructions of the Prime Minister to engage with relevant international stakeholders and present Pakistan’s improved maritime security environment. The committee’s persistent diplomatic and technical efforts ultimately resulted in Pakistan’s removal from the list of high risk maritime areas maintained by the Lloyd’s Joint War Committee.

“This is a historic achievement for Pakistan’s maritime sector,” Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said, adding that the accomplishment reflects the government’s commitment to restoring international confidence in Pakistan’s shipping and port infrastructure. He also acknowledged the strategic guidance provided by the Prime Minister and the country’s military leadership throughout the process.

With Pakistan no longer categorized as a listed risk area, international shipping companies will no longer be required to pay war risk insurance premiums and additional security surcharges while calling at Pakistani ports. Industry experts believe this will substantially reduce transportation costs for imports and exports, making Pakistani trade more competitive in international markets.

The Minister emphasized that lower shipping costs will directly benefit exporters and importers by reducing logistical expenses, thereby improving the competitiveness of Pakistani products in global markets. He noted that the decision would also encourage greater participation by international shipping lines and logistics companies in Pakistan’s maritime sector.

Junaid Anwar Chaudhry further stated that the removal of Pakistan from the listed areas would strengthen the confidence of global investors, shipping operators, and commercial partners. Increased confidence, he said, is expected to translate into higher maritime activity, expanded investment opportunities, and stronger economic growth linked to the country’s ports and logistics network.

The development is also expected to enhance the strategic importance of Karachi Port, Port Qasim, and Gwadar Port, positioning them as more attractive gateways for regional and international trade. Improved confidence among global shipping operators is likely to increase cargo traffic and create new opportunities for transit trade connecting South Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.

Observers describe the decision as a major diplomatic and economic success that reflects Pakistan’s improving maritime security profile and its growing importance in regional commerce. They believe the government’s sustained engagement with international maritime institutions has delivered tangible economic benefits that will support trade, attract investment, and strengthen Pakistan’s standing in the global shipping industry.

The Ministry of Maritime Affairs has expressed confidence that this milestone will open a new chapter for Pakistan’s blue economy, enabling the country to capitalize on its strategic coastline while expanding trade, improving port competitiveness, and creating fresh opportunities for sustainable economic development.

ISLAMABAD / TOKYO: The Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF), under the leadership of its Chairman Syed Qamar Raza Shah, is earning widespread appreciation from overseas Pakistanis for introducing practical measures that are making the repatriation of deceased Pakistanis to their homeland more organized, dignified, and compassionate.

One of the most significant initiatives introduced by the OPF is the provision of support upon the arrival of deceased overseas Pakistanis in Pakistan. Under this facility, OPF teams receive the body at the airport and arrange free ambulance transportation to the deceased’s hometown, providing much needed assistance to grieving families during one of the most difficult moments of their lives.

The effectiveness of these arrangements was recently witnessed when the family of a deceased Pakistani from Japan expressed heartfelt gratitude to Chairman Syed Qamar Raza Shah, OPF Advisor Asad Nawaz Khan, members of the OPF Advisory Council Japan, and the entire OPF team for ensuring the smooth transfer of their loved one’s body from Lahore Airport to Sialkot.

According to the family, OPF officials were already present at Lahore Airport before the arrival of the deceased. The body was respectfully received and transported safely to Sialkot through the Foundation’s complimentary ambulance service. The bereaved family described the support as a great source of comfort during an emotionally challenging time and prayed for the continued success of everyone involved.

The family acknowledged that these timely arrangements reflected the commitment of Chairman Syed Qamar Raza Shah to improving welfare services for overseas Pakistanis. Community members have also appreciated his vision of strengthening OPF’s role beyond administrative functions by ensuring that overseas Pakistanis and their families receive practical assistance whenever they need it most.

Special appreciation has also been extended to Asad Nawaz Khan, Advisor to the Chairman of OPF and a leading representative of the Pakistani community in Japan. He has been actively coordinating with Pakistani families, community organizations, and OPF authorities to facilitate the repatriation process for Pakistanis who pass away in Japan. His efforts have helped establish better communication between the overseas community and OPF, enabling families to receive timely guidance and support during emergencies.

The OPF Advisory Council Japan has urged members of the Pakistani community in Japan to contact the Council whenever assistance is required for the repatriation of a deceased Pakistani. The Council has assured the community that it will coordinate with OPF so that families can benefit from the Foundation’s available facilities, including airport reception and free ambulance transportation to their final destination in Pakistan.

These initiatives demonstrate OPF’s growing commitment to serving overseas Pakistanis not only during their lives but also by ensuring dignity and respect in their final journey home. Community members have welcomed these welfare measures and expressed hope that such services will continue to expand under the leadership of Chairman Syed Qamar Raza Shah, with the dedicated support of Advisor Asad Nawaz Khan and OPF’s representatives across the world.