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President Zardari

PM Shehbaz briefs President Zardari on US-Iran talks

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PM Shehbaz

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr and took him into confidence on all aspects of the ongoing US-Iran negotiations.

During the meeting, the prime minister provided a detailed briefing on various stages of the talks and shared progress achieved through Pakistan’s mediation efforts. He also informed the president about his upcoming visits to Saudi Arabia and Turkey.

President Zardari noted that conflicts have far-reaching impacts on regional stability as well as global security, economy, and politics.

He appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in facilitating the US-Iran dialogue and commended the contributions of the prime minister, the Field Marshal, and other state institutions.

He said Pakistan has further strengthened its position as a responsible and key state and has reinforced its image as a peace-loving nation on the global stage.

The president emphasized the importance of continued engagement with the United States, Iran, and other regional and global powers, stating that sustained diplomatic contacts are essential to ensure continuity of the peace process and promote regional harmony.

President Zardari addresses 27th National Security Workshop

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President Zardari

ISLAMABAD:  President Asif Ali Zardari visited the National Defence University (NDU), where he addressed participants of the 27th National Security Workshop.

According to Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR), the workshop was attended by parliamentarians, senior civil and military officers, as well as representatives from academic and social sectors.

The President congratulated the participants on completing the workshop and appreciated their dedication to raising awareness on national security issues.

ISPR stated that the National Security Workshop is one of the prominent platforms for promoting dialogue and plays a key role in enabling Pakistan to effectively tackle current security challenges.

The workshop also strengthens institutional capacity and contributes to enhancing national strategy for the country’s security.

During the event, President Zardari emphasized the importance of informed leadership, national unity, and coordinated policy-making, and awarded certificates to the graduating participants.

President Zardari reaffirms mental health as national priority

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President Zardari

President Asif Ali Zardari has reaffirmed his commitment to making mental health a national priority, urging all segments of society to join hands in eliminating stigma and promoting compassion for those facing psychological challenges.

In his message on the occasion of World Mental Health Day, the president called on citizens to become “ambassadors for kindness and understanding,” emphasizing that speaking up against stigma and supporting those in need is essential for building a healthier and more inclusive Pakistan.

“If you are struggling, know that seeking help is an act of strength, not weakness,” the president said, stressing the importance of open dialogue within families, schools, workplaces, and communities to foster resilience and understanding.

On the occasion of the day, the president extended his solidarity to all those in Pakistan and around the globe who live with mental health challenges. “This year’s theme reminds us that mental health is not an isolated concern, it is fundamental to our personal well-being, our families’ stability, our communities’ cohesion, and the progress of our nation. Good mental health is the foundation upon which human dignity, productivity, and hope are built,” he added.

He emphasized that Pakistan faces immense pressures like economic, rapid urbanization, natural disasters, displacement, poverty, and the lingering effects of conflict and trauma. These factors leave invisible scars on the minds and hearts of our people. Studies show that around 24 million Pakistanis require some form of mental healthcare. Depression and anxiety affect nearly one in five adults, while severe conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder impact 1–2% of the population. Yet, our country has only about 500 trained psychiatrists to serve a population of over 240 million.

Recognizing this challenge, the president said the Government of Pakistan, through the Ministry of National Health Services, has taken a series of steps to integrate mental health into the broader public health system.

Mental health services are being introduced at primary healthcare facilities, while tele-mental health platforms are extending access to those in remote and underserved areas. Community health workers are being trained to identify symptoms early and provide support, while awareness campaigns are tackling stigma and misinformation.

“We are also striving to strengthen the policy and legislative framework around mental health, so that it receives its rightful place in national health planning. Increased allocations for mental health in the national budget, the expansion of school-based counseling programs, and partnerships with universities and NGOs are all part of this growing effort. These steps are vital milestones toward building a healthier Pakistan,” he added.

However, he said the state alone cannot win this battle. Families must support open dialogue and compassion. Schools must foster resilience and provide safe spaces for children to share their struggles.

Workplaces must adopt policies that protect employees’ mental health and well-being. Religious, cultural, and community leaders have a vital role to play in breaking down stigma and encouraging early help-seeking. Together, society can ensure that no Pakistani feels ashamed or isolated for facing a mental health challenge.