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KPK
Governor Kundi Backs Women’s, Girls’ and Transgender Rights
PROVINCE REPORT
PESHAWAR:Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi has assured a delegation of “Da Hawwa Lur” Organization that the concerns of transgender persons and other marginalized communities would be taken up with the relevant authorities.
The assurance came during a meeting with a delegation of the organization led by its Project Director, Ms. Shawana Shah, at the Governor House.
The delegation briefed the Governor on the organization’s initiatives for the promotion of women’s rights, girls’ education, transgender rights, and advocacy for equality, inclusion and social justice.
It also presented a Charter of Demands, prepared in consultation with the transgender community, highlighting key issues relating to education, healthcare, employment, access to government institutions and participation in the political process.
The delegation pointed to the absence of dedicated healthcare facilities, barriers in accessing police and justice institutions, limited educational and employment opportunities, and the non-operational status of transgender protection centres in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It appreciated the governor’s advocacy for inclusivity and accessibility and acknowledged his continued support for marginalized communities.
Speaking on the occasion, Governor Kundi said the Pakistan Peoples Party had always stood for the rights of marginalized and vulnerable segments of society and would continue to raise their concerns at every forum.
He commended the organization’s efforts to protect and promote the rights of disadvantaged communities and assured the delegation that their issues would be taken up with the relevant authorities.
At the end of the meeting, the delegation presented its Charter of Demands to the Governor.
National
Sardar Waqar Shahzad Hosts Luncheon in Honour of South African High Commissioner
PROVINCE REPORT
ISLAMABAD : Sardar Waqar Shahzad, Advocate, hosted a distinguished luncheon in honour of H.E. Mr. Rudolph Pierre Jordaan, High Commissioner of South Africa to Pakistan, bringing together prominent diplomatic and public figures for meaningful discussions on bilateral relations, cooperation, and people-to-people connections.
The event was attended by Mr. Syed Qamar Raza, Chairman, Board of Governors, Overseas Pakistanis Foundation (OPF), H.E. Dr. Emmanuel R. Fernandez, Ambassador of the Philippines, and Ms. Misbah Khar, Advisor to the Chairman Senate, along with other distinguished guests.
Welcoming the participants, Sardar Waqar Shahzad expressed his honour in hosting the gathering and emphasised the importance of Pakistan’s friendly relations with South Africa and nations around the world.
“It is a great honour to host Your Excellency and distinguished guests today. Pakistan values its friendship with South Africa and with nations across the world. Our doors are always open — especially in Swat Valley, the Switzerland of Pakistan — where we welcome the world to witness our peace, culture, and hospitality. Stronger people-to-people ties and diaspora engagement are key to a shared future,” he said.
As a symbol of goodwill and friendship, Sardar Waqar Shahzad presented “Open Door” souvenirs to H.E. Mr. Rudolph Pierre Jordaan and Mr. Syed Qamar Raza. The souvenirs reflected Pakistan’s message of openness, cooperation, and its commitment to strengthening relations with the international community and overseas Pakistanis.
The luncheon provided a cordial platform for exchange of views on expanding bilateral cooperation, enhancing cultural understanding, and highlighting the valuable contributions of the Pakistani diaspora worldwide.
The distinguished guests appreciated the warm hospitality and termed the gathering a positive step toward promoting greater understanding, friendship, and collaboration among nations.
The event concluded with a shared resolve to continue strengthening diplomatic ties and building bridges of cooperation through dialogue, mutual respect, and lasting partnerships.
