Islamabad: Rising tobacco and nicotine use among Pakistan’s youth, especially around educational institutions, emerged as the central concern at a national review session on tobacco control held by the Aurat Foundation in Islamabad.
Participants from Parliament, government departments, health organizations, and civil society warned that easy availability of cigarettes, vapes, nicotine pouches, and flavored tobacco near schools is creating a growing public health threat. The discussion also pointed to a noticeable increase in tobacco use among women, indicating a shifting trend.
The session called for stronger legislation, faster policy action, and strict enforcement to counter the rapid spread of emerging nicotine products. Speakers emphasized that existing laws remain poorly implemented due to procedural delays, weak monitoring, and limited coordination between federal and provincial bodies.
The need for clear parental awareness, community engagement, and better recognition of new nicotine products was highlighted as an essential part of early prevention. Officials noted that families and schools often remain unaware of modern products marketed to young people.
Technical briefings identified major enforcement gaps and policy loopholes that allow the tobacco industry to expand its reach. Participants noted that companies are increasingly using social media trends, entertainment content, and youth-focused marketing to promote vaping in urban areas.
Government representatives reaffirmed ongoing federal efforts to implement the Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance 2002 and to tighten regulations where required. Provincial representatives also announced plans to introduce new resolutions to strengthen tobacco control.
Education sector officials raised alarms over the rise of nicotine products around private institutions and called for tougher regulatory checks. Regulatory authorities stressed the need for a broader social movement to counter tobacco use nationwide.
Closing the event, the Aurat Foundation reiterated its commitment to evidence-based advocacy, cross-sector collaboration, and long-term public awareness initiatives aimed at building a healthier, tobacco-free society.ISLAMABAD: Senator Ishaq Dar, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister (DPM/FM) held a telephone conversation with his Azerbaijani counterpart, Jeyhun Bayramov, to discuss the growing momentum in bilateral relations and regional cooperation.
During the call, Senator Dar extended heartfelt congratulations to Azerbaijan for successfully hosting the 17th Summit of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) in Khankendi, a DPM’s Office news release said.
Senator Dar also conveyed appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Pakistani delegation during their visit.
The two foreign ministers expressed satisfaction over the positive trajectory of Pakistan-Azerbaijan relations, underpinned by recent high-level exchanges and mutual support at regional and international forums. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to further expanding cooperation in diverse fields, including trade, energy, connectivity, and cultural exchange.
They also agreed to continue exploring new avenues of collaboration, particularly in the context of the ECO framework, to promote regional peace, prosperity, and economic integration.
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