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.BEIJING: President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday held a high-level meeting with Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang, in which the two sides signed several memoranda of understanding (MoUs)
The MoUs were signed to enhance cooperation between the two countries across various sectors.
Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah were also along with the president during the huddle.
During the discussions, President Zardari stressed the strategic importance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), reiterating that the project is crucial for regional connectivity and economic development.
He also expressed gratitude to China for its unwavering support in Pakistan’s development agenda.
Both leaders underscored the need to promote greater engagement between the private sectors and business communities of both nations, to enhance economic cooperation.
President Zardari commended China’s ongoing partnership and stressed the importance of deepening ties for the prosperity of both countries.
A highlight of the meeting was the signing of multiple MoUs, which marked a new phase in the collaboration between Pakistan and China. The MoUs, signed in a ceremony attended by the aforementioned dignitaries, include a key agreement between Pakistan’s Thatta Cement Company and China’s Qinggang Construction Group.
The agreement is set to establish a production line that will significantly boost Pakistan’s cement production capacity by 5,000 tons per day.
Additionally, an MoU between Sindh’s Energy Department and China’s Mingyang Renewable Energy Company was signed, paving the way for cooperation in various renewable energy projects in Pakistan.
The partnership will focus on leveraging China’s expertise to accelerate the development of sustainable energy solutions.
Another notable agreement was the MoU for a coal gasification and urea production plant between Sindh and the Chinese company, which promises to enhance Pakistan’s energy and agricultural output.
The signing of these agreements further cements the growing strategic partnership between Pakistan and China, with both countries committed to continued collaboration in a variety of sectors crucial for their mutual development and prosperity.
Earlier, President Asif Ali Zardari reached the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Wednesday, where he was warmly welcomed by Chinese President Xi Jinping.
A contingent of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army presented a guard of honour to President Zardari, while the national anthems of both Pakistan and China were played. Following the formalities, the presidents of both nations introduced their respective delegations.
In a display of cultural warmth, Chinese children greeted President Zardari with a grand welcome, adding a festive touch to the occasion.
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