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: In the wake of ceasefire announced by US President Donald Trump between Iran and Israel, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated the resolve to support Iran at all diplomatic forums, including the United Nations.
The prime minister spoke with the leaders and ambassadors of Iran, Saudi Arabia, China and Qatar and expressed solidarity and support against the backdrop of the Iran-Israel conflict.
According to the PM’s Office, he spoke on the phone with Iranian President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian on Tuesday afternoon. During the call, PM Shehbaz reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to supporting Iran at international platforms, including the UN Security ouncil and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
The prime minister emphasized the need for all parties involved to adhere to international law and the principles outlined in the UN Charter. He said Pakistan was closely following the rapidly evolving situation in the Middle East and reiterated Pakistan’s call for restoring peace through dialogue and diplomacy.
President Pezeshkian thanked Pakistan for its consistent support, acknowledging Pakistan’s constructive role in promoting a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The two leaders also discussed the importance of unity among the Ummah in these challenging times and agreed to stay in close contact.
The Iranian president appreciated Pakistan’s consistent and principled support to Iran throughout the crisis and acknowledged its constructive role in promoting a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The two leaders agreed on the importance of unity among the Ummah during this most challenging time and agreed to remain in touch.
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