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.WASHINGTON: The United States has acknowledges Pakistan‘s sacrifices in war against terrorism and its importance in global peace around the world.
Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar on Friday held a meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington.
Both the leaders exchanged views on a range of bilateral and regional issues.
Rubio acknowledged Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and appreciated its contributions to global and regional peace.
He noted that Pakistan has consistently played a constructive role in promoting stability in the region.
Dar reaches Washington for key meeting with US Secretary of State Rubio
Dar expressed Pakistan’s desire to further expand and strengthen bilateral relations with the United States.
He voiced optimism regarding the progress being made through the ongoing US-Pakistan trade dialogue and described Pakistan as an attractive destination for American investors.
Dar emphasized that both countries share common perspectives and aligned interests on key regional peace initiatives.
He also highlighted the role of the Pakistani diaspora in the United States, describing it as a vital bridge between the two nations.
UNSC adopts Pakistan-backed resolution on peaceful resolution of conflicts
During the meeting, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors.
Earlier, Ishaq Dar urged the UN Security Council to pursue an immediate, permanent and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza and across the occupied Palestinian territory.
He was speaking at the United Nations Security Council’s open debate on the Middle East.
Pakistan urges UNSC to ensure immediate ceasefire in Gaza
The deputy prime minister said that immediate steps should be taken to ensure the delivery of life-saving food and medical assistance, restore humanitarian supply lines, and prevent famine conditions in Gaza.
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