Six major stories: Mohsin Naqvi’s Senate remarks, Islamabad’s development push and Pakistan’s peace diplomacy in Doha

Pakistan witnessed several significant political, civic and diplomatic developments, ranging from Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s

ISLAMABAD/DOHA:  Pakistan witnessed several significant political, civic and diplomatic developments, ranging from Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s remarks on terrorism and negotiations with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to progress on Islamabad’s Kashmir Chowk underpass and Pakistan’s reported role in efforts to ease tensions between Iran and the United States

Senate Debate: Naqvi Calls for Unified Policy Against Terrorism

Addressing a session of the Senate, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stressed that combating terrorism was a shared national responsibility requiring a consistent policy at both federal and provincial levels.

He urged political leaders to engage with their provincial leadership to identify shortcomings and address the factors contributing to security challenges. He clarified that his remarks were not intended to blame any particular political party but emphasised that problems must be corrected wherever they occur.

Naqvi Challenges PTI to Begin Political Negotiations

During the same session, Naqvi also addressed the possibility of negotiations with PTI, questioning why senior party leaders appeared reluctant to trust their representatives in Parliament.

He said the government was prepared to engage in dialogue if PTI representatives came forward with an authorised mandate. He maintained that negotiations should take place directly between empowered representatives rather than being delayed by repeated consultations.

Naqvi reiterated that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had repeatedly expressed willingness to pursue political dialogue, urging both sides to demonstrate sincerity.

Garbage Piles Raise Concerns Over Civic Management

Meanwhile, footage circulating on social media has highlighted concerns over sanitation and waste management, showing substantial piles of rubbish and construction debris obstructing a road.

The visuals reportedly show plastic waste, discarded household materials and rotting food near residential buildings, with vehicles manoeuvring around the accumulated garbage. The situation has raised concerns about public hygiene, unpleasant odours and potential health risks.

Citizens have called on the relevant municipal and sanitation authorities to clear the waste and improve regular collection services.

Kashmir Chowk Underpass Project Records Rapid Progress

Development work on the Kashmir Chowk underpass along Murree Road in Islamabad has also attracted attention. According to the project update provided, construction began on October 6, 2026, following the groundbreaking ceremony attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

The project includes a proposed six-lane corridor, underpasses and bridges intended to improve connectivity between Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Officials have outlined plans to enhance traffic flow and reduce travel times.

The supplied progress report states that construction had reached 36 per cent completion by October 14, despite interruptions caused by rain. The reported project cost stands at approximately Rs1.455 billion, with a 30-day execution schedule running from October 6 to November 5.

Pakistan’s Diplomatic Role Highlighted at Doha Forum

At the Global Security Forum 2026 in Doha, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi reportedly highlighted Pakistan’s diplomatic engagement with Qatar and efforts to reduce tensions between Iran and the United States.

He praised Qatar’s role in keeping diplomatic channels open and said Pakistan had made efforts to encourage negotiations. He also acknowledged Field Marshal Asim Munir’s reported involvement in diplomatic contacts, including discussions with Iranian officials.

Naqvi emphasised that sustained dialogue, mutual trust and international cooperation were essential to preventing further conflict. He also highlighted Pakistan’s sacrifices in combating terrorism and its contribution to United Nations peacekeeping missions.

He concluded by stressing that Pakistan sought lasting peace rather than recognition for diplomatic efforts, arguing that preventing wars was more important than claiming credit for stopping them.