The repatriation of illegal foreign nationals, including Afghans, to their homeland is proceeding in a secure and dignified manner, with 1,634 illegal Afghan nationals returning on Sunday, bringing the total number of repatriated individuals to 435,152, according to official reports. The National Action Plan’s apex committee, chaired by Caretaker PM Anwaarul Haq Kakar, had set a deadline for all foreign nationals residing illegally in the country to leave voluntarily by October 31 or face deportation. The Pakistani government is actively facilitating the repatriation process at the Torkham and Chaman borders. Caretaker Interior Minister Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti emphasized the importance of a humane approach in the repatriation process, assuring that any mismanagement on the borders would be addressed, and suggestions from political leadership in this regard would be welcomed. Meanwhile, international organizations have highlighted the urgent situation of 500,000 individuals who have returned to Afghanistan and are facing critical needs for food, shelter, and employment during the winter.
Bhutan King Unveils Gelephu Mindfulness City SAR Project
Bhutan’s King, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, inaugurated the Gelephu Mindfulness City Special Administrative Region (SAR) project, covering 1,000 sq km and extending from India to Southeast Asia. The SAR is envisioned as an autonomous economic hub, fostering conscious and sustainable businesses inspired by Bhutan’s Buddhist spiritual heritage. The Gelephu project aligns with the goals of Vision 2030 and aims to create a vibrant economic center, offering a distinctive blend of cultural values and modern development. King Wangchuk emphasized the transformative nature of the project, positioning Gelephu as a gateway connecting Bhutan to the world.
Carnage in Dubai Desert After Dangerous Stunts
In Dubai, a horrific crash occurred in the Al Ruwayyah desert area involving five men aged 18 to 20. The 19-year-old Emirati driver was driving recklessly and performing stunts when the vehicle overturned, resulting in injuries to the driver and four passengers. The victims were rushed to the hospital with injuries ranging from severe to moderate. The Dubai Police, responding to the incident, emphasized the dangers of reckless driving and stunt performances, urging the public to prioritize safety on the roads.
Ras Al Khaimah Offers Affordable Permanent Residency Visas
The UAE’s Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is now offering permanent residency visas for AED16,500 per year. The “all-inclusive” package, announced by RAK Freezone Authority (RAKEZ), provides significant value and flexibility, including a UAE residence visa, assistance with third-party visa processing, medical tests, an Emirates ID card, pre-approval for a business license, and use of a shared workstation. The initiative aims to attract residents and entrepreneurs, offering an affordable and accessible pathway to long-term residency in Ras Al Khaimah, which has experienced increased foreign investment and economic growth.
Tabuk Emir Inaugurates SR1 Billion Worth of Development Projects
Prince Fahd bin Sultan, the Emir of the Tabuk region, inaugurated 34 development projects worth approximately SR1 billion. The projects focus on infrastructure development and improving the quality of life in cities and governorates of the region. The inauguration ceremony also marked the launch of the public bus transport project in Tabuk. Minister of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing Majed Al-Hogail commended Emir Prince Fahd’s support for the ministry’s projects, emphasizing the alignment with Vision 2030. The projects cover diverse sectors, contributing to economic growth, and the public transport project includes 25 percent environmentally friendly electric buses.
