By Muhammad Shahzad | Lahore, Pakistan

LAHORE: Punjab Police remained on high alert and performed security duties diligently during Christian prayer services at churches across the province, including Lahore, to ensure the safety of worshippers.

Earlier, Inspector General of Police Punjab Abdul Kareem had directed regional police officers (RPOs), district police officers (DPOs) and senior police officials to further strengthen security arrangements at churches across the province.

He instructed supervisory officers to personally inspect security arrangements at churches and other important and sensitive locations. Additional police personnel and snipers were to be deployed at sensitive churches, while teams of the Dolphin Squad, Police Response Unit (PRU) and Elite Force were directed to ensure effective patrolling around places of worship.

The IG Punjab emphasised that all deployed officers and personnel must remain highly vigilant and closely monitor the activities of suspected miscreants.

He also directed police to continue search and sweep operations around churches, Christian localities and other sensitive locations to strengthen security and prevent any untoward incidents.

Abdul Kareem further urged religious scholars, members of the Christian community and Peace Committee representatives to promote interfaith harmony, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.

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By Our Staff Reporter

LAHORE: The All Pakistan Business Forum (APBF) has warned that Pakistan’s export sector is facing mounting challenges due to high energy tariffs, rising freight charges, heavy taxation and frequent policy changes. The forum has urged the government to take immediate measures to restore industrial competitiveness and protect export-oriented businesses.

APBF President Syed Maaz Mahmood and Chairman Ibrahim Qureshi, in a joint statement, said the rising cost of doing business was undermining the ability of Pakistani manufacturers to compete in international markets. They added that uncertainty surrounding export policies was creating further financial and operational difficulties for businesses.