Pakistan PM Sharif to meet US President Trump with select Muslim leaders

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump alongside a select group of Muslim leaders on the sidelines of the annual United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session, it was announced on Sunday.

The Prime Minister will visit the United States from September 22 to 26, leading a delegation to attend the 80th Session of the UNGA in New York. He will be accompanied by Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, other ministers, and senior officials.

According to a statement from the Foreign Office (FO), “The Prime Minister will also participate in a meeting of select Islamic leaders with US President Trump to exchange views on issues pertaining to regional and international peace and security.”

During his address to the General Assembly, Prime Minister Sharif will urge the international community to resolve prolonged global issues. He will particularly draw attention to the grave crisis in Gaza and call for decisive action to end the suffering of the Palestinians.

The Prime Minister will also highlight Pakistan’s perspective on the regional security situation, as well as other key issues of international concern, including climate change, terrorism, Islamophobia, and sustainable development.

In addition to his speech, the Prime Minister will attend several high-level events on the sidelines of the UNGA Session. These include important meetings of the UN Security Council, the High-Level Meeting of the Global Development Initiative (GDI), and a Special High-Level Event on Climate Action, among others.

Prime Minister Sharif will hold bilateral meetings with several world leaders and senior UN officials to exchange views on issues of mutual interest. He will emphasize Pakistan’s commitment to working with all UN Member States to uphold the UN Charter, prevent conflict, foster peace, and promote global prosperity during Pakistan’s current tenure as a member of the Security Council.

“The Prime Minister’s participation in this largest annual gathering of global leaders will showcase Pakistan’s strong commitment to multilateralism and the United Nations, highlighting Pakistan’s longstanding contribution towards the shared objectives of peace and development,” the FO added.

*Note:* This story is sourced from a third-party syndicated feed and agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or accuracy. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the sole right to alter, delete, or remove content at their absolute discretion without prior notice.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/pakistan-pm-shehbaz-sharif-to-meet-us-president-trump-with-select-muslim-leaders-on-unga-sidelines-23595118

UAAP: UST shakes up early title picture with romp of UP

MANILA, Philippines – Collins Akowe delivered a dominant performance in his debut for the host University of Santo Tomas, leading the Growling Tigers to a commanding 87-67 victory over defending champion University of the Philippines.

The impressive win on Sunday has added a twist to the early title picture of UAAP Season 88. Akowe, a recruit from the National University boys program, showcased his skills with an outstanding stat line of 29 points and 17 rebounds.
https://sports.inquirer.net/641101/uaap-ust-shakes-up-early-title-picture-with-romp-of-up

Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma Announces Memorial For Legendary Singer Zubeen Garg; Final Rites On September 23

**Legendary Assamese Singer Zubeen Garg to be Laid to Rest on September 23; Memorials to be Built in Guwahati and Jorhat**

Guwahati, September 21: The Assam Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has approved the allotment of 10 bigha of land in Kamarkuchi near Guwahati to build a memorial honoring the legendary Assamese singer Zubeen Garg’s immense contribution to music and culture. The final rites are scheduled for September 23.

### Final Rites Announcement

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced the details of the final rites on his official social media handles. In a tweet, he confirmed that the land allotment was approved after discussions with Zubeen Garg’s family. The CM shared the decision taken in the Assam Cabinet on his X (formerly Twitter) account.

### 10 Bigha Land Allotted for Memorial

The Assam Cabinet has approved allocating 10 bigha of land in Kamarkuchi, near Guwahati, where Zubeen Garg will be laid to rest. A memorial will also be constructed at the site to honor his enduring legacy in the fields of music and cultural heritage of Assam.

### Ashes to be Taken to Jorhat

Further, the Chief Minister informed that Zubeen Garg’s ashes will be taken to Jorhat, a historic town with which the singer had a deep connection. Another memorial will be established there to celebrate and commemorate this bond.

### CM’s Official Tweet

In his tweet, the Chief Minister wrote:
“After discussions with the family of Zubeen Garg, #AssamCabinet has approved allotment of 10 bigha land in Kamarkuchi, near Guwahati where our #BelovedZubeen will be laid to rest on September 23.”

### State Mourning Extended

As a mark of respect for the iconic singer, the Assam government has extended the state mourning period until September 23. Zubeen Garg’s remarkable contributions to music and culture have made him one of Assam’s most beloved figures.

### Details Shared by the Chief Minister

Alongside his tweet, the CM shared a poster highlighting key points:
1. Zubeen Garg will be laid to rest on September 23, 2025.
2. State mourning has been extended until September 23.
3. After discussion with the family, it was decided that the last rites will be performed and a memorial built on a 10 bigha land parcel in Hatimura, Kamarkuchi NC Village, Kamrup (M).
4. The ashes will be taken to Jorhat, where another memorial will be constructed to honor his connection with the historic town.

The Assam government and citizens alike mourn the loss of a cultural icon whose legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/assam-cm-himanta-biswa-sarma-announces-memorial-for-legendary-singer-zubeen-garg-final-rites-on-september-23

Asia Cup: Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after half-century draws flak

**Asia Cup 2025: Sahibzada Farhan’s Gun Gesture After Half-Century Draws Flak**

*By Rajdeep Saha | Sep 21, 2025, 09:53 pm*

Pakistan cricketer Sahibzada Farhan has come under widespread criticism for his controversial celebration during the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 clash against India. After scoring a well-crafted half-century, Farhan made a gun-firing gesture towards his dugout, a move that has sparked outrage, especially in light of the recent tragic Pahalgam terror attack.

### The Incident

Farhan reached his 50 with style by smashing a huge six off India’s Axar Patel in the 10th over, injecting momentum into Pakistan’s innings. However, his subsequent celebration – mimicking a firing gun towards his teammates – immediately drew heavy criticism on social media. The gesture was seen as insensitive, given that just months earlier, the Pahalgam terror attack claimed the lives of 26 innocent Indian tourists, an act attributed to Pakistan-based militants.

### Public Reaction

Social media users expressed strong disappointment and outrage over Farhan’s actions. One fan remarked, “Disappointed with Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after his 50 in the Ind vs Pak match. Felt like a jab at India’s hospitality.” Another user commented, “Sahibzada Farhan showing how his brothers killed innocent tourists in Pahalgam through his half-century celebration.”

### Match Summary

In the cricketing action at Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, Pakistan lost three wickets during the powerplay overs. Sahibzada Farhan eventually fell to Shivam Dube for 58 runs off 45 balls. Earlier, Dube had also dismissed Pakistan’s Saim Ayub, who scored 21 runs.

Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman’s innings ended controversially when he was caught behind off Hardik Pandya’s bowling, with Sanju Samson taking the catch. Later, Kuldeep Yadav claimed the wicket of Hussain Talat, as India sought to keep Pakistan’s scoring in check in this crucial Super 4 encounter.

—

The incident involving Farhan has overshadowed the thrilling cricket on display and has raised questions about sportsmanship and sensitivity in moments of celebration.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/pakistan-cricketer-sahibzada-farhan-s-gun-gesture-anger-fans/story

Gatwick second runway plan approved by transport secretary

**Gatwick Second Runway Plan Approved by Transport Secretary**

*By Katy Austin, Transport Correspondent and Jamie Whitehead, BBC News*

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has approved plans for a second runway at London Gatwick Airport, marking a significant step as the government seeks new opportunities for economic growth.

The £2.2 billion privately-financed project essentially involves moving the current Northern Runway 12 metres to bring it into regular use, alongside other developments including terminal expansions. The airport says the plans will create jobs and boost the local economy.

Gatwick currently handles around 280,000 flights annually. The new plan would increase this number to approximately 389,000 flights by the late 2030s. A government source described the plan as a “no-brainer for growth,” adding that it is possible planes could be utilising a new full runway at Gatwick before the next general election.

Located in West Sussex, London Gatwick is currently Europe’s busiest single-runway airport, serving over 40 million passengers a year. The approved plans would add 40,000 more flights before the second runway opens, rising to 70,000 additional flights—nearly 190 per day—once the runway is fully operational. This expansion could see passenger numbers rise to as many as 80 million.

Currently, the Northern Runway is used only for taxiing or as a backup. The new second runway will primarily serve short-haul flights, while freeing up capacity on the main runway for more long-haul services.

The decision to approve the expansion was anticipated in February, when the transport secretary expressed that she was “minded to grant consent” for the Northern Runway planning application. Planning inspectors had raised concerns about the potential impact of the proposals on the surrounding area, including traffic congestion and noise pollution.

In response, in April Gatwick Airport agreed to implement stricter noise controls, an enhanced insulation scheme for nearby residents, and a target of having 54% of air passengers use public transport before the Northern Runway opens. To achieve this, the airport acknowledged that third parties, including the Department for Transport, would need to support the delivery of necessary infrastructure improvements—such as reinstating the full Gatwick Express rail service.

Before the Covid-19 pandemic, the Gatwick Express offered four non-stop trains per hour between the airport and London Victoria. This was reduced to two trains per hour in 2022.

To address road congestion concerns, Gatwick Airport has also proposed a cap on cars on the road if the 54% public transport target is not met prior to the runway’s first use. If neither the target nor the road traffic limit can be achieved, the runway plans would be delayed until £350 million in road improvements are completed. The airport stated this would ensure additional traffic flows can be accommodated without causing congestion.

A government source said, “This government has taken unprecedented steps to get this done, navigating a needlessly complex planning system, which our reforms will simplify in future.” They added, “Any airport expansion must be delivered in line with our legally binding climate change commitments and meet strict environmental requirements.”

However, there is strong opposition to the expansion, particularly from climate campaigners. Following the approval announcement, new Green Party leader Zack Polanski called it a “disaster for the climate crisis.”

In February, Greenpeace UK policy director Douglas Parr argued the extension would not drive economic growth. “The only thing it’s set to boost is air pollution, noise, and climate emissions,” he said.

Alex Chapman, senior economist at the left-leaning think tank New Economics Foundation, also contended the expansion would not create new jobs but rather shift them from other parts of the country. “People are already perfectly able to catch cheap flights on holiday or travel for business,” he added.

Unite the Union general secretary Sharon Graham voiced support for Gatwick having a second runway but cautioned it must come with “guarantees of well-paid, unionised jobs and proper facilities for workers.”

—

*This article will be updated as further developments occur.*
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9v7rz24z23o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss

Department of War Puts the Pentagon Press on Notice: ‘Follow the Rules or Go Home’

**Pentagon Implements New Restrictions on Press Access and Reporting**

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced new restrictions Friday on how members of the press may operate inside the Pentagon, significantly tightening rules for access and reporting. The measures require all journalists to work through established public affairs channels, display press credentials at all times, and accept that possession of unauthorized information may result in the loss of press credentials.

The policy, laid out in a memo released Friday, follows restrictions introduced earlier this year. In May, Hegseth directed the Pentagon to impose tighter controls on press activity after a series of leaks he said endangered military operations.

The new regulations cover not only classified national security information, known as CNSI, but also controlled unclassified information, or CUI. This category includes a wide range of materials. For example, planning documents for the Army’s 250th anniversary parade in June—such as how many tanks would participate in the event viewed by President Donald Trump—were initially labeled as CUI. Under the new rules, information designated as CUI is also barred from public release.

Reporters accustomed to broad access within the Pentagon will also see limits on where they can move. In past years, credentialed journalists were permitted to walk throughout most of the building, outside of secured areas. Now, according to Pentagon officials, escorts will be required for reporters seeking access to restricted sections.

“Up until now, the press could wander all around the Pentagon with no oversight,” spokesman Sean Parnell said in May when earlier restrictions were announced. “Even outside of sensitive/classified areas. So moving forward, they’ll need an escort to access those areas. They still have access to the entire defense press office, the press secretary & my office, as well as much of the rest of the building. These are pragmatic changes to protect operational security & ultimately brings the Pentagon in line with other government buildings.”

Hegseth explained the reasoning behind the new requirements, stating, “The press does not run the Pentagon—the people do. The press is no longer allowed to roam the halls of a secure facility. Wear a badge and follow the rules or go home.”

Media outlets have raised concerns about the implications of the changes. The Washington Post described the requirement as a demand that journalists pledge not to obtain unauthorized material. NPR reported that Hegseth was requiring a new pledge for Pentagon reporters, and Politico noted that access would be limited unless journalists agreed not to publish certain information.

Pentagon officials, however, emphasized that the restrictions are focused on activities inside the building. Reporters remain free to publish information obtained through other means, but under the new policy, access to the Pentagon itself will require adherence to the rules.

The restrictions will also make it more difficult for informal exchanges to take place inside the building. Reporters will no longer be able to freely walk hallways, encounter staff, or overhear conversations. These conditions, combined with visible badge requirements and designated press areas, are expected to limit unsanctioned contact between reporters and Pentagon personnel.

Hegseth has emphasized operational security as the driving factor behind the measures. With leaks continuing to pose challenges for the Department of Defense, officials said the new rules are intended to bring the Pentagon in line with other secure federal facilities where press activity is tightly controlled.

The implementation of these restrictions marks a shift in the longstanding relationship between the Pentagon and the defense press corps, where open access has historically been viewed as part of routine coverage of the U.S. military. Now, with the new rules in effect, Pentagon reporters face tighter oversight and potential penalties for violations.
https://www.lifezette.com/2025/09/department-of-war-puts-the-pentagon-press-on-notice-follow-the-rules-or-go-home/

FIVB Men’s World: Italy sweeps its way to quarterfinal round

MANILA, Philippines — Alessandro Michieletto and Yuri Romano powered defending champion Italy’s sweep of Argentina, 25-23, 25-20, 25-22, to advance to the FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship quarterfinals on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Michieletto delivered a game-high 15 points, contributing 12 kills and three blocks. Meanwhile, Romano finished with 14 points, including nine kills, playing a crucial role in securing the victory for Italy.
https://sports.inquirer.net/641083/fivb-mens-world-italy-sweeps-its-way-to-quarterfinal-round

Using longer words can make apologies seem more sincere: Study

**Using Longer Words Can Enhance the Perceived Sincerity of Apologies: Study**

*By Dwaipayan Roy | Sep 21, 2025, 06:47 PM*

A recent study has revealed that employing longer, more complex words in apologies can enhance the perceived sincerity of the expression of remorse. This research underscores the significance of perceived effort in communication, suggesting that even a subtle increase in lexical complexity can influence how genuine an apology appears. The findings indicate that individuals tend to value the additional effort demonstrated in crafting an apology, which fosters a stronger sense of authenticity and understanding.

**The Psychological Challenges of Apologizing**

Why is it often so difficult to apologize? Dr. Tara Quinn-Cirillo, a psychologist and Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society, explains that the difficulty arises because apologizing necessitates acknowledging one’s vulnerability. Despite recognizing that one’s actions or words may have been wrong, publicly admitting fault remains a challenge for many. This reluctance is rooted in evolutionary and historical factors, where vulnerability was often perceived as a threat to personal safety, prompting individuals to develop psychological defenses against such exposures.

**The Problem of Insincere Apologies**

Insincere apologies continue to be a prevalent concern. Dr. Quinn-Cirillo cautions against superficial expressions of regret that serve merely as a means to escape accountability without genuine behavioral change. She references former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s repeated apologies concerning his conduct during the COVID-19 lockdowns as a pertinent example. Notably, Johnson later described these apologies in his memoir as “pathetic” and a “mistake,” highlighting the performative nature of some public apologies.

**Misinterpretation of Apologies**

It is vital to recognize that uttering the word “sorry” does not inherently indicate true remorse. The study draws attention to cases where apologies are misunderstood or misrepresented. For instance, Harvey Weinstein’s apology amid sexual assault allegations, wherein he expressed regret for his past behavior, contrasted sharply with his subsequent legal actions aimed at suing over what he deemed “false and defamatory statements.” This example illustrates the complexity surrounding the interpretation of apologies and underscores the need for skepticism when evaluating them solely based on verbal expressions.

In conclusion, the research suggests that increasing linguistic complexity modestly within apologies can enhance their perceived sincerity. However, the authenticity of an apology ultimately depends on the intention behind it and the willingness to embrace vulnerability and effect meaningful change.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/science/study-reveals-the-science-behind-convincing-apology/story

Women practising garba abducted by armed group in MP`s Mandsaur; 7 held

At around 9:30 pm on Saturday, several unidentified men and women entered Bhavsar Dharamshala within Kotwali police station limits, brandishing illegal weapons and forcibly abducted a woman by dragging her into a four-wheeler, an official confirmed.

Superintendent of Police Vinod Kumar Meena stated that the abduction was carried out by the woman’s relatives, according to reports from IANS. Kotwali station in-charge Pushpendra Singh Rathore identified the arrested individuals as Ramchandra; Manisha, also known as Bunty; Kamlesh, also known as Ghota; Fakirachand; Shambhulal; Shyamabai—all residents of Chachawada Sathiya under Garoth Police Station—and Dinesh from Bhunki Hatunia.

A case has been registered under charges relating to kidnapping, the Arms Act, and other relevant sections. Officials have confirmed that further investigation is ongoing.

The woman was participating in a Navratri celebration alongside other women and young girls when four men and two women suddenly arrived at the venue. Without warning, they grabbed her and began forcibly dragging her away. A young woman who tried to intervene was pushed aside. One of the accused brandished a pistol-like object, causing panic among attendees.

Video footage captured the chaos, showing people fleeing in fear as the woman was taken away, said Kotwali police station in-charge Pushpendra Singh Rathore, according to the IANS report.

Upon receiving the alert, police quickly responded and imposed a district-wide blockade. Within two hours, Kotwali police traced and apprehended all seven accused and safely recovered the abducted woman. The vehicle involved in the abduction and the pistol—which was later confirmed to be a toy—were also seized, police added.

According to the woman’s statement, she had previously been married but left her husband due to repeated physical abuse and had filed for divorce. For the past four months, she had been living with a young man named Yash in Khanpura. Her family and in-laws, reportedly angered by this relationship, orchestrated the abduction to bring her back home.

Local residents have expressed outrage over the incident, especially given its timing during a significant cultural celebration. The event has reignited discussions on personal freedom, family pressure, and the urgent need for stronger protections for women in both private and public spaces.

(With inputs from PTI and IANS)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/navratri-2025-women-practising-garba-abducted-by-armed-group-in-mps-mandsaur-7-held-23595111

Osaka High Court Upholds Don Juan of Kishu’s Will

Nozaki, who made his fortune in lending and liquor wholesale, was a prominent figure in Tanabe, Wakayama Prefecture. He was known for often keeping large amounts of cash and precious metals at his home. In a past interview, he stated, “This watch cost 4.5 million yen. I usually keep around 700 million yen at home.”

After his sudden death from acute stimulant poisoning in 2018, a handwritten will written in red ink was discovered. The will stated, “I bequeath all my personal assets to Tanabe City. Kosuke Nozaki.”

In 2020, Nozaki’s relatives filed a lawsuit contesting the validity of this document. They argued that the handwriting appeared unnatural and that there was no rational motive for Nozaki to donate his entire estate to the city.

However, the Wakayama District Court ruled in June of last year that the handwriting exhibited characteristics unique to Nozaki and judged the will to be valid.

Dissatisfied with the decision, the relatives appealed the ruling, claiming that the signature could have been traced from another document and forged.

On September 19th, the Osaka High Court dismissed the appeal. The court stated that although the signature resembled one on another document, this alone did not provide sufficient grounds to presume forgery. Consequently, the court upheld the lower court’s finding that the will was valid.

The case is further complicated by the circumstances surrounding Nozaki’s death. His then 29-year-old wife was indicted for murder and other charges. However, in December of last year, the Wakayama District Court acquitted her. Prosecutors have since appealed the acquittal, and the legal proceedings continue.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146957.php

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