IMF to Assess Governance and Corruption in Pakistan

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) will send a three-member team to Pakistan to conduct a Governance and Corruption Diagnostic Assessment. This evaluation, part of Pakistan’s 2024 Extended Fund Facility (EFF) program, aims to identify corruption risks and strengthen governance. The findings will help shape structural reforms, supporting economic stability and transparency. Focus Areas of the …

KMC Declares Free Parking Across Karachi

In a major relief for citizens, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has made its parking sites free of charge. Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab announced that no parking fees will be collected at KMC-managed locations, ensuring greater convenience for the public. The decision, aimed at easing the financial burden on residents, comes as KMC’s financial position …

Stranded American Woman in Karachi Persuaded to Return Home

The US consulate in Karachi has successfully arranged the return of Onijah Andrew Robinson, a 33-year-old American woman who made headlines after traveling to Pakistan to meet her 18-year-old online lover. Following a dramatic series of events, consulate officials convinced her to return to the United States after she was hospitalized for health concerns. Medical …

Section 144 Imposed in Murree Amid Political Tensions

Authorities have imposed Section 144 in Murree, banning all gatherings and rallies from February 8 to 10. The move comes as political activities gain momentum, with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) preparing for a rally in Swabi on February 8. The restrictions aim to prevent any unrest in the popular tourist destination. Ban on Gatherings in Murree …

Pakistan Embarks on Major Maritime Reforms to Boost Efficiency

Pakistan is set to transform its maritime sector with a comprehensive reform plan approved by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif. A key initiative under this plan is the establishment of the Pakistan Maritime and Sea Port Authority (PMSPA), which will oversee the modernization and efficiency of ports and shipping operations. Experts believe these reforms will enhance …

Karachi Faces Intense Cold as Temperatures Drop to Single Digits

Karachi is experiencing an intense cold wave, with temperatures falling to single digits in several areas. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a weather advisory, warning that similar conditions will persist for the next three days. The cold wave has gripped the city, affecting daily life as residents brace for the chill. Coldest Night …

TikTok Announces Nominations for 2024 Creator Awards in Pakistan

TikTok has officially revealed the nominations for its 2024 Creator Awards, celebrating the creativity and talent of Pakistan’s top content creators. The awards recognize individuals who have captivated audiences with their originality and influence on the platform. Users across Pakistan can now vote for their favorite creators through TikTok’s dedicated voting hub. The voting window …

Major Crackdown on Smuggled Tyres in Karachi

In a decisive move against smuggling, Pakistani authorities conducted a large-scale anti-smuggling operation at Karachi’s Tyre Market. The Collectorate of Customs (CoC) Enforcement, along with law enforcement agencies, raided the market based on credible intelligence about the illicit storage of smuggled tyres. The operation, part of the government’s broader crackdown on illegal trade, led to …

Pakistan and China Strengthen Anti-Terror Cooperation

Pakistan and China have reaffirmed their commitment to counter–terrorism cooperation, emphasizing that any attempts to disrupt their strong relationship will fail. During President Asif Ali Zardari’s visit to China, both nations agreed to enhance security measures, safeguard Chinese personnel in Pakistan, and expand cooperation in multiple sectors, including defense, technology, and trade. Commitment to Counter-Terrorism …

Karachi Moves Toward Green with Proposed EV Bus Plant

The Sindh government is taking a major step toward sustainable transportation by inviting a Chinese electric vehicle (EV) bus manufacturer to set up a production plant in Karachi. Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, during a meeting in Beijing, extended the invitation, highlighting the province’s commitment to modernizing public transport and reducing carbon emissions. Government Support …

Rising Gas Prices Threaten Pakistan’s Export Competitiveness

Pakistan’s exports have become uncompetitive after the government doubled gas prices for in-house power generation. This increase threatens the country’s goal of reaching $60 billion in exports by 2027. The Pakistan Business Council (PBC) raised concerns in a letter to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, warning that higher energy costs could damage both exports and local …

Pakistan, China Strengthen Intelligence Sharing and Security

Pakistan and China have agreed to bolster intelligence sharing to ensure enhanced security cooperation. This decision was made during a significant meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and his Chinese counterpart, Qi Yanjun, in Beijing. The discussions come amid rising security concerns, particularly involving the safety of Chinese personnel working in Pakistan. Meeting of Security …

UAE Job Market Shifts Towards Skilled Workers

Pakistani unskilled workers may soon find fewer opportunities in the UAE as the country moves towards a high-skilled job market, said Pakistan’s Ambassador to the UAE, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi. He stressed the need for training professionals in fields like IT, banking, AI, healthcare, and aviation. The UAE’s job market is evolving. Ambassador Tirmizi urged Pakistan …

Pakistan Reduces Hajj Package Costs, Provides Relief to Pilgrims

The federal government has taken a significant step to ease the financial burden on pilgrims. It has slashed Hajj package costs, offering relief to thousands of devotees. This reduction is expected to bring comfort and joy to those preparing for their sacred journey. The government’s decision aims to make the Hajj pilgrimage more affordable, especially …

Pakistan Observes Kashmir Solidarity Day to Support Kashmiri Struggle

Pakistan is observing Kashmir Solidarity Day today (Wednesday) to express support for the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The day highlights the Kashmiri people’s struggle for self-determination under United Nations (UN) resolutions. The government has declared a public holiday across Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). Various rallies, human chains, …

COAS Rejects Indian Army’s “Claims,” Vows Strong Response

Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir has dismissed recent statements by the Indian military as baseless and provocative. He assured that any hostile action against Pakistan would face a full-throttle response. His remarks came during the 267th Corps Commanders’ Conference held at General Headquarters in Rawalpindi. Pakistan Army Stands Ready The military leadership took serious …

KSE-100 Falls 810 Points Amid Profit-Taking and Uncertainty

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) saw a sharp decline on Tuesday as profit-taking erased early gains, pushing the KSE-100 Index down 810 points. The benchmark index, which opened on a positive note, hit an intra-day high of 113,649.08 before intense selling pressure dragged it to a low of 111,828.11. By the end of trading, it …

Government Announces Corruption-Free Ramazan Package

The government has decided to launch a corruption-free Ramazan relief package without involving the Utility Stores Corporation (USC) to ensure transparency and quality. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced this decision during a federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad, emphasizing that the move aims to prevent corruption and eliminate the distribution of low-quality goods. A Shift in …

Pakistan, Saudi Arabia Sign $1.61 Billion Agreements

Islamabad: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia signed two agreements worth $1.61 billion on Monday to boost economic cooperation. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) CEO Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad witnessed the signing ceremony. The agreements include a $41 million concessional credit deal for a gravity-flow water scheme in Mansehra. Another agreement covers a …

Pakistan Secures $1.2 Billion Oil Payment from Saudi Arabia

Pakistan has signed a major agreement with the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) to defer a $1.2 billion oil payment for one year. This deal will provide much-needed relief to the country’s economy by ensuring a steady oil supply while easing immediate financial pressure. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and SFD Chief Executive Officer Sultan Abdulrahman …

Malik Riaz Receives Death Threats and Extortion Demand

Bahria Town Chairman Malik Riaz has received a threatening email demanding an extortion payment of 50 Bitcoin, equivalent to Rs1.42 billion. The email, sent on January 12, included death threats for Malik Riaz and his family if the payment was not made. The email raised immediate concerns, as it not only demanded a large sum …

Islamabad Lawyers Condemn Judicial Transfers, Announce Strike

Legal bodies in Islamabad have strongly opposed recent judicial transfers, calling them an attempt to weaken judicial independence. In protest, lawyers have announced a complete strike on Monday and a nationwide convention at the District Court G-11 at 11 AM. Lawyers Reject Judicial Transfers Officials from the Islamabad Bar Council, Islamabad High Court Bar Association, …

US Visit to Bring Positive Outcomes Says Interior Minister Naqvi

Pakistan’s engagement with the US aims to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties amid evolving global dynamics. Strengthening US-Pakistan Relations Speaking at a press conference in Lahore, he emphasized that Pakistan values its relationship with the US and remains committed to advancing mutual interests. His visit coincided with Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration, where he engaged with …

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