World

Pakistan, Turkiye agree to increase bilateral trade to $5bn

Pakistan and Turkiye aim to elevate their bilateral trade to $5 billion following delegation-level talks in Islamabad. The two countries plan to enhance cooperation in defense, investment, banking, and science and technology. Both sides expressed support for each other on core issues and in the fight against terrorism, emphasizing their strong and historical partnership.

Slovak PM Fico’s condition ‘very serious’ after assassination attempt

Slovak PM Fico is in "very serious" but stable condition after being shot five times in an assassination attempt. The incident has sparked concerns about deep political divisions in Slovakia and highlighted the increasingly polarized political climate across Europe. The attack is believed to be politically motivated, leading to international condemnation. The attacker has been apprehended and the country is convening security meetings to address the situation.

Putin to visit Beijing this week

Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit Beijing from Thursday to Friday at the invitation of leader Xi Jinping. The visit signifies the growing economic partnership between the two countries, especially amid Western sanctions on Russia. Analysts highlight the increasing dependence of Russia on China and the potential hesitancy of China to jeopardize its relations with the West.

NASA plans to run trains on moon

NASA plans to build a lunar railway system, called FLOAT, to provide reliable and efficient payload transport on the moon. The system aims to support sustainable lunar base operations in the 2030s. It will transport lunar soil and materials, with each robot moving at around 1 mph carrying various cargo. NASA also announced new efforts to develop and test moon exploration vehicle models.

Iran repatriates illegal Afghan immigrants amid terror threat

Iran repatriates over 1.3 million illegal Afghan immigrants amid increased terror threat. Iranian Interior Minister plans strict measures to prevent future illegal immigration. Pakistan also repatriated 1.7 million Afghan immigrants due to rising terrorist attacks. Evidence shows Afghan soil being used for terrorism against Pakistan, with a video revealing planning of attacks on Pakistan’s security forces.

Nepali guide dies on Himalayan peak as climbing season begins

Nepali guide Lakpa Tenji Sherpa, 53, died after summiting Mount Makalu, the world's fifth-highest peak, marking the first fatality of the spring climbing season. He became unwell during the descent and passed away, highlighting the risks faced by guides and porters in facilitating the dreams of paying climbers on the Himalayas.

Uzbek foreign minister arrives in Pakistan on two-day official visit

Uzbek Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov arrived in Pakistan for a two-day official visit, receiving a warm welcome. He is expected to meet with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and hold discussions with Deputy PM Ishaq Dar on various bilateral issues, predominantly focusing on trade and connectivity. This visit aims to strengthen friendly relations between the two countries. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman is also likely to visit Pakistan in May to sign MoUs for a $5 billion investment.

US optimistic Hamas proposal may break Gaza ceasefire impasse

The United States is optimistic about Hamas's ceasefire proposal and believes that the remaining differences between Israel and Hamas can be resolved through negotiations. Talks have resumed in Cairo, with all delegations reacting positively. Israeli forces have seized the main border crossing between Gaza and Egypt, impacting aid and the humanitarian situation in the region.

Saudi crown prince likely to visit Pakistan this month

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman is expected to visit Pakistan this month, marking his first visit in five years. During the trip, there are plans for signing MoUs on a $5 billion investment, and a meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.They will also explore potential investment commitments amounting to $10-15 billion.

Pakistan is very suitable for investment, says Saudi minister

Saudi Minister Ibrahim al-Mubarak expressed confidence in Pakistan as a favorable investment destination at the Pakistan-Saudi Arab Investment Forum. A 50-member Saudi delegation has visited Pakistan to explore investment prospects in various sectors, aiming for 10 to 15 billion US dollars commitment. Pakistani officials are set to present investment proposals to the delegates.