news

ECP employees to get three salaries as bonus

The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) decided to reward its employees with a three-month bonus salary, but individuals facing inquiries or legal proceedings are ineligible. The finance ministry's guidelines limit an institution to giving five bonuses in a fiscal year. The announcement follows the general elections and allegations of rigging.

PKR gains 17 paisa against USD

The Pakistani rupee (PKR) gained 17 paisa against the US dollar (USD), closing at Rs 278.30 in interbank trading. The Euro dropped by 64 paisa to close at Rs 301.67, while the British Pound and Japanese Yen also witnessed declines. The Ministry of Finance reported a 2.9% strengthening of PKR against the USD in the current financial year.

PM Shehbaz Sharif expected to visit China next month

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to visit China from June 4-7. He is scheduled to hold meetings with the Chinese president and prime minister to discuss matters related to CPEC phase-II and other issues. This would be PM Shehbaz’s first visit to Beijing since assuming office after the February 8 general elections. Sources reveal these details.

UK flights: British team satisfied with security arrangements at Islamabad airport

The UK Department for Transport's security assessment team has completed its evaluation of Islamabad International Airport. They expressed satisfaction with the airport's security measures, particularly for direct flights to the UK. The team commended the airport's efforts, provided recommendations, and will submit a final report to the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority within three weeks.

Turkey central bank keeps key interest rate unchanged

Turkey's central bank has maintained its key interest rate at 50 percent for the second consecutive month, despite the country grappling with surging inflation. The bank remains vigilant of inflation risks and is poised to tighten monetary policy if needed. The government has also announced a three-year austerity plan to curb public spending and combat inflation.

Court reserves verdict on PTI founder, Bushra’s iddat appeals

The district and sessions court in Islamabad reserved the verdict on Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi's appeals challenging their sentences in an iddat case. The court will announce the judgment on May 29. The couple's marriage was claimed to be illegal by Bushra Bibi's former husband, resulting in a 7-year imprisonment and a fine for both.

US, Sindh govt launch $9mn initiative to combat tuberculosis

US and Sindh government launch $9mn initiative to combat tuberculosis. The Tuberculosis Local Organization Network (TB-LON), funded by USAID, aims to provide expert guidance and resources for Pakistan to tackle TB effectively. The initiative will treat more TB cases in Sindh and reduce the impact of the disease. Collaboration between the US and Sindh government is emphasized.

Sindh to start shuttle service for commuters: Sharjeel Memon

Sindh Transport and Mass Transit Minister Sharjeel Memon announced plans to launch shuttle services for commuters in Karachi. He stated that crackdowns on illegal bus and taxi terminals are underway, emphasizing the need for effective public transportation. Memon also highlighted the delayed Red Line bus rapid transit project and efforts to address transportation sector challenges through alternate employment schemes and electric vehicles.

Gold rates see major drop in Pakistan

Gold prices in Pakistan continue to decline, with the per tola price at Rs242,000 after a Rs6,200 drop, and the 10-gram gold at Rs207476 following a decrease of Rs5,315, as reported by the Sarafa Association. International market gold price also decreased to $2355 from $2,415. Silver remained constant at Rs2,850 per tola.

Govt releases Rs4bn for Karachi Safe City project

The Sindh government has released Rs4 billion for the Karachi Safe City Project. The project, to be completed in two years, includes installation of 1300 CCTV cameras with FR and ANPR capabilities, and a Command-and-Control Building. It aims to enhance security with multiple camera tracking, database management, and integration with national databases.