pakistan’s

Azerbaijan’s FM in Islamabad for talks with Pakistan’s leadership

Azerbaijan’s FM, Jeyhun Bayramov, arrived in Islamabad for a two-day visit to meet with Pakistan's leadership. During the trip, he will hold discussions with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar. The visit follows an earlier agreement between the two countries on LNG importation.

Pakistan’s regional exports increase 20% in 10 months

Pakistan's exports to seven regional countries increased by 20.61% in the first ten months of the financial year 2023-24, totaling $3,655.483 million. China led with the highest exports, followed by Bangladesh and Afghanistan. Imports from the same countries showed an increase of 26.77%, with China being the top importing country.

PM Shehbaz reiterates Pakistan’s support for Chinese stance on Taiwan

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan's support for the Chinese stance on Taiwan, emphasizing commitment to the "One China" policy. He stated that Pakistan adheres to this policy, considers Taiwan part of China, and supports the Chinese government's efforts for national reunification. Taiwan's President also expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with China.

Pakistan’s weekly inflation falls for sixth straight week

Weekly inflation in Pakistan decreased by 0.34% for the combined consumption group, marking the sixth consecutive week of decline. Out of 51 items surveyed, 12 saw price increases, 18 experienced decreases, and 21 remained stable. Year-on-year inflation rose by 21.31%, with notable increases in gas charges, onions, and chilies powder, and decreases in bananas and wheat flour.

Pakistan’s electricity shortfall ‘climbs’ to 6,623 MW

Electricity shortfall in Pakistan has surged to 6,623 megawatts, with major cities experiencing up to six hours of load shedding and up to eight hours in rural areas. The country’s electricity demand is 25,800 megawatts, compared to a total production of 19,177 megawatts. Pakistan’s power sector circular debt reached Rs 2,635 billion, showing a substantial increase. The IMF has urged a further electricity tariff increase to mitigate the burden on the power sector.

Pakistan’s GDP remained 2.8pc in FY2023-24

Pakistan's National Accounts Committee (NAC) has approved the economic targets for FY2023-24, with the GDP growth rate remaining at 2.38%, lower than the set target of 3.5%. Q3 of FY 2023-24 saw a stable 2.09% growth, with positive contributions from agriculture and industry, despite a negative growth in the construction industry.

Pakistan’s likely squad for T20 World Cup 2024

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has finalized a 15-member squad, led by skipper Babar Azam, for the T20 World Cup 2024. The squad includes five fast bowlers, four all-rounders, three wicket-keepers, two batsmen, and a spinner. Pacer Haris Rauf has been included, with Hasan Ali, Salman Ali Agha, and Irfan Khan as reserves. The official squad announcement will follow the T20I series against England on May 22. Pakistan is in Group A alongside India, Ireland, Canada, and the USA.

Pakistan’s youngest vlogger Muhammad Shiraz puts down the camera to prioritise education

Young vlogger Muhammad Shiraz, aged six, announced his decision to prioritize education over vlogging following his father's request. In a farewell video, he tearfully expressed his commitment to studying and assured fans of a potential comeback. His channel, promoting tourism in Pakistan, has garnered over 15 million subscribers and received encouragement from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Pakistan’s inflation drops to lowest level in 2 years

Pakistan's headline inflation hit a two-year low at 17.3% in April, according to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics. The Finance Division projects a further decrease to 17.5-18.5% in May 2024. Urban and rural inflation declined compared to the previous year and month. The government aims to actively reduce inflation through administrative measures.

US reaffirms support for Pakistan’s security challenges

The U.S. State Department supports Pakistan's efforts to combat terrorism and promote regional security. Principal Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel emphasized the shared interest between the U.S. and Pakistan in addressing security threats. The partnership includes high-level dialogue, funding for counter-terrorism capacity, and military engagements. Additionally, Under Secretary John Bass is visiting Doha and Islamabad for discussions on Afghanistan and regional security.