2025

Pakistan

DPM Dar Departs for Historic Two-Day Visit to Bangladesh

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Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar departed for Bangladesh on August 23, 2025. This visit is a historic milestone in Pakistan Bangladesh relations, being the first trip by a Pakistani foreign minister to Dhaka in 13 years. Renewed Diplomatic Commitment The Bangladeshi government invited Dar to strengthen bilateral ties between the two South Asian nations. The visit demonstrates a renewed dedication to diplomatic cooperation. It aligns with Pakistan’s foreign policy goals of enhancing regional relations and forming robust partnerships across South Asia. Key Meetings in Dhaka During his visit to Dhaka, the Deputy Prime Minister will engage in crucial meetings with top Bangladeshi leaders. His agenda includes discussions with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain. Bilateral Talks Agenda The bilateral talks focus on several critical areas: Strengthening Pakistan Bangladesh relations through new institutional frameworks Expanding trade and economic cooperation Addressing regional security issues of mutual concern Building on recent diplomatic breakthroughs and agreements Ongoing Diplomatic Progress This visit follows numerous achievements in Pakistan Bangladesh relations. Both countries have adopted visa-free travel for diplomatic personnel, facilitating easier governmental exchanges. They have also established direct sea trade routes to enhance economic connectivity. Recent high-level military and trade discussions have paved the way for this engagement. These developments highlight the commitment of both nations to improve regional cooperation and economic partnership, marking a significant step in normalizing relations.

Business

Envoys of Five Countries Present Credentials to President Zardari

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Islamabad, August 22, 2025 – President Asif Ali Zardari received diplomatic credentials from envoys of five countries at Aiwan-e-Sadr. This ceremony is crucial for strengthening Pakistan’s bilateral trade partnerships with Asia and Europe. Envoys Present Diplomatic Credentials Envoys from five nations participated, including the High Commissioner-designate of Sri Lanka, Rear-Admiral H.L.A. Don Fred Senevirante. The Ambassadors-designate joining him were: Chandra Warsenanto of Indonesia Kylychbek Sultan of Kyrgyzstan Wolfgang Oliver Kutschera of Austria Ina Ruth Luise Lepel of Germany The Armed Forces provided a guard of honour, underscoring the ceremonial formality. Fostering Trade and Investment President Zardari congratulated the envoys on their appointments, showing optimism about enhanced bilateral ties. He focused on expanding economic cooperation with particular attention to: Bilateral trade and investment Economic partnerships and business collaboration Cultural exchange programs Strengthening Economic Ties with Asia and Europe President Zardari emphasized the critical role of economic cooperation with Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Kyrgyzstan, Austria, and Germany. He noted how these relationships could yield mutual benefits across various fields. The diplomatic engagements showcase Pakistan’s commitment to increasing its economic footprint. These partnerships aim to foster new growth avenues and investment opportunities across multiple sectors. This ceremony highlights Pakistan’s strategic goal to strengthen international trade relationships and enhance business collaboration with key partners in Asia and Europe, vital for economic development.

Pakistan

MWMC Cancels Daewoo Contract Over Poor Sanitation Performance

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The Multan Waste Management Company (MWMC) has terminated its contract with Daewoo, a key participant in the Suthra Punjab Program. This decision was prompted by Daewoo’s inability to meet sanitation performance standards in the region. Commissioner’s Report Triggers Contract Termination Commissioner Multan Division, Rana Aamir Karim Khan, authored a critical report that influenced this decision. The report outlined major deficiencies in Daewoo’s sanitation services throughout the division. Key problems included inadequate service delivery and the failure to maintain cleanliness standards. Consequently, MWMC took swift action to guarantee high-quality sanitation services for residents. Currently, MWMC directly manages all sanitation operations, ensuring immediate accountability for service quality in the Multan Division. MWMC Assumes Operational Control MWMC will manage the Suthra Punjab Program until a new contractor is selected via standard government procurement processes. This state-led management model ensures uninterrupted sanitation services. The company underscores that direct oversight is essential for upholding quality and accountability within the Multan Division. Commitment to Transparent Procurement Officials stress that future procurement will follow transparent selection criteria, preventing issues with new contractors. Ensuring Employment Security MWMC has assured job security for all supervisory staff and sanitary workers during the transition. The company is dedicated to making sure salary payments are timely and uninterrupted. No staff layoffs during the transition Timely salary payments Job security for all sanitary workers Protection of supervisory staff positions The government’s direct involvement ensures continuous service and employee welfare. This strategy is vital for maintaining stability in Multan’s waste management during this transition.

Pakistan

Illegal Oil Unit Sealed in Sialkot by Punjab Food Authority

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The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) conducted a decisive operation against an illegal oil production facility near Dera Muhammad Ramzan in Sialkot on August 22, 2025. The action resulted in the disposal of 600 liters of substandard oil. PFA officials discovered the facility lacked a valid production license and essential supply records, breaching several food safety regulations and failing to meet Punjab’s standards. Oil Safety Requirements Not Met Laboratory tests showed the seized oil did not meet safety standards for human consumption. The oil was missing the mandated methanol dye, a crucial marker for edible oil in Pakistan. Inspectors deemed the entire batch unfit for public consumption, highlighting significant potential health risks. Identified Violations Operating without a valid production license Missing methanol dye in edible oil Lack of proper supply records or documentation Non-compliance with national food safety protocols Legal Action Underway The PFA has initiated legal proceedings against the operators for these violations. This action is part of the PFA’s broader campaign across the province to combat illegal food production units. The authority remains dedicated to safeguarding public health throughout Punjab and enforcing national food safety standards.

Business

�Uzbekistan and Oman Strengthen Bilateral Cooperation

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Muscat, August 22, 2025 – A high-level Uzbek delegation, led by Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade Laziz Kudratov, visited Oman to advance economic ties. The visit concentrated on exploring trade opportunities and bolstering cooperation between the two nations. Key Sectors in Economic Cooperation The Uzbek delegation engaged in extensive meetings with Omani officials, including Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion Qais Al Yousef. Their discussions focused on joint projects that would benefit both countries across various strategic sectors. Priority Areas for Trade Cooperation Oil and gas development Renewable energy initiatives Agricultural technology Textile manufacturing Mining and mineral resources Investment Climate and Foreign Capital Uzbekistan presented its favorable investment climate, highlighting comprehensive investor protections and competitive tax benefits designed to attract foreign capital. The country’s developed industrial zones offer significant advantages for international businesses. At an investment exhibition, Omani corporations such as Suhail Bahwan Group and Asyad Group showed interest in collaborations to expand market presence and enhance trade relations. Agreements to Boost Trade The two nations reached agreements on economic initiatives within key sectors, establishing a framework for long-term relations and trade diversification. This partnership is expected to substantially boost bilateral trade, create new market opportunities, and benefit businesses in both countries. Omani media extensively covered the increasing importance of Uzbekistan-Oman relations, marking a new chapter in their trade cooperation.

Pakistan

ECP Announces By-Elections in Three Faisalabad Constituencies on Oct 5

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Islamabad, August 21, 2025 – The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has officially set October 5, 2025, for by-elections in three key constituencies of Faisalabad: National Assembly seats NA-96, NA-104, and the Provincial Assembly seat PP-98. These by-elections are prompted by vacancies following a ruling from the Anti-Terrorism Court in Faisalabad. The ECP has laid out a comprehensive schedule to manage them efficiently. Election Schedule Overview The ECP has prepared a detailed timetable for the by-elections. The process begins with returning officers issuing public notices on August 26. Nomination papers are to be filed from August 28 to August 30. A provisional list of candidates will be published on August 30. Scrutiny and Appeals Nomination scrutiny concludes by September 3, ensuring candidates comply with Pakistan’s electoral regulations. Rejected candidates may file appeals up to September 8, with resolutions by an appellate tribunal by September 12. The final list of candidates will be released on September 13. Those withdrawing must do so by September 15, with election symbols allocated and campaigns commencing on September 16. Designation of Election Officers The ECP has appointed Faisalabad Deputy Commissioner Capt (retd) Nadeem Nasir as the District Returning Officer to oversee all by-election procedures. Specific returning officers are designated for each constituency: Rauf Ahmed for NA-96 Dilawar Khan for NA-104 Muhammad Sarwar for PP-98 These officers will manage electoral operations, ensuring adherence to ECP guidelines and federal electoral regulations.

Business

Pakistan Calls for National Reconciliation in Divided Libya at UN

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United Nations, August 22, 2025 – Pakistan has called for swift national reconciliation in Libya to strategically reinvest frozen assets. This initiative aims to boost Libya’s economic recovery and improve the well-being of its citizens. Ambassador Usman Jadoon, Pakistan’s deputy permanent representative to the UN, addressed the Security Council, advocating for peace and stability in this divided North African nation. Pathway to Political Reconciliation Ambassador Jadoon emphasized the urgent need for a clear timeline for political reconciliation and the organization of national elections. Libya remains divided between two rival governments nearly 15 years after Muammar Gaddafi’s regime ended. The Government of National Unity is based in Tripoli, while the Government of National Stability operates from Benghazi. Recently, municipal elections were successfully conducted in 26 regions, with another 37 expected to complete elections soon. Reinvestment of Frozen Assets The Pakistani envoy referred to a UNSMIL report highlighting security challenges and stalled reconciliation processes. The report urges immediate action on Libya’s fragile economic conditions. Pakistan stressed reinvesting Libya’s frozen assets to rebuild economic infrastructure, foster financial stability, and drive economic growth in crucial sectors. This strategy aims to enhance living standards and fortify financial systems. Roadmap for Economic Growth Pakistan is supporting UNSMIL’s efforts to unify Libya’s factions. Hannah Tetteh, head of UNSMIL, proposed a 12- to 18-month roadmap for Libya’s national reconciliation and economic rejuvenation. The roadmap’s core development pillars include: Establishing electoral frameworks for democratic governance Creating a unified governmental structure Ensuring inclusive participation by all Libyan stakeholders Encouraging inclusive economic growth and investment opportunities These efforts aim to restore political stability and accelerate the growth of economic infrastructure. The overarching focus is on laying a foundation for sustainable financial prosperity and market stability throughout Libya. Stay updated at nenagency.com.

Pakistan

PM Shehbaz Sharif Condoles Death of Saudi Prince’s Mother

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has extended heartfelt condolences following the passing of the mother of Saudi Prince Fahd bin Muqrin bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. This gesture from Islamabad highlights the robust diplomatic ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Official Condolences to the Saudi Royal Family On August 22, 2025, Prime Minister Sharif expressed sympathies to Prince Fahd bin Muqrin and the Saudi royal family. He emphasized Pakistan’s solidarity with the Kingdom during this challenging time. The Prime Minister’s statement underlined the deep brotherhood shared between the nations, which is a cornerstone of Pakistani foreign policy across various administrations. Strengthening Diplomatic Relations This condolence gesture underscores the personal nature of Pakistan-Saudi relations at the top government level. Offering condolences is part of the traditional diplomatic protocol between these nations. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif prayed for the departed soul’s peace and comfort for the grieving family during this difficult period. Reaffirming the Pakistan-Saudi Partnership The condolence message signifies the enduring Pakistan-Saudi partnership. This relationship is critical in Pakistan’s international engagements. Strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia remains a priority in Pakistan’s foreign policy. The bilateral relationship is vital to the national government’s diplomatic strategy in the region.

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