2026

Sports

PHF Enhances Global Exposure for Youth Hockey Players

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ISLAMABAD — The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) is introducing new initiatives to increase international exposure for youth hockey players in Pakistan. This strategic effort is aimed at providing competitive opportunities by integrating emerging hockey talents into global events. International Tournament Participation The PHF is backing the Pakistan Under-18 Boys Team in their quest to participate in the Five-a-Side Hockey Tournament in Oman. This event offers crucial international playing experience, allowing the youth team to compete with foreign opponents. Skill Enhancement for Young Players Diverse Playing Styles These initiatives are focused on improving the skills of younger players. Exposure to a variety of playing styles enables players to enhance their competitive edge on the world stage. International Competitions Involvement in international tournaments encourages skill development and provides a platform for young athletes to experience different levels of competition. PHF’s Ongoing Commitment to Talent Development The PHF remains dedicated to fostering the growth of hockey in Pakistan. Continuous support for youth participation in international events is essential to the PHF’s strategy for nurturing hockey talent nationwide.

Business

Seminar Explores Conventional and Islamic Banking at NTUF

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FAISALABAD — The National Textile University Faisalabad (NTUF) collaborated with the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) to host an insightful seminar on the dual banking system. This event aimed to bridge the gap between conventional and Islamic banking for budding finance leaders. Objectives and Audience Held at the Faisalabad Business School, the seminar targeted students in the BS Accounting & Finance and Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) programs. It served as an educational platform for participants to grasp the complexities of both banking systems. Insights into Banking Systems Participants engaged in discussions that provided a comprehensive overview of the operational dynamics and regulatory frameworks distinguishing conventional banking from Islamic banking. This exploration aimed to deepen their understanding of the financial sector. Collaboration with Industry Experts Partnering with the SBP offered students a unique opportunity to interact with industry experts. Participants explored potential finance career paths and gained valuable insights into the financial industry’s opportunities.

Business

Pakistan’s Foreign Reserves Climb to $22.74 Billion

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In the second week of June, Pakistan’s total liquid foreign reserves climbed to $22.74 billion, according to data from the Associated Press of Pakistan. State Bank of Pakistan’s Role The State Bank of Pakistan has reported a significant increase in its foreign reserves, which now stand at $17.22 billion. This development signals a positive shift in Pakistan’s foreign exchange status. Strategies for Economic Stabilization Pakistan’s economy is seeing this growth as the country continues efforts to stabilize and enhance its foreign currency reserves. Government strategies are concentrated on strengthening economic infrastructure.

Pakistan

SAPM Haroon, Chaudhry Shafay Discuss Industrial and Manufacturing Growth

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ISLAMABAD — Haroon Akhtar Khan, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production, met with Chaudhry Shafay Hussain, Punjab Minister for Industries, Commerce, and Investment. The meeting focused on strategies to enhance Pakistan’s industrial growth and manufacturing expansion. Strategies for Industrial Growth The discussions concentrated on fostering export-oriented growth and advancing industrialization further. A key initiative discussed was the promotion of electric vehicles, aimed at boosting local manufacturing capabilities. Initiatives for Economic Development Both officials emphasized the importance of these initiatives in driving Pakistan’s economic development. The government commits to supporting industrial advancement through policy reforms and strategic investments in crucial sectors. Federal and Provincial Collaboration Collaboration between federal and provincial leaders is essential. This partnership aims to address challenges and explore opportunities for sustainable economic progress across Pakistan.

Business

Minister Ahsan Iqbal Calls for Enhanced Market Monitoring

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ISLAMABAD — Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal, has emphasized the need for enhanced market monitoring and improved supply chain mechanisms. This call to action was made during a National Price Monitoring Committee (NPMC) meeting on Thursday, where the minister assessed the current pricing of essential commodities. Addressing Price Stabilization In the meeting, Minister Ahsan Iqbal highlighted the critical role of price stabilization in safeguarding consumer interests, especially during fluctuating market conditions. Senior officials have been tasked with developing effective strategies for closely monitoring market dynamics. Ensuring Consistent Supply Chains Discussions during the session centered on maintaining a steady supply of essential goods to avert sudden price increases. A reliable supply chain is fundamental to maintaining economic stability and consumer confidence. Enhancing Transparency and Accountability The NPMC is exploring several initiatives aimed at boosting transparency and accountability within the supply chain. These measures are intended to directly address consumer concerns, making the market more predictable and trustworthy.

Pakistan

CDWP Approves 12 Development Projects Worth Rs436 Billion

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ISLAMABAD — The Central Development Working Party (CDWP) has greenlit 12 development projects valued at around Rs435.7 billion. This move, part of the URAAN Pakistan initiative, took place during a meeting led by the Federal Minister for Planning. Projects Ready for Immediate Implementation Among the approved projects, six require a budget of Rs16.9 billion. These initiatives have been fully cleared by the CDWP and are set to begin right away. Projects Awaiting ECNEC Approval The CDWP has also forwarded six significant schemes to the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) for final approval. These projects, which collectively estimate a cost of Rs418.8 billion, are designed to drive development across various sectors in Pakistan.

Pakistan

Naveed Qamar Supports Sector-Neutral Tax Policy, Asserts Parliamentary Authority

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ISLAMABAD — The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue, led by Syed Naveed Qamar, conducted a review of the Finance Bill 2026. This evaluation emphasized the need for a sector-neutral tax policy and reinforced Parliament’s constitutional authority over taxation issues. Key Discussions in the Committee The committee delved into several critical areas of taxation, focusing on improving the system’s fairness and efficiency. Sales tax exemptions Import regulations Income tax reforms Digital tax administration Examination of Sector-Specific Concessions During their review, they analyzed the concessions granted to various sectors. The objective was to ensure balanced and equitable treatment for all industries. Parliamentary Oversight and Tax Policy The ongoing efforts aim to refine tax policies, ensuring that no sector receives undue advantages. The assessment underscores the critical role of parliamentary oversight in these developments.

World

China Applauds US-Iran MoU, Calls for Commitment

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BEIJING — China has voiced its support for the phase-one Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the United States and Iran. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian urged all parties involved to uphold their commitments. On Thursday, he highlighted the MoU’s significance in reducing regional tensions and maintaining ceasefire momentum. China’s Diplomatic Commitment In an official statement, Lin stressed the importance of continued adherence to the MoU by all parties, especially the US and Iran. He emphasized China’s confidence in the agreement’s potential to promote peace and stability in the region. Promoting Further Dialogue The MoU marks a crucial first step in diplomatic engagement between Washington and Tehran. Beijing advocates for increased dialogue and cooperation to build on this progress. The aim is to enhance international relations and demonstrate a strong commitment to global diplomacy.

Business

Pakistani Investment Minister Meets Iranian Ambassador

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ISLAMABAD — Federal Minister for Board of Investment, Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, recently met with Reza Amiri Moghadam, the Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan, to discuss improving bilateral investment opportunities and strengthening economic ties between the two countries. Exploring Collaboration Opportunities The officials identified several potential areas for collaboration. They emphasized the importance of increasing mutual investments to enhance both nations’ economic landscapes. Sheikh highlighted Pakistan’s favorable investment environment and reiterated the government’s commitment to facilitating Iranian investors. Strengthening Economic Cooperation Ambassador Moghadam expressed optimism about expanding economic cooperation. He welcomed initiatives aimed at fostering greater connectivity between the business sectors of Pakistan and Iran. Strategic Importance of Bilateral Relations The meeting underscored the strategic importance of enhancing bilateral relations amidst evolving regional dynamics. Both parties recognized the potential for economic growth through strengthened partnerships.

Pakistan

Pakistan, Germany Seek Enhanced Cooperation in Agriculture, Food Security

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ISLAMABAD — Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, recently met with German Ambassador Ina Lepel. They discussed enhancing cooperation in agriculture and food security between Pakistan and Germany. Focus on Agriculture and Livestock Development The discussions focused on agriculture, livestock development, and agricultural modernization. Key areas of interest included sustainable farming methods and adopting advanced agricultural technologies. Sustainable Farming Methods They explored various sustainable farming techniques keen on increasing productivity while maintaining environmental health. Advanced Agricultural Technologies The conversation highlighted the adoption of cutting-edge technologies aimed at modernizing traditional agricultural practices. Advancing Food Security The collaboration aims to enhance food security in both countries. By sharing expertise and innovative practices, Pakistan and Germany seek to promote sustainability and strengthen the livestock sector. Commitment to Bilateral Relations After the talks, Minister Hussain presented a souvenir to Ambassador Lepel as a gesture of goodwill. This demonstrates Pakistan’s commitment to building international partnerships in crucial sectors like agriculture, livestock, and biotechnology.

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