2026

Business

Government Boosts Blue Economy With Key Development Initiatives

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ISLAMABAD — The Pakistani government has unveiled significant funding in the 2026-27 budget to accelerate the development of the blue economy. This initiative aims to enhance key sectors, including maritime infrastructure, fisheries, aquaculture, offshore energy exploration, and coastal tourism. Investment in Maritime Infrastructure The strategy prioritizes investing in Pakistan’s extensive maritime resources. By focusing on blue economy development, the government seeks to boost economic diversification and generate numerous employment opportunities. Growth in Offshore Energy and Coastal Tourism Offshore energy exploration and coastal tourism are vital components of this initiative. These sectors are expected to drive growth, attract investment, and provide sustainable economic expansion pathways. Emphasizing Sustainable Development The government’s initiative underscores its commitment to sustainable development. Projects aim to stimulate local economies while maintaining the ecological balance of Pakistan’s coastal regions.

Business

PSX Bullish as KSE-100 Index Gains 4,639 Points

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ISLAMABAD — The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) saw a strong bullish trend on Monday. The KSE-100 Index surged by 4,639.92 points, marking a 2.69% increase. The index closed at 177,039.83 points, up from 172,399.90 points on the previous trading day. Investor Confidence and Market Growth The KSE-100 Index rise signifies a boost in investor confidence in the market conditions. This significant increase is one of the largest in recent sessions. It highlights a remarkable escalation in trading activity. Driving Factors Behind the Surge Market analysts believe stabilizing political dynamics and positive economic indicators are key drivers of this trend. These elements have heightened interest in equities and led to increased market capitalization. Investor optimism supports this positive market sentiment, further enhancing the robust performance of the stock exchange.

Business

ICCI, African Diplomats to Mark Africa Day on June 30

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ISLAMABAD — The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) is collaborating with the African diplomatic community in Islamabad to celebrate Africa Day 2026. The June 30 event aims to strengthen economic, cultural, and people-to-people ties between Pakistan and African nations. It will explore new opportunities for trade and business cooperation. Visit by African Diplomats During a visit to the ICCI, Munsoor Kurrimbaccus, the High Commissioner of Mauritius, and Ahmed Drif, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Morocco, confirmed the decision to celebrate Africa Day. High Commissioner Kurrimbaccus praised ICCI for its proactive role in promoting international business diplomacy. He highlighted the chamber’s efforts to enhance global economic cooperation. Strengthening Pakistan-Morocco Relations Ahmed Drif emphasized the strong relations between Pakistan and Morocco. He outlined substantial opportunities for enhancing trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchanges. Drif advocated for increased collaboration between public and private sectors in both regions, aiming to boost economic growth. Pakistan’s Focus on Africa ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood stressed that building ties with Africa is a priority in Pakistan’s foreign economic policy. He noted Africa’s potential in sectors such as: Agriculture Mining Technology Infrastructure Mehmood expressed optimism that Africa Day will serve as a key platform for diplomats, business leaders, and policymakers to explore new avenues for cooperation.

World

Ambassador Baloch Opens Pakistan Pavilion at Eurosatory 2026

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PARIS — On Monday, Pakistan’s Ambassador to France, Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, officially inaugurated the Pakistan pavilion at the Eurosatory 2026 exhibition. About Eurosatory 2026 Eurosatory is recognized globally as a premier exhibition for land and air-land defense and security industries. The event draws participants and exhibitors from across the globe. It is a vital platform for displaying the latest innovations in defense and security. Pakistan’s Contribution to Defense Technology The Pakistan pavilion at Eurosatory highlights the country’s advancements and key contributions to defense technology. This esteemed international platform enables Pakistan to showcase its developing defense capabilities. International Engagement and Diplomatic Relations Pakistan’s involvement in Eurosatory 2026 demonstrates its commitment to engaging with international partners and stakeholders in the defense sector. This participation highlights Pakistan’s dedication to enhancing global diplomatic relations through advances in defense technology.

World

Awareness Events Held Nationwide for World Dengue Day

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RAWALPINDI — On World Dengue Day, a variety of awareness walks, seminars, and training sessions unfolded citywide, aiming to educate the public on dengue prevention. The Health Department spearheaded these efforts, partnering with local government bodies and medical centers. Union Council Dhamiyaal R-85 Initiatives In Union Council Dhamiyaal R-85, residents engaged in an awareness walk. Information pamphlets were disseminated during the event. Entomologist Sarfraz Ahmed educated attendees on preventing mosquito breeding by maintaining cleanliness and removing stagnant water. Activities in Bahria Town Various activities ran in Bahria Town, including sessions at Bahria International Hospital and local parks. Citizens learned about dengue symptoms and preventive steps. A special session at Spring North Hospital emphasized symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and the crucial role of public cooperation for effective prevention. Media Outreach and Public Involvement Health officials utilized social media platforms to extensively spread awareness messages. Experts advised against water collection in open containers, tires, and flower pots, particularly during the monsoon season. Bahria Town Phase 7 and 8 Campaign The initiative in Bahria Town Phases 7 and 8 was guided by GM Ejaz Qureshi and Entomologist Mudassir Abbas. Town Entomologist Muhammad Osama Izhar offered briefings on various activities. Participants pledged continuous efforts to combat dengue, stressing the importance of public involvement alongside governmental initiatives.

Pakistan

IESCO Announces Power Suspension for Maintenance Work

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ISLAMABAD — The Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) has announced a schedule for planned power suspensions on Tuesday to conduct essential maintenance and development work. An IESCO spokesperson emphasized that these outages are crucial for public awareness and ensuring reliable service. Islamabad Circle Outages In the Islamabad Circle, electricity will be suspended from 7:00 am to 11:00 am. Affected areas include: Shareefabad Ghouri Garden CWO G-10 Markaz Category House G-10 Muave Area feeders The Gharial feeder will experience outages from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Rawalpindi Cantt Circle Outages In the Rawalpindi Cantt Circle, there will be power cuts from 7:00 am to 11:00 am. The sectors affected are: Nogazi Bajniyal-1 Top City FECHS NPF-I and NPF-II Doctor Town PWD-I and PWD-II feeders F/Block feeder in the Rawalpindi City Circle will have outages from 6:00 am to 10:00 am. Additionally, in the Attock Circle, power supply disruptions will occur on the Attock Rural, Teen Mela, and Bagh Nelab feeders from 7:00 am to 11:00 am. GSO Circle Outages The GSO Circle will face power cuts in several areas from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, including: Mirpur-4 Mangla Colony Bong No-2 Mirpur-2 Mirpur-3 Furthermore, outages will occur from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm in areas such as 132KV New Wah to POF, 132-KV Chakwal-Bhagwal-Talagang, and 132KV Kahuta City-Palandri. IESCO management apologizes for any inconvenience these disruptions may cause and assures efforts to complete the work swiftly. If maintenance concludes earlier than planned, power restoration will be prioritized ahead of schedule.

World

Pakistan’s Contribution to US-Iran Peace Process Highlighted

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LONDON — On Monday, Fahd Haroon, Minister of State and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Digital Media, highlighted Pakistan’s pivotal role in the US-Iran peace process. He described this facilitation as a landmark achievement for both regional and global stability. Significance of Pakistan’s Diplomatic Efforts Haroon emphasized the importance of Pakistan’s diplomatic endeavors in advancing historic dialogues. These crucial efforts have significantly eased tensions between the United States and Iran. Impact on Global and Regional Security The recent breakthrough in negotiations is expected to greatly influence regional security. Additionally, it holds potential repercussions for international relations, marking a significant shift in geopolitical dynamics. Commitment to International Diplomacy Pakistan remains committed to initiatives fostering peace and stability within the region. Haroon underscored the country’s proactive stance in international diplomacy, focusing on long-term solutions and fostering bilateral cooperation.

Pakistan

PHC Orders Resolution of Singer Nazia Iqbal’s ID Document Issues

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PESHAWAR — The Peshawar High Court (PHC) has issued an order to authorities to address and resolve identity document issues affecting renowned singer Nazia Iqbal and her family. This directive was made during a session held on Monday. Legal Representation Advocate Saifullah Mohib Kakakhel, the representative for the petitioner, informed the court about the substantial challenges that Iqbal and her children face due to the ongoing document-related issues. Details of the specific difficulties were not disclosed during this session. Court’s Directive The court stressed the need to resolve these problems urgently. It called on the relevant departments to expedite the process and immediately address the family’s concerns to ensure a swift resolution.

Pakistan

Punjab CM Maryam Vows Stronger Muharram Security Measures

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LAHORE — Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed senior provincial officials to manage security, medical, and civic preparations for Muharram. She highlighted the need for active management by commissioners, regional police officers, deputy commissioners, district police officers, and assistant commissioners to ensure public peace and convenience. Enhanced Oversight and Coordination Emphasizing strong field presence, Chief Minister Maryam urged officials to personally coordinate security measures throughout Punjab. This comes as part of a comprehensive strategy to enhance both security and service delivery during the holy month. Strategies for Public Safety Efforts target the safety and comfort of citizens during religious observances. Officials are tasked with addressing potential challenges in real-time, reinforcing the provincial administration’s commitment to public welfare during Muharram.

Sports

Rawalpindi Reviews Dengue Prevention in Housing Societies

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RAWALPINDI — The District Emergency Response Committee (DERC) convened a meeting to evaluate dengue prevention strategies with cooperative housing societies in Rawalpindi. The session, chaired by Additional Deputy Commissioner Headquarters Abdul Rehman Khan, included officials from multiple departments and representatives of housing societies. Review of Anti-Dengue Measures Participants reviewed ongoing anti-dengue measures throughout the district. Housing societies were instructed to finalize their micro-planning, action plans, and logistical arrangements. This approach aims to efficiently manage potential dengue risks. Emphasis was placed on maintaining cleanliness and regularly monitoring open plots, graveyards, and vacant areas to eliminate mosquito breeding sites. Coordination and Reporting Emphasis The meeting stressed the importance of coordination between all departments and housing societies to ensure the campaign’s success. A follow-up meeting is planned in five days to review progress and assess targets. Registration and Reporting Obligations Housing societies were urged to register and report their anti-dengue activities promptly on the Punjab Information Technology Board (PITB) dashboard.

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