Pakistan

LAHORE — Bilal Bin Saqib, the Minister of State for Crypto and Blockchain and Chairman of the Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA), addressed the 54th Common Training Programme (CTP) at the Civil Services Academy in Walton, Lahore. Blockchain Integration in Government Bilal Bin Saqib focused on the integration of modern technologies, with a special emphasis on blockchain, into governmental operations. He detailed how these technologies can significantly enhance efficiency and transparency. Role in Future Economic Growth The minister underscored the critical role digital currencies and assets will have in Pakistan’s economic development. He stressed that by embracing these innovations, the country can forge ahead in technological advancements. Need for Regulatory Frameworks Saqib highlighted the necessity of establishing robust regulatory frameworks. These frameworks are essential to safeguarding interests and ensuring the secure national adoption of virtual assets. Interactive Session with Government Officials Government officials from various departments actively participated in the session. They gained valuable insights into the evolving digital landscape and its implications for policy and governance.

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.

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.

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.

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.

ISLAMABAD — Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, recently met with German Ambassador Ina Lepel to discuss enhancing cooperation in agriculture, livestock, and biotechnology. Strengthening Bilateral Ties The discussions centered on fortifying relations to promote agricultural modernization and improve food security. Emphasis was placed on collaboration for mutual benefits, especially in developing the livestock industry. Key Cooperative Sectors Agricultural modernization initiatives Food security advancements Livestock industry development Minister Hussain, in a goodwill gesture, presented a souvenir to Ambassador Lepel, highlighting the friendly ties between Pakistan and Germany. Enhancing International Partnerships This meeting represents a step forward in Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen relationships with international partners. By focusing on essential sectors, the country aims to encourage growth and innovation through the exchange of expertise and resources.

ISLAMABAD — Federal Minister for Inter-Provincial Coordination, Rana Sanaullah, had a significant meeting with the Russian Ambassador to Pakistan, Albert P. Khorev, in Islamabad. This meeting aimed to strengthen Pakistan-Russia relations. Bilateral Cooperation Discussions During this meeting, both officials expressed mutual interests in exploring additional areas of cooperation. Sustained communication across various sectors was highlighted as a key component. Importance of Continuous Dialogue Sanaullah and Khorev underscored the necessity of maintaining an ongoing dialogue to further advance Pakistan-Russia partnerships. This highlights Pakistan’s efforts in solidifying relations with key international allies. Enhancing communication Exploring new cooperation areas Emphasizing ongoing dialogue Future Collaboration Prospects While specific agreements were not disclosed, the meeting focused on future collaboration possibilities. This engagement emphasizes Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties with global partners.

ISLAMABAD — The Supreme Court of Pakistan and the State Bank of Pakistan have formalized a landmark agreement to digitalise payments within the judiciary system. The agreement was signed in a ceremony at the Supreme Court in Islamabad, attended by the Registrar, Director General Reforms, and top officials from the State Bank. Digital Transformation of Judicial Financial Transactions This initiative seeks to streamline and modernise financial transactions within the judiciary. By incorporating advanced digital solutions, the move enhances both efficiency and transparency in Pakistan’s legal framework. The agreement represents a significant advancement in judicial processes. Benefits for the Legal Community and Public Officials highlighted the partnership’s role in fostering quicker and more secure payment methods. This development promises substantial advantages for the legal community and the public, ensuring a more efficient judicial system. The improved financial processes aim to benefit all stakeholders involved.

ISLAMABAD — In a significant diplomatic initiative, Federal Minister for Inter Provincial Coordination Rana Sanaullah met with Russian Ambassador Albert P. Khorev. The primary aim was to strengthen bilateral cooperation in sports between Pakistan and Russia. Meeting Overview The meeting occurred on June 18, highlighting existing agreements that connect Pakistan and Russia beyond just sports. The discussions explored new opportunities for mutual benefit and collaboration. Accelerating Sports MoUs Both officials committed to fast-tracking the implementation of current Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) that concern sports collaboration. This mutual decision highlights their dedication to enhancing athletic ties between the two nations. Expanding Bilateral Relations This meeting reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen Pakistan-Russia relations through sports initiatives. They also reviewed broader areas of mutual interest, reaffirming the commitment to effectively execute all agreements.

ISLAMABAD — The Ministry of Energy’s Power Division has announced plans to ensure an uninterrupted electricity supply during Muharram. The focus is on the 9th and 10th days, known as Ashura. Government Directives Under the orders of Federal Minister for Power, Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari, directives aim to prevent any power disruptions during this sacred period. Coordination and Implementation The government has distributed comprehensive guidelines to all Distribution Companies (DISCOs), the National Power Control Centre (NPCC), and the National Grid Company (NGC). This coordinated approach is crucial to maintaining a consistent power supply during the significant religious observance of Muharram. Objective of the Power Plan The main objective is to ensure religious activities during Muharram proceed without electrical interruptions. Proactive measures support the peaceful observance of Ashura.