Pakistan

ISLAMABAD — The District and Sessions Court of Islamabad has issued non-bailable arrest warrants for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi. The action, taken on Thursday, relates to allegations of anti-state statements under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). Background of the Case This court decision follows Afridi’s failure to comply with multiple prior court summonses. The investigation concerns claims that Afridi made inflammatory statements on digital platforms, leading to legal proceedings under PECA. Judicial Response The issuance of arrest warrants for a sitting Chief Minister underscores the judiciary’s serious attention to the matter. As of now, Afridi’s representatives have not commented on the court’s decision.

ISLAMABAD — The Regional Meteorological Center has issued significant weather alerts for Balochistan, forecasting heavy rainfall and extreme heat in the days ahead. Weather Patterns in Barkhan and Nokkundi Barkhan is expected to face significant heavy rainfall. In contrast, Nokkundi will be impacted by a severe heatwave. These challenging weather patterns highlight the diverse climate issues affecting Balochistan. Forecasted Thunderstorms and Dust Storms Over the next three days, multiple districts in Balochistan might experience thunderstorms and dust storms. These weather conditions call for increased vigilance and preparedness among the residents. Advisories and Infrastructure Preparedness The meteorological department strongly advises residents to adopt necessary precautions based on these weather forecasts. Authorities remain on high alert, ready to manage potential impacts on local infrastructure and emergency response systems. Balochistan’s susceptibility to extreme weather underscores the need for ongoing efforts to systematically enhance the resilience of its communities and infrastructure.

ISLAMABAD — The Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) recently wrapped up a successful linocut printmaking workshop at its Visual Arts Division. The event engaged art enthusiasts, students, and budding artists, providing a rewarding experience with this accessible printmaking technique. Emphasizing Creative Expression The workshop focused on the significance of creative expression and hands-on learning. Participants immersed themselves in the artistic process, markedly enhancing their skills. With structured guidance, attendees acquired practical abilities and gained valuable insights into the linocut technique. Insights into Linocut Technique Linocut involves carving designs into linoleum sheets to produce prints. This technique offers an intricate yet gratifying form of artistic expression, allowing artists to create unique artworks. Commitment to Artistic Development The PNCA showcases its commitment to nurturing artistic talent through this initiative. The workshop served as a platform for emerging artists to refine their skills and explore new creative pathways.

HYDERABAD — In a shocking incident, retired police officials were robbed at gunpoint in Hyderabad’s Cattle Colony on Thursday. The robbery took place within the Husri police station’s jurisdiction. Details of the Robbery The victims, ex-Deputy Superintendent of Police Muhammad Ahmed Qureshi and ex-Inspector Anwar Zaidi, were attacked by three armed individuals riding a motorcycle. They were on their way to a cattle pen when they were confronted by the assailants. To intimidate the former officials, the attackers fired aerial shots before seizing the keys to Qureshi’s car. This action effectively prevented any immediate pursuit. Ongoing Investigation The police have launched an active investigation into the robbery. Authorities are closely examining CCTV footage from the area to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. Despite the seriousness of the incident, no First Information Report (FIR) had been filed as of Thursday evening.

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.