Tag: Pakistan

  • Pakistan and Gulf Cooperation Council sign historic free trade agreement 

    Pakistan and Gulf Cooperation Council sign historic free trade agreement 

    Pakistan and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have officially initiated a comprehensive free trade agreement, as announced by the GCC through its communication platform, X. 

    The formal signing ceremony was conducted with the participation of GCC Secretary-General Jasem al-Budaiwi and Pakistan’s Minister of Trade, Gohar Ejaz. 

    In his remarks, Secretary-General Al-Budaiwi underscored the historic significance of this economic accord, characterising it as a pivotal moment in bilateral cooperation. He emphasised that this agreement would play a vital role in fostering mutual growth and prosperity, aligning with the shared interests of both parties, as conveyed in the GCC’s official statement. 

    Additionally, Al-Budaiwi highlighted the GCC’s commitment to advancing the cause of free trade by actively pursuing similar agreements with other nations, as indicated in the statement. 

    Both leaders expressed optimism about the agreement’s potential to significantly enhance trade relations between Pakistan and the Arab nations. 

    It’s worth noting that Pakistan and the GCC initially laid the groundwork for discussions on a free trade agreement back in August 2004. However, progress had been limited to only a few rounds of talks. The negotiations were reignited in 2021, leading to the formalisation of this momentous trade pact. 

  • Former FIA chief joins PML-N

    The ex-Director General (DG) of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Bashir Memon joined Pakistan Muslim League- Nawaz (PML-N) on Friday.
    The former FIA chief has assumed the role of convener for the 12-member committee established by Senior Vice President Maryam Nawaz within the PML-N Sindh. This committee’s purpose is to facilitate Nawaz Sharif’s welcome arrangements upon his return home next month.

    Apart from Memon, the committee tasked with ensuring the attendance of party workers in welcoming the PML-N leader includes Muhammad Zubair, Nehal Hashmi, and Kheeal Das Kohistani.

    The party is preparing for a grand reception for Nawaz — who is set to return to Pakistan on October 21 — and plans to hold a massive rally of one million people in their stronghold — Lahore.
    The development comes after Raja Riaz, who was formerly the leader of the opposition in the National Assembly (NA), made the decision to join the Nawaz-led party, after meeting the former Prime Minister in London.

  • You can’t get 100-page passports now

    You can’t get 100-page passports now

    The government has announced a temporary suspension on the issuance of passports with 100 pages. A statement issued by the Passport office expresses regret for the inconvenience and clarifies that this decision is part of the Directorate General (DG) of Immigration and Passports’ plan to introduce electronic passports (e-passports) nationwide.

    The transition initially began in Islamabad and has since been extended to all passport offices across the country following the federal government’s introduction of e-passports in June.

    As of August 16, 2023, new fee schedules have been implemented for e-passports, while fees for standard passports will remain unchanged.

    Here are the updated fee details for e-passports:

    1. For a standard 36-page passport valid for 5 years, the cost is set at Rs. 9,000.
    2. An urgent e-passport option is available for Rs. 15,000.
    3. A 72-page e-passport for regular processing will cost Rs. 16,500.
    4. Urgent service for the 72-page e-passport is priced at Rs. 27,000.
    5. If you opt for a 36-page passport with a 10-year validity, the normal fee is Rs. 13,500.
    6. The urgent service for this passport type costs Rs. 22,500.
    7. Additionally, a 72-page passport with a 10-year validity will incur a standard fee of Rs. 24,750, with an urgent processing fee of Rs. 40,500.

    The government’s decision to temporarily suspend the issuance of 100-page passports is in line with their efforts to streamline passport services and introduce more secure electronic passports to enhance the travel experience for Pakistani citizens.

  • Risk of another poliovirus outbreak

    Risk of another poliovirus outbreak

    More evidence of poliovirus was found in five samples in Peshawar and Karachi and so, the chances of a poliovirus outbreak in the country have now increased.

    According to the Ministry of Health, polio virus found in the five samples in Karachi are genetically linked to the virus in Afghanistan. Whereas, the genetic testing of the virus found in the positive sample from Peshawar is ongoing.

    Previously, five Union Councils of Karachi have been declared at high risk of polio virus.Other places of detection include Hangu and Pishin.

    Earlier this week, Egyptian authorities made it mandatory for travellers from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and other countries to provide a polio vaccination certificate.“

    As informed by the Egyptian Authorities, passengers travelling to Egypt from Pakistan, Afghanistan, Malawi, Mozambique and Congo are requested to provide an international certificate of vaccination specifically polio vaccine, OPV or IPV (both are acceptable),” Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said in an advisory on its website on Monday.

    Additionally, last month, the International Health Regulations (2005) Emergency Committee as well as the World Health Organisation (WHO) expressed concerns over Pakistan’s efforts in eliminating polio virus.

  • IMF spokesperson urges fair taxation and protection for vulnerable in Pakistan

    IMF spokesperson urges fair taxation and protection for vulnerable in Pakistan

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has emphasised that its $3 billion Standby Arrangement (SBA) programme with Pakistan serves as a critical policy framework. This framework addresses both domestic and international economic imbalances while also facilitating financial support from various donors, including the refinancing of outstanding debts.

    According to Geo, during a recent press conference held at the IMF headquarters in Washington, DC, Julie Kozack, the spokesperson for the global lender, fielded questions regarding the IMF’s engagement with Pakistan. These inquiries encompassed Pakistan’s request for relief and permissions within the existing agreement, specifically in relation to rising energy costs, notably electricity bills.

    In response to concerns about potential human rights implications, particularly for minority populations and the vast number of people living below the poverty line (an estimated 92 to 95 million), the IMF spokesperson emphasised that the programme received approval on July 12. It is a nine-month standby arrangement amounting to $3 billion, designed to support the economic stabilisation programme of the Pakistani government.

    The core objectives of this programme revolve around providing a policy framework to address both domestic and external economic imbalances, along with establishing a structure to secure financial support from various donors, both multilateral and bilateral. This includes securing fresh financing and addressing upcoming debt obligations.

    The IMF outlined that policy efforts are focused on implementing the fiscal year 2024 budget, formulating appropriate monetary policies to combat inflation, and continuing reforms to enhance the sustainability of the energy sector.

    These reforms are ultimately geared towards fostering higher, more inclusive, and more resilient economic growth. They also aim to bolster social development and climate resilience by strengthening public financial management, improving tax administration, and enhancing the prioritisation of public investments.

    Furthermore, these efforts are conducted in collaboration with partner institutions, not only the IMF but also the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, underscoring a collective commitment to Pakistan’s economic stability and development.

    Kozack also highlighted IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva’s strong stance on poverty and inequality. She emphasised the importance of wealthier segments of society bearing a fair tax burden, particularly in a context where Pakistan’s tax-to-GDP ratio is notably low.

    The IMF’s commitment extends to safeguarding the interests of the poor and vulnerable members of society within the programme’s framework, aligning with the goal of achieving a more equitable and inclusive society.

  • Mannat Murad is heartwarming in the best way possible

    Mannat Murad is heartwarming in the best way possible

    ‘Mannat Murad’, written by Pakistani drama writer Nadia Akhtar and directed by Syed Wajahat Hussain, is a heartwarming blend of comedy and romance. Produced by Abdullah Kadwani and Asad Qureshi, the story revolves around two central characters: Mannat, played by Iqra Aziz, and Murad, played by Talha Chahour.

    Mannat, the youngest in her family, holds a special place as her birth came after numerous prayers and wishes, hence her name. The series thoughtfully explores the often misunderstood topic of depression, shedding light on how it’s perceived and the unfortunate neglect of mental health in our society.

    Mannat’s life unfolds in the backdrop of her progressive family, who value love, care, and individual choices. After the tragic loss of her parents, Mannat finds solace in Nafees, who becomes her loving elder brother and a pillar of support.

    On the other hand, Murad belongs to a more traditional family, where his mother’s influence casts a long shadow over his life decisions. As the sole son, Murad carries the weight of fulfilling his family’s expectations.

    The series is captivating, exploring the dynamics of love, family, and the choices we make in the face of societal expectations. It’s a story that touches the heart and offers a glimpse into the complex interplay between personal desires and family obligations.

  • Temporary pause on 100-page passports in Pakistan, e-passports introduced

    Temporary pause on 100-page passports in Pakistan, e-passports introduced

    The government of Pakistan has ceased the issuance of 100-page passports, a decision confirmed by the passport office. This change, while causing temporary inconvenience, was announced in a statement by the passport office, which expressed its regret for any disruption.

    Previously, the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports, operating under the Ministry of Interior, initiated the issuance of e-passports from passport offices nationwide, following Islamabad’s lead. In June, the federal government introduced these electronic passports.

    As outlined by the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports, the fee for a 36-page passport, valid for 5 years, is set at Rs9,000, with an urgent e-passport available for Rs15,000.

    For a 72-page e-passport, the standard fee is Rs16,500, and the urgent fee is Rs27,000. A 36-page passport, valid for 10 years, will cost Rs13,500 under normal processing, while the urgent fee is Rs22,500.

    For a 72-page passport valid for 10 years, the regular fee is Rs24,750, and the urgent fee is Rs40,500. These new fee structures went into effect on August 16, while the fees for standard passports remain unchanged.

  • Four dead, 12 Injured in a suicide blast in Hungu Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

    Four dead, 12 Injured in a suicide blast in Hungu Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

    An explosion in a mosque in Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has caused four fatalities, including a police officer, and injuries to 12 individuals on Friday, local authorities have confirmed.

    The incident took place within the confines of Doaba Police Station during the Friday sermon, when a large number of worshippers gathered at the mosque for their weekly prayers.

    Hangu District Police Officer (DPO) Nisar Ahmed reported that a group of 30–40 individuals is currently trapped beneath the debris after the mosque’s roof collapsed, and an operation is underway to rescue them.

    Ahmed said two suicide bombers were involved in the attack; one targeted the gate of the police station, and the other blew himself up inside the mosque.

    He mentioned that the 12 individuals who were saved from the debris have been transferred to a nearby hospital.

    Caretaker Chief Minister Azam Khan of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has taken notice and instructed officials to declare a state of emergency in all city hospitals.

  • Don’t miss this scholarship opportunity in the UK

    If you are planning to pursue further studies abroad, apply for this ongoing scholarship in the UK.

    In a recent post, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) announced Commonwealth Scholarships for masters and PhD programmes for the next cohort.

    The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC) is a UK-based scholarship scheme led by international development objectives.

    The scholarship covers full tuition fees, airfare to and from the UK, and provides a living allowance to support you while you are there.

    Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) students are also eligible for the scholarships.

    The deadline to apply is October 17 (Tuesday) on the CSC portal.

    According to HEC’s website, 26 nominations are available for masters, 30 for PhD and 10 for teaching faculty PhD.

    For further details and understanding of the requirements, eligibility and more, visit their website:

    1. HEC
    2. British Council
    3. Commonwealth Scholarship
    4. Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC)
  • Indian director has a wish related to Pakistani actors, musicians

    Indian director has a wish related to Pakistani actors, musicians

    After viral videos showed the Pakistani cricket team getting a warm reception at Hyderabad from fans and media alike, its clear that the politics of hate failed to diminish the love and respect Indian fans have for Pakistani celebrities, and vice versa. Given this, Indian director Rahul Dholakia has suggested that it’s about time Pakistani actors were given permission to act in Indian films.

    “Now that Pakistani cricketers are officially here, can we also invite Pakistani actors to act in our films? Or musicians to perform?” the ‘Raees’ director wrote in a viral tweet.

    Rahul Dholakia’s film ‘Raees’ starred Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and Pakistani actress Mahira Khan. Recently, in a podcast FWhy with Freiha Altaf, the actress spoke at length about the backlash she received after the ban was imposed, preventing Pakistani actors from working in India, and how it impacted her mental health. The ‘Razia’ actress revealed that she was diagnosed with manic depression and has been on medication for the past six to seven years.

    READ MORE: ‘Psychiatrist told me I had manic depression’, Mahira opens up about mental health

    “I talk it every chance I get. This is the first time I’m opening up about the fact that I’ve been taking medicine for so many years. And when I tried leaving it like I said it was bad… And I was again in and out of hospitals trying to get help. But yes, everybody has ups and downs, bad times and happy times, but clinical depression is real like any other mental illness or physical illness.”