China becomes first economy to grow since virus pandemic

China became the first major economy to grow since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, recording an unexpectedly strong 3.2 per cent expansion in the latest quarter after anti-virus lockdowns were lifted and factories and stores reopened. Growth reported on Thursday for the three months ending in June was a dramatic improvement over the previous quarter’s 6.8pc contraction — China’s…

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Most licences valid for Pakistani pilots working in 10 countries: Aviation Division

The Aviation Division on Thursday said that the credentials of almost all Pakistani pilots working for foreign airlines have been confirmed, as the government continues to manage the fallout from a scandal over aviator licences. Airlines in 10 countries had demanded proof of valid flying licences for their Pakistani pilots after it emerged about a third of Pakistan International Airlines…

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Loadshedding and overbilling: NAB chairman orders inquiry against K-Electric

National Accountability Bureau Chairman Justice (retd) Javed Iqbal has ordered an inquiry against power supply company K-Electric over excessive billing and loadshedding, according to a statement issued by the anti-graft body on Thursday. “The chairman has taken notice of media reports and public protests against overbilling and prolonged power outages in the metropolis,” read the statement. The accountability watchdog said…

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Why is Pakistan spending so much money on defence amid COVID-19?

The Pakistani government does not seem willing to shift its spending priorities despite the burgeoning COVID-19 challenges.  Pakistan has emerged as one of the countries with the fastest rate of coronavirus infections in recent weeks, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The country reported its first coronavirus case on February 26 and is now among the top 15 most-affected countries.…

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Provinces reject, albeit partially, IGCEP 2047

ISLAMABAD: Provincial governments on Wednesday partially rejected the federal government’s much-talked about draft Indicative Generation Capacity Expansion Plan (IGCEP) 2047 initially for ten years (2030) to be reviewed each year, saying that projects of their interests have not been incorporated or ignored. This was the crux of a heavily attended hearing held in Nepra presided over by Chairman National Electric…

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