EU Calls Pakistan a Key Regional Partner, Praises Role in Mediation Efforts

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ISLAMABAD: European Union High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas has described Pakistan as a “major regional partner” and an “important partner for the European Union,” highlighting Islamabad’s diplomatic role in easing regional tensions, including efforts to prevent escalation between Iran and the United States. Kallas made the remarks during her first official visit to Pakistan, where she co-chaired the 8th round of the Pakistan-EU Strategic Dialogue alongside Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. She also met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army…

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Gwadar Port Gains Strategic Importance as Regional Trade Activity Accelerates

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ISLAMABAD: Trade and shipping activity at Gwadar Port has witnessed a notable increase, with port utilization reaching approximately 30 percent amid shifting regional trade dynamics and growing interest in alternative logistics corridors following tensions in the Middle East. Recent geopolitical developments have highlighted Gwadar’s strategic location outside the Strait of Hormuz, positioning the deep-sea port as a potential gateway for regional trade, energy transit, and connectivity between South Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. During the recent regional conflict, disruptions in maritime traffic left hundreds of vessels stranded…

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K-IV Water Project Faces Further Delays as Completion Timeline Slips Towards 2029

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KARACHI: The long-awaited K-IV water supply project, envisioned as a lifeline for millions of Karachi residents facing chronic water shortages, is once again facing significant delays, with officials now indicating that completion is unlikely before 2029. Originally conceived more than two decades ago to address Karachi’s growing water crisis, the mega project was expected to substantially increase the city’s water supply by transporting water from Keenjhar Lake. However, repeated design revisions, administrative challenges, funding complexities, and rising costs have slowed progress considerably. According to senior officials of the Karachi Water…

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Electric Bike Boom in K-P Faces Challenges from Power Shortages and Lack of Infrastructure

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PESHAWAR: Electric bikes are rapidly gaining traction across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in Peshawar, as soaring fuel prices encourage commuters to seek more affordable transportation options. However, inadequate charging infrastructure, frequent electricity outages, and the absence of a formal registration system are posing significant challenges to the sector’s sustainable growth. The e-bike market has witnessed notable expansion in major commercial areas of Peshawar, including Gulbahar, Kohati Gate, Sarki Gate, Saddar, Tehkal, and Ring Road. Despite growing consumer demand and increasing investment in the sector, the province lacks dedicated charging facilities at…

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Business Community Seeks Tax Relief, Faster Reforms in Pre-Budget Meeting with PM Shehbaz

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ISLAMABAD: Ahead of the presentation of the Federal Budget 2026-27 on June 5, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a high-level consultation with leading representatives of chambers of commerce and industry from across Pakistan, who urged the government to introduce tax relief measures, expedite refund payments, and implement structural reforms to accelerate economic growth. During the meeting, business leaders presented a range of proposals aimed at enhancing industrial productivity, boosting exports, attracting investment, and improving the overall business environment. Addressing the delegation, the prime minister stated that consistent efforts by the…

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