ISLAMABAD: In a significant diplomatic development, Pakistan has announced a two-week ceasefire agreement between the United States and Iran, following intensive backchannel engagements led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir. The truce, described as a critical step toward de-escalation in the Middle East, comes after direct communication with US President Donald Trump, who agreed to halt military strikes on Iran for a period of two weeks, contingent upon key conditions. Ceasefire Announcement and Pakistan’s Role Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in an early morning statement,…
Read MoreCategory: Latest News
UK Appreciates Pakistan’s Mediation Efforts, Energy Cooperation Discussed
Federal Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik held a meeting with H.E. Ms. Jane Marriott, High Commissioner of the United Kingdom to Pakistan, to discuss the evolving regional situation, its implications for global energy markets, and avenues for strengthening bilateral cooperation in Pakistan’s energy and minerals sectors.During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on the regional crisis and its impact on petroleum supply chains, price volatility, and overall energy security. The High Commissioner appreciated Pakistan’s constructive diplomatic role and thanked for its mediation efforts aimed at easing tensions and promoting…
Read MorePM Shehbaz Calls for Nationwide Shift to EVs to Reduce Fuel Costs and Save Foreign Exchange
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) across Pakistan, highlighting their potential to reduce fuel imports and conserve valuable foreign exchange reserves amid rising global oil prices. Speaking at a ceremony marking the provision of eco-smart EVs to the Islamabad Capital Traffic Police, the prime minister emphasised that such energy-efficient initiatives should be replicated by all provinces and law enforcement agencies. He noted that the Ministry of Interior had provided an initial fleet of 15 electric vehicles, which operate entirely on battery…
Read MoreIAEA Warns Strikes Near Iran’s Bushehr Nuclear Plant Risk Major Radiological Disaster
VIENNA: The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency has issued a strong warning against continued strikes near Iran’s Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, calling them a serious threat to nuclear safety and regional stability. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said attacks near the operational facility “pose a very real danger” and must cease immediately, cautioning that any damage could trigger a severe radiological accident with far-reaching consequences for both human health and the environment. The Bushehr plant, located in southern Iran and equipped with a 1,000-megawatt reactor, has reportedly been…
Read MoreIMF Links NAB Chief Appointment to Transparent, Inclusive Selection Process
ISLAMABAD: The International Monetary Fund has introduced a new condition requiring Pakistan to reform the appointment process of the National Accountability Bureau chairman, mandating a transparent and inclusive mechanism with representation from opposition parties. According to government sources, Pakistan has assured the IMF that it will strengthen NAB’s autonomy and credibility by adopting a merit-based, open, and competitive selection process. The proposed reforms include establishing a multi-stakeholder commission comprising representatives from the government, opposition, judiciary, civil service, academia, and civil society to oversee the appointment. The changes, which require amendments…
Read More