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HISTORY TO TESTIFY HOW PAKISTAN’S DEFENDERS DECIMATED INDIA’S DASTARDLY AGGRESSION: PM Thursday, 15 May, 2025 | 17 Ziquad, 1446
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PM SHEHBAZ STATES PAKISTAN’S MILITARY AND SOLDIERS HAD DEALT A SEVERE PSYCHOLOGICAL BLOW TO INDIA
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Rs 20.00 | Vol XV No 308 | 8 Pages | Islamabad Edition
PREMIER LAUDS ‘EXCEPTIONAL BRAVERY, PROFESSIONALISM’ OF TROOPS DURING OPERATION BUNYANUM MARSOOS
READY FOR WAR AND PEACE, CHOICE IS YOURS, PRIME MINSTER TELLS NEW DELHI ISLAMABAD/PASRUR sAleem JAdoon
RIME Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday praised the “exceptional bravery and professionalism” during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, saying the valiant armed forces of Pakistan, fortified by the unwavering resolve of the nation, defended the motherland in a heroic manner and dealt a decisive blow to the adversary’s dastardly aggression, state media reported. “History will eternally record, how within few hours, Pakistan’s defenders extinguished India’s unprovoked aggression with unmatched precision and resolve,” the premier declared, state broadcaster PTV News reported.
PM Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday paid a visit to the frontline areas of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos during the ongoing Marka-e-Haq (Battle for Truth), reaffirming his support and solidarity with the armed forces of Pakistan. During his visit to the Pasrur Garrison near Sialkot, the prime minister met with officers and soldiers actively participating in the military operation, a Prime Minister’s Office news release said. The PM praised their unwavering dedication and valor in defending the nation’s sovereignty. The prime minister was flanked by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, federal ministers – Ahsan Iqbal and Attaullah
Tarar, Corps Commander Gujranwala, and other senior civil and military officials, state broadcaster PTV News reported. In a show of continued support for all branches of the military, the prime minister is scheduled to visit various air bases and naval bases in the coming days to meet with personnel from the Pakistan Air Force and Pakistan Navy. Addressing troops, PM Shehbaz stated that Pakistan’s military and soldiers had dealt a severe psychological blow to India, Radio Pakistan reported. “The enemy, which is bigger than us, took pride that it has billions worth of military equipment. You have turned their arrogance to dust and dealt a lethal blow,” he said while addressing soldiers at Pasrur Cantonment.
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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday appreciated Pakistan’s prudent policy that prioritized dialogue and reconciliation in resolving disputes. “We highly appreciate the prudent, patient policy of the Pakistani state that prioritizes dialogue and reconciliation in resolving disputes,” Erdogan wrote on X, responding to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s post, in which he praised Turkiye’s role in promoting peace in South Asia. He said that Ankara attached “great importance” to Pakistan’s peace, stability and prosperity. Erdogan said that the “brotherhood” between Ankara and Islamabad, “which is a rare blessing for only a few nations in the world,” was “one of the most beautiful examples of true friendship.” Extending “heartfelt greetings” to the Pakistanis, the Turkish leader expressed Turkiye’s solidarity with Pakistan “in both
Trump asks Rubio to help strengthen Pak-India diplomatic ties RIYADH
Agencies
US President Donald Trump has asked US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to help strengthen diplomatic ties between Pakistan and India, following what he described as a successful effort to negotiate a major ceasefire between the two nations. Speaking during a Middle East forum, Trump remarked, “I believe they’re actually getting along now. Marco, maybe we can bring them together a bit more.”He added, “Maybe they can even go out for a nice dinner together.” Trump noted that trade played a key role in securing the ceasefire. “I told them, guys, let’s strike a deal. Let’s trade goods, not nuclear missiles. Trade what you create with such excellence,” he said. Earlier, Trump secured a $600 billion commitment from Saudi Arabia on Tuesday to invest in the United States after the oil power rolled out the red carpet for him at the start of a tour of Gulf states. Saudi Arabia’s investment commitment includes what the US described as the largest defence sales agreement between the allies, worth nearly $142 billion.
SAYS INDIA ‘DELIBERATELY EVADED’ THE PATH OF TAKING UP PAKISTAN’S OFFER FOR NEUTRAL INVESTIGATIONS INTO PAHALGAM INCIDENT
CONTINUED ON PAGE 03
President Erdogan lauds Pakistan’s dialogue policy for resolving disputes ISLAMABAD
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good times and bad.” Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz had thanked President Erdogan for his strong support and unwavering solidarity with Pakistan. “Pakistan is proud of its long-standing, time-tested, and abiding fraternal ties with Turkiye that have grown stronger with each new challenge. I am particularly grateful for His Excellency’s constructive role and concerted efforts in promoting peace in South Asia,” the prime minister wrote on X, commenting on President Erdogan’s earlier comments before the cabinet meeting he chaired on Tuesday. At the cabinet meeting, he hailed the recently declared ceasefire between Pakistan and India, urging both sides to avoid further provocations moving forward. “We took a very clear stance both on the heinous terrorist attack in (Indian-administered) Jammu and Kashmir and on the missile strikes targeting Pakistan. While openly declaring our support for the brotherly people of Pakistan, we also made intense efforts to de-escalate the tension, which had risen to very dangerous levels,” he said.
Saudi crown prince welcomes Pak-India ceasefire, urges dialogue RIYADH
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Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Wednesday welcomed the recently announced ceasefire between Pakistan and India, calling it a positive step towards lasting peace in South Asia. Addressing the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) summit in Riyadh, the Crown Prince praised the diplomatic efforts led by US President Donald Trump in de-escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. “We welcome the ceasefire between Pakistan and India, and we also support dialogue between the two countries to resolve their outstanding issues,” said the Saudi leader, expressing
No provision in IWT for suspension: WB president g
IWT IS A LEGALLY BINDING INT’L AGREEMENT, AND BOTH PARTIES OBLIGATED TO UPHOLD ITS PROVISIONS: FO ISLAMABAD Agencies
World Bank President Ajay Banga has said that there is no provision in the Indus Water Treaty (IWT) for suspension, in an interview with Indian broadcaster CNBC-TV18. Speaking in New Delhi, he said, “There is no provision in the treaty to allow to be suspended, the way it (IWT) was drawn up, it either needs to be gone or it needs to be replaced by another one. That requires the two countries to want to agree. “The treaty is not suspended, it’s technically called something in abeyance, is how the Indian government worded it.” Elaborating on the World Bank’s role, Banga explained, “The World Bank’s role is basically that of a facilitator if they disagree — not by us making a decision — but by us being the party that goes through a process to find a neutral expert or an arbitrator court to settle it.” He further elaborated that the World Bank also has to pay for the process from a trust fund established during the treaty’s inception to cover the fees of potential arbitrators. Meanwhile, Pakistan has formally responded to India’s recent communication regarding the Indus Waters Treaty, affirming that the agreement remains fully operational and binding on both parties, according to the Foreign Office.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan stated that Pakistan has made it clear that any violation of the treaty will be deemed unacceptable. “The Indus Waters Treaty is a legally binding international agreement, and both parties are obligated to uphold its provisions,” he said. FO spokesperson said Pakistan reiterated that it would continue to defend its rights under the agreement at all international forums. Following the attack in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan and shut down the Attari-Wagah border crossing — a key point for trade and civilian movement between the two nations — with immediate effect. WHAT IS THE INDUS WATERS TREATY? The origins of the IWT can be traced back to the Partition of British India in August 1947, when India and Pakistan became two independent nations. Both countries, now home to over 1.6 billion people, have historically relied heavily on the rivers flowing from the Himalayas for irrigation and agriculture. The division of the Punjab province, which was extensively developed under British rule with an integrated irrigation system, created an immediate need for an agreement on the equitable sharing of the river waters between India and Pakistan.
hope that diplomacy will prevail over confrontation. He reiterated the GCC’s commitment to regional peace, noting that efforts must also be intensified to ensure a ceasefire in Gaza, where humanitarian conditions continue to deteriorate. Crown Prince Mohammed also highlighted the growing strategic ties between GCC member states and the United States, describing the relationship as one that is “strengthening” and rooted in shared interests and security priorities. The comments come in the wake of a US-brokered ceasefire agreement between Islamabad and New Delhi, following a surge in cross-border hostilities and rising tensions after a deadly attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
Imran warns against complacency after India ceasefire RAWALPINDI
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Imran Khan, the founder of PTI, has urged Pakistan’s armed forces to remain vigilant despite the ceasefire with India, warning that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi could act recklessly again. Speaking after a rare meeting with his sisters, Aleema Khan shared that Imran expressed concerns over Modi’s potential for aggression, emphasizing the mental aspect of warfare. Imran also criticized the 26th Constitutional Amendment, calling it a threat to judicial independence, and questioned the muted response to military court trials. He further questioned the absence of CCTV footage from the May 9 incidents, highlighting the importance of public support during wartime.
Unresolved Kashmir dispute hurdle to sustainable peace in South Asia: Ambassador Sheikh NEW YORK
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Pakistan’s Ambassador to United States, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, has stated that the core issue between Pakistan and India is Jammu and Kashmir dispute, and a peaceful resolution of this dispute is essential for lasting peace in South Asia. In an interview with Turkish broadcaster TRT, the Ambassador said that Pakistan is a peace-loving country and prioritizes the interests of the region’s 1.6 billion people. Ambassador Sheikh stressed that along with adhering to the ceasefire, it is crucial to resolve the core issue. The unresolved Kashmir dispute is hur-
dle to every effort towards sustainable peace. He said that Pakistan believes that peace is in everyone’s interest. The Ambassador affirmed that Pakistan is fully committed to responding firmly to any provocation or aggression. He appreciated the continued efforts of the US leadership in helping to de-escalate recent tensions and noted that the United States has always played an active role in reducing conflict in the region. He also expressed gratitude for the efforts of Saudi Arabia, Türkiye, and other friendly nations. Rizwan Saeed Sheikh said that the international community’s focus on the Kashmir issue, including the United States, presents
a rare opportunity for a lasting solution. He said the growing global attention towards the Kashmir dispute is encouraging; however, sustained engagement and continuity are absolutely essential. US TIMELY INTERVENTION IN FACILITATING CEASEFIRE LAUDABLE Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Ambassador to US Rizwan Saeed Sheikh appreciated the United States for timely intervention that facilitated a ceasefire and de-escalation between India and Pakistan. He was talking to a delegation from the National Defence University comprising senior civilian and military officers, which called on him at the Embassy of
Pakistan in Washington, D.C. Interacting with the delegation, the Ambassador emphasized the deep-rooted relationship between Pakistan and the United States, which began with a letter from President Truman to Pakistan’s founder on August 15, 1947, expressing a desire for cordial ties. Reflecting on the US-Pakistan partnership, Ambassador Rizwan Saeed Sheikh highlighted its resilience over the past seven decades. He said Pakistan’s role as a frontline state in combating terrorism and addressing climate change, referencing the devastating 2022 floods that submerged onethird of the country. The Ambassador stressed that the United
States remained Pakistan’s largest trading partner, with significant potential for collaboration in critical minerals and agriculture. Addressing recent tensions between Pakistan and India, he cautioned that the current ceasefire was fragile and urged continued international engagement, including from the United States, to address the underlying issues in the disputed territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The Ambassador advocated for a standalone strategic partnership with the United States, rooted in mutual interests and Pakistan’s contributions to regional stability. He highlighted Pakistan’s youthful population and technological potential as key assets for future cooperation.
02 NEWS
Thursday, 15 May, 2025 | ISLAMABAD
TIP URGES PM TO INVESTIGATE ALLEGED SHARE TRANSFER VIOLATIONS BY SPUD AND FHL
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case of FHL, Rule 69(d) of the 2001 Petroleum Rules applies solely to changes in the shareholding of FHL itself or its direct parent company, not to entities further up the ownership chain. Similarly, for SPUD Energy, governed under the 1986 Petroleum Rules, the relevant provision is Rule 68(d), which follows the same principle. Accordingly, they argued that the share transaction involving Jura Energy Corporation—where Phoenix Holdings transferred its controlling stake to IDL Investments Ltd—did not constitute a direct change in control of either FHL or SPUD. Therefore, no government approval was necessary under the legal framework. Calling TIP’s allegations “baseless and misleading,” the companies asserted that the transaction was fully transparent and had already been disclosed via stock exchange filings in Canada, where Jura is listed. Repeated attempts were made to contact the Secretary of the Petroleum Division and the Director General Petroleum Concessions (DGPC) for their official response. However, no reply was received from either office by the time this report was filed.
watchdog claiMs controlling stakes were transferred withoUt govt approval, firMs deny any Breach without prior government approval, a move that, if confirmed, would violate Rule 69(d) of the Pakistan Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Rules, 2001. According to Rule 69(d), companies must obtain prior consent from the government before proceeding with any disposition of controlling interests. The rule states: “Without the prior consent of the Government, there shall be no disposition of the share capital of the holder or its parent company in consequence of which any person who, prior to that disposition, had effective control of the holder or its parent company ceases to have
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RANSPARENCY International Pakistan (TIP) has requested the Prime Minister’s Office to initiate an investigation into the alleged violation of the Pakistan Petroleum Rules, 2001, in the disposition of controlling shares of two petroleum exploration firms— SPUD Energy Pty Ltd and Frontier Holdings Limited (FHL). In a formal letter dated May 2, 2025, TIP raised concerns over the alleged transfer of controlling shares in the two companies
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BenchMark index dips Marginally after strong early rally; oil, Banking stocks drag
ing, and state-owned enterprise overhauls. The positive sentiment was also underpinned by Tuesday’s strong close, when the KSE-100 had gained nearly 1,300 points following the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan. At around 11:05am, the index had risen over 400 points to reach 118,981.43, with buying interest observed in cement, banking, power, and refinery stocks. Heavyweights such as HUBCO, MEBL, MARI, UBL, and NRL traded in the green at that point. However, the index failed to sustain its gains as pressure mounted in the latter half of the session. Oil and gas exploration
Massive Rs40b Kohistan scandal: Investigators recover Rs1.59b in raids raids on the residences of key suspects uncover cash, gold, and Us dollars as authorities widen the investigation into one of pakistan's largest financial scandals PROFIT
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istan’s energy sovereignty. However, both SPUD Energy and FHL have strongly denied any legal breach. In detailed responses, the companies stated that no recent change in their direct ownership or control had occurred. They clarified that IDL became the majority shareholder of Jura Energy Corporation on March 6, 2025. However, since the change took place at a level above the immediate holding companies (SPUD and FHL), no prior government consent was required under the applicable petroleum rules. The companies explained that in the
PSX closes flat after volatile session; Investors await IMF talks
News Desk
The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) ended Wednesday’s volatile trading session marginally lower, as early gains driven by positive sentiment ahead of IMF talks gave way to profit-taking in key sectors. The benchmark KSE-100 Index closed at 118,536.52, down 39.36 points or 0.03%, despite briefly surging past the 119,000 level earlier in the day. During the session, the index moved within a wide range of 1,311.90 points, hitting an intraday high of 119,460.54 and a low of 118,148.64. A total of 273.52 million shares were traded on the KSE-100, while the broader market saw 609.06 million shares change hands across 451 listed companies. The All-Share Index edged up by 30.83 points or 0.04% to close at 73,338.56. The early momentum was fuelled by optimism over the commencement of talks between Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for the upcoming FY26 budget, which are expected to focus on tax reforms, energy sector restructur-
such effective control.” TIP stated that SPUD and FHL are linked to Jura Energy Corporation, which recently saw a controlling interest shift from Phoenix Holdings Ltd to IDL Investments Ltd. It alleged that this transaction occurred secretly, without notifying or securing consent from the Petroleum Division. The watchdog also cited past regulatory violations by SPUD and FHL, including a government-ordered recovery of Rs1.3 billion in unpaid royalties. TIP warned that failure to act on this latest development could set a dangerous precedent, undermine regulatory authority, and compromise Pak-
In a significant breakthrough in the ongoing Rs40 billion financial scandal in Kohistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), investigators have seized Rs1.59 billion in cash, US dollars, and gold during raids on the residences of key suspects, The News reported. The discovery follows a series of raids conducted on the homes of 12 individuals believed to be central to one of the largest financial scandals. Investigations have expanded to include senior government officials and contractors. Over 50 individuals have been questioned, with the inquiry set to involve 100 more people. Major revelations are expected soon as more details about the key figures involved in the scandal come to light. Sources revealed that raids were conducted in various cities of Hazara Division, including Abbottabad and Mansehra. During the operations, investigators recovered three kilograms of gold from the homes of three individuals, along with $50,000 from one of the properties. The total amount of Pakistani currency recovered from these raids is estimated at Rs1.5 billion, bringing the total value of the recovered assets to Rs1.59 billion. The gold seized in these raids is valued at over Rs80 million, and the $50,000 amounts to approximately Rs1.39 million in local currency. In addition to the cash and gold, Rs10 billion in funds have been secured in 50 frozen bank accounts. Among the individuals from whom the assets were recovered are officials from the Communication and Works (C&W) Department, the District Accounts Office, and government bank staff. Some contractors have also been implicated in the scandal. The authorities are continuing their efforts to expand the investigation and ensure that all those responsible for this massive financial misconduct are held accountable.
companies were the biggest drag, pulling the index down by 170.57 points, followed by commercial banks (-90.08pts), oil marketing companies (-66.90pts), cement (56.78pts), and power generation and distribution (-41.47pts). Among high market cap individual stocks, OGDC (-2.74%) was the biggest contributor to the downside, erasing 129.21 index points, followed by MCB , BAHL , PSO, and MARI. On the flip side, ENGROH, FFC, UBL, MEBL, and PPL helped cushion the fall. Top gainers on the day included AGL, FCEPL, LOTCHEM, GADT, and UNITY,
while the biggest decliners were IBFL, POML, and NPL etc. Of the 100 index constituents, 42 closed higher, 55 lower, and 3 remained unchanged. Traded value for the day stood at Rs41.91 billion, down by over Rs10 billion compared to the previous session. On the global front, Asian markets edged up with MSCI’s broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan rising 0.9%, as easing US inflation data renewed hopes of Federal Reserve rate cuts. US and European equity futures, however, pointed toward a cautious open amid lingering trade tensions and investor focus on major Chinese earnings later this week. The market now looks ahead to developments from the ongoing IMF review, which could provide key direction for investor sentiment in the coming days.
CCP, NAB join forces to tackle bid rigging and collusion in public procurement g
MoU sets fraMework for data sharing, enforceMent and transparency enhanceMent
tion. It also envisions capacity-building initiatives, shared access to data, risk pattern identification, and coordinated enforcement strategies to promote transparency and protect public resources. Speaking on the occasion, CCP Chairman Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu emphasised the need for systematic monitoring of collusive practices, noting that while the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) for FY2023-24 stood at Rs1.1 trillion, provincial Annual Development Plans (ADPs) totaled nearly Rs1.559 trillion—an enormous volume of public spending that requires greater scrutiny. Despite the existence of PPRA’s eprocurement system (EPADS), Dr. Sidhu pointed out a lack of robust mechanisms to detect and deter collusion. He highlighted that CCP has developed software capable of analysing large datasets to identify patterns of bid
ISLAMABAD News Desk
In a significant move to tighten oversight on public procurement, the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) and the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate against bid rigging, collusive tendering, and other anti-competitive practices. The agreement was signed by Ms. Marryum Pervaiz, Secretary CCP, and Mr. Muhammad Tahir, Director General Operations NAB, at CCP’s headquarters. The ceremony was witnessed by CCP Chairman Dr. Kabir Ahmed Sidhu and NAB Chairman Lt Gen (Retd) Nazir Ahmed Butt, along with senior officials from both institutions. The MoU lays the foundation for joint efforts in investigation, information sharing, and technical collabora-
rigging, a method that can complement NAB’s more rigorous criminal investigations by providing actionable leads under the civil standard of proof employed by the Competition Act. NAB Chairman Nazir Ahmed Butt lauded the initiative, calling it a crucial step in combating “mega crimes” against the economy. He stressed that anti-competitive practices in public procurement result in massive financial losses and must be addressed urgently. Butt expressed hope that CCP’s data-driven insights would enhance NAB’s enforcement capabilities and help uncover cartels exploiting regulatory loopholes. The partnership aims to blend CCP’s economic and analytical expertise with NAB’s investigative and prosecutorial authority, forming a comprehensive approach to tackling corruption and inefficiency in public tenders. Both institutions pledged to deepen cooperation and use the MoU as a platform for future joint actions to uphold economic integrity and transparency in Pakistan’s public sector.
Telenor expresses concern over declining customer base due to delays in PTCL acquisition of its Pakistan operations PROFIT
MoNitoriNg Desk
Telenor Group has expressed concerns regarding the ongoing delays in the sale of its Pakistan operations to Pakistan Telecommunication Company Ltd (PTCL). The company stated that the delay in obtaining necessary regulatory approvals has resulted in a consistent decline in Telenor Pakistan’s customer base. According to a news report, Telenor International, in its first-quarter report for the current calendar year released in Norway, noted that the regulatory approval process for the divestment of Telenor Pakistan had taken longer than anticipated. Despite the challenges, Telenor expects the acquisition to be finalised in the second half of 2025. The group announced the sale of Telenor Pakistan in December 2023, subject to regulatory approvals and other customary conditions. Telenor stated it continues to engage with authorities to secure the necessary clearances, highlighting the strong merits of the deal for all stakeholders. The company remains hopeful that the required approval will be obtained in the coming months, with the transaction expected to close later this year. As a result of the delay, Telenor Pakistan’s customer base has continued to shrink, with a 3.1% decline in the first quarter of 2025. However, Telenor Pakistan reported a 12.5% increase in its average revenue per user (ARPU) during the same period, attributing the rise to improved macroeconomic conditions and lower energy prices, which helped alleviate cost pressures. The company’s revenue for the first quarter of 2025 grew by 14% to NOK 1.07 billion (approximately Rs 27.02 billion), compared to the same period in 2024. Telenor Pakistan’s adjusted EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortisation) for the quarter was NOK 592 million (around Rs 14.94 billion), a notable increase from NOK 474 million (Rs 11.96 billion) in Q1 2024. In the fiscal year 2024, Telenor Pakistan’s total revenue amounted to NOK 4.75 billion (Rs 120 billion). Despite the challenges, the company ended the year with profits.
Neem forays into insurance via strategic partnership with EFU Life KARACHI
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Embedded finance platform Neem has entered the insurance space through a strategic partnership with EFU Life, aiming to digitise the sector’s value chain—from premium payments to claims disbursements—using its proprietary financial infrastructure. The announcement came on Tuesday in a statement detailing the scope of the collaboration and Neem’s broader sectoral ambitions. According to the startup, EFU Life customers will now be able to make digital payments via cards, wallets, and bank transfers through Neem’s ‘Payment Button’, which automatically matches payments with policy numbers. This feature is designed to reduce manual errors and reconciliation delays, enhancing the efficiency of EFU Life’s operations. In addition to digitising payments,
startUp aiMs to digitise end-to-end insUrance valUe chain, enhance financial inclUsion
Neem is also building a white-labeled wallet system for EFU Life. This will allow customers to store and top up funds for premium payments and other insurance transactions. The insurer’s offerings will also be integrated into Neem Paymenow—a Shariah-compliant earned wage access platform—enabling employees to access and pay for Islamic insurance products directly from the platform where they receive their salaries. “The integration of Neem’s payment platform has helped us reimagine how premiums are collected—making the process faster, more secure, and customerfriendly,” said Azeem Pirani, COO at EFU Life. “We’re improving efficiency for our teams and convenience for our policyholders, while laying the foundation for a more
inclusive insurance experience,” he added. As reported by Business Recorder, Neem co-founder Nadeem Shaikh said that the insurance sector was a logical next step, given its low digital maturity and high relevance to financial security. “Insurance stood out as a critical sector where both access and digital payments infrastructure are limited,” Shaikh said, noting that the company saw an opportunity to simplify access through embedded payments and wallets. Despite growing demand for financial protection, insurance penetration in Pakistan remains under 1% of GDP—well below regional standards. Shaikh told Business Recorder this is partly due to outdated, cash-heavy processes that Neem’s infrastructure is designed to replace.
“By embedding digital finance into the insurance journey, we can help insurers operate more efficiently, go to market faster, and unlock new revenue streams,” he said. Neem, which has raised over $4 million in seed funding from local and international investors—including a recent $4 million credit facility from DNI Group—is sectoragnostic and active across a wide array of industries. These include healthcare (Sehat Kahani), logistics (TCS, Smartlane), agriculture (Bakhabar Kissan, Farm2Home), education (Edkasa), mobility (ezBike), security (Wackenhut), and e-commerce (Bechlo.pk, EcommDeals), among others. Shaikh said the company would continue to deepen its footprint in these sectors through targeted partnerships and tailored embedded finance solutions. The partnership with EFU Life is one of Neem’s most significant moves yet and could serve as a template for similar integrations with other insurers in the future.
Barron’s calls it a ‘macroeconomic miracle’ as Pakistan attracts global investor interest PROFIT
MoNitoriNg Desk
Pakistan’s market has captured significant global attention amid heightened tensions with India, according to a recent report by US publication Barron’s. The report highlights what some investors are calling a “macroeconomic miracle” in Pakistan over the past two years. Once grappling with annual inflation rates of around 40%, the economy now enjoys inflation near zero, while the value of Eurobonds maturing in 2031 has doubled from 40 cents on the dollar to 80 cents. The benchmark KSE-100 index has also tripled in value, underscoring the market’s impressive turnaround.
These positive developments have been supported by a stabilization agreement reached with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) last September. Under the agreement, Pakistan secured a $7 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF), with over $2 billion already disbursed, providing a crucial lifeline amid fiscal challenges. “Pakistan is a good story,” remarked Genna Lozovsky, Chief Investment Officer at Sandglass Capital Management, as quoted by Barron’s. “So good it’s not risky enough for us anymore,” she added. Khaled Sellami, an emerging markets sovereign debt manager at Barings, noted that while Pakistan has been known for its recurring boom-and-bust cycles, current indicators suggest that this time could be dif-
ferent. Sellami pointed out that the country’s current account is positive and that primary fiscal surpluses—excluding interest payments—are now a reality, a striking change from previous years. “When there is a rally, you need to be in early,” he advised, though he acknowledged that Pakistan’s economic recovery remains fragile and susceptible to external shocks. Alison Graham, Chief Investment Officer at Voltan Capital Management, recalled the grim outlook during Pakistan’s near-default episode in 2022-23 following Imran Khan’s ouster. “Everyone thought Pakistan would default along with Sri Lanka in 2023,” she said. Instead, the State Bank of Pakistan’s decision to hike interest rates dramatically—
from 10% to 22%—forced the economy into a recession that successfully wrung out inflation. This hard-fought stabilization, along with significant external financing from China, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, has paved the way for a modest GDP rebound of 2.5%. Despite the impressive turnaround, structural challenges remain. Pakistan’s export base is still heavily reliant on commodities like cotton, apparel, and cereals, which comprise almost two-thirds of its exports, compared to India’s diversification into IT and pharmaceuticals. However, Pakistan is gradually making inroads in IT outsourcing, with foreign sales rising from almost negligible levels to about $3 billion annually, while India commands a $200 billion market share.
On Monday, the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) gained a record 9%, reflecting restored investor confidence following a recently announced ceasefire with India. “The market has reacted jubilantly to the ceasefire announcement after Pakistan established effective deterrence against India,” noted Yousuf M. Farooq, Research Director at Chase Securities. While investors remain optimistic about the progress Pakistan has made under the IMF programme and its economic reforms, caution persists due to underlying vulnerabilities. Nevertheless, the blend of improved macroeconomic fundamentals, positive export trends, and renewed market confidence continues to paint a promising picture for Pakistan’s economic future.
Thursday, 15 May, 2025 | ISLAMABAD
PIA POSTS FIRST ANNUAL PROFIT SINCE 2003, RESUMES EU FLIGHTS AFTER LONG HIATUS
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AKISTAN International Airlines (PIA) has been operating profitably since March 2024 and has resumed flights to the European Union after a long suspension, a government official informed the National Assembly on Wednesday. Parliamentary Secretary Zeb Jaffar, responding during the National Assembly’s
Pakistan introduces bill to digitally track petroleum products, tackle smuggling and adulteration PROFIT
moNitoriNg Desk
The government has tabled a new bill, presented by Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, in the National Assembly aimed at digitally tracking the journey of petroleum products from import and production to retail sale. According to a news report, the bill, titled the Petroleum (Amendment) Act, 2025, seeks to combat smuggling and adulteration, which result in annual revenue losses estimated between Rs300 billion to Rs500 billion, and cause environmental and vehicle engine damage. The bill proposes amendments to the 1934 Petroleum Act. Key provisions include using information technology to track petroleum products and taking strict action against illegal activities such as smuggling, unauthorized transportation, and illegal petrol pumps. The new amendments aim to empower authorities to confiscate petroleum products, equipment, machinery, and storage facilities. Deputy commissioners, assistant commissioners, and designated officers under the Customs Act will be authorized to take action against violators before and after conviction. The bill specifies penalties for violations, including fines ranging from Rs1 million to Rs5 million for smuggling or illegal sale, and the confiscation of assets and machinery. Facilities operating without a valid license will face closures, with fines of up to Rs10 million. Additionally, any transportation used to carry smuggled petroleum will be confiscated. The Department of Explosives will ensure the renewal of licenses within a month upon receiving the necessary documents and fees. Premises involved in smuggling will face severe penalties, including a Rs100 million fine and closure of the facility. Local refineries and major oil marketing companies have long been urging the government to take more stringent measures at both the borders and domestic production and sale points to control petroleum smuggling. This issue has negatively impacted their businesses and caused significant revenue losses to the government.
History to testify how Pakistan’s defenders decimated India’s dastardly aggression: PM CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01
“India used to think Pakistan was way behind in conventional warfare, but the way you have fought this war proves that we are competitive in traditional and technical warfare,” he lauded. The Premier said it was up to India to choose war or peace in relations with Pakistan. “We are ready for war and peace. Choice is yours,” he asserted. PM Shehbaz also warned India from stopping water flow after it held the Indus Water Treaty in abeyance. “If you stop our water, then it is the red line. Water is our right. The brave, valiant forces will fight for our right,” he declared. The prime minister said the Kashmir issue should be resolved as per the United Nations resolutions and then talks will be held on trade. He said trade talks cannot be held in isolation but rather through a comprehensive dialogue. He said Pakistan has called for a complete and partial investigation into the Pahalgam attack and agreed to fully cooperate, but India responded by attacking in the dark of night and received a befitting reply.
AIRLINE OPERATING PROFITABLY SINCE MARCH 2024; GOVT EYES FURTHER EXPANSION IN MIDDLE EAST AND EUROPE
Question Hour, said the national carrier has undergone a financial recovery and is now flying to several EU destinations, including Paris. She also highlighted progress in negotiations with UK aviation authorities, and potential collaboration with Turkish Airlines to improve interna-
tional connectivity. The parliamentary exchange followed a question raised by MNA Sharmila Faruqi, who pointed out that previous statements made on the floor of the House had harmed PIA’s reputation and performance. Jaffar confirmed the negative impact of a contro-
versial remark made in 2020 by then Aviation Minister Ghulam Sarwar Khan, which led to international bans on PIA’s flights due to concerns over pilot licensing. “Those remarks had serious consequences for the country and the airline,” Jaffar stated, but added that constructive engagement with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) had allowed PIA to resume operations to Europe. The secretary said the government is actively working to expand the airline’s
Govt to recover additional Rs75b annually from fuel consumers g
PETROL AND DIESEL TO BECOME AT LEAST RS4 COSTLIER; REFINERIES, OMCS AND DEALERS TO BENEFIT ISLAMABAD
AhmAD AhmADANi
The federal government is finalising a plan to recover approximately Rs 75 billion annually from petroleum consumers through a combination of increased margins and compensation mechanisms for oil refineries, oil marketing companies, and fuel dealers. According to official sources, a decision has been made to raise the margins of Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) and petroleum dealers on both petrol and diesel, while oil refineries are expected to receive a financial support package worth Rs 34 billion annually through the Inland Freight Equalization Margin (IFEM). As per the proposed mecha-
nism, OMC margins on petrol and diesel will be increased by Rs1.13 per litre, while an identical increase of Rs1.13 per litre is also planned for dealers. Additionally, the refineries’ sales tax-related losses—caused by the exemption on petroleum products in the Finance Act 2024– 25—will be compensated via IFEM. Collectively, these measures are expected to increase the retail prices of petrol and diesel by Rs 4.18 per litre. The package comes in response to mounting pressure from stakeholders across the oil supply chain who have raised concerns over unsustainable operating costs and delayed reimbursements. Sources said the final approval of the plan is expected soon after necessary consultations with the
Prime Minister. The Rs34 billion compensation package for refineries is being formulated to offset their estimated annual losses stemming from the non-recoverable input sales tax on petroleum products, which have been classified as tax-exempt for the ongoing fiscal year. Payments to the refineries will be made by adjusting the IFEM charges, which are built into the consumer price of petroleum products, said sources. It is also learnt from sources that the Petroleum Division has moved a summary titled as “Settlement of Financial Issues of Refineries and OMCs” for the consideration and approval of the federal cabinet’s economic coordination committee (ECC).
OGDCL secures rights to seven new petroleum exploration blocks PROFIT
News Desk
The Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) has been provisionally awarded the rights to seven new petroleum exploration blocks following a competitive bidding round held by the Government of Pakistan in April 2025. The Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division) has communicated the provisional award of new exploration blocks to OGDCL, Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL), Pakistan Oilfields Limited (POL), Mari Energies Limited (MARI), Government Holdings (Private) Limited (GHPL), Turkish Petroleum Overseas Company (TPOC), and Prime Global Energies Limited (Prime). These blocks have been awarded based on the work units committed by OGDCL and its JV partners, subject to formal execution of Exploration Licenses and Petroleum Concession Agreements (PCAs). The details of the blocks provisionally awarded to OGDCL are as follows: KALAT NORTH (2966-4): Located in Balochistan, OGDCL holds
100% working interest as the operator of this block. NAING SHARIF (2667-20): In Sindh, OGDCL holds 70% working interest, while Prime Global Energies Limited holds the remaining 30%. KHIU-II (3171-4): Located in Punjab, OGDCL is the operator with a 60% working interest, while Mari Energies Limited holds a 40% stake. AHMAD WAL (2965-1): In Balochistan, OGDCL holds 40% working interest, and Mari Energies Limited has 60% working interest. KALAT SOUTH (2865-5): Also in Balochistan, OGDCL has 30% working interest, while Pakistan Petroleum Limited holds 40%, and Mari Energies Limited holds 30%. SUKHPUR-II (2568-23): In Sindh, OGDCL holds 30% working interest, with Prime Global Energies Limited holding 25% and Mari Energies Limited holding 30%, and TPOC holding 15%. ZIARAT NORTH (2966-3): In Balochistan, OGDCL holds a 24.87% working interest. The JV includes Mari Energies Limited with 31.16%, Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) with 24.87%, Govern-
ment Holdings (Private) Limited (GHPL) with 7.10%, and Turkish Petroleum Overseas Company (TPOC) with 10%. These blocks cover various regions in Balochistan, Sindh, and Punjab, marking a significant development for OGDCL and its JV partners in expanding exploration efforts in Pakistan’s energy sector. The exploration of these blocks is expected to contribute significantly to increasing Pakistan’s oil and gas reserves, as well as enhancing its energy security. The awarded rights come as part of the government’s continued push to increase local exploration and production, with the aim of reducing dependency on imported energy sources and boosting domestic energy production. The success of these exploration efforts could have significant economic and environmental benefits for Pakistan. In addition, OGDCL’s partners, including Mari Energies Limited, Pakistan Petroleum Limited, and Prime Global Energies Limited, will play key roles in the development and operation of these blocks, with the intention to contribute to the country’s growing energy needs and reserves.
Petroleum prices expected to drop for next fortnight PROFIT
News Desk
The prices of petrol and diesel are anticipated to drop by Rs3.5 and Rs7 per litre, respectively, for the fortnight ending May 31, according to estimates. This decline is attributed to a reduction in international market prices and a slight decrease in the import premium on petrol. However, these reductions are contingent on the tax rates remaining unchanged. Informed sources indicated that the ex-depot price of petrol is expected to decrease by approximately Rs3.5 per
litre, with a final adjustment to be calculated by May 15. Additionally, high-speed diesel (HSD) is projected to see a reduction of about Rs7 per litre. The drop in petrol prices is primarily due to a $1.5 per barrel reduction in international petrol prices and a $3 per barrel decline in HSD prices over the past two weeks. Currently, the ex-depot price of petrol stands at Rs252.63 per litre, while HSD is priced at Rs256.64 per litre. This adjustment in fuel prices is likely to impact private transport, particularly small vehicles, rickshaws, and two-wheelers, which are used extensively by the middle and lower-middle class.
MSCI adds 7 Pakistani companies in May 2025 review; raises country’s Frontier Market weight
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INDEX RESHUFFLE BOOSTS PAKISTAN'S PRESENCE IN MSCI FRONTIER MARKET INDEXES KARACHI
News Desk
Morgan Stanley Capital International Inc., a global leader in investment decision tools and services, has added seven Pakistani companies to its Frontier Market (FM) and Small Cap Indexes in its latest semi-annual index review, marking a significant boost in the country’s global equity market visibility. According to the announcement, three Pakistani companies — Fauji Cement Company, DG Khan Cement Company, and Maple Leaf Cement — have been added to the MSCI Frontier Markets Index. The inclusion will take effect at the close of trading on May 30, 2025.
With these additions, the total number of Pakistani constituents in the MSCI FM Index will increase from 23 to 26. “We estimate Pakistan’s weight in the MSCI Frontier Market Index has now increased to approximately 6– 6.5%,” said brokerage house Topline Securities in its commentary. The addition of the three cement stocks alone contributes about 26 basis points to the index. “Assuming $2–3 billion worth of funds tracking the FM index globally, these companies could receive passive inflows of around $5–8 million,” it added. Simultaneously, four Pakistani stocks have been added to the MSCI Frontier Markets Small Cap Index:
Archroma Pakistan, At-Tahur Limited, Engro Polymer & Chemicals, and Pakistan Reinsurance. However, three companies were removed from the FM Small Cap Index — including AGP Pharma and Agritech Limited — while DG Khan Cement was moved to the main FM Index. Despite failing to meet the minimum free float threshold of $78 million, Interloop, Searle Limited, and Abbott Laboratories have been retained in the index under MSCI’s buffer rule. The minimum market capitalisation requirement for inclusion remains $155 million. This index review is of particular importance as Pakistan continues to re-
build investor confidence following its September 2021 downgrade from Emerging Market status back to Frontier Market. That reclassification came just four years after Pakistan had been upgraded in 2017 — a move initially seen as a major breakthrough for the country’s capital markets. With the fresh additions, Pakistan’s representation in MSCI’s FM and Small Cap Indexes has been enhanced, particularly through the inclusion of cement sector leaders that are gaining traction amid improving construction activity and lower interest rates. The changes are expected to trigger moderate passive fund inflows, improve visibility for Pakistani equities among global frontier market investors, and reaffirm Pakistan’s improving macroeconomic and market outlook.
NEWS 03
reach to profitable international markets, especially in the Middle East and North Africa. She noted that PIA had also recently begun direct flights from Lahore to Baku, Azerbaijan, as part of broader efforts to promote tourism and strengthen air links. The positive momentum follows the airline’s announcement last month of its first annual profit in 21 years. According to documents reviewed by Bloomberg, PIA posted earnings per share of Rs5.01 for the year ending December 2024—its first profitable year since 2003. The financial turnaround is seen as a crucial development ahead of the government’s plan to privatise the airline. With renewed access to key international routes and improved fiscal performance, PIA appears to be on a stronger footing as it prepares for a potential ownership transition.
Govt raises Rs664b in T-Bill auction amid strong investor interest, yields fall sharply PROFIT
News Desk
The federal government raised Rs664 billion through the latest Treasury Bill (T-Bill) auction, surpassing its auction target of Rs550 billion, though falling short of the Rs716 billion in maturing debt, according to Muhammad Sohail, CEO of Topline Securities, citing data released by the SBP. The auction attracted robust participation, with total bids amounting to Rs1,988 billion—reflecting continued strong demand for shortterm, risk-free government securities. Despite the healthy bid volume, the government chose to accept a limited portion, possibly indicating rate management or debt rollover strategy. Yields across all tenors fell significantly, dropping between 66 and 90 basis points compared to the previous auction. The cut-off yield for the 1-month T-Bill declined to 11.25%, while the 3month and 6-month papers settled at 11.24% and 11.28%, respectively. The 12-month T-Bill yield stood at 11.35%. The sharp decline in yields suggests increasing market expectations of monetary easing in the near term, as well as growing investor confidence in short-term instruments. However, the fact that the government raised less than the maturing amount may signal caution about locking in funds at lower rates.
Lucky Cement to boost global capacity with new projects in Iraq PROFIT
News Desk
Lucky Cement Limited has announced an expansion of its production capabilities, with the addition of a new clinker production line with a capacity of 1.82 million tons per annum at its joint venture company, Najmat AlSamawah (NAS), located in Samawah, Iraq. The company shared this development through a notice to the PSX on Wednesday. The new clinker production line, with a capacity of 1.82 million tons per annum (MTPA), was successfully fired on May 13, 2025, according to the company’s announcement. This development is expected to significantly enhance Lucky Cement’s production capacity in Iraq, where it operates through its joint venture with Najmat Al-Samawah (NAS). Additionally, a new cement grinding plant with a production capacity of 0.65 MTPA is under construction at NAS, with the commissioning expected in the first half of FY26. The company highlighted that the clinker capacity expansion will help increase its market share in Iraq by supplying more cement to the local market. Moreover, surplus clinker produced will be marketed and sold domestically within Iraq, boosting the company’s presence in the region. Upon completion of these projects, Lucky Cement’s consolidated production capacity will rise to a total of 21.48 million tons per annum, with key production facilities in Pakistan, Iraq, and Congo. The company’s expanded footprint includes production plants in Pezu and Karachi, Pakistan, along with plants in Samawah, Iraq, and a new facility in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Pakistan Petroleum Ltd awarded two new blocks for hydrocarbon exploration PROFIT
News Desk
Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) has been provisionally awarded two new blocks, Kalat South and Ziarat North, for hydrocarbon exploration, according to a filing by the company at the PSX on Wednesday. The award was made following competitive bidding held by the Government of Pakistan on April 30, 2025. The two blocks will be operated by PPL, with joint venture partners including Mari Energies Limited, OGDCL and Turkish Petroleum Overseas Company. PPL will hold a 40% stake in the Kalat South block and a 24.87% stake in the Ziarat North block, with other partners holding varying shares. The arrangement is contingent upon the completion of necessary regulatory approvals, including the execution of Petroleum Concession Agreements and Exploration Licenses. The government’s move highlights its ongoing efforts to expand the country’s energy resources through joint ventures and collaborations in the energy sector.
04 COMMENT
On acts of God
Housing finance
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After cars, housing needs a shake-up
T seems that the government is putting the recent war-scare behind it. The Prime Minister chaired two meetings with tax officials, and exhorted the spreading of the tax net and the plugging of holes for evasion, not because of the need for money for any war effort, but so as to meet the revenue targets set by the IMF. However, it was Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal who chaired a meeting which dealt with another problem, and which could have long-term ramifications: the housing market, more specifically, the meeting examined mortgage finance. Mr Iqbal specifically mentioned the car financing model, which has been rendered Islamic by the payment of instalments as a form of rent-cumrepayment of loan. It is true that the main problem of housing is not really the existence of housing units, though that remains an issue, with the number of new housing units needed to meet population growth, but financing the purchase of those units. The model which the meeting seemed to endorse was that of housing mortgages, with monthly payments corresponding roughly to rental, resorted to by those who cannot afford to buy a house. In this, the financial institution has a lien on the house, collecting a rent as well as a repayment of the principal. It has happened in the car market that vehicles bought on installment have been res-sold, with the seller paying off his loan, or the buyer taking it over. This model has not made much progress in the housing market, which remains a strictly cash-only business. Car dealers had begun car financing in addition to banks, and if the trend begins in housing, it will perhaps be a possibility that real estate dealers may need to start offering financing. Mr Iqbal referred to best practices from abroad, so that might well include specialised financial institutions. One problem that might crop up is that financial institutions have very strict lending requirements, which is perhaps one reason why mortgages have no the housing situation is a crisis which both the PML(N) and the PTI have recognized in previous tenures, but have failed to resolve. At one level, the problem is perhaps not more important than the recent Pak-India conflict, for there is no point in having a home which is not secure. But it is very much one of the problems that can only be solved when there is peace.
And the actions of men
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haSan afTaB SaEED
N the insurance industry, an ‘Act of God’ refers to an uncontrollable and unpreventable event outside of human control– typically a natural disaster or severe weather event. The adoption of this name for the event class leaves a great deal to be desired, but the term is way too prevalent in the insurance industry for anybody to do anything about it now. The insurance industry, like many others, is best left to its own devices. What God does and does not do, however, is a question with profound implications for any metaphysical picture that has anything to do with morality. In one sense, everything that ever happens is an act of God. For whatever event comes to pass (or fails to do so) must strictly depend on the laws enacted by God. Despite what many people believe, it does not follow, however, that God is necessarily pleased with all events. Nor that man is merely a puppet that cannot do anything of his own accord. That would make a joke of moral accountability. Man has an important and unmistakable part to play in his moral decisions. The physical causes of events are always there, which it is often profitable to analyse for the sake of future improvement. On another level however, every event can be traced back to God, whose sanction (‘Be’) is a necessary condition for anything to ever happen. The chemical reaction between cigarette smoke and the lung tissue is based on Divine law. But the smoker brings the damage to himself by the act of smoking. From the point of view of responsibility one may (and often does) apportion blame and praise to individuals. But all events ultimately can be attributed to God. It is not a this-or-that question. Consider a man who gets hanged. The answer to the question ‘Who hanged him?’ depends on the point of view. The hanging could be attributed to the hangman who tied the noose around his neck; to the jury who convicted him; to the judge who sentenced him; to the prosecutor who successfully pleaded the case; to the state that sanctioned capital punishment; to the murderer himself for having committed the crime; and to God who ultimately approves and brings into effect all deaths– natural or otherwise. The inability to understand this has some extremely unfortunate consequences. Atheists frequently cite and object to verses of the Quran to the effect that God guides whom He will and misguides whom He will, or He guides some and misguides others by the same verse. What with the lack of focused thought and attention on their part, it never occurs to them that their objection is not as unanswerable as they like to think it is. Many theists, being equally guilty of mental laziness, find themselves stumped by it, and end up being defensive and apologetic for their belief. There is much more confusion on either side than there needs to be.
Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami
Arif Nizami (Late)
There is no denying that God does guide many and misguide many. Similarly, He gives wisdom to some but not to everybody. But is it all arbitrary? Certainly not! When man sincerely looks for guidance and heeds it wherever he finds it, God gives him more and more of it. Being guided, then, is not an event, but a process– a process that continues till death, and in which man plays an important role. Similarly, losing one’s way is also a gradual process. Every man comes across truth and wisdom along the way but as he continues to choose to ignore or outright reject it, he strays more and more from the straight path. To the extent that finally it is as if he loses the ability to even hear the truth. This is the scary predicament the Quran describes as God having set a seal on somebody’s heart and hearing and caused a covering to fall over his eyes. While this sealing of the heart is attributed to God, it is the consequence of man being indifferent to guidance that came his way– his punishment for refusing to value truth and wisdom consistently and over extended timeframes. This is God’s immutable law of guidance and misguidance, by which He guides some and misguides others: Namely, whosoever sincerely strives for guidance will get it; and whosoever disregards it will certainly go astray. There is no escaping from God’s laws. The Quran insists that the characteristic way in which God deals
M. A. Niazi
Babar Nizami
Editor Pakistan Today
Editor Profit
A fitting reply to aggression
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Dr Zafar Khan SafDar
HE measure of a nation’s strength is not only found in its military might, but in the clarity of its purpose and the restraint with which it confronts provocation. Real power is not proven through reckless escalation, but through the ability to act decisively and justly when forced into conflict. Pursuing peace does not mean compromising on dignity or sovereignty, it means upholding these ideals while standing firm against aggression. Pakistan was compelled to respond to blatant and unprovoked military aggression, yet doing so with measured restraint and a clear moral stance. At approximately 3:30 am on Saturday, the Indian military launched missile strikes targeting Pakistan Air Force bases in Chaklala Rawalpindi, Chakwal, and Shorkot. Thanks to the preparedness and professionalism of Pakistan’s Armed Forces, all strategic and flying assets remained secure. The attacks, as briefed by ISPR Director General, were intercepted by Pakistan’s air defence systems with minimal impact on operational readiness. India’s calculated madness seems to be part of a broader pattern of escalating regional tensions through aggressive posturing, disinformation, and even attacks on Afghan territory. While India sought to drag South Asia into chaos, Pakistan remained firm in its commitment to peace but not at the cost of sovereignty. Pakistan’s retaliatory operation, Bunyanum-Marsoos (The Firm Structure), commenced in the early hours of Saturday as a direct, proportionate, and disciplined response to Indian aggression. The primary objective was to neutralize military threats while avoiding civilian harm, a clear moral distinction between Pakistan’s principled conduct and India’s reckless belligerence. Within hours, Pakistani strikes destroyed key Indian military installations, including a BrahMos missile storage site in Beas and airbases in Udhampur and Pathankot. A precision strike on India’s highly touted S-400 missile defence system in Adampur further demonstrated Pakistan’s technological capability and shattered inflated notions of Indian invincibility. The JF-17 Thunder, equipped with hypersonic missiles, struck its targets with accuracy and confidence, delivering a powerful
reminder that Pakistan’s restraint must never be mistaken for weakness. Simultaneously, the cyber frontier became a second theatre of strategic engagement. Pakistan’s cyber teams temporarily disabled major Indian digital assets, from the BJP’s official website to defence and government portals, showcasing preparedness not only in traditional warfare but also across digital domains. These cyber responses, though symbolic, underscored the depth of Pakistan’s defensive capacity and its multi-dimensional deterrence strategy. Despite provocations across military and digital fronts, Pakistan’s leadership has remained firm in its stance: this is a response born out of necessity, not desire. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar made it clear that Pakistan’s actions are defensive. The nation had shown patience in the face of mounting aggression, but there was a threshold and that threshold had been crossed. While Pakistan did not seek war, it would never tolerate violations of its sovereignty. The message is clear, Pakistan stands as a fortress of resilience, honour, and peace. Its skies are guarded, its land protected, and its people united. India’s aggression has been met with a resolute, proportionate, and morally superior counteroffensive. The enemy has been shaken, its illusions dismantled, and its false sense of supremacy laid bare. Yet, even amid conflict, Pakistan extends a hand of peace not from fear, but from dignity and strength. Let it be understood: peace cannot be built on lies, deceit, or violence. But should that hand be struck again, the other will respond with justice, with resolve, and with victory. In stark contrast, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s silence and strategic reck-
with men (His Sunnat) never changes. Anthropomorphic tendencies in men is the cause of much of the confusion on this issue, as on many others. How God guides men and moves them is not how a chess player moves pieces on the board. Instead, man is moved indirectly. Just like a soccer player has his eyes set firmly on the goalpost, the man who sincerely seeks guidance has God’s approval as his aim. With that consciousness and purpose, he battles away; where another man, with no such motivation, would be completely indifferent. Man plays a significant role when it comes to being guided or otherwise. While man can get numerous things haphazardly, guidance is not one of them. Wisdom is too precious a prize to be had by chance. Picture a man who has realized his potential by welcoming and internalizing all or a significant part of the guidance that comes his way. From one point of view, he is a deserving recipient of wisdom, having sincerely and tirelessly strived for it. From another, it is God who has guided him. Both statements are true, though a wise human being is apt to shy away from claiming the credit and to attribute his success to God’s infinite mercy instead. The author is a connoisseur of music, literature, and food (but not drinks). He can be reached at www.facebook.com/hasanaftabsaeed
Picture a man who has realized his potential by welcoming and internalizing all or a significant part of the guidance that comes his way. From one point of view, he is a deserving recipient of wisdom, having sincerely and tirelessly strived for it. From another, it is God who has guided him. Both statements are true, though a wise human being is apt to shy away from claiming the credit and to attribute his success to GodÊs infinite mercy instead.
Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos Founding Editor
lessness betrayed a growing insecurity and desperation within India’s leadership. Instead of introspection after repeated failures in diplomacy and military adventurism, the Indian establishment continues to gamble with regional peace. This isn’t strength, it’s strategic shortsightedness bordering on self-destruction. Pakistan’s message is clear, we do not want escalation, we do not want war, but we are not weak. Our will is forged in the fires of history, and our purpose is anchored in humanity. Pakistan’s policy is not expansionist, it is existential. We want to live in peace but we will never live in submission. It is time for Prime Minister Modi to take a long, hard look at the path he is treading. His divisive domestic policies, coupled with aggressive external posturing, have brought the region to the brink. If he chooses escalation over diplomacy, Pakistan’s final blow if forced will leave him with nowhere to go, politically, strategically, and morally. That is not a threat, it is a grave truth he must confront with humility, before it is too late. Pakistan is not acting out of vengeance but necessity. Our responses are driven by national security, not nationalism. We seek no triumph in destruction, but we will not allow our homeland to be desecrated. Let the world bear witness, Pakistan’s military response was guided by strategic integrity, not blind fury.
The writer is Ph.D in Political Science and visiting faculty at QAU Islamabad. His area of specialization is political development and social change. He can be reached at zafarkhansafdar@yahoo.com and tweet@zafarkhansafdar.
Editor’s mail
Send your letters to: Letters to Editor, Pakistan Today, 4-Shaarey Fatima Jinnah, Lahore, Pakistan. E-mail: letters@pakistantoday.com.pk Letters should be addressed to Pakistan Today exclusively
Nuclear rivalry
THE Pakistan-India relationship has long been one of the most volatile and enduring rivalries in international politics, marked by recurring military tensions, historical animosity, and deeply entrenched security concerns. One of the most useful frameworks to analyse this relationship is Barry Buzan and Ole Wæver’s Regional Security Complex Theory (RSCT), which posits that security is primarily regional, and that states within a specific geographical area tend to form a ‘security complex’ in which their security concerns are so interlinked that they cannot be resolved independently of each other. The Pakistan-India conflict is a textbook example of a regional security complex, with the two neighbouring countries locked in a historical pattern of mutual threat perception, historical antagonism, and strategic competition. At the core of RSCT lies the idea that geographical proximity matters. States that are close to one another tend to affect each other’s security more directly than those far away. Seen through the RSCT lens, the longstanding Kashmir issue exemplifies how security concerns within a region can, and do, become self-reinforcing and persistent over decades. The mutual threat perceptions are deeply institutionalised in both states’ military doctrines and political rhetoric, making it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to break the cycle of hostility. Yet another dimension of RSCT is the influence of external powers. While the theory primarily focusses on regional dynamics, it also recognises the role of global powers in shaping regional security complexes. In our case, external actors, such as the United States, China and Russia, have played significant roles. These external influences often end up exacerbating rather than mitigating regional tensions by providing diplomatic backing, arms and ammunition as well as strategic cover that only reinforces the security dilemma. The nuclearisation of the Pakistan-India conflict further deepens the complexity of this security complex. RSCT explains how regional security dynamics persist even under the shadow of nuclear deter-rence. Instead of stabilising the region, the presence of nuclear weapons has led to the proliferation of low-intensity conflicts and border skirmishes. These engagements are often seen as attempts to test the thresholds of nuclear deterrence, but without triggering a full-scale war. RSCT explains how nuclear weapons fail to eliminate regional security competition. In fact, they merely alter its form. RSCT also provides insight into why peace efforts between Pakistan and India have repeatedly failed. Any unilateral move towards de-escalation is viewed with suspicion. Trust is minimal, and domestic political considerations often override rational strategic calculations. UROOSA MEHBOOB KARACHI
Air force excellence
Pakistan is not acting out of vengeance but necessity. Our responses are driven by national security, not nationalism. We seek no triumph in destruction, but we will not allow our homeland to be desecrated. Let the world bear witness, PakistanÊs military response was guided by strategic integrity, not blind fury.
Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965
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Karachi – Ph: 021-32640318 I
Thursday, 15 May, 2025
Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545
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IT was quite exhilarating to come to know about the befitting and most welcome response by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) to the mischievous attack by Indian pilots in the early hours of May 7. The PAF pilots knocked down five Indian aircraft and forced the rest to flee. Despite India’s numerical superiority, Pakistani pilots have always been well ahead of their Indian counterparts. This is mainly due to their superb training, skills and, above all, their fighting spirit and devotion. It is this very devotion that we seem to be missing in other domains of our national life. There was a report in the media the same day — ‘Amid global decline, Pakistan ranked among 26 lowest HDI states’ (May 7) — stating that, among the 193 countries in the world, Pakistan stood 168th on the Human Development Index (HDI), with Afghanistan being the only other South Asian country behind it, and the other 24 countries in that specific category belonging to Sub-Saharan Africa. As a nation, we surely need to learn a few lessons from our own air force. A comparison of performance levels and results among various sectors is critically necessary in order to ensure that credit is given and taken only where it is due. S R H HASHMI KARACHI
Web: www.pakistantoday.com.pk
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Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk
COMMENT 05
India’s miscalculation and Pakistan’s strategic victory Thursday, 15 May, 2025
How Modi got it all wrong
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QaMar BaShir
N a defining moment of South Asian military history, the May 2025 conflict marked a dramatic shift in the regional power balance. A far smaller and economically constrained Pakistan demonstrated not only military and technological parity with India, but also surpassed its rival in strategic planning, diplomatic agility, and psychological warfare. What began as an act of hubris by New Delhi ended in national humiliation, with Islamabad emerging stronger and more respected on the global stage. India’s offensive— initiated under the assumption of swift success and limited backlash— turned into a monumental miscalculation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, buoyed by inflated domestic support and a self-image of regional dominance, underestimated Pakistan’s preparedness and resolve. He hoped to win quick political dividends through a show of force, especially ahead of crucial elections. But Pakistan did not respond as expected. Instead of reacting impulsively, Islamabad bided its time. It waited for international consensus to identify India as the aggressor. This restraint, seen as both wise and mature, allowed Pakistan to garner global sympathy while preparing a precise and proportionate response. When the counterstrike came, it was devastating— not in scale, but in effect. Pakistan’s military response was measured, disciplined, and surgically executed, exposing India’s vulnerabilities without breaching international law or targeting civilians. Pakistan’s advanced capabilities— especially in electronic warfare, missile guidance, and air defence— were not just noticed by India, but also by Washington. The USA, viewing India as a strategic ally and regional counterweight to China, was jolted by intelligence reports detailing the scope and sophistication of Pakistan’s retaliation plans. The potential damage to India, had Pakistan fully unleashed its military might, was
deemed catastrophic. President Donald Trump convened his strategic team, led by Vice President JD Vance, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. Real-time intelligence painted a grim picture: Pakistan’s counteroffensive was not only imminent, but could severely cripple India’s command-andcontrol infrastructure, disrupt key economic hubs, and dismantle its air defence shield. JD Vance was dispatched to urgently communicate this intelligence to Prime Minister Modi. The message was blunt: any further escalation would result in irreversible consequences. The strategic calculus shifted instantly. Modi, once intoxicated with power and emboldened by false notions of invincibility, was brought to his senses. The once defiant leader now faced the reality of defeat, and with surprising haste, he accepted a ceasefire— grasping at the lifeline extended by US diplomacy. Pakistan’s military response was not merely reactive— it was the product of years of strategic planning and technological upgrades. The Pakistan Air Force, often underestimated, proved formidable. It not only neutralized Indian air incursions but used advanced jamming techniques to cripple enemy communications, rendering even India’s most prized Rafale jets vulnerable. In the fiercest aerial dogfights witnessed in South Asia, five Indian aircraft— including three Rafales— were shot down. The weapon of choice: China-made PL-15 air-toair missiles, deployed by JF-17 Thunder jets. The event sent shockwaves through global defense communities. How could lower-cost fighters and less-funded forces dismantle India’s French-made fleet? The answer lay in pilot skill, tactical discipline, and superior command integration— all areas where Pakistan excelled. But it wasn’t just the air force. Pakistan’s missile defense systems intercepted multiple Indian drones and neutralized misfired projectiles that tragically landed within Indian territory— specifically in illegally occupied
Kashmir and Indian East Punjab— causing civilian casualties and infrastructure damage. These errors highlighted India’s lack of coordination and systemic flaws within its military hierarchy. India’s narrative— that Pakistan was the perpetual sponsor of cross-border terrorism— fell flat. The international community, increasingly skeptical of India’s claims, demanded verifiable evidence, which never materialized. The UN and European Union called for restraint and transparency. India’s allies grew uncomfortable with its unilateralism and recklessness. Even US officials, while committed to India strategically, privately acknowledged that New Delhi had acted without a clear objective and had exposed its military and diplomatic inadequacies. The global perception shifted: Pakistan was no longer the underdog or the provocateur. It was a disciplined, sovereign state defending itself with dignity and proportionality. The economic cost to India was immense. Independent estimates suggest losses exceeding $2–3 billion during the short-lived but intense confrontation. These losses stemmed from destroyed aircraft, disrupted operations, investor panic, and infrastructural damage. Insurance premiums soared. Stock markets dipped. Foreign direct investment froze. The confidence of global investors in India’s stability took a hit. India’s much-touted status as a future superpower faltered. It became clear that GDP growth figures and defence budgets mean little without crisis management skills and strategic prudence. Modi’s gamble backfired not just militarily, but economically and politically. The psychological toll on India was profound. A country that regularly projected power found itself licking wounds, explaining failures, and managing embarrassment. The downing of Rafales— symbolic of India’s air dominance narrative— was especially damaging. The Indian public, initially fed a diet of patriotic fervour, began asking hard questions: Why were we so ill-pre-
IndiaÊs offensive· initiated under the assumption of swift success and limited backlash· turned into a monumental miscalculation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, buoyed by inflated domestic support and a selfimage of regional dominance, underestimated PakistanÊs preparedness and resolve. pared? Why did we misread Pakistan? Why did our technology fail? Modi, the self-styled strongman, is now engaged in damage control. Once boasting of surgical strikes, he now faces accusations of recklessness. His leadership during the crisis is being questioned, not only by the opposition but by his own allies. The BJP’s political capital is eroding as its strategic misadventure unfolds. Pakistan, on the other hand, emerged with its head high. It didn’t seek war but proved it wouldn’t be cowed by one. Its leadership— both civilian and military— acted with restraint and precision. The world took note.
IndiaÊs defeat in this episode is a case study in the dangers of arrogance, miscalculation, and overconfidence. Military might unaccompanied by strategy is hollow. Economic power without responsibility is dangerous. And political bluster without foresight is self-destructive. PakistanÊs victory was not just on the battlefield· it was in the realm of perception, restraint, and national dignity. It turned IndiaÊs misadventure into an inflection point, one that redefined the subcontinentÊs strategic calculus.
This wasn’t just a military victory. It was a political and psychological triumph. It reminded regional powers and the global community alike that smaller nations with grit, unity, and strategic clarity can defend their sovereignty against larger, more arrogant foes. India’s defeat in this episode is a case study in the dangers of arrogance, miscalculation, and overconfidence. Military might unaccompanied by strategy is hollow. Economic power without responsibility is dangerous. And political bluster without foresight is self-destructive. Pakistan’s victory was not just on the battlefield— it was in the realm of perception, restraint, and national dignity. It turned India’s misadventure into an inflection point, one that redefined the subcontinent’s strategic calculus. India lost more than jets, missiles, and billions. It lost its narrative. Its aura of invincibility. Its diplomatic edge. Pakistan, in contrast, gained more than a ceasefire. It gained respect, reinforced deterrence, and reminded the world that real power lies in resolve, not rhetoric.
The writer retired as Press Secretary the President, and is former Press Minister at Embassy of Pakistan to France and former MD, Shalimar Recording & Broadcasting Company Limited
Ban on Awami League? Sorry, Israel – Trump needs a win! History shows that dissolving parties rarely heals nations. It more often deepens fractures, stokes grievances, and makes martyrs of those who once stood accused
I
THE DAILY STAR
MohaMMad al-MaSuM Molla
N moments of national transition, the desire to undo the past through dramatic gestures is tempting. After years of repression, injustice, and fear, many understandably crave a break from the old order—a symbolic act that declares, “never again.” For some, banning the Awami League (AL) appears to be that break. This decision, driven by years of repression and authoritarian rule, may seem like poetic justice to some. But it carries a heavy price: the risk of turning democratic renewal into another round of political vengeance. There is no denying the extent of damage the AL has done over the last 15 years, particularly from January 5, 2014. Many citizens hoped that, at the very least, AL leaders would publicly acknowledge their wrongdoing, express regret, and ask for forgiveness. But instead of remorse, what has come is provocation—from exile, through messaging that seeks to inflame rather than reconcile. The public anger, already deep, has only intensified. And yet, even in the face of this resentment, we must ask whether banning the party outright solved the problem of punishing the individuals who committed crimes against humanity. Make no mistake, the AL has much to answer for and it must be held accountable for its brutal actions and those responsible must be punished. From the 2014 “midnight election” to the brutal crackdown on student protesters during the July uprising of 2024, the party’s leadership has repeatedly flouted democratic norms and trampled on human rights. There is widespread and legitimate demand for punishment. Let’s begin with the obvious: the Awami League is not merely a political party—it is a multigenerational institution. Millions of people across the country supported it in the past, many of them born into families that have been part of the party for decades. What will happen to these people in the new reality? How
will they react is the important question. What’s more, a ban gives the AL exactly what it needs to recast its image— from oppressor to oppressed. The same party that wielded state power to silence dissent now gets to claim victimhood. Then there is the legal dimension. Bangladesh is a signatory to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which clearly states that restrictions on political rights must meet the tests of legality, necessity, and proportionality. A blanket party ban—the most extreme form of political restriction—can only be justified when all other less restrictive means have demonstrably failed. The state still has powerful tools at its disposal: it can prosecute individual AL leaders credibly accused of crimes, provide protection for witnesses and activists, disband violent factions, and even impose targeted political sanctions. These mechanisms strengthen justice. Justice demands that we punish the guilty—not everyone who are not directly involved with them. Collective punishment, even when driven by righteous cause, undermines the very legitimacy of transitional justice. History shows that dissolving parties rarely heals nations. It more often deepens fractures, stokes grievances, and makes martyrs of those who once stood accused. Supporters of the ban may point to the student movements, particularly the July uprising, as moral justification. And indeed, the courage of Bangladesh’s young protesters deserves admiration. They braved arrests, bullets, and surveillance to demand change. But no matter how noble, we should not allow heroism to override the rule of law, as the July uprising was meant to restore the rule of law and impart justice. If we undermine democratic process to respond to just demands, we risk destroying the very ideals we’re trying to restore. Perhaps worryingly, this move sets a precedent. Today, it’s the AL. Tomorrow, it could be any party deemed “unacceptable.” Once the door to blanket political bans is opened, it becomes easier to silence dissent and concentrate power under the guise of legality. Bangladesh deserves more than symbolic ruptures. It deserves the hard, principled work of imparting justice and institution-building. Accountability must replace impunity. We must also ensure political pluralism. If we are to escape our past, we must choose justice and democracy.
Mohammad Al-Masum Molla is a journalist at The Daily Star.
Intransigent Hamas, defiant Iran and hostile Houthis are cramping the US president’s style. Guess who may pay the price
Trump’s desperate need to see himself as a winner (even if not actually winning)
Rumor has Trump preparing to unilaterally recognize a Palestinian state
T
THE TIMES OF ISRAEL Steven Frank
ARIFFS are on, tariffs are off; some are back on and some postponed and others supersized to the point of embargo. Iran will be forced to dismantle its nuclear facilities or maybe just cease enrichment; maybe destroy its centrifuges “nicely” or have them blown up “viciously,” or maybe just promise not to use them to make weapons. Anyone trying to follow US President Donald Trump’s sudden and frequent policy lurches will be tempted to reach for the Dramamine. Politicians often change their minds – then-Senator John Kerry was famously for the war in Iraq before he was against it – but it’s safe to say no president has ever executed so many head-spinning, diametric reversals in so short a time. Four months have not yet passed since his inauguration. This chaotic behavior, in my view, has two sources. The first is Trump’s desperate need to see himself as a winner (even if not actually winning). The second is competition for his attention among close advisors with very different views. Most relevant for Israel is the cleavage within his foreign-policy team. Vice President JD Vance, Susie Wiles, and Donald Trump Jr. lead a neo-isolationist cadre that gauges foreign relations in terms of transactional benefits to America. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and former National Security Advisor Mike Waltz advocate a more assertive – and more traditionally Republican – US role in global affairs. Trump also pays attention to media gadflies such as Tucker Carlson and Laura Loomer, who serve as windows to the soul of his political base. Trump listens to these discordant voices and decides whose advice is likely, at a given juncture, to make him look like a winner. And he goes with that until it no longer feels like winning. Then he goes with someone else. The underlying merits and the repercussions are secondary or irrelevant. What counts is public perception, or at least how he reads it.
Upon assuming office for the second time, Trump’s priority was to banish as much global conflict as possible so as to burnish his war-ending persona and draw a favorable contrast from his predecessor. That didn’t work so well with Russia and Ukraine, but like virtually all previous US presidents, he knew he could pressure Israel into supporting American priorities – in this case, a ceasefire with Hamas. It took Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by surprise but didn’t work out too badly for him, since a substantial segment of the Israeli public supported the agreement’s first phase and Netanyahu declined, without backlash, to pursue the far more controversial subsequent phases. Since then, Trump has threatened Hamas with “hell to pay” if all hostages – or American hostages, or, right, actually all hostages – were not released; unleashed substantial firepower against Yemen’s Houthi rebels and threatened them with “complete annihilation”; and reimposed “maximum pressure” sanctions against Iran while threatening to destroy their nuclear facilities. These all bear the fingerprints of the muscular foreign-policy cadre. Hamas neither released any hostages nor faced hell, Iran remained defiant, and the Houthis still managed to mount attacks against ships in the Red Sea, including American naval vessels. Plainly, none of this felt very much like winning. Soon, Trump was engaging in dialogue with Iran, which obliged him by muzzling the Houthis to “build momentum” in the talks – i.e., to hand Trump a win he could boast of and a debt to be collected later. The neo-isolationists now had the upper hand. Unsourced statements suggested Trump might even be considering a return to the terms of Obama’s disastrous nuclear deal with Iran, which would please the neo-isolationists since they don’t perceive Iran as a threat to US shores. But it ignited a firestorm among right-wing commentators, who reminded Trump how mightily he inveighed against that deal before dramatically exiting it in 2018. Manhood check! Trump quickly pivoted to “nicely” or “viciously” and postponed further talks. What happens next? Talks with Iran are back on. The neo-isolationists perceive the vigor of Trump’s manly threats as cover for a renewed effort to accommodate the mullahs. If they can get some concession from Iran that arguably – even if not credibly – extends beyond the Obama deal, they think they can sell it to Trump as a momentous win. They have learned by now that no line he draws in the sand is fixed if its erasure can be spun favorably.
In the meantime, Trump’s team has been feeling out the possibility of bringing Saudi Arabia into the Abraham Accords – a signature Trump win in his first administration. Getting Saudi on board would not only gild that win but achieve what his hated predecessor, Joe Biden, sought strenuously but failed to obtain. The obstacles were, and remain, Saudi insistence on an end to the Gaza war and a pathway to Palestinian statehood as prerequisites. Joe Biden and his State Department seemed genuinely puzzled over Israel’s refusal on both counts. But they overestimated the value of Saudi normalization to Israel. The two countries have cooperated fruitfully and quietly since Obama signed his nuclear deal with Iran. The tangible benefits of normalization to Israel would be few, and the risks to the Saudi government significant. Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom’s de facto ruler, is engaged in a long-term project of reforming and modernizing his country in the face of fierce opposition from religious fundamentalists and members of his own royal family. Attempts to placate the Palestinians would make recognition of the “Zionist entity” by the cradle of Islam no less of an abomination to religious zealots. And the Palestinians have always refused to be placated. One can almost imagine bin Salman colluding with Netanyahu to keep the bar to normalization unachievably high, precisely to avoid upending the productive status quo. But Trump needs a win, and facts are beside the point. The Palestinians have had a Jew-free state in all of Gaza since 2005. We know how that experiment turned out. And ending the Gaza war on Hamas’s terms, which have not meaningfully changed since they perpetrated the horrors of October 7, would simply start the countdown to the next pogrom. We have experimental evidence for that proposition as well: Israel is fighting its fifth war with Hamas, having allowed it to survive and thrive after each of the previous four. These are merely facts, however, and Trump needs a win. We’ll see how far he’s willing to go to get it, how eager MBS is to cooperate, and how much fortitude Netanyahu is prepared to show in defending Israel’s core interests. Rumor has Trump preparing to unilaterally recognize a Palestinian state. The perfidy and self-defeating destructiveness of such a move can’t be overstated. But in a Machiavellian world of princes and winners, nothing is unthinkable.
Steven Frank lives and writes in Massachusetts. After a multi-decade legal career, he now sits on the other side of the table as a technology developer and entrepreneur.
06 NEWS
CHINA, COLOMBIA SIGN COOPERATION PLAN ON BRI
C
BEIJING
Staff CoRReSpondent
HINA and Colombia should take the latter’s formal accession to the Belt and Road Initiative as an opportunity to upgrade bilateral cooperation, Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Wednesday. Xi made the remarks when meeting with his Colombian counterpart Gustavo Petro, who is in Beijing for the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC (the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) Forum. After their meeting, the two heads of state witnessed the signing of a cooperation plan between the two governments on jointly building the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st-Century Maritime Silk Road. Noting Colombia is an important country in Latin America, Xi said China has always viewed the development of bilateral relations from a strategic height and a longterm perspective. This year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations be-
Thursday, 15 May 2025 | ISLAMABAD
tween China and Colombia. Xi said that standing at a new historical starting point, China is willing to make joint efforts with Colombia to promote greater development of the strategic partnership between the two countries and bring more benefits to the people of both countries. Both sides should consolidate political mutual trust, enhance strategic communication and firmly grasp the development direction of bilateral relations, Xi said. China is willing to import more highquality products from Colombia, support Chinese enterprises in investing and doing business in Colombia, and participate in infrastructure construction, the Chinese president said. He also said both China and Colombia can further expand cooperation in emerging fields such as wind energy, new energy vehicles, digital economy and artificial intelligence, and jointly achieve green and low-carbon transformation. Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Colombian President Gustavo Petro at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital
of China, May 14, 2025. /Xinhua Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with Colombian President Gustavo Petro at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, May 14, 2025. /Xinhua Stressing that China-LAC (Latin America and the Caribbean) cooperation is an im-
portant part of South-South cooperation, Xi stressed that it conforms to the general trend of global development and history, and is in line with the common interests of China and LAC countries. The successful holding of the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC
Forum has sent a positive signal to the world for seeking shared development and revitalization, Xi said, hailing the contribution of Colombia to the meeting as the CELAC rotating chair. China is willing to work with Colombia and other LAC countries to continuously promote the building of a community with a shared future, Xi said. Petro said Colombia looks forward to further boosting ties with China, and that both sides should deepen political mutual trust and enhance mutual support. He called on both sides to work on the BRI, expand cooperation in areas such as trade, infrastructure, new energy and artificial intelligence, and improve people’s lives. Noting that the international situation is complex and volatile, Petro said the practices adopted by some countries to pursue unilateral gains are not conducive to the world, and all countries should stand together to respond. Colombia is willing to work closely with China to safeguard international fairness and justice and protect the common interests of developing countries, he said.
Trump meets Syrian president, says he is looking into normalising ties RIYADH
agenCIeS
United States President Donald Trump met with Syria’s president in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, after a surprise US announcement it would lift all sanctions on the Islamist-led government, and said Washington was exploring the possibility of normalising ties with Damascus. He made the comments during a summit between the US and Gulf Arab countries. Trump met Syria’s Ahmed al-Sharaa before the summit. Photos posted on Saudi state television showed them shaking hands in the presence of Saudi Arabia’s crown prince. Trump also urged Sharaa to normalise ties with Israel, a White House spokesperson said. Despite concerns within sectors of his administration over Syria’s leaders’ former ties to Al Qaeda, Trump said on
Tuesday during a speech in Riyadh he would lift sanctions on Syria in a major policy shift. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan joined Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, also known as MbS, virtually in the meeting, Anadolu News Agency reported. MbS told the summit Saudi Arabia commends Trumps decision to lift sanctions on Syria. The lifting of sanctions came despite deep Israeli suspicion of Sharaa’s administration, worries initially shared by some US officials. Israeli officials have continued to describe Sharaa as a jihadist, though he severed ties with al Qaeda in 2016. Israel’s government did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The decision is a major boost for Sharaa, who has been struggling to bring the country under the control of the Damascus government after toppling former
Termez Dialogue on connectivity between Central and South Asia to be held on May 19 TASHKENT
Staff RepoRt
Termez will host the first meeting of the Termez Dialogue on Connectivity between Central and South Asia titled “Building a Common Space of Peace, Friendship and Prosperity” on May 19-21, 2025. The event is organized by the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of Uzbekistan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan. The international forum will bring together about 200 participants from Central and South Asia, Europe, the CIS, Asia Pacific, America, and the Middle East. Among them are representatives of political and economic circles, business circles, financial institutions, international and regional organizations, as well as prominent experts from analytical and research centers around the world. The main goal of the dialogue is to form a multilateral discussion platform for the practical promotion of the special resolution of the UN General Assembly “Strengthening the Connectivity between Central and South Asia”, adopted in 2022 on the initiative of the President of the Republic Shavkat Miromonovich Mirziyoyev.
President Bashar al-Assad in December. The challenges were laid bare in March when Assad loyalists attacked government forces, prompting revenge attacks in which Islamist gunmen killed hundreds of civilians from the Alawite minority, drawing strong US condemnation. Trump is on a four-day visit to the oilrich Gulf states that includes stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Trump’s first day of a four-day swing through the Gulf region was marked by lavish ceremony and business deals, including a $600 billion commitment from Saudi Arabia to invest in the US and $142 billion in US arms sales to the kingdom. Later today, Trump will fly to the Qatari capital Doha, where he will participate in a state visit with Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and other of-
ficials. Qatar, a key US ally, is expected to announce hundreds of billions of dollars in investments in the US. US ally Israel has opposed sanctions relief for Syria, but Trump on Tuesday said that Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, who are both close to the US president, encouraged him to make the move. Sharaa was for years the leader of al Qaeda’s official wing in the Syrian conflict. He first joined the group in Iraq, where he spent five years in a US prison. The United States removed a $10 million bounty on Sharaa’s head in December. His interactions with Sharaa, who led rebel forces that toppled former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in December, will be closely watched as observers gauge how serious Washington is about resetting its relationship with Damascus.
Opposition grills Modi over silence on US brokered 3rd party mediation on Kashmir NEW DELHI agenCIeS
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is under mounting pressure from the Opposition to clarify whether US President Donald Trump played a role in brokering the recent ceasefire with Pakistan— a question he conspicuously avoided in his latest address. Opposition parties have seized on Trump’s claims, demanding answers on whether India has quietly shifted its long-standing stance of rejecting third-party mediation on the Kashmir dispute. The parties demanded to know why Modi remained silent on Trump’s claims, whether India has changed its longtime policy of no third-party mediation and if the US
president’s claims of trade being used to end the conflict is true. In a statement, Congress MP Jairam Ramesh said Modi’s “muchdelayed address to the nation was upstaged by President Trump’s revelations”. “The prime minister was completely silent on them. Has India agreed to US mediation? Has India agreed to a ‘neutral site’ for a dialogue with Pakistan? The prime minister should immediately have a meeting with leaders of all political parties — something he has studiously avoided in the last 20 days,” he said. Mr Ramesh said the coming months would ‘demand both painstaking diplomacy and a collective resolve’. “One-liners and dialogue-baazi are poor substitutes,” he said, “.
Congress MP Randeep Singh Surjewala earlier also sought to know if the ceasefire with Pakistan was on the basis of mediation by the US. “Isn’t the Modi government aware that the US president, Mr Donald Trump has issued a statement expressing mediation to solve the Kashmir issue? Is the Modi government going to allow a third-party mediation in Kashmir in absolute derogation of India’s stated policy? If not, why has PM Modi not controverted the same?” Also, Communist Party of India (Marxist) general secretary M.A. Baby reiterated the opposition’s call for a special session of parliament and said the ceasefire announcement by Trump before any Indian official could declare it “has raised serious concerns”.
Xi Jinping calls on China, Chile to enhance multilateral collaboration to safeguard interests of Global South BEIJING
Staff CoRReSpondent
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday met with Chilean President Gabriel Boric, who is in Beijing for the fourth ministerial meeting of the China-CELAC (the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) Forum. Noting that this year marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, Xi said China and Chile should constantly enrich the connotation of their comprehensive strategic partnership, create a model of common development between China and Latin American countries, set a stellar example of South-South cooperation, and jointly promote the cause of peace and progress for humanity. Xi said China is willing to work with Chile to consolidate political mutual trust, enhance exchanges of experience in governance, firmly support each other on issues concerning their core interests and major concerns, and safeguard each other’s sovereignty, security and development interests. Xi called on the two countries to implement the Belt and Road cooperation plan, deepen cooperation on agriculture, forestry, animal husbandry and fishery, industrial investment, infrastructure and green minerals, and cultivate new growth points in astronomy, polar regions, artificial intelligence, biomedicine and digital economy. China supports more Chinese enterprises in investing and doing business in Chile and welcomes more high-quality Chilean products to enter the Chinese market, he said. He said both sides should enhance mutual learning among civilizations, carry out exchange activities in education, culture, media, and youth, and facilitate personnel exchanges. As firm defenders of multilateralism and free trade, China and Chile should enhance multilateral collaboration to safeguard the common interests of the Global South, Xi added. Noting that China has become Chile’s most important trading partner, Boric said bilateral cooperation has benefited the two peoples.
Qatar signs $200b deal to buy jets from Boeing during Trump visit DOHA
agenCIeS
Qatar signed a deal on Wednesday to purchase jets from US manufacturer Boeing for Qatar Airways during President Donald Trump’s visit to the Gulf Arab country. Trump said the deal was worth $200 billion and included 160 jets. Trump and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani witnessed the signing ceremony in Doha. The deal was announced during Trump’s second stop on a tour of Gulf states after he struck a string of deals with Saudi Arabia on Tuesday. Trump said Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg told him at the signing ceremony that “it’s the largest order of jets in the history of Boeing, that’s good”. Trump added: “It’s over $200 billion but 160 in terms of the jets, that’s fantastic. So that’s a record, Kelly, and congratulations to Boeing. Get those planes out there, get them out there.”
Financial Crisis Threatens Survival of World-Ranked QAU, Staff Warn of Protests ISLAMABAD
aHMad aHMadanI/Staff RepoRt
Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU), one of Pakistan’s highest-ranked academic institutions, is on the brink of collapse due to a severe and prolonged financial crisis, according to its Employees Welfare Association (EWA). The Association has warned that without immediate government intervention and a Rs 7 billion bailout package, the university’s academic, administrative, and research operations face irreparable damage. In a joint statement issued on Wednesday, EWA President Syed Hassan Shah and General Secretary Iftikhar Ahmad Kayani said the university is being financially strangled despite repeated pleas from Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Niaz Ahmad Akhtar to top state functionaries, including the President and Prime Minister of Pakistan. The statement paints a grim picture: around 200 retired employees have been denied their pensions and gratuity for the past three to four years, with several critically ill retirees dying without receiving medical reimbursements.
NEWS 07
Thursday, 15 May 2025 | ISLAMABAD
CORPORATE CORNER
CM MARYAM RESUMES LAPTOP SCHEME IN PUNJAB AFTER 8 YEARS LAHORE
staff report
Faizan Suhrawardy, son of Shaheed Munawwar Hussain Suhrawardy, member of the Pakistan Peoples Party Bilawal House Research and Coordination, visited the residence of Haji Muhammad Ali, Labor Councillor TMC Malir and General Secretary of Peoples Labor Bureau District Malir, to inquire about his health and presented him with a bouquet. On this occasion, senior journalist Muhammad Javed Qureshi, Hameeduddin Kokab, former General Secretary of Peoples Youth Organization District Malir Yusuf Behlam, Qayyum Malangi, Akbar Zulfi, and Adnan Shams were also present.
P&G Pakistan bags the Champion title at the 7th OICCI Women Empowerment Awards for its sustained leadership in advancing gender equity. Presented by Lance Domm, British Deputy High Commissioner, the award also market P&G induction as one of the firs two companies into the OICCI Hall Fame for championing inclusive practices acros workforce and community.
Illicit cigarette trade fuels economic losses as enforcement lags ISLAMABAD
staff report
While many opinion leaders and think tanks are only focusing on health issues due to smoking, the unchecked rise of Pakistan’s illicit cigarette trade keeps draining billions of rupees from the economy. According to the Institute for Public Opinion Research (IPOR) reports, around 54% of cigarette brands sold in Pakistan are illicit, but only contribute to around 2 percent of the total revenue generated by the sector. The unchecked growth translates into an estimated loss of nearly Rs. 415 billion each year in unpaid taxes and duties. If the illicit trade remains unaddressed, it could further endanger the revenue generated by compliant manufacturers and deepen the economic damage. Rising excise rates, although aimed at reducing tobacco use, have inadvertently made low-cost illegal cigarettes more attractive, especially to low-income consumers. An economic expert, Osama Siddiqui, said, “With price becoming a decisive factor, consumers are increasingly turning to unregulated products that are far cheaper than legal alternatives.”
Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif distributed among talented students of Faisalabad Division the latest Core i7 (13th Generation) laptops, besides launching Phase-II of Honahar Scholarship Program in Faisalabad Division. She received an unprecedented enthusiasm, slogans and applause from Faisalabad students on her arrival in the ceremony, held at Faisalabad’s historic Government College University, where she presented laptops and Honhar Scholarship cheques to the talented students. Madam Chief Minister responded to students’ welcome slogans at the ceremony by waving her hand at them. Students of GC University presented her
portraits, pencil sketches and beautiful shawls as gifts. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif met PML-N parliamentarians and ticket holders of Faisalabad Division on their seats. She left her seat on the stage and sat among the students. On her direction, a well-dressed contingent of Ladies Police presented a guard of honor to the students. She congratulated student Muhammad Abdullah Raza for beautiful recitation of the Holy Quran, and another student for presenting a sweet Naat. She awarded the students for presenting the national anthem, "My border is guarded by faith, and herself joined the national anthem at the request of the students. Madam Chief Minister was presented in the ceremony by Higher Education Department a special documentary on lap-
EO Accelerator program introduced in Pakistan KARACHI
staff report
The Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO), the world’s leading peer-to-peer network of successful business owners, launched its global EO Accelerator program in Pakistan. This powerful initiative is now available to early-stage entrepreneurs in the country, offering a structured pathway for business owners striving to scale their ventures beyond the $1 million revenue mark. Yasmin Dadabhoy has been appointed as President for the Pakistan Chapter. Usama Sultan Shamsi assumed the role of EO Accelerator Chair for Karachi and Dr Noman Said as the Co-Chair for Karachi. EO Accelerator is designed specifically for founders and business owners who are generating between USD $250,000 and $1 million in annual revenue and are eager to grow further. The program fills a crucial gap in Pakistan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing these growth-minded individuals with a
East-West Centre Alumni Association elects new leadership ISLAMABAD
SKARDU
staff report
Nestlé Pakistan inaugurated the Nestlé for Healthier Kids (N4HK) room at the Government Model Boys High School Hussainabad, Skardu, making it the fifth N4HK room in GilgitBaltistan, to foster and promote nutrition awareness in the region. The N4HK program is part of Nestlé’s global nutritional awareness initiative to ensure that children understand the value of nutrition as they grow older. To date, over 500 teachers have been trained in Hunza, Gilgit, Nagar, Skardu, Shigar, and Kharmang, with the goal of positively impacting more than 20,000 children through the N4HK program in the region. Inaugurating the room, Governor Gilgit Baltistan, Syed Mehdi Shah said, “Nestlé’s N4HK program has been instrumental in creating awareness about nutrition in our schools and communities and we are delighted at its expansion in GB for the welfare of our communities.”
FPCCI appoints Ishtiaq Baig Advisor to President for Africa KARACHI region
President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Atif Ikram Sheikh, has appointed Ishtiaq Baig as his Advisor on Trade and Investment for the African Region. Ishtiaq Baig is a distinguished businessman with a longstanding association with the African continent. He has been serving as the Hon. Consul General of the Kingdom of Morocco in Pakistan for the past 18 years and is also the Chairman of the Pakistan-Morocco Business Council of FPCCI. He has played a vital role in strengthening bilateral trade between Pakistan and Morocco. With his deep understanding of African markets and extensive diplomatic and business experience, Ishtiaq Baig is well-positioned to contribute meaningfully in his new role.
itorious scholarship schemes. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif mingled with the students, shook hands and took selfies with them. She raised the slogan of "Pakistan Zindabad" with the students.
Customers safety from electrical accidents is IESCO management top priority ISLAMABAD
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global curriculum, strategic mentorship, and unparalleled networking opportunities. “This is a monumental step in building a stronger pipeline of successful companies in Pakistan,” noted Noman Ahmed Said, technopreneur and Co-Chair said “EO Accelerator can play a transformational role for founders who have the drive but need structure, mentorship, and community to scale.”
IESCO Spokesperson Asim Nazir Raja said that IESCO administration has always tried to provide quality and timely services to esteemed consumers as well as take effective measures to protect them from electrical accidents. In this regard, a campaign was launched in 2019 under which IESCO formations have so far cleared 9,716 dangerous points by moving power lines passing near or above homes to safe locations and replacing weak power poles. IESCO itself has borne the cost of more than Rs 1.85 billion on this campaign and has proven that IESCO is a responsible and customer care-friendly organization that gives top priority to serving esteemed consumers and protecting lives and property. IESCO spokesperson Asim Nazir Raja has requested the esteemed consumers to avoid construction near or below electrical installations as this is not only an illegal act but also puts the lives of your loved ones at risk.
Lahore Police arrests over 11,900 electricity thieves
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5th Nestlé for Healthier Kids room inaugurated in Gilgit-Baltistan
tops and Honhar Scholarship. She was briefed,"4075 students of 02 to 05 years and 3rd to 8th semesters from government colleges, medical colleges and universities of Faisalabad Division will get Honhar Scholarships worth over Rs 100 million under Phase II." They explained,"1531 college students in Faisalabad division will get scholarships worth Rs 29 lakh, 82 medical college students worth Rs 4 lakh, and 2462 university students worth Rs 67 lakh." They apprised Madam Chief Minister further,"5928 laptops have been given to students of Faisalabad division, which include 4224 government university students, 319 medical college students and 1385 college students." Students Nadia Anwar and Usman Tabassum paid tribute to Madam Chief Minister for introducing laptop and mer-
14 May, 2025: The Islamabad chapter of the EastWest Centre Alumni Association held its annual elections for the 2025-2026 term, bringing together alumni to elect new leadership. A statement issued here said that elections were held through secret balloting under the supervision of the election committee. Nominees were required to submit their candidacy a day prior to the election, in accordance with the chapter’s guidelines. Afzal Khan Mandokhel was elected as the president with the majority of votes. He was an alumnus of the 26th New Generation Seminar, a three-country EWC programme held in Honolulu, Phnom Penh and Yangon in the year 2016. Muhammad Ashraf was elected unopposed as Vice President, while Faiz Paracha, a journalist by profession, was elected as General Secretary.
Rollout of Digital Birth and Death Notification Tools Across Healthcare Facilities ISLAMABAD
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Advancing the Government of Pakistan’s "Udaan Pakistan" initiative for digital transformation, National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA), in collaboration with provincial governments, has rolled out the deployment of digital Birth and Death Notification Tools in healthcare facilities across the country. Under the National Registration and Biometric Policy Framework, NADRA is taking concrete steps to modernize Pakistan’s Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) system. Digital tools are being installed at healthcare facilities to enable real-time, accurate and complete recording of vital life events – such as births and deaths – at the point of occurrence. The data collected through this system will serve as a foundational element of the federal government’s “Udaan Pakistan” program, supporting technology-driven reforms and fostering economic activity through the development of robust digital infrastructure.
Accountants reveal entrepreneurial ambitions in world’s largest talent survey in finance LAHORE
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Over half (52%) (Mainland China 38% / HK 28% / India 63% / Ireland 24% / England 32%/ Wales25% / Scotland 25% / Malaysia 46% / Singapore 37% / Africa 80% / Asia Pacific 50% / Caribbean 68% / Middle East 68% / Canada 56% / US 53% / Europe 22% the finance professionals surveyed in ACCA’s annual global talent trends survey have career ambitions to be entrepreneurs, and 62% expect to move roles in the next two years Mainland China33% / HK 52% / India 80% / Ireland 56% / England 54% / Wales 44% / Scotland 48% / Malaysia 64% / Singapore 65% / Africa 77% / Asia Pacific 57% / Caribbean 66% / Middle East 83% / Canada 65% / US 73% / Europe Mainland 57% ACCA’s (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) latest annual Global Talent Trends Survey 2025 alerts employers to changing perspectives among accountancy and finance professionals, providing a unique view of how people feel about their life at work and future career aspirations
Now in its third year, this is the largest annual talent survey of accountancy and finance professionals across the world. Over 10,000 individuals from 175 countries responded to our survey on issues ranging from career ambitions, hybrid working and inclusivity practices to upskilling, mental health and employability issues. Many respondents see accountancy as a gateway for entrepreneurial ambitions and skills. With over half of respondents (52%) Mainland China 38% / HK 28% / India 63% / Ireland 24% / England 32%/ Wales25% / Scotland 25% / Malaysia 46% / Singapore 37% / Africa 80% / Asia Pacific 50% / Caribbean 68% / Middle East 68% / Canada 56% / US 53% / Europe 22% they have career ambitions to be entrepreneurs, it’s clear that many see accountancy as a natural springboard to eventually their own businesses in the future. This could also be good news for employers - there’s a growing need for accountants to use their entrepreneurial mindsets in many finance and business job roles where skills such as commerciality and innovation are prized attributes.
LAHORE
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The Lahore Police have arrested more than 11,900 accused involved in electricity theft during the current year so far. According to the Lahore Police spokesman, over 9,900 cases have been registered across various police stations in the city on charges of electricity pilferage. Breaking down the figures, the spokesman added that 3,892 arrests were made in the Cantonment Division, 2,282 in Saddr, 2,298 in Model Town, 1,528 in Iqbal Town, 1,381 in City Division and 562 in Civil Lines Division. In this regard, Capital City Police Officer Bilal Siddique Kamyana maintained that those involved in electricity theft would not be granted any leniency. "There will be zero tolerance for individuals who cause damage to national resources," he emphasized. The CCPO asked police officers to ensure prompt action on electricity theft complaints in coordination with the line depts. He directed to arrest the absconders involved in the electricity theft cases and to ensure timely submission of challans to the courts.
Chairman Senate underscores expanding horizons of PakistanRussia Cooperation in Exclusive Russian State TV Interview MOSCOW
agencies
In a significant stride towards fortifying PakistanRussia relations, Chairman Senate of Pakistan, Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani, delivered a comprehensive interview to Vmeste-RF, the official broadcaster of the Russian Federation, during his landmark visit to the Federation Council in Moscow. The dialogue centred on the evolving bilateral partnership and the imperative of deepening inter-parliamentary engagement. Chairman Gillani lauded the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the upper houses of the two legislatures, terming it a “milestone in the trajectory of bilateral cooperation.”
Zong empowers marginalized students at Kohsar School with Digital Education ISLAMABAD
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CDA committed to resolving problems of citizens at their doorsteps, Randhawa vows ISLAMABAD
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Dated May 14, 2025): An important meeting of the Capital Development Authority (CDA) Board was held at CDA Headquarters under the chairmanship of Chairman CDA, Chief Commissioner Islamabad and DG Civil Defence Muhammad Ali Randhawa. The meeting was attended by CDA Board members and senior officers, of CDA, during which various agenda items were discussed. The CDA Board approved the development work of Margalla Enclave Phase-II under a joint venture and public-private partnership model in accordance with Clause 42-F of the PPRA Rules. The meeting also approved the revised layout plan for Sector C-13, which is in line with CDA's Islamabad Land Disposal Regu-
lations (ILDR) 2005 and CDA policy. The plan includes the allocation of space for residential and commercial apartments, parking and public buildings in Sector C13. Additionally, the Board granted approval for the regularization of additional land adjacent to Plot No. 29 in Sector I-8 Markaz as per legal provisions.
Zong, Pakistan’s leading technology innovation company, has taken another step toward bridging the digital divide by revamping the digital learning lab at Islamabad Model School (I-V) F-6/3, commonly known as Kohsar School. This initiative is part of Zong’s ongoing mission to provide smart education solutions to underserved communities across Pakistan. Located in Kohsar Market, Islamabad, this school serves around 400 students, with over 70% belonging to marginalized communities. Despite challenges, the school plays a vital role in the capital’s public education system, with plans to introduce specialized spaces such as a Robotics Lab, Art Studio, and Tech Learning Centre. The newly upgraded digital lab is equipped with state-of-the-art tools designed to support gamified and interactive learning. By creating a dynamic and engaging environment, the lab helps primary-level students; many of whom have limited prior exposure to technology, experience visual and interactive education.
Thursday, 15 May, 2025
PAKISTAN INTRODUCES BILL TO DIGITALLY TRACK PETROLEUM PRODUCTS, TACKLE SMUGGLING AND ADULTERATION pRayeR timingS
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NEW LEGISLATION AIMS TO ADDRESS RS300-500 BILLION IN ANNUAL REVENUE LOSSES CAUSED BY ILLEGAL PETROLEUM ACTIVITIES, WITH STRICTER PENALTIES AND DIGITAL MONITORING MEASURES PROFIT
Staff RepoRt
HE government has tabled a new bill, presented by Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, in the National Assembly aimed at digitally tracking the journey of petroleum products from import and production to retail sale. According to a news report, the bill, titled the Petroleum (Amendment) Act, 2025, seeks to combat smuggling and adulteration, which result in annual revenue losses estimated between Rs300 billion to Rs500 bil-
lion, and cause environmental and vehicle engine damage. The bill proposes amendments to the 1934 Petroleum Act. Key provisions include using information technology to track petroleum products and taking strict action against illegal activities such as smuggling, unauthorized transportation, and illegal petrol pumps. The new amendments aim to empower authorities to confiscate petroleum products, equipment, machinery, and storage facilities. Deputy commissioners, assistant commissioners, and designated officers under the Customs Act will be authorized
to take action against violators before and after conviction. The bill specifies penalties for violations, including fines ranging from Rs1 million to Rs5 million for smuggling or illegal sale, and the confiscation of assets and machinery. Facilities operating without a valid license will face closures, with fines of up to Rs10 million. Additionally, any transportation used to carry smuggled petroleum will be confiscated. The Department of Explosives will ensure the renewal of licenses within a month upon receiving the necessary documents and fees. Premises involved in smuggling will
face severe penalties, including a Rs100 million fine and closure of the facility. Local refineries and major oil marketing companies have long been urging the government to take more stringent measures at both the borders and domestic production and sale points to control petroleum smuggling. This issue has negatively impacted their businesses and caused significant revenue losses to the government. A 2020 inquiry estimated that over Rs250 billion worth of petroleum products were being smuggled into Pakistan annually, mainly from Iran. A joint intelligence report
from April 2024 revealed that nearly 10 million liters of Iranian petrol and diesel entered Pakistan daily, causing a revenue loss exceeding Rs227 billion. The report also identified individuals involved in illegal activities, including 533 illegal petrol stations and 105 smugglers.
Over 1.3m Afghan refugees repatriated from Pakistan, NA told ISLAMABAD
Staff RepoRt
Parliamentary Secretary Mukhtar Ahmad Malik on Wednesday informed the National Assembly that around 1.3 million Afghan refugees have been repatriated from Pakistan so far under the federal government’s repatriation plan. Responding to a question by MNA Anjum Aqeel Khan, Malik said Pakistan had hosted nearly 3 million Afghan refugees. Of these, approximately 813,000 hold Afghan Citizen Cards (ACC), while 1.3 million possess Proof of Registration (PoR) cards issued by the UNHCR. Malik clarified that under the One Document Regime, Afghan nationals are
had said. “Anyone who provides housing or space to an undocumented foreigner will be held accountable under the law.” Afghans lacking valid documents or holding only ACCs were ordered to leave by the end of April. Meanwhile, registered PoR holders were instructed to vacate Islamabad and Rawalpindi—raising alarm among families who have lived in Pakistan for decades. At least one-third of the Afghan population targeted for expulsion resides in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which has long served as a refuge for those fleeing conflict. “Afghans can never be completely repatriated, especially from KP, as many re-enter illegally or exploit system loopholes despite border fencing,” said Abdullah Khan, managing director of the
permitted to enter Pakistan for medical treatment, education, or business, provided they carry valid visas and documents. The disclosure follows Pakistan’s deadline of April 30 for undocumented Afghans to leave the country—an extension of the original March 31 cutoff. The government said over 80,000 Afghan nationals had been repatriated by April 1, amid criticism over what Afghan officials and human rights groups have described as “forced deportations.” Interior Ministry Adviser Talal Chaudhry had earlier ruled out any further extension to the Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Plan, launched in late 2023. “We have communicated clear instructions to all provinces,” Chaudhry
Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies, in remarks to Al Jazeera. Islamabad has often linked undocumented Afghan refugees to security threats and criminal activity—an allegation rejected by Kabul, which has labelled the repatriation campaign politically motivated. Temporary holding centres have been established across several cities to process returnees before their transfer, mostly via the Torkham border crossing in KP, the main gateway into eastern Afghanistan. Human rights organisations have voiced concern, warning that mass deportations could expose vulnerable groups—especially women and children—to insecurity or persecution.
‘No more tax relief’: CB sets aside PHC verdict, reinstates sales tax in ex-FATA, PATA ISLAMABAD
Staff RepoRt
The Constitutional Bench (CB) of the Supreme Court on Wednesday suspended the Peshawar High Court’s (PHC) verdict that had nullified the application of the Sales Tax Amendment Act in the former FATA (Federally Administered Tribal Areas) and PATA (Provincially Administered Tribal Areas) and reinstated the Act temporarily. The five-member constitutional
FIA nabs nine during crackdown on human trafficking, visa fraud ISLAMABAD
Staff RepoRt
The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) nabbed nine accused during a major crackdown carried out against human trafficking, visa fraud, and illegal money transfer networks across multiple cities. In Gujranwala Zone, five agents involved in human trafficking were arrested. The suspects – Rauf, Tariq Masih, Satooni Masih, Muhammad Naeem, and Christopher Asif – were nabbed from different areas of Islamabad, Gujranwala, and Gujrat. According to the FIA, they allegedly defrauded citizens of millions of rupees by promising jobs abroad in countries like Italy and Saudi Arabia and provided fake visas and tickets. Meanwhile, in the Multan Zone, two men – Muhammad Hussain and Hassan Askari – were sentenced to two years in prison for human trafficking and corruption. A third suspect, Usman Tahir, was arrested in Khanewal for taking over Rs1.4 million from a citizen for a fake job offer in Spain. Separately, in Faisalabad, FIA officials raided a location in Model City and arrested three men – Nasir Raheem, Nawas Khan, and Muhammad Suleman – linked to an international hawala-hundi network. Authorities recovered Rs5 million in cash, along with checkbooks, stamps, receipts, and mobile phones. The suspects were allegedly receiving funds from Dubai and maintaining illegal transaction records in Faisalabad. FIA has launched further investigations and is continuing efforts to arrest remaining accomplices.
DIG prisons files complaint against IG for sending abusive messages KARACHI
Staff RepoRt
sued a stay order on the appeals filed by the association. However, the CB now reversed that order, at least temporarily, and issued notices to all parties concerned for further proceedings. Advocate Hafiz Ehsaan, representing the Ghee and Steel Mills Association, argued that the High Court can’t act as a substitute for the Parliament. He maintained that the PHC had overstepped its authority by granting relief beyond the scope of the original peti-
bench headed by Justice Aminuddin Khan pronounced the verdict while hearing appeals filed by the Ghee and Steel Mills Association. The bench accepted the argument that the PHC had exceeded its jurisdiction and granted an interim stay, effectively restoring the sales tax law in the previously exempted tribal areas. Previously, the Peshawar High Court had struck down the implementation of the Sales Tax Amendment Act in ex-FATA and PATA, declaring it unconstitutional. The apex court also is-
DIG Prisons Muhammad Hassan Sahito has filed a complaint with the provincial chief secretary against IG Prisons Kazi Nazeer Ahmed, accusing him of sending abusive messages in an official WhatsApp group. The messages were sent on May 1 and May 3, leading to the shutdown of the group. Sahito claims the IG continued sending offensive messages even after he blocked his number. The DIG also expressed concern that senior officers may be manipulating the IG against him and has requested an impartial inquiry and disciplinary action. The Minister for Prisons, Ali Hassan Zardari, has recommended an inquiry into the matter.
tion. “This case involves billions in tax revenues. The court cannot issue orders for customs clearance without legal backing,” he said. The CB did not set a specific date for the next hearing, leaving the matter pending for an indefinite period. However, the temporary restoration of the Act allows the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to continue collection of sales tax from businesses operating in the exFATA and PATA regions, subject to final adjudication.
IMF kicks off virtual talks on Pakistan’s 2025-26 budget today g
DISCUSSIONS SET TO FINALISE FISCAL POLICIES FOR UPCOMING BUDGET WITH A FOCUS ON TAX TARGETS AND FISCAL REFORMS PROFIT
Staff RepoRt
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) will begin virtual discussions on Pakistan’s upcoming budget for fiscal year 2025-26 today [Wednesday], as the visit of its mission to Islamabad was delayed due to regional security concerns, The Express Tribune reported. The virtual talks will continue until May 16, 2025, with discussions focusing on key fiscal issues, including taxation measures and budget targets. Originally planned to be held in person, the IMF mission’s visit was postponed after tensions in the region, particularly due to security risks affecting air travel. The mission’s arrival in Islamabad is now expected by the weekend, subject to the evolving security situation. Despite this change in schedule, the IMF emphasized that the delay will not affect the
agenda or timeline of the budget discussions. Earlier, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said that the budget would be finalised within the next three to four weeks, and negotiations with the IMF are scheduled to run from May 14 to May 23. As the government moves forward with the budget preparations, the IMF has appointed Iva Petrova, a Bulgarian economist, as the new Mission Chief to Pakistan. She will join the talks alongside Nathan Porter, the outgoing mission chief. Petrova, who holds a PhD in economics, has previously led IMF missions in Armenia and has worked with teams in Israel, Iceland, and Latvia. Pakistan is set to present its budget for the 202526 fiscal year on June 2, ahead of the Eidul Azha holidays. This will be Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb’s second budget presentation, which is expected to align with the framework outlined in the ongoing IMF talks.
Two more hospitalised soldiers embraced martyrdom RAWAPINDI
Staff RepoRt
While defending the motherland with exemplary courage and unwavering resolve, two more valiant sons of the soil embraced shahadat on Wednesday, bringing the total number of martyred personnel of the Pakistan Armed Forces to 13 while 78 have sustained injuries in the line of duty. According to ISPR, Indian Armed Forces blatant and cowardly aggression which was launched on the night of 6-7 May 2025, targeted innocent civilians, including women, children, and the elderly. The martyred heroes are Havaldar Muhammad Naveed Shaheed of the Pakistan Army and Senior Technician Muhammad Ayaz Shaheed of the Pakistan Air Force. Their noble sacrifice stands as a timeless testament to their courage, devotion to duty, and unshakeable patriotism. The ISPR further said that the Pakistan Armed Forces, in unity with the people of Pakistan, pay the highest tribute to these brave martyrs and extend heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. Prayers are also offered for the swift and complete recovery of all those injured in the attack. Their sacrifice will forever remain etched in the nation’s collective memory, inspiring generations to come.
Pakistan, India repatriate captured soldiers as goodwill gesture LAHORE
Staff RepoRt
Pakistan and India on Wednesday repatriated each other’s captured soldiers as goodwill following a ceasefire. According to security officials, Pakistan handed over a Border Security Force (BSF) constable to Indian authorities, while the Indian side reciprocated by returning a Pakistan Rangers official. The captured soldiers exchange comes at a time when diplomatic relations between Pakistan and India remain strained. The two nations have kept their borders sealed following limited skirmishes, and engagements between the two sides have been minimal. The BSF constable, Purnam Kumar, was apprehended by Pakistani forces on April 23, 2025, after he inadvertently crossed into Pakistani territory through the Ganda Singh Wala/Ferozepur sector. On the Indian side of the border, Muhammadullah, a personnel of Punjab Rangers, had been taken into custody by BSF officials under similar circumstances. The exchange followed several flag meetings between the border forces of the two countries, culminating in the successful repatriation of both individuals earlier on Wednesday. In a statement released by the Indian Border Security Force, it was confirmed that Purnam Kumar was returned safely by the Pakistan Rangers. Indian officials appreciated the gesture, describing it as a positive signal amid ongoing tensions.
IHC reserves verdict regarding objections to petition seeking PTI founder’s release ISLAMABAD
Staff RepoRt
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Wednesday reserved its verdict regarding the objections on petition seeking release of PTI founder on parole. Acting Chief Justice Sardar Sarfraz Dogar, hearing the case, said that the court would pass an order regarding the objections of registrar on the petition. At the outset of hearing, Justice Dogar inquired the petitioner’s lawyer that if they want to take this matter to the Division Bench. Lawyer Sardar Latif Khosa said that the Assistant Registrar raised objection stating the plea as non-maintainable. This court has to see whether the application is admissible or not. Khosa argued that anyone is respectful to this court. There is an impression that this person is not getting justice which should be end. he said.
Chief Minister KP Ali Amin Gandapur appeared before the court with his lawyer Latif Khosa. The court said, that this is the government’s job, you go to it, why did you come here. The lawyer said that probation and parole are two separate matters. The appeal is pending with you, if the govern-
ment does not entertain our request. The court said that If the government does not do it, then come. Khosa said that they have already filed an application and it is still pending with the provincial government. The court saod that this is not even within our jurisdiction. The lawyer said that the presence of the founder of PTI
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outside is very important in the current situation. This application also comes within your jurisdiction, he said. The court asked, do you want to send this application to the division bench. The prosecutor said that the contempt of court applications related to meetings were also under hearing. He said that the applications for meetings were approved, the contempt of court applications are still pending. Latif Khosa said that this week, case seeking suspension of sentence in 190 million pounds reference was to be fixed but it was not scheduled. This parole case should also be fixed along with the suspended sentence case, the lawyer prayed. Justice Dogar remarked that this is a completely different matter, I will look into it separately. The court said that it will pass an order regarding regarding the objections of office and adjourned the case.