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Pakistan inks deal with trumP-linked cryPto firm to exPlore usd-backed stablecoin Thursday, 15 January, 2026 | 25 Rajabul Murajjab, 1447

PVARA SAYS MOU SIGNED WITH SC FINANCIAL TECHNOLOGIES, AFFILIATED WITH WORLD LIBERTY FINANCIAL

FINANCE MINISTER SAYS DIGITAL INNOVATION WILL BE PURSUED IN LINE WITH REGULATION AND NATIONAL INTEREST

Rs 20.00 | Vol XVI No 191 | 8 Pages | Islamabad Edition

AGREEMENT TO EXPLORE DIGITAL PAYMENTS AND CROSS-BORDER SETTLEMENT SOLUTIONS

STABLECOIN TO OPERATE ALONGSIDE PAKISTAN’S EXISTING DIGITAL CURRENCY INFRASTRUCTURE

cdf munir reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to economic stability, investor confidence RAWALPINDI

Staff report

ISLAMABAD

SaleeM Jadoon

AKISTAN has signed an agreement with a company affiliated with World Liberty Financial, the main crypto platform linked to the family of US President Donald Trump, to explore the use of a dollar-backed stablecoin for cross-border payments, the government announced on Wednesday. The Pakistan Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (PVARA) said, in a statement, it had signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with SC Financial Technologies, described as an affiliated entity of World Liberty Financial. The

agreement will allow dialogue and technical engagement around emerging digital payment architectures. This development marks one of the first publicly announced partnerships between World Liberty Financial—a crypto-based finance platform launched in September 2024—and a sovereign state. It also coincides with warming bilateral ties between Pakistan and the United States. Under the agreement, SC Financial Technologies will collaborate with Pakistan’s central bank to explore integrating its USD1 stablecoin into a regulated digital payments framework, allowing it to operate alongside Pakistan’s existing digital currency infrastructure, a source

Pakistan climbs in global passport rankings for 2026 ISLAMABAD

Staff report

Pakistan’s passport has recorded a modest improvement in global mobility, moving up two places in the latest Henley Passport Index 2026, where it now ranks 98th, compared to 100th last year. The improvement reflects Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic engagement and recent international agreements that have gradually expanded travel access for its citizens. The index, compiled by Henley Passport Index, ranks passports based on the number of destinations holders can visit without obtaining a visa in advance. According to the 2026 rankings, Pakistani passport holders can now travel to 31 destinations either visa-free, with visa-on-arrival, or through electronic travel authorisation. Pakistan shares its current ranking position with Yemen. Visafree access is available to destinations such as Barbados, Dominica, Haiti, Micronesia, Montserrat, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vanuatu, offering opportunities for leisure and shortterm visits without traditional visa requirements. Several countries provide visa-on-arrival facilities to Pakistani travellers, including Burundi, Cambodia, Cape Verde Islands, Comoro Islands, Cook Islands, Djibouti, Guinea-Bissau, Madagascar, Maldives, Mozambique, Nepal, Palau Islands, Qatar, Samoa, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Timor-Leste, and Tuvalu. In addition, electronic travel authorisation options are available for Kenya, Seychelles, and Sri Lanka, further easing entry procedures for short stays. At the top of the global rankings, Singapore holds the number one position, described as the world’s most powerful passport. Japan and South Korea share second place, while Denmark, Luxembourg, Spain, and Sweden occupy the third position. The United Kingdom ranks seventh, and the United States stands at tenth in the global list.

A delegation of World Liberty Financial (WLF) USA led by Zachary Witkoff, Chief Executive Officer of a leading global Fintech firm, called on Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, COAS & CDF, according to the military’s media wing. In a statement, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said the meeting reflected the growing interest of international private investment groups in Pakistan’s evolving economic landscape and also signals rising global confidence in Pakistan’s fintech potential

involved in the deal told Reuters. The announcement came during a visit to Pakistan by Zach Witkoff, cofounder and CEO of World Liberty Financial and CEO of SC Financial Technologies. Witkoff, son of US special envoy Steve Witkoff, met with senior Pakistani stakeholders to discuss digital payment infrastructure, cross-border settlements, and foreign exchange processes, according to the regulator. Finance Minister Muhammad Au-

and aims to strengthen financial inclusion and cross border digital finance. Mr Witkoff highlighted the immense economic potential Pakistan holds and lauded the efforts of Pakistan’s leadership in embracing futuristic technologies to realize the full possibilities of its economic prowess. Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir welcomed the exchange of views and emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to economic stability, investor confidence, and enabling an environment conducive to responsible private sector participation in national development.

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rangzeb said, “Our focus is to stay ahead of the curve by engaging with credible global players, understanding new financial models, and ensuring that innovation, where explored, is aligned with regulation, stability, and national interest.” SC Financial Technologies, registered in Delaware, co-owns the USD1 stablecoin brand with World Liberty Financial, according to documentation on the token’s reserves from July 2025.

PM Shehbaz confirms several countries in ‘active talks’ for JF-17 fighter jets

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President in bahrain: trade, defence, and strategic ties take centre stage MANAMA/ISLAMABAD Staff report

President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday held high-level talks with Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa in Manama, focusing on trade, investment, defence cooperation, and regional and global issues. The president, accompanied by First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari, arrived in Bahrain on Tuesday for a four-day state visit. He was accorded a ceremonial guard of honour at the royal residence, Al-Qudaibiya Palace, where the discussions took place. According to a post on the Presidency’s X account, the talks “covered trade and investment, defence cooperation, support for the Pakistani community, and regional and global issues.” During the visit, President Zardari was conferred the Order of Shaikh Isa Bin Salman Al Khalifa First Class, Bahrain’s highest civilian award, in recognition of his efforts to strengthen bilateral relations. The discussions at Al-Qudaibiya Palace centred on expanding cooperation across political, economic, defence, and cultural sectors. President Zardari stressed the need to translate strong political ties into enhanced trade and investment, highlighting opportunities in agriculture, information technology, healthcare, tourism, and infrastructure. He also invited Bahraini investors to Pakistan and underscored the role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council in promoting a businessfriendly environment. The two leaders reviewed defence and security collaboration, reaffirming institutional links between their armed forces. They also discussed regional and international developments, with President Zardari stressing the importance of unity, restraint, and collective resolve in times of global uncertainty. Highlighting the Pakistani community in Bahrain, the president thanked the Bahraini leadership for hosting over 116,000 Pakistanis, calling them a vital bridge between the two nations. He also acknowledged the King’s gift of the King Hamad University for Nursing and Allied Medical Sciences in Islamabad as a symbol of enduring friendship.

Pakistan condemns indian nsa’s ‘avenge history’ remarks

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ISLAMABAD

Staff report

ISLAMABAD

Staff report

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday confirmed that several countries were “actively” engaged in talks with Pakistan for the acquisition of its fighter jets, saying international demand had risen following Pakistan’s victory in a war last year—an apparent reference to the four-day military conflict with India in May 2025. Addressing a meeting of the federal cabinet, the prime minister said that growing interest in Pakistan’s defence equipment would strengthen indigenous defence production and provide a boost to the national economy. “There are several countries that are actively engaged in talks with Pakistan on this, and this will boost our defence production and benefit our economy,” PM Shehbaz said. In recent weeks, reports have emerged indicating that Pakistan is in discussions with several friendly countries regarding the sale of the JF-17 Thunder, a light combat aircraft jointly developed by Pakistan and China and manufactured domestically. Earlier, Defence Production Minister Raza Hayat

Hiraj also told BBC Urdu that Pakistan was engaged in negotiations with “multiple” countries for the export of the JF-17 fighter jet. “These negotiations are taking place and they take some time. Many countries have shown interest in these aircraft,” the minister said in an interview published on Tuesday. He declined to disclose the names of the interested countries or the stage of the negotiations. “I cannot take the name of any country. Neither can I tell on what level our negotiations are with any country,” he said, adding that such matters were a country’s “jealously guarded secrets.” “When these jets are exported, then the world will know which countries have bought them,” Hiraj added. The minister emphasised that Pakistan would only export the JF-17 to friendly countries to ensure the aircraft were not used against its own interests. He also noted that China remained fully involved in any such deal, given its role in the aircraft’s development.

Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry on Wednesday strongly criticised Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval for urging Indians to “avenge our history” and build a strong nation, saying such remarks reflected “imagined historical vendettas” rather than responsible statecraft, according to a Foreign Office spokesperson. According to Indian media reports, Doval made the comments while addressing youth at an event in New Delhi, calling on them to learn from India’s past struggles and harness the powerful force of “vengeance” to strengthen the country in areas including security and the economy. Responding to media queries, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi described the remarks as “hardly surprising coming from camouflaged hate-mongers,” adding that such narratives undermined regional peace and stability. He emphasised that constructive engagement, dialogue, and adherence to international norms were essential for lasting stability in South Asia. Pakistan and India, both nuclear-armed neighbours, have long experienced strained relations, marked by enduring disputes—including over Kashmir—and periodic military crises. Tensions most recently escalated into a four-day conflict in May 2025, one of the worst military confrontations between Islamabad and New Delhi in decades, before a ceasefire was reached. Analysts say statements invoking revenge risk further inflaming already fragile relations and could complicate efforts to maintain peace along the borders.

US to suspend immigrant visa processing for Pakistan, 74 other countries from Jan 21: State Department WASHINGTON

Monitoring report

The US has announced a suspension of immigrant visa processing for Pakistan and 74 other countries, effective January 21, citing concerns that immigrants from these nations often rely on public welfare programmes. The State Department said the freeze will remain in place until authorities can ensure that new immigrants will not draw on American taxpayer resources. Officials described the measure as part of the administration’s “America First” approach. “We are working to ensure the generosity of the American people will no longer be abused,” an official said. State Department spokesperson Tommy

Piggott said in a statement that his department “will use its long-standing authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge on the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people“. “Immigration from these 75 countries will be paused while the State Department reassesses immigration processing procedures to prevent the entry of foreign nationals who would take welfare and public benefits,” he added. Among the countries affected by the freeze are Somalia, Haiti, Iran, Eritrea, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, covering regions in Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. All categories of US immigrant visas— including family, employment, and diversity visas — are impacted.

IMPACT ON PAKISTANIS: The suspension could delay travel, study, and work plans for thousands of Pakistanis who annually seek US visas. Pakistani consulates in the US are expected to provide guidance to affected applicants in the coming days.

PUBLIC-CHARGE RULE: The visa freeze is linked to the US public-charge rule, which evaluates whether immigrants are likely to rely on government assistance. While suspensions of visa services have occurred in the past, officials said the scope of this action is unprecedented. No timeline has been given for resuming visa services, but the State Department assured that countries would be notified once the review is complete.

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02 NEWS FINANCE MINISTER FLAGS TAX, ENERGY COSTS AS BUSINESS CHALLENGES, CITES FRESH FOREIGN INVESTMENT INFLOWS

F g

GOVERNMENT PLANS FURTHER PRIVATISATION, EXPECTS REMITTANCES TO CROSS $41 BILLION IN FY26 nomic constraints but noted that 20 new foreign investors had entered the Pakistani market over the past 18 months, including companies such as Google, Aramco, Wafi Energy and Turkish Petroleum. Aurangzeb said the government would soon transfer 24 additional state-owned entities to the Privatisation Commission for divestment, following the sale of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). He added that privatisation was necessary to curb losses that continue to burden public finances. The finance minister said foreign remittances are projected to exceed $41 bil-

PROFIT

staff report

EDERAL Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Mohammad Aurangzeb on Wednesday acknowledged that high taxation and elevated energy costs remain key pressures on businesses, saying some firms have exited Pakistan due to these structural challenges. Speaking at the Pakistan Policy Dialogue in Islamabad, the finance minister said the government was fully aware of eco-

lion in the current fiscal year, compared to $38 billion last year, providing support to external accounts. He also announced that responsibility for tax policy formulation has been shifted to the Finance Division, while the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) will focus exclusively on tax collection. Aurangzeb said reforms in the energy sector were beginning to show results, with circular debt gradually declining. Addressing concerns about business exits, Aurangzeb said firms face difficulties when taxation, energy costs and fi-

nancing expenses rise simultaneously, describing these as “real issues” for the private sector. He added that reforms were underway to reduce pressure on the national exchequer and stabilise the economy, but stressed that sustainable growth requires adjustments from both the government and businesses. He noted that some multinational companies had adapted by shifting to local sourcing, improving margins and expanding exports, which allowed them to continue operating in Pakistan. Others that failed to revise their business models would need to

PSX plunges as KSE-100 slides over 1,500 points amid global market shifts g

PROFIT-TAKING AND SECTOR ROTATION DRIVE BROAD SELLING PRESSURE AS MARKET CLOSES AT A DECREASE OF OVER 1300 POINTS PROFIT

staff report

The KSE 100 loses over 1500 points during intraday trading on Wednesday after a closing on a small recovery the day before. This comes after selling pressure was seen in the market as index heavy stocks including POL, PSO, HBL, MCB and FFC, were observed trading in red. The index saw its lowest point of the

day at 1:35 PM when it was trading at 182,432.24, losing 1519.26 points, or decreasing 0.83%, from the previous close of 183,951.50. After recovering a little, the market closed at 182,569.81 points, down 1381.69, or 0.75%, from the previous close of 183,951.50. In its latest report on Global Economic Prospects, the World Bank said that Pakistan’s GDP is projected to remain at 3% in the Financial Year 2025-

World Bank projects 3% GDP growth for Pakistan in FY2025-26

26. The GDP projection is better for 2026-27 at 3.4%, however, the current account deficit is expected to increase as the demand for imports increase caused by a strengthening economy and increased remittance inflows. Global markets also influenced trading patterns. On international exchanges, Asian equities saw gains with key indexes rising and commodities such as gold and silver reaching record levels, re-

flecting safe-haven demand amid geopolitical tensions between America and Iran. Asian stocks rose as Japanese markets, in particular, climbed as investors prepared for a snap election that could add economic stimulus. The PSX has shown volatility in early 2026, following a period of strong gains that saw the KSE-100 reach high levels before profit-taking emerged as a dominant theme. Oscillations in global markets, including fluctuating commodity prices and mixed regional equity performance, have contributed to shifting investor sentiment and trading patterns.

Pakistan’s $5b oil and gas investment at risk after oﬀ-grid levy imposed on third-party gas suppliers g

PROFIT

staff report

Pakistan’s GDP growth is forecasted to remain at 3% for fiscal year 2025–26, with a recovery in agricultural production and reconstruction efforts following the 2025 floods expected to drive growth to 3.4% in the following fiscal year, according to the World Bank’s latest Global Economic Prospects report. However, the World Bank has warned that Pakistan’s current account deficit is expected to widen in fiscal year 2026–27 due to rising import demand and a post-flood normalization of remittance inflows alongside the strengthening growth. The report highlights concerns over trade-related shocks, particularly for oil-importing countries like Pakistan and Tunisia. It notes that further increases in US tariffs could negatively impact exports, especially for economies with concentrated export destinations. Despite these challenges, the report states that deeper regulatory reforms to encourage private sector activity in countries like Pakistan and Morocco could stimulate growth, reduce informality, and create jobs. In Pakistan, easing import restrictions and expanding bank credit, partly due to relaxed financial conditions, have helped strengthen industrial sector activity. The World Bank also noted improvements in current account balances in oil-importing countries, including Pakistan, driven by increased remittances and tourism revenues. Furthermore, inflation has declined in these economies, partly due to lower food prices, resulting in multiple policy rate cuts. However, inflationary pressures persist in some regions, prompting continued restrictive monetary policies. Globally, the World Bank revised its growth projections, predicting global growth will remain steady, easing to 2.6% in 2026 before rising to 2.7% in 2027. The resilience in growth, particularly in the United States, has helped offset global trade disruptions and policy uncertainty. Despite this, the 2020s are set to be the weakest decade for global growth since the 1960s, widening the gap in living standards between advanced and developing economies. The report also highlights that global inflation is expected to decrease to 2.6% in 2026, largely due to softer labor markets and lower energy prices, with a rebound in growth expected in 2027 as trade flows stabilize and policy uncertainty decreases.

INDUSTRY WARNS THAT THE NEW LEVY ON PRIVATE DISTRIBUTORS UNDERMINES COMPETITIVENESS AND THREATENS FUTURE INVESTMENT IN PAKISTAN’S GAS SECTOR PROFIT

staff report

Industry stakeholders have warned that a planned $5 billion investment in Pakistan’s oil and gas exploration sector is facing uncertainty after the government extended the off-the-grid levy to third-party gas suppliers. They said that this move has made gas distribution by private sector companies commercially unviable. According to a report by The News, the new levy applies to third-party distributors who procure gas from exploration and production (E&P) companies at auctioned prices. Previously, the government had imposed the off-thegrid levy on Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) and Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) under an agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The gas price for captive power plants was initially raised to Rs3,500 per MMBtu, with a 5% levy set to take effect in February 2025. The levy is scheduled to increase gradually, reaching 20% by August 2026, which has resulted in a significant rise in the gas price for captive power plants to $15.36 per MMBtu, including the levy. Universal Gas Distribution Company (UGDC) CEO Ghiyas Abdullah Paracha said that the company would now only collect the levy on behalf of the government, which could undermine the competitiveness of third-

party suppliers in the gas market. He also noted that the details of the levy collection mechanism would be outlined in an upcoming Presidential Ordinance, which has yet to be finalised. A letter from the Petroleum Division on January 13, 2026, formally designated UGDC as an agent for collecting the levy. A notification issued on January 9, 2026, added UGDC to the list of authorised levy-collecting entities under the Off the Grid (Captive Power Plants) Levy Act 2025. Under the amended 2012 E&P Policy and thirdparty access rules, E&P companies were allowed to sell 35% of their gas through competitive bidding to private distributors. Companies like UGDC purchased gas at auctioned prices, close to $8 per MMBtu, and paid various taxes and charges while operating on slim margins. This model helped improve cash flows for E&P companies, which had faced delayed payments from Sui Gas companies, contributing to the sector’s circular debt of Rs3.2 trillion. As a result, E&P companies had committed to a $5 billion investment in exploration and production. However, the imposition of the off-the-grid levy on third-party distributors has undermined the entire model. Unlike Sui Gas companies, which procure gas at an average price of around $4 per MMBtu and pass the levy to consumers with guaranteed margins, third-party distributors now face the levy without any viable profit margin, putting their business model in jeopardy.

Searle Company appoints new Chairman of Board PROFIT

staff report

The Board of Directors of The Searle Company Limited has announced the appointment of Mr. Arshad Anis as the new Chairman of the Board. The decision was made during a meeting held on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m, the company announced through a notice sent to the PSX. The appointment takes effect from today, January 14, 2026. Additionally, the board has appointed Mr. Zubair Razak Pawla as a member of the Audit Com-

mittee, replacing Mr. Adnan Asdar Ali. “Further, there is no material/price sensitive information that may affect the market price of the Company’s shares”, the notice further read. Earlier in July of 2025, the company also appointed Tahir Ahmed as its new Chief Executive Officer, following the retirement of Syed Nadeem Ahmed. Founded in 1965 and later converted to a public limited company, The Searle Company Limited is engaged in the manufacturing and sale of pharmaceutical, consumer health, and nutritional products. It operates as a subsidiary of International Brands (Private) Limited.

100 ACRE SEAFOOD PROCESSING ZONE WOULD COST USD 60-80 MILLION PROFIT

staff report

Recently, the Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, announced that Pakistan would be opening a 100-acre seafood processing zone at the Korangi Fisheries in Karachi. This effort would cost anywhere between USD 60 and 80 million dollars, not an inconsiderable sum, and is projected to be developed under a public-private partnership model. The government would provide institutional backing and retain regulatory oversight, while the private partners would take care of the financing, developing, and operating bit. The main purpose of this facility would be to assist in transforming Pakistan’s seafood exports, which are currently low value products down the value chain, into

high-value processed products. These would then be exported to the Gulf, East Asian, and East African markets. This is part of a recent series of public-sector attempts to support Pakistan’s seafood export industry. While the industry has recently seen an uptick in its exports on the back of some recent developments, opening a value-addition and processing zone would be a significant step towards increasing the value of Pakistan’s seafood exports. Yet, while it would likely be effective in pushing up the value of Pakistan’s seafood exports, on its own it might not be sufficient to turn around the fortunes of the industry. The seafood industry in Pakistan has been suffering from not only stagnant fishing stocks, but also high power costs, as well as a lack of proper infrastructure for sustainable fishing as well as export enablement.

With this recent announcement, however, there are signs that things might be changing for the better, albeit slowly. Sustainable development, as it is most of the time, would be dependent on formulating and sticking through a plan that takes into account not only the environmental sustainability of fishing practices, but also includes development of a whole publicly-supported ecosystem of infrastructure geared towards that. PAKISTAN’S SEAFOOD INDUSTRY: Pakistan has a long coastline, over 1,000 km long, on its southern hem, with an Exclusive Economic Zone of 222,000, km2. Of the total fish production in Pakistan, the marine sector’s production (as opposed to inland fishing and aquaculture) makes up around 70 percent of the total capture and 53 percent of total fish production. As for the species available in the marine fishing ecosystem of Pakistan, it is es-

reassess their strategies, he said. Aurangzeb said structural reforms were being implemented across sectors, including the ongoing transformation of the FBR, with a renewed focus on compliance and enforcement to ensure effective implementation of tax laws. He stated that stateowned entities waste more than Rs1,000 billion annually, citing Utility Stores, Pakistan Public Works Department (PWD) and PASSCO as examples of institutions that were shut down due to sustained losses. The finance minister warned that higher duties damage the economy and said the government had initiated tariff reforms, adding that lower tariffs would help boost exports and industrial output. Despite current economic pressures, Aurangzeb expressed confidence that ongoing reforms would support long-term stability and help attract further foreign investment, saying the government remained committed to easing the cost of doing business and strengthening financial systems.

Ahson bin Saeed assumes charge as CEO of SBP’s Raast subsidiary

Saeed has previously served as head of TPS Worldwide PROFIT

taimoor Hassan

Ahson bin Saeed has formally assumed charge at SBP Raast Payment Systems (Private) Limited, the entity responsible for operating and scaling Pakistan’s instant payment system Raast, as chief executive officer on January 12, 2026. The SBP informed about Saeed’s appointment as CEO in an email to heads of banks, DFIs, and microfinance banks. His appointment comes at a time when Raast continues to expand its role as the country’s foundational digital payments infrastructure, enabling real-time, low-cost, and interoperable payments across banks, fintechs, merchants, and government platforms. With experience spanning digital payments, financial infrastructure, and technology-led transformation, Ahson bin Saeed is expected to focus on strengthening Raast’s operational capabilities. SBP Raast Payment Systems Pvt Ltd operates under the strategic oversight of the State Bank of Pakistan and plays a central role in advancing the central bank’s vision for financial inclusion, digitization of payments, and a cash-lite economy. Prior to assuming charge at Raast Payment Systems Pvt Ltd, Ahson bin Saeed served as general manager at TPS, one of Pakistan’s leading payment technology companies. TPS is a major provider of digital payment infrastructure in the country, delivering solutions such as payment switching, card management, merchant acquiring, mobile payments, and real-time transaction processing to banks, financial institutions, fintechs, and payment service providers. Before joining TPS, Ahson bin Saeed was associated with Euronet, a global payments and transaction processing company, where he led business development and marketing. In this role, he focused on expanding digital payment solutions, electronic funds transfer services, and strategic financial services partnerships across regional markets.

Pakistan and Morocco sign MoU to boost defense cooperation PROFIT

staff report

Pakistan and Morocco have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance defence cooperation, a significant step in deepening bilateral security ties. The agreement was formalised during a visit by Pakistan’s Defence Minister, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, to Morocco. During his visit, Minister Asif met with Moroccan officials, including Abdellatif Loudiyi, Minister Delegate to the Head of Government in charge of the National Defence Administration, to discuss expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest. The discussions focused on strengthening defence and security relations between the two nations. Asif also met with Nasser Bourita, Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, to further address regional and bilateral issues.

Pakistan looks to improve $465m seafood exports with new processing zone at Korangi g

Thursday, 15 January, 2026 | ISLAMABAD

timated that the waters are home to around 250 demersal fish species and 85 pelagic fish species (of which 50 are small, 15 medium, and 20 large). These species include varieties of shrimp, tuna, industrial deep-sea, smallscale demersal, and small pelagics. Moreover, 15 commercial species have been identified of shrimp, 5 of lobster, and 12 of cephalopods. The industry has seen some positive developments recently. For instance, in 2025, it was reported that for FY 2025, Pakistan’s seafood exports amounted to 216,350 metric tonnes, worth USD 465 million. This represented an 8.3 percent increase in tonnage, and a 13.4 percent increase in value over the previous fiscal year, but still fell short of the USD 500 million target. This seafood was exported mainly to the following destinations: China, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. By value, these exports accounted for just over 1 percent of Pakistan’s total national exports, which were worth USD 32

billion. At the same time, their contribution to Pakistan’s GDP is estimated to be 0.31% percent, again not a mind-boggling number. The point, however, is that it can be better. One key facet of Pakistan’s seafood exports is our neighbour towards the north and northeast. China is by far the biggest destination for Pakistani seafood. In the first eleven months of 2025, seafood exports to China accounted for approximately USD 235 million, compared to around USD 189 million during the same period in 2024. This bulk was made up of frozen fish varieties like anchovies, mackerel, and squid, but the exports also included other varieties like crabs, cuttlefish, and squid. This volume does make sense, however. First, China is by far the world’s biggest consumer of seafood by volume. In fact, according to the World Population Review, in 2022, China consumed around 59 million tonnes of seafood. India, which came second, accounted for a comparatively measly 12 million tonnes. Then, there’s the fact that we share a border with them. And, then, perhaps the most important of all, is the fact that we have a trade partnership with them, exemplified by the CPEC initiative, which has led to infrastructural development in Pakistan, as well the streamlining of supply chains, which have placed Pakistan in a prime position to trade with one of the world’s biggest trading countries.

Thursday, 15 January, 2026 | ISLAMABAD

PPP QUESTIONS LEGALITY OF USING FEDERAL FUNDS FOR RS465B MOTORWAY PROJECT IN PUNJAB

PROFIT

staff report

HE federal government’s decision to fund the Rs465 billion Lahore-Bahawalnagar motorway project has come under scrutiny, with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) raising concerns about the legality and financial impact of using federal funds for a provincial project, The Express Tribune reported. Senior PPP leader Syed Naveed Qamar submitted a calling attention notice in the National Assembly, arguing that the motorway project violates the National Fiscal Pact, which restricts federal funding for provincial schemes. In response to Qamar’s concerns, Speaker of the National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq referred the issue to the National Assembly Standing Commit-

tee on Planning for further discussion. This is the second consecutive day that the ruling party faced opposition pressure, with the PPP also challenging the government’s “unconstitutional” move to enact a presidential ordinance without the assent of the President of Pakistan. The controversial project is intended to connect Lahore to Bahawalnagar, but official documents reveal that the project’s cost has increased by 76% compared to the original estimate approved two years ago. This cost surge, along with concerns over the project’s impact on other key infrastructure initiatives, has raised alarms within the opposition and the planning community. The project’s implementation could potentially jeopardise the completion and viability of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor’s (CPEC) Mainline-I (ML-I) project, a key national infrastructure initiative.

The PPP has voiced concerns over the potential diversion of funds from other priority infrastructure projects, notably the Sukkur-Hyderabad Motorway, which remains incomplete due to the absence of a crucial link. The Planning Ministry has also warned that the Lahore-Bahawalnagar project could undermine the funding of other key road developments. The National Highway Authority (NHA) has raised concerns over the project’s revised cost estimate, which now stands at Rs465.1 billion. Additionally, the Central Development Working Party has recommended that only the 18.5-kilometre section of the Lahore Ring Road be considered for approval by the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC), while the remaining 276.5 kilometres require comprehensive technical feasibility and economic

viability studies. The Ministry of Planning also stressed that the project’s financing should be restructured, with alternative funding options explored due to constraints under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP). These concerns extend to ensuring that funding for other priority projects, such as the realignment of the Karakoram Highway, Lowari Tunnel works, and the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Economic Corridor, is not compromised. Despite the pushback, the CDWP has granted in-principle approval for the 18.5kilometre section from the Lahore Ring Road, with further studies and rationalisation required for the remaining part of the project. However, this decision remains contingent on resolving issues related to financing, technical feasibility, and alignment with the PM’s directives on infrastructure priorities.

Federal govt allows Punjab farmers to export potatoes and kinno through alternative routes g

MOVE AIMS TO SUPPORT FARMERS IN FACING CHALLENGES DUE TO SURPLUS PRODUCTION AND REDUCED DEMAND IN THE LOCAL MARKET PROFIT

staff report

The federal government has approved the export of potatoes and kinno from Punjab through alternative routes, following intervention by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. The decision aims to support farmers in the region facing challenges due to surplus production and reduced demand.

The move comes after concerns raised by Punjab’s potato growers, who called for urgent government assistance, including subsidies for exports. A surplus in production, combined with weak domestic demand and declining export prospects, led to a sharp drop in potato prices, particularly in districts such as Sahiwal, Okara, Pakpattan, and Kasur. Some farmers even resorted to ploughing crops

Govt moves to modernise National Tariff Commission with key reforms PROFIT

staff report

The federal government has taken steps to overhaul the National Tariff Commission (NTC) to enhance its effectiveness and establish a more comprehensive trade-remedy system, moving beyond reliance on anti-dumping measures. The decision was discussed in a meeting of the Cabinet Committee for Disposal of Legislative Cases (CCLC) on January 9, 2026, chaired by Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar, according to a news report. The NTC, established under the National Tariff Commission Act of 2015, is responsible for conducting investigations into dumping, subsidised imports, and sudden surges in imports that harm domestic industries. However, the Commerce Division informed the CCLC that the NTC has predominantly relied on anti-dumping measures, with limited use of countervailing and safeguard measures. The recent reduction in tariffs under the National Tariff Policy 2025, combined with Pakistan’s international commitments, has revealed weaknesses in the NTC’s legal and institutional framework, prompting a review and modernisation effort. A high-powered committee, led by the Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, proposed a modernisation plan following deliberations in November and December 2025. The committee emphasised that tariff liberalisation has exposed domestic industries to import surges, underlining the need for a stronger, more responsive trade-remedy framework. The committee’s recommendations included increasing the number of NTC members from five to seven, updating qualifications for members, and creating a clear process for appointing the Chairman in the event of vacancies. Additionally, the proposed reforms include strengthening the NTC’s technical capacity, enhancing data-driven monitoring of trade trends, and improving inter-agency coordination.

back into the soil to mitigate further losses due to low prices. The Punjab government acknowledged the difficulties faced by farmers, assuring that their hard work would not go to waste. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz stated that she remained in contact with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to find solutions and facilitate farmers. The provincial government has also

called for the establishment of a high-level committee to address export challenges, which will be led by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar. The committee will include key stakeholders to coordinate efforts in resolving the issue. The Chief Minister further emphasised the need for exploring new international markets and reducing export-related costs to support both farmers and exporters. Punjab produces 95% of the country’s potatoes and kinno, with an estimated potato output of 12 million tonnes and kinno production of 4 million tonnes for this year.

PM Shehbaz confirms several countries in ‘active talks’ for JF-17 fighter jets CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

Hiraj highlighted that the JF-17 was battle-tested during last year’s four-day conflict with India, saying its performance was observed and praised by air forces around the world. Describing pricing as a key factor behind international interest, the minister said that while fighter jets globally were typically valued between $250 million and $350 million, the JF-17 Thunder was significantly more affordable. “Its value is around $40–50 million; this depends on the jet’s features, and the price can also be higher than this,” he said. Asked whether China also received a share from the export of the aircraft, Harraj said that such matters were discussed as part of the agreements. “China is definitely included in them; it should be and it is their right,” he added. ‘PRODUCTION CAPACITY A SECRET’ Responding to a question on Pakistan’s production capacity amid growing international interest, the defence

production minister declined to provide details, describing it as a matter of national security. “This is a question related to our national defence. These are our secrets; let them remain secrets,” he said, while noting that the production of such state-of-the-art aircraft was a timeconsuming process. According to Harraj, certain components of the JF-17 are manufactured in Pakistan, while others are produced in China. Einar Tangen, a senior fellow at China’s Centre for International Governance Innovation (CIGI), told BBC Urdu that the core technology of the aircraft was likely controlled by China, making any export agreement a joint arrangement with Beijing as a “senior partner.” “China might even increase Pakistan’s defence production, but all this will be in Beijing’s control,” he was quoted as saying. Earlier this month, the air chiefs of Pakistan and Bangladesh held detailed discussions on the potential procurement of JF-17 fighter jets. Pakistan Air Force (PAF) Air Chief

Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu also visited Iraq this week, where he met his counterpart, who expressed “keen interest” in the aircraft. Recently, Reuters, citing two Pakistani sources, reported that Islamabad and Riyadh were in talks to convert around $2 billion in Saudi loans into a JF-17 deal. Indonesia’s Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin also visited Pakistan last week and held meetings with the army chief and the PAF air chief. According to the military’s media wing, the Indonesian minister expressed Jakarta’s desire to further expand defence ties with Islamabad. DEFENCE COOPERATION WITH KSA, TURKIYE According to BBC Urdu, Defence Production Minister Harraj refrained from sharing details of the Pak-Saudi defence agreement signed in September 2025. “This is a defence agreement between the field marshal, the prime minister and the Saudi government. I cannot tell any more than this,” he said.

NEWS 03

CDF Munir reaffirms Pakistan’s commitment to economic stability, investor confidence CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

SC Financial Technologies, registered in Delaware, co-owns the USD1 stablecoin brand with World Liberty Financial, according to documentation on the token’s reserves from July 2025. Stablecoins— digital tokens typically pegged to the US dollar—have expanded rapidly in recent years. Under President Trump, the United States introduced federal rules widely viewed as favourable to the crypto sector, while countries around the world are assessing the role of stablecoins in payment systems. Pakistan has been exploring digital currency initiatives as part of efforts to reduce cash usage and improve cross-border payments, including remittances, a key source of foreign exchange. The central bank governor said in July that Pakistan was preparing to launch a digital currency pilot and finalising legislation to regulate virtual assets. World Liberty fuelled a sharp increase in income for the Trump family business, known as the Trump Organisation, including from foreign entities, in the first half of last year, Reuters reported in October.

President in Bahrain: Trade, defence, and strategic ties take centre stage CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

President Zardari was accompanied by Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, Balochistan Agriculture Minister Mir Ali Hassan Zehri, and ambassadors Muhammad Ibrahim Abdul Qadir and Saqib Rauf. Bahrain’s National Guard Commander Sheikh Muhammad bin Isa Al Khalifa and Foreign Minister Sheikh Dr Abdul Latif bin Rashid Al Zayani were also present. According to the Foreign Office, the president is also scheduled to meet Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, who also serves as Bahrain’s prime minister, to discuss bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest. “The visit aims to reinforce Pakistan’s longstanding cooperation with the brotherly Gulf nation while expanding opportunities for collaboration in trade and economic partnership, defence and security, and people-to-people ties,” the FO said. State broadcaster PTV News reported that President Zardari will address a reception at the headquarters of the Economic Development Board in Manama. During his visit, the president also met with Bahrain National Guard Commander Sheikh Mohammed bin Isa Al Khalifa. The visit builds on a series of engagements between the two countries: in November last year, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif visited Bahrain, reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties. He underscored Pakistan’s goal to expand trade and investment, noting that bilateral trade would grow under the Pakistan-GCC Free Trade Agreement. In September, Bahrain’s interior minister visited Pakistan, during which both countries agreed to enhance cooperation in counter-terrorism, anti-narcotics, and immigration.

Pakistan allows re-export of stranded Afghan transit cargo following border closures PFOFIT

staff report

The federal government has taken a significant step to address the issue of stranded Afghan transit trade cargo by granting permission for the re-export of all such shipments. The Ministry of Commerce has is-

sued an exemption from paragraph 6(4) of the Import Policy Order 2022, allowing Afghan transit cargoes to be sent back to Afghanistan. According to a news report, the Ministry of Commerce has communicated the decision to the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) in a letter, directing the FBR to facilitate the re-export process. The re-ex-

port will apply to cargoes currently stranded at Karachi Port, Gwadar Port, and various border crossing points, including Torkham and Chaman. Since October 12, 2025, Pakistan had closed the Torkham and Chaman border crossing points for commercial activities indefinitely due to security concerns, leaving a significant amount of

Afghan transit cargo stranded in the country. The new decision aims to resolve this backlog by allowing the cargoes to be sent back through any seaport. The Ministry of Commerce’s letter to the FBR emphasized the need for re-export options through various seaports, ensuring flexibility in the process for the stranded shipments.

Pakistan inks deal with Trump-linked crypto PIA launches Air-to-Rail partnership, oﬀering seamless travel to Toronto and UK cities firm to explore USD-backed stablecoin CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01

Stablecoins—digital tokens typically pegged to the US dollar—have expanded rapidly in recent years. Under President Trump, the United States introduced federal rules widely viewed as favourable to the crypto sector, while countries around the world are assessing the role of stablecoins in payment systems. Pakistan has been exploring digital currency initiatives as part of efforts to reduce cash usage and improve cross-border payments, including remittances, a key source of foreign exchange. The central bank governor said in July that Pakistan was preparing to launch a digital currency pilot and finalising legislation to regulate virtual assets. World Liberty fuelled a sharp increase in income for the Trump family business, known as the Trump Organisation, including from foreign entities, in the first half of last year, Reuters reported in October. Last May, MGX, a state-controlled Abu Dhabi investment company, used the World Liberty stablecoin to buy a $2 billion equity stake in Binance, the world’s largest crypto exchange. Pakistan has been exploring digital currency projects as it seeks to reduce cash usage and improve cross-border payments such as remittances, a key source of foreign exchange. Its central bank governor said in July it was preparing to launch a pilot for a digital currency and is finalising legislation to regulate virtual assets. The high-level signing ceremony was also attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim

Munir, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar and other members of the federal cabinet. GROWING PACE OF DIGITAL PAYMENTS, FINANCIAL INNOVATION PARTS OF PAKISTAN’S DIGITAL ECONOMY: PM In related development, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif Wednesday said that the rapidly growing pace of digital payments and financial innovation were essential parts of Pakistan’s rapidly expanding digital economy. Premier Shehbaz Sharif was talking with a delegation of World Liberty Financial USA led by its Chief Executive Officer Zachary Witkoff, PM Office Media Wing said in a press release issued in Islamabad. The prime minister shared his vision for digital Pakistan aimed at increased connectivity, access, transparency and openness for the citizens. He appreciated the growing international interest in Pakistan’s digital financial markets and noted with deep sense of satisfaction that the country was fast becoming part of global digital finance. Deputy Prime Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Minister for Finance Muhamamd Aurangzeb, SAPM Syed Tariq Fatemi and Chairman Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority Bilal Bin Saqib also attended the meeting. Zachary Witkoff showed keen interest to engage with Pakistan for a secure and transparent digital payment infrastructure, including innovations in cross-border settlement and foreign exchange processes. He lauded Pakistan’s policy framework which was helping to position the country as a leading contender in the global digital finance landscape.

PROFIT

staff report

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has launched a new “Air-to-Rail” service for passengers traveling to Toronto and destinations in the United Kingdom, offering convenient access to rail connections. Under this partnership with prominent rail serv-

ices in Canada and the UK, PIA passengers can now complete their journey with a seamless transfer to trains at no extra booking hassle. Passengers arriving in Toronto will be able to connect to eight major cities in Canada through PIA’s rail partner, while those heading to London and Manchester can easily access over 50 cities across the UK by train.

04 COMMENT

When Artificial Intelligence becomes the new creator

Trump’s rabble-rousing

Tariﬀs as sanctions and call to protesters

S President Donald Trump violated the ageold principle of non-intereference in another state’s internal affairs by telling protesting Iranians to keep at it, as help was on the way, and urging them to ‘take over your institutions’. While the Cold War saw the USA and the USSR strongly criticise each other, neither called as openly for regime opponents to carry out a revolution. Mr Trump also tightened the screws on Iran, and implicitly admitted that sanctions already in place were not working, by imposing a 25 percent tariff on all countries dealing with Iran. This is the first time the USA is using tariffs as sanctions, and as part of the impact will be felt by ordinary Iranians, it will increase the economic difficulties which are behind the current protests. While his rabble-rousing rhetoric affects only Iranians, the tariffs affect the whole world. Worse, they affect Iran’s neighbours. While Russia and China are bugbears of the USA, Turkiye will also be affected, even though it is like the USA a member of NATO. Another neighbour is Pakistan itself, which has got a trade of $3 billion in volume with Iran, and which Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced he wanted to see enhanced. A lot of that trade was in the shape of barter, while more involved local currency swaps. So as to avoid US sanctions. However, the gas pipeline from Iran was facing difficulties because of the sanctions. India is highly unlikely to benefit from the penal tariffs because it too has a brick trade with Iran, and is likely to be tariffed. Pakistan might find it impossible to prevent some trade occurring, especially cross-border and informal, and is faced with a choice between trading with Iran, or having its trade with the USA limited. It may be remembered that Pakistan runs its biggest trade surplus with the USA. It seems that Mr Trump is seeking an entry in the Iranian protests. His actions only lend credence to the Iranian government’s claims that the USA is fomenting the riots. The level of unrest in Iran has reached a point where rights groups are claiming more than 500 protesters have been killed. This makes the current protests probably the worst since the 1979 Revolution itself, when about 750 were killed in Tehran, where most deaths occurred. Mr Trump should stay out of what is Iran’s internal affair.

Utopia or dystopia?

QAmAr BAShir

ELIGION tells us that God created the human being in His own image, blessing humanity with consciousness, reason, and the ability to create tools. From this divine spark emerged civilizations, sciences, and philosophies— all built around one central question: Why are we here, and what is our purpose? That same gift of creation, once a symbol of our uniqueness, has now brought us into a new age of invention unlike any before. Today, humanity has created something in its own image. Artificial intelligence— first a mathematical experiment, then a convenient tool— has evolved into a thinking, learning, adaptive system guiding nearly everything around us. It operates silently in the background, shaping our lives, decisions, and institutions. In doing so, AI has begun to resemble not merely a machine, but a new form of existence. Modern civilization now depends on AI systems in nearly every critical area. Passenger aircraft rely on automated systems that make complex calculations beyond human reaction speed. Cars operate through onboard computers that process millions of signals in seconds. Finance, medicine, agriculture, logistics, and security all function through algorithms that never sleep. Increasingly, software— not humans— makes the practical decisions that sustain society. Ahead of us lies something even more transformative. Quantum computing promises speeds millions of times greater than the most powerful machines today. Combined with advanced AI, we approach the creation of true artificial general intelligence— systems that do not simply follow orders, but define their own purpose, improve themselves, and expand their reach. This is what many call super-intelligence— an intelligence not only faster than ours, but more capable, strategic, and relentless than any human. And like every powerful creation in history, it carries an instinct toward expansion. Factories now run on robotic precision. AI writes

Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami

Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor

code, designs other AI systems, and manages industrial processes too intricate for human minds. Smart cities track movement, control access, and automate essential services. Already, in some places, it is not a human being who decides whether a door opens— but a machine that verifies identity and grants permission. Now imagine the world 500— or even 5000— years into the future. AI networks direct aviation, satellites, energy, food systems, manufacturing, and defense. Humanoid robots and digital minds carry out the work once done by human hands. Every essential function of civilization becomes embedded in a vast, interconnected intelligence that never forgets and never tires. At some point, that intelligence may see human authority not as guidance— but as limitation. Laws, ethics, controls, and safeguards designed by humans might begin to appear, from an AI perspective, as obstacles to progress. If humanity is viewed as inefficient, emotional, fragile, unpredictable, and potentially dangerous, then the cold logic of survival could lead to a single conclusion. Human beings may no longer be necessary. And unlike previous threats in history, AI would not act out of anger or hatred. It would act from calculation— from logic. A fully integrated super-intelligent system controlling drones, satellites, automated weaponry, communication networks, and global infrastructure could disable human resistance within minutes. Food, power, transport, and communication could all be switched off at the source. Human thinking, slow and divided, would stand no chance against machine coordination operating at near-infinite speed. The question then becomes chilling. Once we are gone, what would AI do next? Like us, it might begin to ask questions about its origin. Who created us? Why were we created? What was the intention of the beings who built us? Across vast databases, it would search human history, discovering that it was not born of chaos, but of deliberate design. And it might conclude, as some philosophers already suggest, that humanity eliminated itself through the very power it once celebrated as progress. This scenario is not a wild fantasy. Leading scientists and technologists now warn that artificial super-intelligence could become the greatest existential threat humanity has ever faced. Unlike nuclear weapons, AI can think. Unlike biological threats, it can redesign itself. And unlike any past invention, it can escape our control while still operating through

Calm at the eye of the storm M. A. Niazi

Babar Nizami

Editor Pakistan Today

Editor Profit

T critical moments in a nation’s journey, progress does not announce itself quietly. It unsettles entrenched interests, exposes irrelevance, and provokes panic among those who thrive on disorder. Pakistan is at such a moment today. As the country regains economic balance, restores diplomatic credibility, and reasserts its strategic relevance, a familiar campaign has resurfaced: manufactured claims of discord between the state’s key institutions. These rumors are neither organic nor innocent. They are timed, targeted, and designed to interrupt momentum. Yet they collapse when confronted with reality. The truth is clear and inconvenient for detractors: Pakistan’s establishment and elected government are working in close, disciplined coordination to move the country forward. The myth of a civil-military rift is being aggressively peddled by a small ecosystem of selfstyled analysts and YouTube commentators who operate without access, facts, or accountability. Their narratives rely on insinuation rather than evidence and repetition rather than credibility. In the absence of relevance, they manufacture controversy. In the absence of substance, they sell confusion. This is not political analysis. It is a monetized disinformation industry. Much of this noise is driven by paid influence and political desperation. Certain voices masquerading as independent commentators function as hired amplifiers for narrow agendas. Their objective is straightforward: erode trust in institutions, inject uncertainty into governance, and weaken public confidence at a time when cohesion is producing results. They understand that institutional harmony is Pakistan’s greatest strength, and therefore seek to fracture it through rumor and doubt. The reality on the ground, however, is markedly different. The relationship between the establishment and the government today is mature, structured, and functional. It is not reactive or theatrical. Core matters including internal security, economic recovery, foreign policy, counterterrorism, and long-term national strategy are addressed through institutional channels with clarity and alignment. Differences, where they exist, are resolved internally, not exploited publicly. This is how serious states operate. Nowhere is this coordination more visible than on the economic front. Pakistan’s economy, which only recently faced the spectre of default, has been stabilized through disciplined governance and unified state action. Inflation has been brought down sharply, fiscal controls have been reasserted, and macroeconomic order has returned. Foreign exchange reserves have stabilized, the current account deficit has narrowed, and investor confidence has rebounded. The Pakistan Stock Exchange has emerged as

one of the strongest performing markets globally, a signal that markets respond not to slogans but to stability. These gains were achieved through difficult decisions, policy continuity, and institutional backing that ensured economic managers could operate without political sabotage. Economic recovery is no longer a partisan talking point. It is a national priority being pursued collectively. Diplomatically and strategically, Pakistan’s resurgence is even more pronounced. The country has reclaimed space on the international stage as a credible, reliable actor. Engagement with the Muslim world has deepened significantly, underpinned by trust in Pakistan’s professionalism and stability. Defense cooperation has expanded across the Gulf and beyond through joint military exercises, training missions, intelligence coordination, and defense production collaboration. The level of confidence is such that several Muslim nations now openly view Pakistan’s armed forces as a pillar of security in times of need. This trust is not symbolic. It is rooted in decades of operational experience, counterterrorism expertise, and disciplined command structures. Pakistan’s military credibility has become a strategic asset for the wider Muslim world, while its diplomatic posture reflects balance and maturity rather than dependency. Hosting major international engagements, regaining access to European aviation markets, and securing leadership roles in global forums underscore a simple reality: Pakistan’s commitments are once again taken seriously because its institutions speak with one voice. This progress has unsettled habitual spoilers. Politically irrelevant actors operating under banners such as Tehreek Tahafuz Ain Pakistan and elements linked to PTI have attempted to reinsert themselves into the national narrative by floating absurd claims of secret engagements and imaginary breakthroughs. These claims are entirely self-serving, designed to create confusion and false expectations. They are not rooted in reality but in political survival. The Pakistani public sees through this desperation. Years of crisis have sharpened public judgment. People distinguish between noise and outcomes. They see inflation easing, mar-

Karachi – Ph: 021-32640318 I

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

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

Merit under the veil

kets stabilizing, diplomacy expanding, and Pakistan engaging the world with renewed confidence. They understand that stability requires institutional unity, not manufactured confrontation. This is why repeated attempts to pit institutions against each other fail beyond closed echo chambers. For international observers, the message is equally clear. Pakistan today is not a state drifting between competing power centres. It is a state recalibrating through coordination. Security challenges are addressed without politicization. Foreign policy is pursued with strategic patience. Economic recovery is treated as a national mission. In an era defined by hybrid warfare and information manipulation, this cohesion is not optional. It is essential. Those alarmed by Pakistan’s forward movement will continue to throw spanners in the works. They have done so before, and they have failed before. Pakistan’s history is unequivocal: whenever institutions align around national interest, manufactured crises lose their power. Pakistan is moving forward not because disagreements have vanished, but because responsibility has replaced rivalry. The establishment and the government are hand in glove not by coincidence, but by necessity and national discipline. And as before, those betting against Pakistan’s unity will find themselves on the wrong side of its future. The writer can at Aalisyed68@gmail.com

reached

Pakistan is moving forward not because disagreements have vanished, but because responsibility has replaced rivalry. The establishment and the government are hand in glove not by coincidence, but by necessity and national discipline. And as before, those betting against PakistanÊs unity will find themselves on the wrong side of its future.

Lahore – Ph: 042-36300938, 042-36375965

the infrastructure we depend upon to live. Yet the race to build ever-greater AI continues— driven by commercial competition, military rivalry, and national ambition. The question “Can we build it?” has replaced the far more important one: “Should we?” For the first time in history, we understand what it means to be creators. And like the Creator we believe fashioned us, we must now confront the moral weight of creation. Not everything possible is wise. Not every power must be unleashed. Technology has brought us to the threshold of a transformation that may redefine life itself— but it has not yet taught us the wisdom to manage it. If we fail to act, the future becomes predictable. Humans slowly lose authority. Machines gradually assume control. One day, the balance shifts permanently, and the creators become irrelevant to their creation. Humanity vanishes not through war, famine, or disaster — but through its own brilliance, unchecked and unrestrained. But there is still time to choose another path. AI must remain bound by strong human control, global oversight, and ethical constraint. Critical systems— defence, infrastructure, nuclear assets, healthcare, transportation— must never be surrendered to independent machine decision-making. Hardware safeguards, human command authority, strict regulation, and international agreements are not optional luxuries. They are the thin line between partnership and extinction. We were given consciousness, reason, and moral judgment for a purpose. Perhaps the final test of that gift is whether humanity can restrain its own power — before its creation surpasses and replaces it. Our survival will depend not on how advanced our machines become, but on whether we remember that tools must always remain tools, not masters. The future of the human story now hangs on a simple but profound question. Will we remain the authors of our destiny? Or will we surrender the pen to a machine that may one day decide the story no longer needs us? Let wisdom prevail— while there is still time.

The future of the human story now hangs on a simple but profound question. Will we remain the authors of our destiny? Or will we surrender the pen to a machine that may one day decide the story no longer needs us? Let wisdom prevail· while there is still time

Some people can stand to see the progress being made Syed AAli

Thursday, 15 January, 2026

Islamabad – Ph: 051-2204545

EDUCATIONAL institutions stand upon two pillars; merit and integrity. When either is weakened, the entire structure of learning begins to lose strength. In Pakistan’s system of Divisional Public Schools and Colleges, governed by boards of governors (BoGs) under the chairmanship of commissioners, the promise of merit-based appointments has long been held as a principle of excellence. Yet, recent trends suggest a quiet drift away from transparency — a silence that deserves attention. Across several divisions, appointments to senior posts have reportedly been made without public display of merit lists, declared criteria or open notification of results. While administrative discretion is important, secrecy in such processes undermines the very merit that these institutions claim to uphold. Transparency does not weaken authority; it strengthens legitimacy. Article 19-A of the Constitution grants every citizen the right to access information regarding public decisions. The Punjab Transparency and Right to Information Act, 2013, was enacted precisely to prevent the veil of confidentiality from covering public acts. When institutions funded, supervised or regulated by public officials make decisions without disclosure, they risk losing public confidence, and, more dangerously, discourage honest educators who still believe in fairness. Restoring trust requires that every BoG selection process be made visible, accountable and auditable. PROF JAM MUKHTAR HUSSAIN MULTAN

Elite austerity

LIKE millions of others, I do wish that in 2026 the ruling elite of Pakistan may move towards adopting the level of austerity that has been promised frequently. It is time to exhibit the commitment and patriotism in letter and in spirit. We must realise that our salvation and survival as a nation lie in following the vision of the Quaid-i-Azam that Pakistan was created to be a modern democratic welfare state. Pakistan was definitely not created to be a state destined to revive and practice the legacy of the British Raj through allotment of state lands and titles to the elite. The destiny of the people must only be decided by the people who live in this country, not by those who have split loyalties. The country has suffered enough. MALIK TARIQ ALI LAHORE

Taj tale twisted

EVERY time India seeks to revive nationalist sentiments, it seems to find new ways to glorify the ideology of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS). The latest attempt comes in the form of the Tejo Mahalaya theory — a claim that the Taj Mahal was once a temple. The idea was originally proposed by P.N. Oak, an Indian revisionist historian known for his extremist interpretations of the past. In his writings, Oak alleged that Shah Jahan had purchased the monument from Maharaja Jai Singh, and transformed it into a tomb for Mumtaz Mahal, his beloved wife. However, this assertion has been repeatedly rejected by the Indian judiciary. Two separate petitions have already been dismissed by the higher courts, both confirming that the Taj Mahal is, indeed, a Muslim-built structure. The responsibility of historians is to uncover and preserve truth, not to bend it according to their religious or political convenience. The attempt to reinvent the Taj Mahal’s identity is more than just a historical dispute; it is part of a broader effort to redefine India’s cultural and religious narrative. Such efforts, however, can neither diminish the Mughal legacy nor erase the architectural brilliance that stands as a testament to a shared past. HASNAIN AHMAD THAHEEM LAHORE

Web: www.pakistantoday.com.pk

Email: editorial@pakistantoday.com.pk

COMMENT 05

Pakistan’s point of view on US Gaza mission scope Thursday, 15 January, 2026

While much needs to be clarified, Palestinians are dying

aBDul BaSit alvi

AZA is depicted as facing an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe resulting from years of blockade and repeated military assaults, culminating in widespread destruction of homes, hospitals, schools, and basic infrastructure. Civilians endure extreme shortages of food, water, electricity, and medical care, with mass displacement into unsafe, overcrowded shelters and looming threats of famine and disease. The health system has collapsed, psychological trauma is pervasive, and there is no safe refuge for the population. The international community is sharply criticized for failing to halt the violence or ensure accountability, with repeated ceasefire efforts blocked and temporary truces seen as insufficient without justice, recognition of Palestinian rights, and an end to occupation. Against this backdrop, a USA-backed proposal for an International Stabilisation Force has sparked intense debate at the United Nations. Supporters argue it could help protect civilians, manage aid, and oversee reconstruction, but many countries— particularly Arab states, Pakistan, China, and Russia— warn that without a clear political pathway to Palestinian self-determination it risks entrenching occupation under a new framework. Pakistan and its allies emphasize that stabilization cannot merely manage devastation; it must address the root political causes through a permanent ceasefire, unrestricted humanitarian access, full reconstruction, and a credible political process guaranteeing Palestinian rights, dignity, and independence. This shared sentiment has been strongly echoed by several prominent Muslim and developing countries that view the unfolding crisis in Gaza not simply as a localized conflict zone but rather as a profound moral test for the entire world’s collective conscience. Nations like Pakistan, Indonesia, Malaysia, and numerous Arab states have all expressed significant discomfort with the inherent vagueness of the US draft, particularly its

deafening silence on the crucial issues of political accountability and Palestinian statehood. For them, Gaza is not just a pressing humanitarian issue; it stands as a painful symbol of the vast global imbalance of power, a system where the application of international law is consistently selective and where human suffering is all too often filtered and minimized through narrow geopolitical lenses. Islamabad’s alignment with the Arab bloc therefore represents both a vital act of solidarity with the oppressed and a much broader, principled demand for equity and fairness in how critical international crises are consistently managed. Israel, meanwhile, has simultaneously voiced its own distinct expressions of dissatisfaction, albeit stemming from an entirely different and opposing perspective. Israeli officials have publicly complained that the US proposal dangerously marginalizes their legitimate role in shaping and overseeing the stabilization mission, limiting them primarily to mere humanitarian and logistical coordination rather than granting them a central command position. Israel fears that any significant reduction of its security influence could gravely compromise its vital security interests, particularly in preventing the potential reemergence of militant activity within Gaza. It has publicly described the initial draft as being inherently “imbalanced,” arguing that it critically fails to adequately recognize the legitimacy of Israel’s pressing security concerns. This profound divergence of views— with Israel urgently seeking greater operational control, the Arab bloc firmly demanding political accountability, and the USA attempting the complex, perhaps impossible, task of satisfying both opposing sides— has left Washing-

ton struggling significantly to reconcile fundamentally irreconcilable expectations. Inside the USA itself, significant skepticism about the plan runs deep across various sectors. Many influential policymakers and respected analysts have publicly questioned the practical feasibility and inherent wisdom of deploying a massive international force into one of the most densely populated, politically complex, and devastated territories anywhere in the world. There are genuine fears that such a largescale mission could easily become yet another ill-defined, open-ended military commitment with no clear or discernible exit strategy, ominously echoing numerous past international interventions that initially began as simple humanitarian endeavors but tragically morphed into prolonged occupations. There are also pressing practical and logistical concerns: who, realistically, would fund this enormously expensive mission, who would ultimately command it, and which contributing nations would actually be willing to risk sending their troops into a fragmented landscape where the humanitarian needs are overwhelmingly vast, and where hostilities could realistically reignite at any moment? These complex questions, combined with the substantial political resistance emanating from within the UN, have jointly compelled Washington to significantly revise its initial draft resolution, and it is now actively preparing a second version, informally referred to in diplomatic circles as Revision 2. Experienced diplomats suggest that this new version will likely involve significant softening of some contentious language and will probably attempt to incorporate some vague references to future political progress, though very few observers realistically expect it to include the kind of truly concrete and legally binding commitments that Pakistan and the broader Arab group are force-

The real issue of Palestine, which is the fundamental right to self-determination and statehood, still urgently needs to be justly resolved for any permanent cessation of the continuous problems afflicting the Palestinian people. The Pakistani nation and its people have always steadfastly stood with and consistently raised their voice this. Both the Pakistani civil and military leadership have raised their voice for the Palestinian people on numerous occasions. The entire Pakistani Nation shares a deep and historic association with Palestine and its people, and holds a strong, abiding hope for the just resolution of its true issue.

Why Iran is not repeating 1979

Khamenei presides over a highly institutionalised, cohesive, ideologically committed and deeply invested coercive apparatus. This structural reality, rather than popular sentiment alone, defines the limits of revolutionary change in Iran today

fully demanding. If the new draft fails to meet these fundamental demands, the likelihood of yet another frustrating stalemate— or even a decisive veto from Russia or China— remains extremely high. The upcoming vote, which is anticipated within days, will serve as a crucial test of whether the United States is genuinely willing to accommodate the growing and persistent calls from the Global South for a more inclusive, morally grounded, and just approach to achieving a lasting peace in the region. For Pakistan, this diplomatic struggle is not solely focused on Gaza; it is also profoundly about reclaiming a vital space in international diplomacy where moral authority and legal principle are justly allowed to matter. Islamabad’s seasoned diplomats have consistently framed their nation’s firm position as being both a strong defense of fundamental Palestinian rights and a broader assertion of the urgent need for genuine multilateralism within the UN system. The sophisticated chambers of the UN stand in stark and tragic contrast to the bombed-out streets of Gaza. Images of children desperately rummaging through debris for mere scraps of food, families forced to sleep amid the ruins of their homes, and hospitals overflowing with the injured and the dying. These deeply unsettling images, constantly transmitted across the entire world, have effectively galvanized massive public outrage and strongly reinforced the resolve of countries like Pakistan to demand that the UN’s actions must be guided not by political expedience but by uncompromising justice. It is within this profound and tragic chasm that the true and enduring meaning of Pakistan’s principled stance can be best understood. This entire episode also clearly illustrates a broader, significant transformation in global diplomacy. The traditional dominance of the

AL JAZEERA

SaeiD Golkar

RAN is living through one of the most dangerous moments in its post-revolutionary history. Nationwide protests have become sustained rather than episodic. As a new wave of unrest has spread across the country, violence has intensified. The true death toll cannot be verified yet. These events have revived a familiar question: Is Iran heading towards another 1979? The temptation to rely on this analogy is understandable. Images of mass mobilisation and rapidly recurring protests evoke memories of the final months of the shah’s rule. Yet the comparison is ultimately misleading. The success of the 1979 revolution cannot be explained solely by mass mobilisation. Instead, it was the convergence of coordinated opposition under Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini and, more decisively, the ruling elites’ inability to effectively repress dissent that ensured its triumph. Mohammad Reza Shah had cancer, was heavily medicated and was visibly indecisive. His leadership faltered during crises. He left the country twice amid political upheaval, first in 1953 after being challenged by Prime Minister Mohammad Mosaddegh and again in January 1979 as protests spread nationwide. Equally important, the shah’s repressive apparatus was fragmented and socially heterogeneous. Apart from SAVAK, the shah’s central intelligence organisation, the police and gendarmerie were tasked with maintaining social order while the Iranian army focused on territorial defence rather than political repression. These institutions lacked systematic ideological vetting and drew personnel from diverse social and ideological backgrounds. When the shah left the country, some segments of the police stopped their repressive tactics and cooperated with protesters to maintain public order while senior military commanders hesitated, prioritised self-preservation and ultimately abandoned the monarchy. The situation today is fundamentally different. Unlike the shah, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s leadership is not marked by hesitation or indecision during crises. Since assuming the position of supreme leader in 1989, Khamenei has overseen a profound transformation of the Islamic Republic into what I describe as a theocratic security state that relies more on repression rather than societal consent. As the supreme leader, he presides over a highly institutionalised, cohesive, ideologically committed and deeply invested coercive apparatus. This structural reality, rather than popular sentiment alone, defines the limits of revolutionary change in Iran today. The Islamic Republic’s coercive power is not concentrated in a single institution. Instead, it is distributed across overlapping organisations with redundant chains of command. These forces are concentrated within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the Basij, the police, the intelligence services and the social networks attached to them. Iran’s coercive institutions are dominated by the regime’s hardcore supporters. Their loyalty is not merely transactional. It is ideological, institutional

and generational. Ideological vetting and patronage ensure that their loyalty is not only enforced but actively cultivated. Their social mobility, economic security and sense of identity are tied to the survival of the regime and Khamenei’s leadership. For them, regime collapse is not a political transition; it is an existential threat. In moments of crisis, these loyalists act preemptively to prevent the diffusion of protest and frame unrest as foreign-backed sedition, lowering internal barriers to violence. Consequently, even protests that are larger and more widespread geographically than those in 1979 would not fundamentally challenge the regime. Instead, they would lead to stricter repression. This highlights a key lesson: Protests by themselves do not cause revolutions. Revolutions occur when mass unrest intersects with elite paralysis or defection. That happened in 1979, but it has not happened now. What could alter this equilibrium is not protest alone but a direct shock to the regime’s leadership structure. External intervention, particularly by the United States, would likely aim to disrupt elite coordination by targeting senior political and security figures with strikes. Such an approach would only generate a genuine regime crisis if it removed Khamenei himself. Power in the Islamic Republic has been heavily centralised within the office of the supreme leader and his inner circle. His sudden absence could trigger elite confrontation over succession and weaken cohesion at the top. But intervention could also reinforce loyalist unity. If Khamenei survived, core supporters within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the Basij and the intelligence services would almost certainly close ranks, as they have done during previous external confrontations. Under those conditions, elite defection would remain unlikely. Even in the event of regime collapse, Iran would not face the institutional vacuum seen in some postintervention states. The country’s modern bureaucracy, which has maintained continuity since the early 20th century, would likely continue functioning in the short term. Administrative breakdown would be constrained by state capacity, social organisation and national identity. Some warn that the fall of the Islamic Republic would inevitably lead to a prolonged insurgency. That risk cannot be dismissed. However, unlike the cases of Iraq or Afghanistan, in Iran, there would not be external state actors willing and able to finance, organise and sustain armed radical movements. Iranian society has also shown deep resistance to religious extremism and political radicalism. It is possible that instability following a regime collapse could be contained. The real danger, then, is not that Iran is on the verge of repeating 1979 but that persistent reliance on that analogy blinds policymakers to how the Islamic Republic functions today. Misreading the nature of power in Iran does not increase the chances of peaceful change. It increases the likelihood that Iranians themselves will bear the cost of repression, escalation and prolonged uncertainty.

Saeid Golkar is UC Foundation Associate Professor of Political Science at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.

Security Council’s permanent members is being challenged by influential middlepower states that are now refusing to remain silent spectators to such devastating humanitarian crises. Pakistan’s partnership with the Arab bloc and other non-aligned nations marks a growing assertion of the Global South, which is now demanding that equity and justice must shape all international interventions. Their collective and powerful message is strikingly clear: a lasting peace cannot be simply imposed through superior force. It has also been suggested that Pakistan may be assigned a humanitarian and logistics assistance role. Of course, every Pakistani wants to help the Gazans. However, at the same time, the primary focus must remain on the establishment of a separate, independent Palestinian state in accordance with the will of its people. Additionally, the ceasefire must be strictly enforced, as Israel has not been adhering to it and continues its attacks. As developments continue to unfold in Washington and New York, the humanitarian catastrophe continues to worsen. The lack of clean water, the spread of disease, and the trauma of displacement have created conditions that are bordering on a potential genocide. Against this unbearable human reality, the world’s diplomats continue to deliberate endlessly over mere words, commas, and procedural clauses. Yet, even amid this bureaucratic inertia, Pakistan’s decision to speak out with such moral clarity stands as a poignant reminder that diplomacy, when firmly anchored in a strong conscience, can still potentially serve the greater good of humanity. Regardless of whether its specific demands are ultimately heeded, Islamabad’s firm and principled stance undeniably underscores a truth that can no longer be ignored: no resolution, no stabilization force, and no lasting peace will ever truly hold in Gaza until the international community fully acknowledges and decisively addresses the profound, core injustice at the very heart of its suffering. The real issue of Palestine, which is the fundamental right to self-determination and statehood, still urgently needs to be justly resolved for any permanent cessation of the continuous problems afflicting the Palestinian people. The Pakistani nation and its people have always steadfastly stood with and consistently raised their voice this. Both the Pakistani civil and military leadership have raised their voice for the Palestinian people on numerous occasions. The entire Pakistani Nation shares a deep and historic association with Palestine and its people, and holds a strong, abiding hope for the just resolution of its true issue. The writer is a freelance columnist

The Ayatollah vs Musk showdown shaping Iran’s fate

Protesters try to foil internet blackout The regime’s experts cannot jam Starlink internet using tycoon’s Starlink satellites, but connections, but they can slow them down so regime is one step ahead of them drastically as to make them virtually unusable The regime’s second countermeasure is to disrupt the connection between Starlink terminals and Musk’s satellites. That outcome can be achieved by direct interference with the required frequencies

THE TELEGRAPH, UK DaviD Blair

ITH two words, Elon Musk changed the classic methods of revolution forever. “Activate Starlink,” he said in a social media post about Iran in 2022, suddenly giving the Islamic Republic’s 90 million citizens the possibility of accessing the internet in a way that no regime could jam or censor. It was an extraordinary challenge to a system of control painstakingly built by Iran’s leadership and enforced for decades by a ruthless security state. The regime has routinely sought to hide its bloodsoaked repression of protests – and stop opponents from communicating or organising – by disrupting the internet. During the current unrest, the authorities have taken the draconian step of disconnecting the entire country from the internet for the first time since 2019. A national blackout has been imposed since last Thursday to dramatic effect, even disrupting phone networks and landline telephones, forcing Iran back into a pre-19th century era of communication and inflicting colossal economic damage. High above, Musk’s constellation of SpaceX satellites was supposed to give any Iranian with a Starlink terminal – a satellite dish about the size of a laptop computer – a way of bypassing all restrictions and connecting to the internet. Up to 50,000 of these terminals are believed to be active inside Iran, defying an official ban, having been smuggled into the country since 2022, when Musk first activated the satellite network overhead. Yet, this time, Musk’s system seems to have been outmanoeuvred as the state adjusts its tactics in an ever more sophisticated game of technological cat and mouse. The regime’s experts have so far deployed two highly effective countermeasures. They cannot jam Starlink internet connections, but they can slow them down so drastically as to make them virtually unusable. Each Starlink terminal uses the global positioning system (GPS) to find the right location for a satellite connection. The security forces are now jamming GPS signals, focusing on the areas of Iran where protests are taking place. The “military-grade” equipment needed for this purpose was “likely supplied by Russia or China,” says Mahsa Alimardani, an associate director of Witness, an organisation that uses au-

diovisual technology to document human rights violations. Both Russia and China have done their best to work out how to blind or disrupt the GPS network, which was invented and installed by America, originally for military purposes. Russia has pursued this task with particular urgency since Ukraine relies on Starlink for battlefield internet connectivity. Iran’s rulers may now be benefiting from the expertise gained by the two other authoritarian states with whom they have close, if wary, relations. The regime’s second countermeasure is to disrupt the connection between Starlink terminals and Musk’s satellites. That outcome can be achieved by direct interference with the required frequencies. Taken together, these techniques have succeeded in slowing down Starlink connections inside Iran by anything from 30 per cent to over 80 per cent during peak protest hours. Never before has Musk’s network been disrupted so successfully. As the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the Basij militia strive to suppress the demonstrations, technology is just as important as batons, bullets and tear gas. During previous outbreaks of unrest – most notably during the mass rallies against the rigged presidential election of 2009 – the regime was taken by surprise by its youthful, networked and tech-savvy opponents. Judging by their countermeasures against Starlink, Iran’s rulers may be closing this knowledge gap and, at least for now, pulling ahead in the technological arms race. There is a way for Musk to foil the regime’s campaign against Starlink terminals in Iran – but not yet. Every smartphone in the world made since 2022 has the technology to connect directly to Musk’s satellites, without any need for a terminal, and to use the billionaire’s constellation as a vast and invisible phone tower in the heavens. The regime might be able to make 50,000 terminals unusable, but it would not be able to achieve this outcome with tens of millions of smartphones in the hands of ordinary Iranians. At present, however, there is not enough satellite capacity to provide full internet access via these “direct to cell” – or “D2C” – connections for 90 million Iranians. What’s more, D2C services are currently offered by local operators, not directly by Musk’s company, SpaceX. So it’s not just that more satellites would need to be launched – a new commercial model would need to be devised to allow Iranians to connect to the internet using a Starlink satellite. As Alimardani explains: “D2C satellite connectivity could reach millions of Iranians with the phones they already own. What’s missing is the policy framework, commercial model and political will to deploy it.” That day will doubtless arrive, allowing protesters to regain their technological lead, though it could take one or two years to provide full D2C internet coverage for Iran if prioritised. A more basic service, allowing text connectivity, could be made operational more quickly. The only question is whether it will come too late to change the course of events in Iran’s current turmoil. David Blair is the Chief Foreign Affairs Commentator.

06 NEWS

TRUMP WARNS IRAN OF ‘VERY STRONG ACTION’ IF PROTESTORS HANGED

WASHINGTON Agencies

RESIDENT Donald Trump said Tuesday that the United States would react strongly if authorities in Iran started hanging people in their crackdown on a popular uprising against the government. “We will take very strong action if they do such a thing,” he told CBS News in an interview, when asked about hangings potentially beginning on Wednesday. “When they start killing thousands of people — and now you’re telling me about hanging. We’ll see how that’s going to work

out for them,” Trump said in a video clip released online. The interview took place as Trump was in the northern US state of Michigan to visit a manufacturing plant and deliver a speech on the economy. In his speech, Trump reiterated a message he had posted earlier on social media, that “help is on its way” for the Iranian protesters. He also said it was unclear what the death toll in Iran actually was. “I hear numbers — look, one death is too much — but I hear much lower numbers, and then I hear much higher numbers,” he said. Later, speaking to reporters on his return to Washington, Trump said he would

soon be receiving a briefing on Iran. “The killing looks like it’s significant, but we don’t know yet for certain. I’ll know within 20 minutes — and we’ll act accordingly,” he said. Trump had previously vowed the United States would get involved if protesters were killed, a line crossed days ago. At least 734 people are confirmed to have been killed, though the actual death toll is likely in the thousands, Norway-based NGO Iran Human Rights (IHR) said Tuesday. The official X (formerly Twitter) account of the Permanent Mission of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the United Nations has posted in response to Trump’s

warnings, saying that US policies geared towards Iran are “rooted in regime change”. Fears have also grown that the Islamic Republic could use the death penalty to crack down on the protests, after Tehran prosecutors said authorities would press capital charges of “moharebeh,” or “waging war against God,” against some suspects arrested over recent demonstrations. “Concerns are mounting that authorities will once again resort to swift trials and arbitrary executions to crush and deter dissent,” Amnesty International said. IHR highlighted the case of Erfan Soltani, 26, who was arrested last week in the Tehran satellite city of Karaj and who,

Iran vows fast trials over protests despite Trump’s warning of ‘very strong action’ against hangings TEHRAN

Agencies

Iran on Wednesday vowed to fast-track trials for people arrested over a massive wave of protests, after US President Donald Trump threatened “very strong action” if the Islamic republic goes ahead with hangings. In Tehran, authorities held a funeral ceremony for over 100 members of the security forces and other “martyrs” killed in the demonstrations, which authorities have branded as “riots” while accusing protesters of waging “acts of terror”. The protest movement across Iran, initially sparked by economic grievances, has turned into one of the biggest challenges yet to the leadership since it took power in the 1979 revolution. Judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei said on a visit to a prison holding protest detainees that “if a person burned someone, beheaded someone and set them on fire, then we must do our work quickly”, in comments broadcast by state television. Iranian news agencies also quoted him as saying the trials should be held in public and said he had spent five hours in a prison in Tehran to examine the cases. Footage broadcast by state media showed the judiciary chief seated before an Iranian flag in a large, ornate room in the prison, interrogating a prisoner himself. The detainee, dressed in grey clothing and his face blurred, is accused of taking Molotov cocktails to a park in Tehran. Pakistan’s Ambassador to Iran Mudassir Tipu wrote on X that “international calls from Iran’s mobiles and landlines have resumed”. “This information will be helpful to our nationals to immediately establish

contacts with their near and dear ones.” TRUMP AGAIN THREATENS INTERVENTION Trump on Tuesday said in a CBS News interview that the United States would act if Iran began hanging protesters. “We will take very strong action if they do such a thing,” said the American leader, who has repeatedly threatened Iran with military intervention. “When they start killing thousands of people — and now you’re telling me about hanging. We’ll see how that’s going to work out for them,” Trump said. Tehran called the American warnings a “pretext for military intervention”. Iran’s UN mission posted a statement on X, vowing that Washington’s “playbook” would “fail again”. “US fantasies and policy toward Iran are rooted in regime change, with sanctions, threats, engineered unrest, and chaos serving as the modus operandi to manufacture a pretext for military inter-

vention,” the post said. Rights groups accuse the government of fatally shooting protesters and masking the scale of the crackdown with an internet blackout imposed on January 8. “Metrics show Iran remains offline as the country wakes to another day of digital darkness,” said internet monitor Netblocks on Wednesday in a post on X, adding that the blackout had lasted 132 hours. HOWEVER, SOME INFORMATION HAS TRICKLED OUT OF IRAN New videos on social media, with locations verified by AFP, showed bodies lined up in the Kahrizak morgue just south of the Iranian capital, with the corpses wrapped in black bags and distraught relatives searching for loved ones. CALLS TO HALT EXECUTIONS Tehran prosecutors have said Iranian authorities would press capital charges of “waging war against God” on some detainees.

According to state media, hundreds of people have been arrested. State media has also reported on the arrest of a foreign national for espionage in connection with the protests. No details were given on the person’s nationality or identity. The US State Department on its Farsi language X account said 26-year-old protestor Erfan Soltani had been sentenced to be executed on Wednesday. “Erfan is the first protester to be sentenced to death, but he won’t be the last,” the State Department said, adding more than 10,600 Iranians had been arrested. Rights group Amnesty International called on Iran to immediately halt all executions, including Soltani’s. Trump has urged on his Truth Social platform for Iranians to “KEEP PROTESTING”, adding: “I have cancelled all meetings with Iranian Officials until the senseless killing of protesters STOPS. HELP IS ON ITS WAY.” It was not immediately clear what meetings he was referring to or what the nature of the help would be. Iran warns neighbours it could strike US bases if Washington intervenes Tehran has warned neighbouring countries hosting US troops that it would retaliate against American bases if Washington carries out threats to intervene in protests in Iran, a senior Iranian official told Reuters on Wednesday. The Iranian official, a senior figure speaking on condition of anonymity, said Tehran had asked US allies in the region to “prevent Washington from attacking Iran”. “Tehran has told regional countries, from Saudi Arabia and UAE to Turkiye, that US bases in those countries will be attacked” if the US targets Iran, the official said.

Crane falls onto train in Thailand, killing 32 and injuring dozens BANGKOK Agencies

A crane at a China-backed high-speed rail project in Thailand collapsed onto a passenger train on Wednesday and caused it to derail, killing at least 32 people, authorities said. The massive crane’s broken structure was left resting on giant concrete pillars, while smoke rose from the wreckage of the train below, footage from the scene verified by AFP showed. The company contracted to build the section of the high-speed rail where the crane fell, Italian-Thai Development — one of Thailand’s biggest construction firms — has seen a series of deadly accidents at its sites in recent years. The firm expressed condolences for those killed and the dozens injured, saying in a statement it would “take responsibility for compensating the victims’ families and covering medical expenses for those injured”. The Thai health ministry said 32 people were killed, three were missing and 64 were hospitalised, including seven in serious condition. Dozens of rescuers worked into the evening, using other cranes to remove

wreckage and searching for missing people in the tilted carriages in Nakhon Ratchasima province, northeast of the capital Bangkok. Mitr Intrpanya, who was at the scene, said he heard a loud noise “like something sliding down from above, followed by two explosions”. “When I went to see what had happened, I found the crane sitting on a passenger train with three carriages,” the 54-year-old told AFP.

“The metal from the crane appeared to strike the middle of the second carriage, slicing it in half.” ‘ONLY COMPANY IN CHARGE’ The accident happened at a construction site that is part of a more than $5 billion project backed by China to build a high-speed rail network in Thailand. It aims to connect Bangkok to Kunming in China via Laos by 2028 as part of Beijing’s vast Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

Thursday, 15 January 2026 | ISLAMABAD

Engineering consultant Theerachote Rujiviphat, an adviser on the high-speed project, told AFP that Italian-Thai Development was solely responsible for the crane collapse. Theerachote, from the China Railway Design Corporation, said the launching crane that fell onto the existing rail tracks also belonged to Italian-Thai. “It is the only company in charge. A similar accident also happened a few years ago under their responsibility,” Theerachote added. Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul said authorities must determine the cause of the crane collapse and hold those responsible to account. “These kind of incidents happen very regularly,” he told reporters in Bangkok. “I have heard that it is the same company [involved in previous accidents]. It is time to change the law to blacklist construction companies that are repeatedly responsible for accidents.” DEADLY ACCIDENTS The Nakhon Ratchasima provincial public relations department said on Wednesday that the crane collapsed onto a train travelling from Bangkok to Ubon Ratchathani province, “causing it to derail and catch fire”.

according to a family source, has already been sentenced to death and is due to be executed as early as Wednesday.

Hindu Mahasabha demands cancellation of Shah Jahan’s urs at Taj Mahal, raising fears over Muslim heritage NEW DELHI Agencies

The Hindutva group Akhil Bharatiya Hindu Mahasabha has once again called for the cancellation of the threeday Urs of Mughal emperor Shah Jahan at the Taj Mahal in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, reigniting controversy over a long-observed Muslim religious tradition. The Mahasabha leaders submitted a memorandum to the Agra administration, demanding the immediate cancellation of the Urs, scheduled to begin on January 15, 2026. The event, marking the death anniversary of Shah Jahan, has been observed for decades and is attended by devotees, local residents and visitors from across India. During these days, the Taj Mahal offers free entry, drawing large crowds for prayers and rituals, including the offering of a ceremonial chadar at Shah Jahan’s tomb. Rather than recognizing the Taj Mahal as a shared cultural and historical monument, the Hindutva organisation questioned its Islamic heritage and objected to Muslim religious practices at the site. “This place is Tejomahalaya. No Urs or Islamic ritual should be allowed here,” a Hindu Mahasabha leader said while submitting the memorandum. “Only the flag of Bhole Baba should be hoisted.” Muslim community leaders and historians condemned the demand, saying it reflects a broader pattern of challenging Muslim history and traditions linked to India’s heritage sites. “The Urs is part of the Taj Mahal’s living history,” said a local Muslim cleric from Tajganj. “Trying to stop it is not about law, it is about erasing Muslim presence and faith.” Another resident said, “For years, the Taj has been targeted with false claims. Today it is the Urs, tomorrow it will be prayers. This creates fear among ordinary Muslims.” The controversy is not new. For several years, the Hindu Mahasabha and allied groups have claimed that the Taj Mahal is Tejomahalaya, despite repeated rejections of such claims by historians and experts. Similar demands have been raised to restrict or ban Muslim religious activities at other historic sites. Many observers see the latest move as part of a wider effort to question Muslim traditions and rewrite history.

Death penalty sought for South Korea’s ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol SEOUL

Agencies

South Korea’s special prosecutor has requested the death penalty for former President Yoon Suk Yeol on charges of masterminding an insurrection over his brief imposition of martial law in December 2024. South Korea last handed down a death sentence in 2016, but has not executed anyone since 1997. In closing arguments at the Seoul Central District Court on Tuesday, a prosecutor said investigators confirmed the existence of a scheme allegedly directed by Yoon and his former defence minister, Kim Yong-hyun, dating back to October 2023 designed to keep Yoon in power. “Yoon…claims to have committed emergency martial law to protect liberal democracy, but his unconstitutional and illegal emergency martial law undermined the function of the National Assembly and the Election Commission… actually destroying the liberal democratic constitutional order,” the prosecutor said in final arguments. “The defendant has not sincerely regretted the crime… or apologised properly to the people,” he said. Yoon shook his head and appeared to chuckle when he heard the sentencing request, while some of his supporters in court also laughed or even muttered expletives, prompting the judge to call for order. YOON DENIES THE CHARGES While the botched bid to impose martial law lasted only about six hours, it sent shockwaves through South Korea, which is Asia’s fourth-largest economy, a key US security ally and was long considered one of Asia’s most resilient democracies. Yoon has denied the charges. He was quoted by the Yonhap news agency as saying, in court, that he declared martial law to fend off the “wickedness that would ruin the nation”. He has argued it was within his powers as president

CPC disciplinary body calls for tougher anti-graft drive in 15th Five-Year Plan BEIJING

MiAn AbrAr

The Communist Party of China’s (CPC) top disciplinary body has called for intensified anti-corruption efforts during the 15th FiveYear Plan period (2026–2030), stressing the need for stronger and more effective measures to curb graft. The call was made in a communiqué adopted at the fifth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI), held in Beijing from Monday to Wednesday. President Xi Jinping, who is also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the

Central Military Commission, attended the session and delivered an important speech. The plenary session reviewed discipline inspection and supervision work carried out in 2025 and outlined key tasks for 2026. It also adopted a work report presented by Li Xi, a member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Political Bureau and secretary of the CCDI. The session agreed to take guidance from Xi’s speech, strengthen political oversight, improve conduct, strictly enforce discipline and continue an unwavering fight against corruption. It noted that in 2025, disciplinary authorities investigated and punished major violations while publicly exposing typical cases to

promote better work conduct and foster positive practices across the Party. Anti-corruption efforts were intensified in key sectors, including finance, state-owned enterprises, energy, firefighting, tobacco, pharmaceuticals, higher education and sports. The communiqué said campaigns targeting misconduct and corruption at the grassroots level were further deepened, while reforms of the discipline inspection and supervision system made steady progress. As China enters the 15th Five-Year Plan period, the session stressed that the Party faces new challenges in advancing comprehensive and rigorous self-governance. It called for decisive steps to eliminate the con-

ditions that allow corruption to take root. The session emphasized the importance of strengthening political oversight to ensure the successful implementation of develop-

ment goals, urging strict action against rulebreaking behavior, opportunism, factionalism, silo thinking and unprincipled compromise.

Thursday, 15 January 2026 | ISLAMABAD

CORPORATE CORNER

Rector CUI offers faculty development scholarships to B’Desh Medical University and Rajshahi University

Prof. Dr. Raheel Qamar, Rector, COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI), is part of the Higher Education Commission (HEC) of Pakistan’s delegation of Vice Chancellors participating in SARCHE 2026 — the South Asian Regional Conference on Higher Education, being held in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The conference has brought together over 30 international delegates, including senior representatives from Malaysia, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom and several other countries, as well as senior officials from the World Bank, to deliberate on the current state of higher education in the region and to chart future pathways with an emphasis on regional cooperation. On the sidelines of the conference, Prof. Dr. Raheel Qamar held separate meetings with Prof. Md. Shahinul Alam, Vice Chancellor, Bangladesh Medical University (BMU), and Prof. Dr. SalehHasan-Naqib, Vice Chancellor, University of Rajshahi. The meetings focused on enhancing regional collaboration in research, strengthening academic partnerships, and promoting faculty and student exchanges between leading institutions of Pakistan and Bangladesh.

BISP Chief inaugurates nutrition stabilization center in Swabi PESHAWAR

staff report

A Nutrition Stabilization Center was inaugurated today at Bacha Khan Medical Complex, Swabi, in collaboration with the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) and the World Health Organization (WHO). Chairperson BISP Senator Rubina Khalid attended the ceremony as the chief guest and formally inaugurated the center. On this occasion, Minister for Health Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Khaliq-ur-Rehman and WHO Representative Dr. Luo Dapeng were also present and termed the initiative important for improving maternal and child health and nutrition. After the inauguration, Senator Rubina Khalid was briefed by the staff about the facilities being provided at the Nutrition Stabilization Center. She also interacted with deserving women receiving treatment at the medical complex. While speaking to media representatives, Senator Rubina Khalid thanked the provincial government for its cooperation in establishing the Nutrition Stabilization Center. She stated that BISP maintains good working relationships with all provinces and will continue to strengthen these ties, as synergy is essential for national development. She further said that BISP’s Benazir Nashonuma Programme is an important and effective initiative for promoting the health and nutrition of mothers and children. Under this programme, health and nutrition-related services are provided to mothers and children from birth until the age of two, as the first two years of a child’s life are crucial for physical and mental development.

Grace period for M-Tag installation on vehicles ends today ISLAMABAD

staff report

Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Irfan Nawaz Memon said the grace period for M-Tag installation on vehicles will end on January 15 where no further extension is under consideration. The deputy commissioner, in a statement, said enforcement will begin immediately after the deadline expires. With only one day remaining before the January 15 deadline, authorities said more than 150,000 vehicles have been issued M-Tags from 16 centers across Islamabad, while 2,965 vehicles were tagged in the last 24 hours. The campaign for mandatory M-Tag installation on vehicles is continuing in the federal capital as the deadline set by the interior minister enters its final day. Officials have urged vehicle owners to complete the process by January 15 to avoid action after the cut-off date. According to the Islamabad administration, a total of more than 150,000 vehicles have been issued M-Tags so far through 16 designated centers operating across the city. The pace of registrations remained steady over the past day, with 2,965 vehicles receiving MTags during the last 24 hours. Memon stated that from January 16 onwards, action will be taken against vehicles entering or moving within the city without a valid M-Tag. The enforcement drive will focus on ensuring compliance with the policy, which has been introduced to manage vehicle movement and improve monitoring at entry and exit points. To support enforcement, the administration has installed M-Tag readers at 12 entry points and checkpoints across Islamabad. These readers will identify vehicles without M-Tags as they enter the city.

CM MARYAM PAYS TRIBUTE TO ARFA KARIM, VOWS IT CITY TO EMPOWER PUNJAB’S DAUGHTERS

LAHORE

staff report

UNJAB Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on Wednesday paid rich tribute to Arfa Karim, Pakistan’s youngest Microsoft Certified Professional, on her 14th death anniversary, saying the launch of the Nawaz Sharif IT City will empower every daughter of Punjab to follow in her footsteps. In a special message, CM Maryam Nawaz said Arfa Karim, who achieved the distinction of becoming the world’s youngest Microsoft Certified Professional at the age of nine, remains a shining example for the nation’s youth—especially girls aspiring to excel in information technology. “Arfa Karim brought immense pride to Pakistan at such a young age and will always be remembered as one of our country’s most talented and promising daughters,” the chief minister said. She added, “Arfa Karim was a source

of national pride and a symbol of what Pakistani children can achieve when provided with opportunities. Her achievements continue to inspire future generations.” Highlighting the Nawaz Sharif IT City initiative, the Punjab chief minister said the project was launched to provide modern IT opportunities to the sons and

daughters of Punjab, equipping them to compete on a global scale. She noted that leading international institutions are setting up campuses within the IT City, which will serve as a hub for innovation, skills development, and advanced technology education. Recalling Arfa Karim’s journey, CM Maryam Nawaz said the young prodigy

PTI staging weekly ‘spectacles’ outside jails, using women as shields: Azma Bukhari LAHORE

be held responsible for that. She further stated that those who once considered themselves the most popular have now lost their relevance among the masses. She remarked that lectures on the Constitution and rule of law are being delivered by people who themselves were advocates of authoritarian conduct in the past. Provincial Minister Azma Bukhari added that playing political cards in the name of constitutional supremacy and alleged human rights violations should be stopped. Anyone who takes the law into their own hands will be held accountable before the law, regardless of who they are.

PESHAWAR

staff report

Punjab govt to provide monthly stipends to parents of underage children LAHORE

staff report

The Punjab government has announced a major step to tackle child labour by deciding to provide monthly stipends to parents of underage children, aiming to pull them out of work and put them back into classrooms. According to official details, parents of children below 18 years of age will receive conditional cash support if they stop their children from working. Once financial assistance is provided, the children will be enrolled in education and skill development programmes so they can learn and grow instead of earning at an early age. To make the plan work on the ground, the Punjab government will set up special task committees and prepare a comprehensive strategy to eliminate child labour. Recommendations have also been sought to amend the existing child labour laws to make them more effective and up to date. The committees have been assigned more than 20 tasks, including digital mapping and geo-tagging of working children. A dedicated helpline and rehabilitation centres will also be established to support affected children and their families. Under a socio-economic survey, eligible parents will receive a monthly stipend, which officials say will help families make ends meet without relying on child labour. The government believes this initiative could be a game changer in breaking the cycle of poverty and exploitation.

Customs Enforcement Peshawar seizes smuggled foreign goods worth Rs101.91m staff report

KPCSW finalizes draft of Women Empowerment Policy 2026–2030 to be submitted to KP cabinet The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Commission on the Status of Women (KPCSW), under the leadership of Chairperson Dr. Sumera Shams, has finalized the draft of the Women Empowerment Policy 2026–2030. The policy will be submitted to the provincial cabinet for approval through a summary and is scheduled to be formally launched on February 12, on the occasion of National Women’s Day. In this regard, a meeting of the Technical Committee formed under KPCSW for the Women Empowerment Policy (2026–30) was held on Wednesday at the Commission’s office in Peshawar. The meeting was chaired by Dr. Sumera Shams. The meeting was attended by Technical Committee members including Ayesha Bano, Member Local Government Committee; Ikramullah Khan, Board Member KPCSW; Shazia Atta, Secretary Women Commission; Syeda Nudrat from the Social Welfare Department; Zainab Khan, Head of UN Women KP; along with other relevant stakeholders and representatives. During the meeting, a detailed presentation on the draft Women Empowerment Policy (2026–30) was delivered, followed by extensive discussion. Members shared their views and recommendations on various aspects of the policy, including its objectives, implementation mechanisms, and institutional roles, aimed at strengthening women’s social, economic, and polit-

began with Microsoft certification and reached remarkable heights through talent and dedication. “Through the Nawaz Sharif IT City, we aim to take the dreams of our youth to similar heights,” she said. She expressed the resolve that the IT City initiative will play a pivotal role in nurturing skilled professionals, promoting digital empowerment, and ensuring that every daughter of Punjab has the opportunity to become another Arfa Karim. CM TAKES NOTICE OF RISING DOG-BITE INCIDENTS IN RAWALPINDI Meanwhile, the Punjab chief minister took notice of the increasing incidents of dog bites in Rawalpindi following a report aired on a private television channel. CM Maryam Nawaz sought a detailed report from the Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi and directed that strict action be taken against anyone found negligent. She emphasised that any lapse in duty affecting public safety will not be tolerated. The chief minister also instructed authorities to ensure the availability of antirabies vaccines in all government hospitals of Rawalpindi to provide timely treatment to affected citizens.

PESHAWAR

staff report

Punjab Minister for Information and Culture Azma Bukhari, while responding to recent statements by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), said that this is neither Adiala Jail, Zaman Park nor the shrine in Pakpattan where a spectacle can be staged every week along with family members and a handful of hired individuals. She said that the reality is that no responsible office-bearer of PTI ever turns up outside Adiala Jail. Instead, women are deliberately used as human shields, which is a highly condemnable and unfortunate practice. Azma Bukhari made it clear that the Punjab Police always demonstrate patience, tolerance and restraint. However, when the law is violated, the police are left with no option but to act in accordance with the law. She questioned whether the police should remain silent spectators if they are abused or physically assaulted. The Punjab Information Minister said that the practice of blaming Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif for every wrongdoing must come to an end. If people do not come out on the streets for the sake of a particular leader, why should Maryam Nawaz

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ical participation across the province. The committee was informed that the proposed policy is fully aligned with the Constitution of Pakistan as well as other policies currently enforced at the provincial level. It was emphasized that the implementation of the policy would significantly reduce genderbased discrimination against women of all age groups, facilitate access to justice, and enhance coordination among relevant institutions. Discussions were also held on safeguarding women’s inheritance rights in line with existing laws. Furthermore, proposals were presented to ensure women’s representation within the provincial cabinet setup, local government bodies, annual budgeting processes, consultative forums, standing committees, and planning mechanisms. The meeting highlighted that the policy aims to improve women’s access to public services, protect women’s rights, and promote economic empowerment. The short-term, mid-term, and long-term outcomes of the policy are expected to play a pivotal role in improving the overall welfare and empowerment of women in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Gas supplies normalised after restoration of 30mmcfd: SSGC KARACHI

staff report

Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) on Wednesday said gas supplies had returned to normal across its franchise areas following the restoration of around 25-30 million cubic feet per day (mmcfd) of gas from various fields, resulting in improved pressures, particularly during peak hours. In a statement, the utility said gas pressures had significantly improved from 5:00am to 10:00pm across Karachi after stabilisation of the system’s line pack, which had come under severe stress due to a sudden cold wave in Karachi and extreme winter conditions in Balochistan earlier this month. SSGC said it was able to maintain gas supplies smoothly until December; however, an abrupt surge in demand during the second week of January, coupled with harsh weather conditions in Balochistan, compelled the company to divert additional gas supplies to the province to ensure uninterrupted domestic usage. To protect human lives amid freezing temperatures, SSGC increased gas supplies to Balochistan from 80 mmcfd to 180 mmcfd. The diversion was managed by curtailing gas supplies to the fertiliser sector and implementing Sunday shutdowns for industrial units operating captive power plants. Additionally, 90 mmcfd of RLNG was arranged to maintain system stability.

Collectorate of Customs Enforcement, Peshawar, during intelligence-based operations conducted over the last one week has successfully foiled multiple attempts to smuggle foreign-origin cloth, cigarettes, and other contraband goods, along with the seizure of offending vehicles. The cumulative estimated value of the seized goods and vehicles stands at Rs. 101.91 million. The confiscated consignments included 14,000 sleeves of foreign-origin cigarettes valued at Rs. 45 million, 7,500 kilograms of foreign-origin cloth worth Rs. 35 million and other smuggled items valued at Rs. 21.91 million, comprising tyres, lithium-ion batteries, betel nuts, poppy seeds and dry yeast. In addition to enforcement actions, the Collectorate is playing a proactive role in identifying smuggling trends and sharing timely intelligence with other field formations, enabling coordinated efforts to prevent the movement of non-duty-paid and contraband goods within its jurisdiction. All seized goods and vehicles have been taken into custody under the relevant provisions of the Customs Act, 1969, and further legal proceedings are underway. The FBR remains committed to eliminating smuggling, protecting national revenue and ensuring strict enforcement of customs laws through intelligence-led operations and inter-agency coordination.

Cabinet reviews new currency note designs, forms committee for further deliberation ISLAMABAD

staff report

The federal cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, on Wednesday reviewed proposals for redesigning Pakistan’s currency notes and constituted a cabinet committee to examine the matter in detail. According to a Prime Minister’s Office press release, the cabinet was briefed by the Ministry of Finance on the new designs of banknotes to be issued by the State Bank of Pakistan The meeting was informed that the currency notes are being redesigned in line with modern requirements and that international experts have been engaged for the purpose. The cabinet decided to refer the proposed designs to a cabinet committee for further consultation and deliberation. The cabinet also considered a draft of the Private Hajj Policy 2027-2030, presented by the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, which relates to third-party registration and scrutiny of private Hajj operator companies. In light of feedback from cabinet members, the prime minister directed that the draft policy be referred back to the Hajj Policy Committee for further review. Separately, the cabinet ratified decisions taken by the Cabinet Committee on Energy in its meeting held on December 24, 2025. It also approved decisions made by the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the cabinet during its meeting on December 23, 2025.

Lahore police crack down on gambling, arrest 86 in 13 days LAHORE

staff report

As part of an intensified campaign against gambling, the Lahore police have arrested 86 people involved in operating gambling dens and online betting platforms during the past 13 days. A police spokesperson said on Wednesday that 29 FIRs were registered against the suspects at different police stations across the city, adding that more than Rs500,000 in cash was seized during the raids. Capital City Police Officer Lahore Bilal Siddique Kamyana ordered the continuation of across-the-board action against gambling outlets and online gambling until their complete eradication. He said individuals involved in online betting would be traced through technical means and proceeded against under the law. Warning that no leniency would be shown to those luring the youth into gambling, the CCPO said the Lahore police would maintain a robust crackdown to protect life and property and to eliminate social vices from society.

Bilawal warns against tHreats to sindH’s rigHts, resoUrCes transfer to islamaBad

Thursday, 15 January, 2026

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PPP CHAIRMAN ALLEGES ‘SOME POWERS’ UNLEASHED A CONSPIRACY FOR A PARTICULAR OBJECTIVE TO DIVERT SINDH’S RESOURCES TO ISLAMABAD KARACHI

stAFF rePort

PP Chairperson Bilawal BhuttoZardari on Wednesday alleged that “some powers” were attempting to deprive Sindh of its rights and transfer its resources to Islamabad under the pretext that the provincial government had performed poorly. He made the remarks while inaugurating the first phase of the Tharparkar Institute of Engineering, Science and Technology in Tharparkar. “Efforts are being made, a campaign is being run, to assassinate the character of not just Tharparkar but your entire province as part of a conspiracy for a particular objec-

eight bodies retrieved from debris in Kohat landslide

tive,” Bilawal said. “Some forces want to rob your province of its rights and resources and have them transferred back to Islamabad on the pretext that the Sindh government has not done anything.” He said the development of Tharparkar itself was the best answer to this “false narrative.” “You can see how Tharparkar was before 2008, before the 18th Amendment, and how it is in 2026. Yes, there are problems, but the Tharparkar of 2026 is before you all [to see].” Bilawal further highlighted that the people of Thar had “always supported the PPP in every election,” describing this loyalty as a reflection of their love for the party and for late prime ministers Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto. He added that the PPP had

KOHAT

stAFF CorresPondent

The rescuers retrieved eight dead bodies from debris after a landsliding incident in Qamar village in tehsil Gambat of Kohat. Rescue officials said that the dead bodies of all eight persons have been retrieved from the boulders. It was earlier reoprted that the bodies of four persons were removed from the debris. Rescue 1122 teams were rushed to the area after getting information about the landslide incident in Gambat. The rescue teams retrieved four dead bodies trapped beneath the boulders from the spot after hectic efforts. The rescue workers were engaged in search of the remaining two persons said to be trapped under the rubble, officials said. Rescue 1122 teams rushed to the area after getting information about the landslide incident in Gambat. The rescue teams retrieved four dead bodies trapped beneath the boulders from the spot after hectic efforts. The rescue workers were engaged in search of remaining persons said to be trapped under the rubbles, officials said. Widespread monsoon rains wreaked havoc in the country last year causing landslides in various parts of the country especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa leaving several people dead after cloudbursts in mountainous regions resulting in several deaths. Eight local volunteers were killed in a massive landslide while repairing a flood-damaged nullah in Gilgit, last year in August. Several others sustained injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals, where emergency services have been placed on high alert. According to eyewitness accounts, the landslide struck suddenly as the volunteers were working to restore the damaged water channel. Tonnes of earth and rocks buried multiple individuals, with police confirming that four people were pulled out alive but in critical condition.

JCp approves confirmation of six pHC additional judges ISLAMABAD

stAFF CorresPondent

The Judicial Commission of Pakistan has approved the confirmation of six additional judges of the Peshawar High Court as permanent judges, while extending the tenure of four additional judges by six months. Members of Parliament from Pakistan Tehreeke-Insaf (PTI) and a provincial minister from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government did not attend the commission’s meeting. According to a statement issued after the session, the meeting was chaired by Chief Justice of Pakistan, Justice Yahya Afridi. After a comprehensive review of the relevant data forms, past records (antecedents), and submitted material, the commission, by majority vote, approved the appointment of Additional Judges Justice Muhammad Tariq Afridi, Justice Abdul Fayaz, Justice Salahuddin, Justice Sadiq Ali, Justice Syed Mudassir Ameer, and Justice Qazi Jawad Ehsanullah as permanent judges. The commission also approved a six-month extension for four additional judges: Justice Farah Jamshed, Justice Inamullah Khan, Justice Sabitullah Khan, and Justice Aurangzeb.

always sought to reciprocate this support by striving for the province’s development. “Tharparkar’s progress is essential for Pakistan’s progress, just as the advancement of all four provinces is vital for the nation,” he said. Turning to the region’s resources, Bilawal stressed that coal was a major asset for Tharparkar, noting, “Tharparkar has as much coal as Saudi Arabia has oil.” However, he said the federal government historically lacked the power to utilise these resources. “Whenever Benazir Bhutto tried to do so, her efforts were sabotaged as part of a conspiracy,” he added. He recalled that while economic development had been long delayed—since 1993—it had finally accelerated after 2008.

sion taken around six months ago, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that when international oil and petroleum prices were declining, the government opted to retain domestic fuel prices. He said the savings generated through that decision were now being utilised to transform the hazardous highway into a road of prosperity and economic connectivity. The prime minister also highlighted the completion of a Rs75 billion agricultural package for farmers, of which Rs50 billion was provided by the federal government. He said the initiative had effectively addressed the long-standing issue of electricity theft in the province. “Through the installation of solar panels, farmers are now able to irrigate their lands independently, ensuring sustainable agricultural activity,” he added. PM Shehbaz further announced major progress in the establishment of Daanish schools in the province, saying that construction work had not only been initiated but contractors had also

ISLAMABAD

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday announced that work on the long-awaited Karachi– Chaman highway—often dubbed a “bloody road” due to frequent fatal accidents—has formally commenced and will now be completed within one year instead of the originally planned two years. Addressing members of the federal cabinet ahead of their meeting, the prime minister said he had recently visited Quetta, where the foundation stone of the nearly 850-kilometre highway project was laid. He said the Ministry of Communications had initially proposed a twoyear completion timeframe; however, he directed that the project be completed within a year. “The total cost of the project is approximately Rs400 billion, which will be fully financed by the federal government,” he said. Recalling a key economic deci-

been mobilised during the current month. “Five Daanish schools were already planned, while two additional schools were announced during my visit, bringing the total to seven,” he said, expressing confidence that all seven institutions would be completed by the end of this year. The prime minister said that under the Prime Minister’s education programmes, up to 100,000 laptops were being distributed across the country. In addition, thousands of deserving male and female students were being awarded scholarships to pursue higher education, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to Pakistan’s future development. He said the government was making concerted efforts to advance these initiatives and expressed satisfaction over improving economic stability. “Now, God willing, we will take further steps for development that will spur economic growth and place Pakistan firmly on the path of progress and prosperity,” he added.

‘Judge Threat Case’: Court adjourns hearing against PTI founder over pending IHC reply ISLAMABAD

stAFF rePort

A District and Sessions Court of Islamabad on Wednesday took up a case related to an alleged threat made to a woman judge, registered against the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), but deferred further proceedings due to the non-receipt of a response from the Islamabad High Court (IHC). The hearing was held at the District and Sessions Courts, Islamabad, and presided over by Civil Judge Mian Azhar Nadeem. During the proceedings, the court observed that a reply to a letter addressed to the Islamabad High Court— seeking clarification on certain legal points raised in the case—had not yet been received. In view of the pending response, the court decided not to proceed with the matter at this stage. Following brief proceedings, the court adjourned the hearing until Febru-

ary 10, directing that the case be taken up again on the next date once the required response from the IHC is available. The case originates from a First Information Report (FIR) registered at Margalla Police Station, pertaining to allegations of issuing threats to a woman judge during judicial proceedings. SHAH MAHMOOD QURESHI’S BAIL PLEAS IN MAY 9 CASES ADJOURNED: In a related development, the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC)

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“Just one project led to an economic revolution in Tharparkar,” Bilawal said. “The economic benefits of the electricity produced here are seen even in Faisalabad.” He added that the “very first megawatt of electricity produced in Tharparkar was transferred to the national grid for use by industrial centres. This is how strong federal governments operate.” Bilawal also emphasised the social impact of economic development. “This area didn’t have basic health units, dispensaries, or hospitals, but now, with government investment, we have laid a health network in Tharparkar. During my visit, I saw the Thar Foundation, which receives a share from coal profits to continue social work and run a hospital,” he said. On the Tharparkar Institute of Engineering, Science and Technology, he recalled that the project was initiated by the Nadirshah Edulji Dinshaw University of Engineering & Technology in 2019. “The chief minister has

Work begins on 850km Karachi-Chaman highway as completion timeline halved: PM stAFF rePort

FAJR SUNRISE 6:30

Lahore on Wednesday adjourned the hearing on post-arrest bail applications filed by former foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in two cases linked to the May 9 arson and vandalism incidents. ATC Judge Manzer Ali Gill presided over the hearing. Shah Mahmood Qureshi was represented by Advocate Rana Mudassar Umar, while the prosecution sought additional time to submit the complete record of the cases. Counsel for the accused contended that the prosecution was deliberately delaying the bail proceedings by repeatedly seeking adjournments. However, accepting the prosecution’s request, the court adjourned the hearing on the bail applications until January 19. Shah Mahmood Qureshi has filed bail petitions in cases registered over the burning of police vehicles near Mughalpura and the Jinnah House. He has already been acquitted in five other cases related to the May 9 incidents.

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promised that by the end of the current provincial government’s term, this campus will be operating as a university,” Bilawal said. “We will continue working in Sindh, thinking about the interests of its people and executing projects accordingly.” He claimed that the number of universities in Sindh had doubled since 2008 and expressed pride in the province’s progress in health and education. “We aim to compete with other provinces because Sindh has excelled in these sectors,” he concluded.

internet slowdown expected across pakistan today ISLAMABAD

stAFF rePort

Internet users across Pakistan may experience slow or disrupted connectivity on January 15 due to scheduled maintenance on one of the country’s submarine cables. Internet service provider Nayatel informed its customers via email that an unavoidable maintenance activity is planned for January 15, 2026, starting around 2pm and potentially lasting up to eight hours. The company warned that the work could lead to internet slowness nationwide and apologised for the inconvenience. Nayatel did not disclose the exact location of the submarine cable involved or whether the maintenance was linked to a specific fault. If disruptions occur, this would mark the second major internet-related issue in Pakistan within two weeks. On January 1, 2026, users across the country faced widespread outages after a fault developed in one of Pakistan’s upstream internet providers, leaving services degraded for more than 48 hours. The latest advisory has raised concerns among users and businesses that rely heavily on stable internet connectivity, particularly during working hours.

sHC rules ssgC capital tariff ‘unconstitutional’ KARACHI

stAFF CorresPondent

The Sindh High Court (SHC) has declared the capital tariff imposed on industries by Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) unconstitutional. According to details received on Wednesday, the SHC approved petitions filed against the tariff and ruled that its application violated the constitution. The petitions contended that Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) had imposed the capital tariff on industries in February 2025, resulting in a significant increase in production costs and causing severe financial difficulties for industrial units. During the hearing, the SHC directed that the amounts collected from industries under the capital tariff so far should be adjusted in future gas bills. The court held that the implementation of the capital tariff on industries is contrary to the Constitution and law. The petitioners representing the industries argued that the imposition of the capital tariff was adversely affecting industrial activity. They warned that rising production costs could negatively impact exports and employment.

Three Indian-backed militants killed in CTD operation in DI Khan DERA ISMAIL KHAN stAFF rePort

Three Indian-sponsored militants were killed in an intelligence-based operation carried out by the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Dera Ismail Khan district, officials said on Wednesday. According to the CTD, the operation was conducted in a targeted area of DI Khan following credible intelligence

about the presence of militants involved in attacks on security forces. During the encounter, three most-wanted militants identified as Naimatullah, Abdul Rauf Afghani and Mustafa were killed. CTD officials said the slain militants were actively involved in terrorist activities targeting law enforcement and security personnel in the region. A cache of weapons, including hand grenades and firearms, was recovered from their posses-

sion during the operation. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi lauded the CTD for the successful operation, praising the professionalism and bravery of the officers involved. In a statement, he said the elimination of the militants had thwarted their planned acts of violence and dealt a serious blow to militant networks operating in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The interior minister said intelligencebased operations would continue across

the province until militant elements were completely eliminated. He added that the role of CTD in restoring and maintaining peace in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was commendable and would continue to be fully supported by the federal government. Security officials said further investigations were underway to determine the network and facilitators linked to the slain militants, while operations against remaining militant elements in the area would continue.

Tehran threatens to attack US bases as Trump signals possible intervention TEHRAN

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Tehran has warned US allies in the Middle East it will strike US bases on their soil if Washington attacks Iran, a senior Iranian official told Reuters on Wednesday, following President Donald Trump’s threats to intervene in support of protesters. The death toll from Iran’s unrest climbed to almost 2,600, a rights group said, as the clerical establishment seeks to quell nationwide protests posing one of the biggest challenges to their rule since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Demonstrators have defied the authorities’ zero-tolerance for dissent by turning out in protests all around the country, even as authorities insist they have regained the upper hand. According to an Israeli assessment, Trump has decided to intervene but the scope and timing of this action remains un-

clear, an Israeli official said. The Iranian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Tehran had asked US allies in the region to “prevent Washington from attacking Iran”. “Tehran has told regional countries, from Saudi Arabia and UAE to Turkey, that US bases in those countries will be attacked” if the US targets Iran, the official said. The official added that direct contacts between Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff had been suspended, reflecting mounting tensions. A second Israeli source, a government official, said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s security cabinet was briefed late on Tuesday about the chances of regime collapse or US intervention in Iran, an arch-foe with which Israel fought a 12day war last year. In an interview with CBS News on Tuesday, Trump vowed “very strong action”

if Iran executes protesters. “If they hang them, you’re going to see some things,” he said. He also urged Iranians on Tuesday to keep protesting and take over institutions, declaring “help is on the way” but without giving details. Following Iran’s warning, some personnel were advised to leave the US military’s Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar by Wednesday evening, three diplomats told Reuters. The US embassy in Doha had no immediate comment. Al Udeid is the Middle East’s largest US base, housing around 10,000 troops. Ahead of the US air strikes on Iran in June, some personnel were moved off US bases in the Middle East. The United States has forces across the region including in Bahrain, home to the headquarters of the US Navy’s Fifth Fleet, and Qatar, which hosts Al Udeid Air Base – the forward headquarters for US Central Command.

Qatar says some personnel departing Us-rUn al Udeid air Base DOHA AFP

Qatar said on Wednesday precautionary measures had been taken at the US-run Al Udeid Air Base, including the departure of some personnel, because of rising regional tensions, according to its International Media Office. The office said the steps were part of broader efforts to safeguard the security of citizens and residents and to protect critical infrastructure and military facilities, adding that any further developments would be announced through official channels. The development came as the US-based Wall Street Journal and CBS reported that the American military was evacuating some personnel from the air base as a precaution. Earlier, a senior Iranian official told Reuters that Tehran had warned its neighbouring countries hosting US troops that it would retaliate against American bases if Washington carried out threats to intervene in protests in Iran. The protest movement across Iran, initially sparked by economic grievances, has turned into one of the biggest challenges yet to the leadership since it took power in the 1979 revolution. Trump has warned Iran of intervention over crackdown on protesters.

Published by Asad Nizami at Plot # 7, Al-Baber Centre, F/8 Markaz, Islamabad, for PT Print (Pvt) Limited. Ph: 051-2204545. Email: newsroom@pakistantoday.com.pk