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Saturday, 8 August, 2026 | 24 Safar, 1448
Rs 20.00 | Vol XVII No 134 | 8 Pages | Karachi Edition
PAKISTAN, TÜRKIYE, KSA DEEPEN STRATEGIC TIES WITH LANDMARK ‘MAKKAH JOINT DEFENCE AGREEMENT’ g
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PAKISTAN, SAUDI ARABIA, TÜRKIYE FORGE LANDMARK MAKKAH DEFENCE PACT, VOW ‘ATTACK ON ONE IS ATTACK ON ALL’
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PM SHEHBAZ, SAUDI CROWN PRINCE, ERDOGAN SIGN PACT AT MAKKAH SUMMIT, REAFFIRM COMMITMENT TO REGIONAL PEACE AND STABILITY
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TRILATERAL AGREEMENT SEEKS TO STRENGTHEN COLLECTIVE DETERRENCE, DEFENCE COOPERATION AND SECURITY AMID ESCALATING US-IRAN TENSIONS
PACT BUILDS ON PAKISTAN-SAUDI STRATEGIC DEFENCE AGREEMENT, DEEPENS LONGSTANDING MILITARY TIES AMONG THREE KEY BROTHERLY COUNTRIES
Makkah defence pact hailed as milestone for Muslim unity, regional security ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
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ISLAMABAD/MAKKAH SALEEM JADOON
AKISTAN, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye on Friday signed the landmark “Makkah Joint Defence Agreement”, committing the three countries to treat an armed attack against any one of them as an attack against all three, in a major new security arrangement forged amid simmering regional tensions between the United States (US) and Iran. The agreement, aimed at strengthening the collective security and deterrence
capabilities of the three states, was signed at the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Summit for Joint Defence held at Al-Safa Palace in Makkah, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in attendance. The three countries announced the signing in a joint statement issued by Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) and Saudi Arabia’s official SPA press agency, describing the pact as a reflection of their “shared commitment to further strengthening their collective security and to pro-
Govt cuts petrol by Rs2.20/litre, diesel by Rs1.50 PROFIT
AHMAD AHMADANI
The signing of the historic “Makkah Joint Defence Agreement” between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye has drawn widespread appreciation from different segments of society, with religious scholars and business leaders welcoming the trilateral pact as a milestone for Muslim unity, collective security and regional peace. They expressed the hope that the agreement between the three countries, already bound by faith, friendship and a shared commitment to peace and security, would help strengthen regional security while opening new avenues for cooperation and prosperity. Renowned religious scholar Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani welcomed the joint defence agreement between Pakistan,
moting peace, security, and stability in the region and beyond, in pursuit of a secure and prosperous future”. “The agreement is intended to strengthen collective deterrence against
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any act of aggression, and stipulates that any armed attack against any one of the three states shall be regarded as an attack against them all,” the statement said.
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Bilawal accuses PML-N factions of undermining PM, renews AJK poll rigging allegations ISLAMABAD
STAFF CORRESPONDENT
The government has reduced the price of petrol by Rs2.20 per litre and High-Speed Diesel (HSD) by Rs1.50 per litre. Under the revised prices, the ex-depot price of petrol has been lowered to Rs327.62 per litre from Rs329.82 per litre, while the ex-depot price of High-Speed Diesel has been reduced to Rs380.86 per litre from Rs382.36 per litre. According to the pricing sheets issued by OGRA, the revised prices are applicable from August 8, 2026. The pricing details show that the import-based ex-refinery price of petrol stands at Rs218.63 per litre, while the ex-refinery/import price of HSD has been fixed at Rs280.44 per litre. The government has maintained the Petroleum Levy (PL) at Rs80 per litre on petrol and Rs74.28 per litre on High-Speed Diesel. In addition, a Climate Support Levy (CSL) of Rs5 per litre continues to be imposed on both products, while sales tax remains zero. The pricing mechanism indicates that the reduction follows changes in international Platts Arab Gulf benchmark prices and other import cost components, including freight, exchange rate adjustments, customs duty and inland freight equalisation margin (IFEM), which are reflected in the fortnightly review. High-Speed Diesel is widely used in the transport, agriculture and industrial sectors, making its price a key factor influencing freight charges and inflation, while petrol is the primary fuel for motorcycles, cars and other private vehicles across the country. The latest reduction is expected to provide limited relief to consumers and businesses dependent on petroleum products.
Saudi Arabia and Türkiye in Makkah, describing it as a “source of happiness and satisfaction for the entire Muslim world”. In his statement, Mufti Taqi Usmani said the historic agreement among the three Islamic brotherly countries was an important development towards promoting mutual defence, cooperation and solidarity. He specifically described the signing of the agreement as a matter of happiness and satisfaction. In a video message, Prime Minister’s Coordinator on the National Paigham-eAman Committee and Chairman of the Pakistan Ulema Council Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi also welcomed the defence agreement among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, calling it a significant step towards greater unity and collective security in the Muslim world.
Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Friday alleged that influential elements within the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) were undermining Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif while renewing accusations of widespread rigging in the ongoing Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) elections. Addressing an election rally in AJK's Poonch district ahead of the third phase of the polls, Bilawal said he did not question the prime minister's intentions but claimed that individuals within the PML-N were weakening his government from within. "Many high-profile people are saying the government has collapsed. I am not saying that, nor do I doubt the prime minister's intentions. He is a good man with good intentions, but what can he do when those around him have bad intentions?" Bilawal said. Referring to his recent "countdown" remarks, the PPP chairman maintained that it was not his party that had started the countdown to the government's decline, but rather internal divisions within the ruling party itself. "The PML-N's real battle is not with the PPP. Elections come and go, but a large section of the PMLN is undermining the prime minis-
AJK revises third-phase poll plan, defers voting in Poonch and Sudhanoti MUZAFFARABAD NEWS DESK
The Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Election Commission on Friday changed the schedule for the third phase of Legislative Assembly elections, putting off polling in Poonch and Sudhanoti districts. Under the earlier plan, voting in the third phase was due on August 10 for 11 seats across four districts of the Poonch division. The AJK election commissioner has now said the third phase will instead cover Bagh and Haveli districts. The first two phases have already been completed, with
ter and wants him to fight not only the opposition but also his own allies," he alleged. Bilawal also questioned the decision to conduct the AJK elections in phases, arguing that the staggered schedule had facilitated electoral manipulation rather than ensuring peaceful and transparent polling. "If Kashmir is one, why were elections not held on a single day?" he asked, adding that the phased process had failed to produce elections that were "free, fair or peaceful".
polling held on July 27 in Mirpur Division and on August 2 in Muzaffarabad Division. The second phase was conducted in 21 constituencies, including nine seats in Muzaffarabad Division and 12 reserved for Kashmiri refugees settled in Pakistan. According to unofficial and unconfirmed results, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) won 15 of those 21 seats, while the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) secured six. In the first phase, unofficial and provisional results showed the PML-N winning nine constituencies and the PPP taking four.
Alleging that the ruling party had entered the contest with "10 seats already in its pocket", Bilawal claimed the PML-N had manipulated results in Mirpur and Muzaffarabad and was now attempting to do the same in Poonch. "They robbed Mirpur, they robbed Muzaffarabad, and now they are looking towards Poonch. On August 10, they will find out that the people of Poonch and Bagh know how to hunt tigers," he said.
Security forces kill 10 terrorists in South Waziristan, Dir operations RAWALPINDI
STAFF REPORT
Security forces killed 10 terrorists in two separate engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on August 6, successfully foiling an attack on security check posts in South Waziristan and eliminating two more militants in Dir district, the military's media wing said on Thursday. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the first encounter occurred in the Azam Warsak area of South Waziristan, where a group of terrorists attempted to attack security forces' check posts. The attack was effectively repulsed, and during the ensuing exchange of fire, security forces killed eight terrorists through what the ISPR described as precise and effective engagements. In a separate operation in Dir District, troops engaged another group of militants and killed two more terrorists. The ISPR said weapons and ammunition were recovered from the slain militants, who were allegedly involved in multiple terrorist activities in the area. Security forces have launched sanitisation operations in both areas to clear any remaining militants and ensure the security of the region. The military reiterated that counterterrorism operations under the Azm-e-Istehkam campaign, approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan, would continue with full resolve to eliminate terrorism across the country.
Monsoon death toll climbs to 151 as NDMA warns of fresh nationwide rain spell ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
The nationwide death toll from monsoon-related incidents since June 26 has risen to 151, the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) said in its latest situation report, while warning of a fresh spell of rain beginning August 8 that could trigger moderate to heavy downpours across several parts of the country. Heavy rains have battered various regions of the country since June 26, with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa recording the highest number of fatalities at 64, followed by Punjab (53), Sindh (15), Azad Jammu and Kashmir (10), Balochistan (8) and GilgitBaltistan (1). According to the NDMA, the majority of deaths resulted from drowning, house collapses, electrocution and flash floods. A total of 448 people have also been injured during the current monsoon season, including 150 children, 108 women and 190 men. In its latest report issued on Thursday, the NDMA warned that another wet spell is expected to affect the country from August 8. "Current meteorological conditions and analysis indicate that a fresh wet spell is likely to commence from August 8," the authority said. It added that, under the influence of the approaching weather system, moderate rainfall at scattered places is expected over Punjab, northeast Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The NDMA further said a westerly weather system is likely to enter the upper parts of the country from August 10, bringing moderate to heavy rainfall to the upper catchments of all major rivers, as well as Islamabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, GilgitBaltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and upper Punjab. Pakistan remains among the countries most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change despite contributing less than one percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. The catastrophic floods of 2022 submerged nearly a third of the country, claimed more than 1,700 lives, and caused billions of dollars in economic losses. Since the devastating 2022 floods, authorities have expanded glacial lake monitoring, weather forecasting and emergency coordination mechanisms to strengthen preparedness and reduce disaster risks. In recent years, Pakistan has witnessed increasingly erratic weather patterns, ranging from prolonged heatwaves and droughts to destructive floods. Scientists say climate change is intensifying both the frequency and severity of such extreme weather events, posing growing risks to vulnerable communities across the country.
Turkish, Chinese investors interested in buying stakes in DISCOs: PC ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
The Privatization Commission (PC) on Friday said that it had received Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from 12 local and international investors, including Turkish and Chinese companies, for acquiring a stake in the Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO), signalling strong investor interest in Pakistan’s planned power distribution sector reforms. The federal government had invited EOIs in May from investors seeking to acquire 51 percent to 100 percent stakes in three state-owned electricity distribution companies, including FESCO. The Privatization Commission said the latest response reflected growing investor interest in Pakistan’s electricity distribution sector as the government seeks to improve operational efficiency, reduce losses and strengthen recoveries under its broader power sector reform agenda.
Pakistan has been pushing to implement power sector reforms under an International Monetary Fund-backed economic stabilisation programme, aimed at reducing losses, improving recoveries and tackling the chronic circular debt that has strained public finances for years. According to the commission, EOIs were received from three Turkish companies — Aktor Elektrik Enerji Yatırımları San. ve Tic. A.Ş., Genvera Enerji A.Ş. and Cengiz Enerji Sanayii ve Ticaret A.Ş. — and one Chinese company, Jiang Xi Electric Power Construction. Local investors expressing interest included Shirazi Investments (Pvt) Limited, Engro Energy Limited, Nishat Mills Limited, Pak Elektron Ltd. and K-Electric Limited, among others. “The strong response to FESCO reflects investor confidence in the potential of Pakistan’s electricity distribution sector and in the Government’s commitment to a transparent, competitive and professionally managed process,” said Muhammad Ali, Adviser to
the Prime Minister on Privatisation and Chairman of the Privatization Commission. Ali said the commission looked forward to engaging constructively with the prequalified investors through the due-diligence process and discussing the features of the post-privatisation regime. “The privatization is intended to improve operational efficiency, modernize distribution infrastructure, strengthen customer service, reduce losses and support a more financially sustainable power sector,” the commission said. The Privatization Commission said the EOIs and Statements of Qualification (SOQs) submitted by interested parties would now undergo a comprehensive evaluation against the approved prequalification criteria. Applicants meeting the prescribed requirements would be prequalified and invited to the next stage of the transaction, where they would be granted access to the Virtual Data Room (VDR) to undertake detailed buy-side due diligence.
FESCO is among the three power distribution companies that Pakistan has approved for privatization. The other two are the Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO) and Islam-
abad Electric Supply Company (IESCO). The deadlines for submission of EOIs for GEPCO and IESCO are August 21, 2026, and September 7, 2026, respectively.
02 NEWS
SAPPHIRE FIBRES JOINS RACE FOR FESCO PRIVATISATION, MAY FORM CONSORTIUM
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BOARD APPROVES PARTICIPATION AS COMPANY WEIGHS JOINING FORCES ONCE PRIVATISATION COMMISSION GRANTS APPROVAL ISLAMABAD
AhmAD AhmADANi
HE Privatisation Commission has received Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from 12 domestic and international investors seeking to acquire a 51percent to 100pc stake, along with management control, in Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO). The Commission announced on Thursday that the response represents one of the strongest investor turnouts for the privatisation of an electricity distribution company (DISCO), reflecting growing confidence in the government's power sector reform agenda and the commercial potential of the country's electricity distribution business. The interested parties comprise three companies from Türkiye, one from China and eight leading Pakistani business groups. The foreign investors include Aktor Elektrik Enerji Yatırımları San. ve Tic. A.Ş., Genvera Enerji A.Ş. (Celik
Group) and Cengiz Enerji Sanayii ve Ticaret A.Ş. from Türkiye, along with Jiang Xi Electric Power Construction from China. The Pakistani bidders include Engro Energy Limited, Sapphire Fibers Limited, Hub Power Holdings and Lucky Cement, Shirazi Investments (Atlas Group), Maple Leaf Cement and Kohinoor Textile, Nishat Mills Limited and Pak Elektron Limited, Artistic Milliners (Private) Limited and K-Electric Limited. According to the Privatisation Commission, the strong response follows extensive domestic and international roadshows held over the past six months to engage potential strategic investors. The Commission said the participation of prominent local conglomerates alongside foreign companies demonstrates increasing investor confidence in Pakistan's economic reforms and the government's commitment to a transparent and competitive privatisation process. Adviser to the Prime Minister on Pri-
Pakistan's auto policy nears final approval, but tariff cuts remain biggest sticking point: report
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PROFIT
PTA chief says PTCL-Ufone separation underway, new telecom firm to emerge PROFIT
moNitoriNg report
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Major General (retd) Hafeez Ur Rehman told the Senate Standing Committee on Cabinet Secretariat on Thursday that PTCL and Ufone are being separated as part of an ongoing restructuring process, and that a new telecommunications company will be established. PTA chairman briefed the committee on compliance with recommendations from its previous meeting, held under Senator Rana Mahmood-ul-Hassan at the Establishment Division. Rehman also said active SIMs in the country have reached 210 million, reflecting continued growth in mobile connectivity. Responding to the committee chairman's question on why Ufone's services had recently collapsed, Rehman said the issues would be resolved once the Ufone-Telenor merger is completed in the coming days. He also said the PTA is in discussions with Nadra to enable SIM issuance through the Pak ID platform. Separately, the PTA, working with Cellular Mobile Operators (CMOs), has revised its eSIM charging structure, capping the initial issuance fee at Rs1,500 and allowing subscribers up to 10 free transfers between compatible handsets. The new framework takes effect by mid-August 2026.
comprehensive evaluation against the approved prequalification criteria. Successful applicants will be prequalified and granted access to the Virtual Data Room (VDR) to undertake detailed buy-side due diligence before the next phase of the transaction. FESCO is one of the three electricity distribution companies included in Batch-I of the federal government's DISCO privatisation programme, alongside Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO) and Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO). The deadlines for submission of EOIs for GEPCO and IESCO are August 21 and September 7, 2026, respectively. The Privatisation Commission reaffirmed its commitment to conducting an open, transparent and competitive privatisation process in the public interest as part of the federal government's broader strategy to reform the power sector and improve the performance and financial sustainability of electricity distribution companies.
Over half of Faisalabad's industrial units classified ‘very high’ environmental risk ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY SURVEY FINDS 568 UNITS WITHIN 0.5KM OF HOMES, 734 OPERATING WITHOUT REQUIRED NOC PROFIT
moNitoriNg report
Pakistan's long-delayed five-year auto policy is in its final stages of approval, the government says, but manufacturers warn that proposed cuts to import tariffs remain the biggest unresolved issue, arguing they could undermine domestic production unless broader structural reforms are introduced first, Arab News reported. The Auto Industry Development Policy (AIDEP) 2026-31 will replace Pakistan's previous auto policy, which expired on June 30. The new framework is expected to guide the automotive sector over the next five years, alongside the government's broader National Tariff Policy, as Islamabad seeks to encourage manufacturing, promote electric vehicles, improve consumer affordability and gradually liberalise trade. The government has not released the draft policy or disclosed its final provisions and officials say consultations with industry are continuing, while manufacturers say key disagreements remain unresolved. The draft has passed through one of two cabinet-level committees reviewing the policy. One committee, headed by Power Minister Awais Leghari, is working to build consensus among stakeholders, while a second, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, is tasked with resolving outstanding disagreements. Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan said the policy would be "a forwardlooking policy to make Pakistan a competitive manufacturing hub for Autos and Auto parts manufacturers," but declined to share a draft. The main disagreement centres on tariffs. The government wants to gradually reduce import duties as part of its wider tariff reform programme, which aims to lower trade barriers across thousands of products over the coming years. Auto parts manufacturers say reducing tariffs before addressing Pakistan's high production costs would leave local companies unable to compete with cheaper imports. Shehryar Qadir, senior vice chairman of the Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts and Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM), called tariffs the "main point of contention."
vatisation and Chairman of the Privatisation Commission Muhammad Ali termed the response an important milestone in the privatisation of DISCOs, saying the overwhelming investor interest reflects confidence in the future of Pakistan's electricity distribution sector and the government's resolve to execute the transaction through a transparent, competitive and professionally managed process. He said the Commission would now engage with the prequalified investors during the due diligence stage while discussing the contours of the post-privatisation regime. He added that private sector participation is expected to improve operational efficiency, modernise distribution infrastructure, strengthen customer services, reduce system losses and support a financially sustainable power sector, ultimately helping create conditions for more reliable and affordable electricity. The Commission said the Expressions of Interest and Statements of Qualification (SOQs) will now undergo a
moNitoriNg report
Faisalabad's district administration has ordered inspections of 441 industrial units operating within residential neighbourhoods, after a new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) survey found that more than half the city's urban industrial units carry a "very high" environmental risk rating. Commissioner Faisalabad Dr Imran Hamid Sheikh called an emergency meeting of the Industry Relocation Committee following the survey's findings, deciding to move against units in residential areas considered a threat to public safety. The survey, conducted to support a broader plan to shift hazardous indus-
tries outside the city, pinned the risk mainly on boiler emissions, untreated effluent discharge and the sheer closeness of factories to homes. Survey shows 568 units sitting within half a kilometre of residential areas, with 441 of those directly inside or bordering populated neighbourhoods. Separately, 734 units across the city were found to be operating without a no-objection certificate from the EPA. The survey also mapped 782 industrial units spread across 105 union councils, together employing 43,612 workers. A further 70 units in urban Faisalabad were found to be running without environmental clearances or chemical licences, in breach of land-use rules — a violation serious enough that the report recommended against regu-
larising them at all. To act on the findings, the commissioner set up joint inspection teams drawing officials from the Labour Department, the Municipal Corporation and the EPA. These teams will visit each of the 441 flagged units, checking environmental approvals, labour registration, building plan clearances, and the safety standards of boilers and pressure vessels. Notices will go out to the units first. Dr Sheikh said any unit lacking the required approvals would not be permitted to keep operating within city limits, and that protecting workers and nearby residents remained the administration's top priority. The committee also reviewed how the wider relocation of industries to designated industrial zones was progressing.
FBR notifies 31 steel manufacturers for Rs5/unit electricity-based sales tax g
ELIGIBLE FIRMS INCLUDE AMRELI STEELS, MUGHAL IRON & STEEL AND ITTEHAD STEEL, WHILE PALSP SAYS NEW FRAMEWORK WOULD ENCOURAGE DOCUMENTATION IN INDUSTRY PROFIT
News Desk
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has notified a revised list of 31 iron and steel manufacturers eligible to pay sales tax at a fixed rate of Rs5 per unit of electricity consumed, replacing an earlier notification issued on August 4 under the government's electricity-based taxation regime for the steel sector. The revised list has been issued through Sales Tax General Order (STGO) No. 16 of 2026, dated August 6, 2026, under the third proviso to subsection (2) of Section 6 of the Sales Tax Act, 1990, read with clause (g) of SRO 1245(I)/2026 dated July 31, 2026. The new order supersedes STGO No. 14 of 2026 issued on August 4. Under the notification, the fixed sales tax regime applies to registered melters, re-rollers and composite units whose imports of steel scrap under HS Codes 7204.3000, 7204.4100, 7204.4990 and 7204.4940, including
purchases from Export Facilitation Scheme (EFS) importers, accounted for more than 70% of their total purchases of eligible scrap during the preceding 12 months. The manufacturers must also have their operations integrated with the FBR's computerized system. The applicable sales tax will be collected through electricity bills issued by the respective electricity distribution companies (DISCOs). According to the FBR, eligibility has been determined on the basis of the criteria prescribed in SRO 1245(I)/2026, including the proportion of imported scrap used in production, electricity consumption and imports under the specified HS codes. The Board said the list may be revised from time to time either on its own or on the recommendations of the concerned Commissioner Inland Revenue (CIR). Field formations have also been authorised to independently examine whether any manufacturer qualifies for inclusion in or exclusion from the list.
The notification states that the revised order will apply to all electricity connections of the notified manufacturers with effect from July 1, 2026, while STGO No. 14 of 2026 stands rescinded. The FBR has also directed all DISCOs to implement the specified tax rate. Welcoming the development, the Pakistan Association of Large Steel Producers (PALSP) said the new steelsector tax framework would encourage documentation in the industry. PALSP Secretary General Syed Wajid Bukhari said that only 31 manufacturers, out of more than 200 steel producers operating in Pakistan, had met the prescribed documentation, scrap consumption and FBR integration requirements. He said these manufacturers would be charged sales tax at the reduced rate of Rs5 per unit of electricity, compared with Rs30 per unit for producers using locally sourced scrap and Rs35 per unit for electricity generated through captive or self-generation facilities.
Saturday, 8 August, 2026 | KARACHI
Riyadh Air launches Pakistan operations with daily Islamabad flights from August 14 PROFIT
News Desk
Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia's new national carrier, will enter the Pakistani market this month with daily flights between Islamabad and Riyadh starting on August 14, followed by the launch of three weekly flights between Lahore and Riyadh on August 18, 2026, the airline said in a statement. It said ticket sales have opened for both the Islamabad-Riyadh and Lahore-Riyadh routes. Under the initial schedule, Riyadh Air will operate seven flights a week between Islamabad and Riyadh, while the Lahore route will be served by three weekly flights. The airline said both routes will be operated using its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, featuring four cabin classes: Business Elite, Business, Premium Economy and Economy. The expansion in Pakistan comes as Riyadh Air continues to grow its international network. The airline launched its inaugural flights to Mumbai on August 4, began operations to Kuala Lumpur on July 31, and has also announced the addition of Bangkok to its destination network.
PTA caps eSIM cost at Rs1,500, allows 10 free transfers PROFIT
moNitoriNg report
The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), working with Cellular Mobile Operators (CMOs), has revised its eSIM charging structure, capping the initial issuance cost at Rs1,500 and allowing subscribers up to 10 free transfers between compatible handsets. The revised policy is set to take effect by midAugust 2026. The move follows directions from a parliamentary panel, which had instructed the regulator to finalize a revised eSIM transfer policy aimed at making the technology more consumer-friendly and reducing unnecessary visits to customer service centres. According to the PTA, under the existing mechanism, an eSIM could already be transferred between phones a set number of times using the original QR code issued at purchase and activation, without additional charges. Following consultations with CMOs, the regulator has now formally rationalized the charging structure, reducing the maximum initial eSIM issuance fee to Rs1,500 and introducing free transfers for up to 10 device migrations under the new framework. The parliamentary committee had also directed the PTA to develop a secure digital mechanism allowing subscribers to migrate eSIMs between compatible devices without visiting customer service centres, while maintaining robust security standards.
PSX exploring further acquisition of shares in NCCPL PROFIT
News Desk
Pakistan Stock Exchange Limited (PSX) has informed shareholders and market participants that it has initiated engagement with one or more existing shareholders of the National Clearing Company of Pakistan Limited (NCCPL) to explore the possibility of further acquiring shares in NCCPL. The engagement is being pursued in the context of amendments notified by the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) to the Clearing Houses (Licensing and Operations) Regulations, 2016, and the Central Depositories (Licensing and Operations) Regulations, 2016. These amendments provide for enhanced permissible foreign shareholding limits, as well as the criteria for computing such limits, in institutions like NCCPL. PSX said the communication is being made at a preliminary stage, and no agreement or transaction has been concluded as of the disclosure date. The exchange said a further announcement would be made in accordance with applicable disclosure requirements upon execution of any definitive agreement or upon any material development in this regard.
SIFC eyes tapping into billion-dollar global medical tourism market g
COUNCIL EXPLORES LEVERAGING PAKISTAN'S LOW-COST TREATMENT AND SKILLED HEALTHCARE WORKFORCE TO ATTRACT INTERNATIONAL PATIENTS PROFIT
moNitoriNg report
The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) is exploring ways to position Pakistan as a destination for medical tourism, tapping into a global industry valued at $144.5 billion in 2024 and projected to grow to $704.8 billion by 2033, The News reported. SIFC is in contact with industry experts assessing how the country could capture a share of this market, which is expanding at over 19% annually. Nearly 60% of global demand is concentrated in three specialties: cosmetic and aesthetic surgery (25-30%), dentistry (around 10%), and fertility and bariatric surgery (10-15%). Dr Salman, a plastic surgeon and hair transplant specialist based in Islamabad who briefed SIFC, said aesthetic proce-
dures are largely elective and repeatable, allowing clinics to build long-term relationships with international patients. He pointed to a rapid rise in male patients seeking hair transplantation and body contouring, with people aged 25 to 45 forming the dominant customer group. He cited Turkey's example, which receives over one million medical tourists annually, with around 60% travelling specifically for hair transplants, followed by rhinoplasty, face-lifts and body contouring procedures. According to experts consulted by SIFC, Pakistan holds several competitive advantages it could leverage, chief among them cost: medical procedures here generally run 60-90% cheaper than in Western countries while meeting internationally accepted standards. SIFC is also looking at Pakistan's healthcare workforce as a resource to build
on, with the country producing over 25,000 medical graduates annually and having more than 52,000 specialists, many holding internationally recognised qualifications or training from the UK, US and Gulf countries. Geography and cultural ties are seen as additional assets SIFC could tap, with experts noting Pakistan's proximity to Afghanistan, Central Asian Republics and the Gulf, along with its diaspora in the UK and Canada.
Experts told SIFC that while overseas Pakistanis already contribute billions in remittances, the country has yet to build a coordinated strategy to capture the economic potential of medical tourism specifically. They said that with supportive government policies, stronger international accreditation, coordinated marketing and investment in healthcare infrastructure, SIFC could help transform the sector into a meaningful source of foreign exchange, jobs and economic growth.
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saturday, 8 August, 2026 | KARACHI
TOURISM AS AN ECONOMIC GROWTH ENGINE: SCCI ASKS THE KP GOVT TO TAKE MEASURES TO UPLIFT THE SECTOR
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PROFIT
AZIZ BUNERI
RESIDENT, Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry Junaid Altaf emphasized tourism is the major sector, which would enormously contribute to economic growth and urged the provincial government to pay full attention for uplift of this crucial sector. Speaking to participants of a Business Briefing Session on the Silk Route Festival 2026, President Junaid Altaf said tourism is not a name of the only scenic locations but it is to be considered as an economic growth engine.
Special Assistant to the Chief Minister on Tourism and Culture Malik Adeel Iqbal was chief guest at the session whereas officials from Tourism department, representatives of stakeholders and others were also present on the occasion. The briefing was also attended by SCCI Senior Vice President Muhammad Nadeem, members of the chamber executive committee Ziaul Haq Sarhadi, Aftab Iqbal, Ishfaq Ahmad and Shamsur Rehman, and Habibullah Zahid, Tajir Insaf President Shahid Khan, Syed Ejaz Ali Shah, Muhammad Arshad Siddiqui, Rashid Iqbal Siddiqui, Atif Rasheed Khawaja, Nisar Ahmad, Khalid Ayub, Sikandar Iqbal, Saddar Gul, Faiz Rasool, Fazl e Wahid, Fahad Amin, Secretary
General SCCI Muqtasid Ahsan, WCCIP President Qurtul Ain, SVP Zaraa Imtiaz, members and KP Youth Assembly office bearers, businessmen attached with diverse sectors, and others. Participants in the session raised concerns over poor infrastructure and facilities at tourists’ attraction places, scenic valleys, delay in issuance of No-objection certificate, carrying out actions by multiple departments/authorities and other issues, calling them as major obstacle in uplift of tourism and hoteling sector, urging the government to address these concerns on priority basis. Director Silk Road Enterprises on Silk Route Festival 2026 Ms Sadaf Khalid, Directors Mian Muhammad Hashim and
Shehryar Khan through multimedia presentation informed the participants about the upcoming Silk Route Festival 2026 in Islamabad, which is going to be organised in October 24-25 next, and urged the KP businessmen to ensure their maximum in this mega event and showcase the KP’s tourism potentials and boost the provincial economic and the sector. The SCCI chief highlighted the KP’ rich tourism potentials, calling upon the provincial government to take proactive steps to boost investment in this important sector. He stressed the need for improvement of basic infrastructure and facilities at touristattraction spots under public-private partnership. President Junaid Altaf suggested
Mari Energies' FY26 profit rises 34% as tax reversal lifts fourth-quarter earnings PROFIT STAFF REPORT
Mari Energies Limited (MARI) reported a 99% year-on-year increase in earnings per share (EPS) for the fourth quarter of FY26, with quarterly EPS rising to Rs31.2, bringing full-year EPS to Rs72.5, up 34% from the previous year. The stronger-than-expected quarterly result was largely driven by a tax reversal following a court ruling related to the Super Tax. According to the company's financial
results, an Rs18.3 billion tax reversal was recorded during the fourth quarter, resulting in a net tax reversal of Rs3.8 billion for FY26, compared with a tax expense of Rs23.0 billion in FY25. The reversal follows a January 2026 ruling by the Federal Constitutional Court regarding the applicability of Super Tax on exploration and production companies based on the allowable limits in their Petroleum Concession Agreements (PCAs). Despite the earnings growth, profit before tax (PBT) fell 12% year-on-year to Rs19.1 billion in the fourth quarter.
Exploration expenses rose sharply by 58% year-on-year and 70% quarter-onquarter to Rs8.2 billion, taking total exploration costs for FY26 to Rs17.2 billion, up 16% from the previous year. Quarterly net sales increased 19% year-on-year to Rs53.4 billion. Royalty expense climbed 20% to Rs12.6 billion, accounting for 24% of net sales compared with 23% a year earlier. Operating and administrative expenses also increased 31% year-on-year to Rs12.3 billion, primarily due to higher hydrocarbon production, while operating expenditure per
barrel of oil equivalent remained largely unchanged at an estimated US$2.60 in FY26 versus US$2.61 in FY25. For the full year, Mari Energies posted net sales of Rs191.7 billion, profit after tax of Rs87.1 billion and maintained a payout ratio of 37%, lower than 40% in FY25. The board declared a final cash dividend of Rs18.7 per share, taking the total FY26 dividend to Rs27 per share. Alongside its financial results, the company announced that it has acquired land for its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions project.
Pakistan, Türkiye, KSA deepen strategic ties with landmark ‘Makkah Joint Defence Agreement’ CONTINUED FROM PAGE 01
It added that the agreement also “provides for the enhancement of all aspects of defence cooperation” among the three countries. The pact was signed after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan arrived in Saudi Arabia on Friday for a one-day visit to meet Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Prime Minister Shehbaz had already reached Saudi Arabia on Thursday on a three-day visit, leading a high-level delegation comprising Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir to discuss regional developments and bilateral ties. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received President Erdogan and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at Al-Safa Palace in Makkah, where the Makkah AlMukarramah Summit for Joint Defence was held, according to the Pakistani Foreign Office. The three leaders reviewed relations between their countries and other matters of mutual interest before signing the agreement. The Foreign Office said the agreement reflected the three states’ shared
commitment to further strengthening their collective security and promoting peace, security and stability in the region and beyond. “The agreement is intended to strengthen collective deterrence against any act of aggression, and stipulates that any armed attack against any one of the three states shall be regarded as an attack against them all,” the Foreign Office said. “It further provides for the enhancement of all aspects of defence cooperation among the three states.” The agreement is “guided by the longstanding historical ties among the three states, based on the enduring bonds of brotherhood and Islamic solidarity that unite them, and building upon their shared strategic interests and longstanding defence cooperation,” the joint statement said. During the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Summit for Joint Defence, the “distinguished relations” between the three countries were reviewed, “along with a number of issues of mutual interest”, it added. Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Defence Minister
Khawaja Asif were also present at the signing ceremony. The defence and foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and Türkiye also attended the ceremony, pictures showed. In September 2025, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia had signed the landmark “Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement”, which pledges that an attack against one country will be seen as an attack against both. Pakistan has frequently stressed that it will abide by the agreement if Saudi Arabia’s security is challenged. PACT COMES AMID US-IRAN TENSIONS The latest agreement comes amid the ongoing war between the US and Iran and renewed hopes for a possible peace deal. US President Donald Trump cancelled planned strikes against Iran on Sunday, saying Middle Eastern countries had reached the “parameters” of a deal to end the war. Tehran also said earlier this week that it had reached an agreement with Oman on a route for shipping through the Strait of Hormuz waterway. Pakistan has played a key role in mediating between the US and Iran since the war began in February.
It hosted the first round of direct talks between the US and Iran in April and helped broker an interim peace deal between the two sides in June, known as the “Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding.” Fighting between the two countries resumed shortly afterwards, after the US accused Iran of attacking its ships in the Strait of Hormuz, which Tehran has effectively blocked for trade since February. Sealing the agreement in Makkah, the holiest site in Islam, adds symbolic weight to a pact that builds on longstanding bilateral military ties among the three countries. The agreement brings together Pakistan, the only nuclear-armed Muslim country; Saudi Arabia, home to Islam’s holiest sites and one of the world’s top oil exporters; and Türkiye, NATO’s secondlargest military. ‘SHIELD OF PEACE FOR GENERATIONS’ Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the signing of the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement as a “historic pact”, saying the three countries were united by faith, friendship and a shared commitment to peace and security.
Makkah defence pact hailed as milestone for Muslim unity, regional security CONTINUED FROM PAGE -01
Ashrafi congratulated the governments and peoples of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, describing the agreement as “a historic milestone” that extended beyond cooperation among the three countries and carried broader significance for the future of the Muslim Ummah. He said the development reflected the aspirations of Muslims worldwide and expressed hope that it would contribute to regional peace, stability and stronger coordination among Islamic countries. He also voiced support for the Palestinian and Kashmiri peoples, expressing the hope that the initiative would ultimately help advance justice and peace in both regions. Ashrafi praised Pakistan’s leadership, particularly Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, as well as Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Prince Mohammed bin Salman, for their sustained diplomatic efforts aimed at
preventing a wider regional confrontation. He also acknowledged Türkiye’s role in the initiative. Meanwhile, former President of the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry Iftikhar Ali Malik welcomed the trilateral defence partnership among Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Türkiye, describing it as a significant step towards strengthening regional peace, security and cooperation among Muslim countries. In a statement issued here, he said the initiative reflected the shared commitment of the three nations to deepen cooperation in defence, intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism and the development of indigenous military capabilities in response to emerging regional and global security challenges. He said enhanced defence cooperation would improve the collective security of the three countries while also encouraging stronger political ties, greater economic collaboration and technological progress. Such cooperation, he added, would create fresh opportunities for mutual development and long-term pros-
perity. He said closer institutional cooperation in the defence sector would further reinforce the spirit of Islamic brotherhood and promote greater unity among Muslim nations. MOIB RELEASES SPECIAL ANTHEM TO CELEBRATE MAKKAH DEFENCE PACT Meanwhile, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has released a special anthem to commemorate the historic Makkah Joint Defence Pact signed among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye earlier in the day. The lyrics of the anthem read: “One Allah, One Prophet (PBUH), One Quran, One Kalima, One Qibla and One Identity,” serving as a powerful reflection of the shared religious and cultural heritage uniting the three nations. The anthem presents Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan as symbols of unity, brotherhood and a shared commitment to defence. The special track highlights the deep-rooted historical, religious and defence ties, alongside the mutual cooperation and brotherhood shared by the three Islamic countries.
Denmark to assist Pakistan in energy planning, renewable integration and industrial efficiency PROFIT STAFF REPORT
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch the Strategic Sector Cooperation (SSC) Programme between Pakistan and Denmark was signed on Thursday, marking a government-to-government energy collaboration aimed at delivering direct technical assistance from Danish experts to fast-track Pakistan's green energy transition. On behalf of the Government of Pakistan, Fakhre Alam Irfan, Secretary, Power Division, signed the MoU, while H.E. Maja Derrous Mortensen, Ambassador of Denmark to Pakistan, signed it on behalf of the Kingdom of Denmark. Federal Minister for Energy (Power Division) Sardar Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari witnessed the signing ceremony. The programme will be implemented jointly by the Danish Energy Agency, the Embassy of Denmark
in Islamabad, and Pakistan's Ministry of Energy (Power Division). It aims to facilitate low-carbon pathways for Pakistan's energy sector through technical assistance, capacity development, information exchange and awareness raising, while supporting cost-efficient implementation of Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets. Danish experts will provide technical assistance and institutional capacity building across three core areas: long-term energy planning, renewable energy integration, and energy efficiency in the industrial sector. The programme is designed to strengthen technical competencies across key partner organisations, including the Independent System and Market Operator (ISMO), National Grid Company (NGC), National Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority (NEECA), National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), Power Planning and Monitoring Company
(PPMC), and the Private Power and Infrastructure Board (PPIB). The cooperation builds on the Danish Energy Transition Initiative (DETI), which provided technical assistance and capacity development to Pakistani energy authorities from 2021 to 2025. Under DETI, Pakistani professionals participated in two specialised study tours to Denmark, while two annual GreenTech events were hosted in Karachi and Lahore to promote knowledge sharing and accelerate the adoption of sustainable energy technologies.
establishment of KP Tourism Facilitation Authority to provide facilities to tourists and investors under a one-window operation. SACM Malik Adeel Iqbal agreed with concerns over the business community and assured steps would be taken to address them promptly. CM aide’s informed the provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is taking pragmatic steps to modernize the tourism sector, expand investment opportunities, and provide world-class facilities to tourists. He said Tourist Facilitation Centres will be established at major tourist destinations, while a one window operation will also be introduced to facilitate investors and encourage investment in the tourism industry.
Ziad Bashir takes over as Pakistan Business Council chairman PROFIT
STAFF REPORT
The Pakistan Business Council (PBC) has announced a change in its leadership, with Ziad Bashir assuming the position of chairman after Dr Zeelaf Munir completed her term in office. The announcement, made through the council's official X account, said Bashir took charge with immediate effect. He previously served as the PBC's vice chairman. As part of the leadership reshuffle, Haider Ali was unanimously elected vice chairman, replacing Bashir. His appointment also became effective immediately. Paying tribute to the outgoing chairperson, the PBC commended Dr Munir for her leadership and said her tenure helped take the council "to the next level." The council also welcomed Bashir and Ali to their new roles, expressing confidence that the organisation would continue its progress under the new leadership.
Pakistan's World Cup football maker signs deal with Chinese firm for sports footwear production PROFIT
STAFF REPORT
A technical and investment cooperation agreement was signed at the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) on Thursday between Pakistan's Forward Sports, the maker of official footballs for Adidas used in FIFA World Cups, and China's Zhongzi Huaxin Group for the joint production of world-class sports footwear in Pakistan. Forward Sports is Pakistan's leading sports goods manufacturer Besides producing footballs for the FIFA World Cup, the company also manufactures sports bags, apparel and lifestyle footwear. Zhongzi Huaxin Group is a diversified Chinese investment and asset management group with expertise in industrial development, footwear and apparel parks, and regional economic cooperation. The SIFC said in a post on X that the signing ceremony was attended by Minister for Defence Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Director General SIFC, Chairman of the Pakistan Regional Economic Forum, and the chief executive officers of both Zhongzi Huaxin Group and Forward Sports. The agreement is expected to support technology transfer, industrial development, employment generation and export diversification, combining Pakistan's manufacturing strength with Chinese investment and expertise. It is also expected to help Pakistan capture a greater share of the growing global footwear market.
Rehmat Ali Hasnie reappointed as NBP president for two weeks PROFIT
STAFF REPORT
The Government of Pakistan has reappointed Rehmat Ali Hasnie as President/CEO of the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) for a period of two weeks, effective August 7, 2026. The reappointment was made by the Finance Division vide Notification No. F.1(9)Bkg-III/2022-673 dated August 6, 2026, in exercise of powers conferred under Section 11(3)(d) of the Banks (Nationalization) Act, 1974. The NBP informed the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) of the development through a notice on Thursday. “In exercise of powers conferred under Section 11(3) (d) of the Banks (Nationalization) Act, 1974, the Federal Government, is pleased to reappoint Mr. Rehmat Ali Hasnie, as President/ CEO National Bank of Pakistan, for a period of two weeks, w.e.f. 7th August, 2026 or till the new President/ CEO, NBP assumes office. whichever is earlier,” read the notice. The extension will remain in effect until the new President/CEO of NBP assumes office, whichever is earlier.
04 COMMENT
Every child matters
A strategic triangle
T
C
HE new mutual defence pact between Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye is a significant development in a region where the old security order is under severe strain. More than an expansion of the existing Pakistan-Saudi security arrangement, the agreement brings together three countries with very different but complementary forms of strategic weight: a nuclear-armed Pakistan, the Arab world’s leading oil power, and Türkiye, one of the region’s strongest conventional militaries and a major NATO member. The timing is particularly important. The Middle East is experiencing one of its most dangerous periods in decades. The war involving Iran and Israel has already demonstrated how quickly conflict can cross borders, while attacks on Gulf states have exposed the vulnerability of even heavily protected countries. At a time when questions are also being raised about the reliability and limits of traditional external security guarantees, it is hardly surprising that regional powers are seeking greater responsibility for their own security. Seen in this context, the pact is a welcome development. Its greatest value may lie in deterrence. A potential aggressor must now consider that an attack on one partner could have consequences involving two other substantial military powers. Pakistan brings a large and battle-tested military and a nuclear deterrent; Saudi Arabia brings enormous economic and energy significance; and Türkiye contributes sophisticated conventional capabilities, an increasingly advanced defence industry and its position within NATO. Collectively, the three possess considerable strategic leverage. This does not mean that the arrangement should be mistaken for an Islamic version of NATO. The countries have different foreign-policy priorities and threat perceptions. Nor should the agreement become an instrument for unnecessary confrontation. Its purpose should be to make aggression less attractive, not to encourage military adventurism. For Pakistan, the pact also represents an opportunity to strengthen its strategic position without abandoning its diplomatic role. Islamabad has close relations with both Riyadh and Ankara, while its geographical proximity to Iran makes regional stability a direct national interest. A stronger security relationship with Saudi Arabia and Türkiye can therefore coexist with Pakistan’s efforts to maintain channels with Tehran. There are economic implications as well. Security cooperation can deepen the already substantial ties among the three countries, particularly in defence production, technology, energy and investment. Pakistan’s defence industry could benefit from greater integration with Türkiye, while Saudi capital and energy cooperation could acquire a stronger strategic dimension. Most importantly, the pact signals that regional powers are no longer willing to remain passive observers of an increasingly unpredictable security environment. A nuclear power, a major oil exporter and a powerful NATO military are now aligning their interests more closely. That should be welcomed, provided the arrangement remains defensive, transparent and accompanied by diplomacy. Stronger deterrence can create space for negotiation. In an unstable region, that is precisely what is needed: not another bloc seeking confrontation, but a credible balance of power capable of preventing one.
AmbAr Ali
HILDREN are often described as the future of a nation. While this is true, it can also become an excuse to overlook their needs in the present. A child is not simply an adult in waiting. Every child has rights that deserve to be respected today, regardless of where they are born or the circumstances they grow up in. Pakistan has one of the youngest populations in the world. This presents a tremendous opportunity, but only if children are given the care, protection and opportunities they need. The rights of children are not abstract ideals. They include the right to life, education, healthcare, protection from violence and exploitation, and the chance to grow in a safe and supportive environment. These are basic rights that every society should strive to guarantee. Education remains one of the greatest challenges. Millions of Pakistani children are still out of school, while many others attend institutions that lack trained teachers, proper facilities and learning materials. For children who never enter a classroom, the consequences last a lifetime. Without education, their chances of escaping poverty are greatly reduced, and the country loses valuable human potential. Ensuring that every child receives quality education should not be viewed as a burden on the state but as an investment in the nation’s future. Healthcare is another area that demands greater attention. Many children continue to suffer from preventable diseases, malnutrition and inadequate access to medical services. Rural communities often face the greatest difficulties, where healthcare facilities are limited and families must travel long distances for treatment. Improving maternal and child healthcare, expanding immunisation programmes and ensuring proper nutrition can signif-
Saturday, 8 August, 2026
icantly improve children’s lives while reducing long-term costs for society. Child labour also remains a serious concern. Economic hardship forces many families to send their children to work instead of school. These children often spend long hours in difficult and sometimes dangerous conditions, missing out on education and childhood itself. While poverty is a major cause, stronger enforcement of labour laws and greater social support for vulnerable families are equally important. Children belong in classrooms and playgrounds, not workplaces. Protection from abuse and violence is another fundamental right. Cases of physical abuse, neglect and exploitation continue to emerge with alarming frequency. Children are among the most vulnerable members of society and often have little ability to seek help on their own. Families, schools, communities and institutions all share the responsibility of creating environments where children feel safe and where their concerns are taken seriously. Laws alone are not enough unless they are implemented consis-
Education remains one of the greatest challenges. Millions of Pakistani children are still out of school, while many others attend institutions that lack trained teachers, proper facilities and learning materials.
tently and supported by public awareness. The digital age has created new opportunities but also new risks. The internet has become an important tool for education and communication, yet children are increasingly exposed to cyberbullying, harmful content and online exploitation. Parents, teachers and policymakers must work together to promote digital literacy and online safety while allowing children to benefit from technology responsibly. Children with disabilities deserve particular attention. They often face barriers in accessing education, healthcare and public spaces. Inclusive schools, accessible infrastructure and supportive services can help ensure that every child participates fully in society. Inclusion is not an act of charity; it is a matter of equal rights and equal opportunity. The responsibility for protecting children does not rest with the government alone. Parents play the first and most important role in shaping a child’s life. Communities, religious leaders, civil society organisations and the private sector all have a part to play in creating an environment where children can flourish. Respect, compassion and responsibility begin at home but must extend across society. Pakistan has taken important steps by introducing laws and policies aimed at improving child welfare. However, meaningful progress depends on effective implementation, adequate funding and sustained political commitment. Public institutions must be strengthened, and accountability should remain central to all efforts concerning children’s welfare. A society is ultimately judged by how it treats its most vulnerable members. Protecting the rights of children is not merely a legal obligation or a moral duty; it is essential for national progress. Every child who receives an education, proper healthcare and protection contributes to a stronger, more prosperous Pakistan. Every child who is denied these rights represents a lost opportunity. Children cannot choose where they are born, but they deserve the chance to realise their potential. Giving them that opportunity is among the most important responsibilities any nation can fulfil. The writer is a freelance columnist.
Dedicated to the legacy of late Hameed Nizami
Arif Nizami (Late) Founding Editor
Water must reach farms M. A. Niazi
Babar Nizami
Editor Pakistan Today
Editor Profit
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AhmAd Siddiqi
OR Pakistan’s farmers, water is not merely an environmental resource. It is the foundation of agricultural production, rural incomes and food security. Yet the country’s water crisis is increasingly becoming a crisis of access. The problem is not simply that Pakistan has too little water. It is that too much of the water available to agriculture is lost before it reaches the crop. This distinction matters. Pakistan’s irrigation system is one of the largest in the world, but much of it operates through infrastructure designed for a different era. Water is diverted through canals, distributaries and watercourses, often travelling considerable distances before reaching farms. Along the way, substantial quantities are lost through seepage, evaporation and inefficient delivery. At the farm level, traditional irrigation practices can compound these losses. The result is an uncomfortable paradox: farmers can face water shortages even when large quantities of water are being allocated to agriculture. Water rights therefore cannot be discussed only in terms of how much water a province receives or how much is released from reservoirs. The more immediate question for farmers is whether their legally or administratively allocated share actually reaches their fields, and whether it reaches them at the right time. This is particularly important as climate change makes water availability less predictable. Longer periods of heat, increasingly erratic rainfall and more frequent extremes mean that farmers can no longer rely on historical patterns. A system designed around predictable seasonal flows is becoming increasingly difficult to manage. Improving irrigation efficiency must consequently become a central agricultural policy. There is no shortage of technological options. Watercourses can be properly lined where appropriate. Canal systems can be rehabilitated. Laser land levelling can reduce uneven application of water. Drip and sprinkler irrigation can be expanded for crops and areas where such systems make economic sense. Better scheduling can ensure that farmers irrigate according to crop requirements rather than habit. Digital monitoring can also help identify losses and improve the distribution of available supplies. But technology alone will not solve the problem. The economics matter. Small farmers cannot be expected to finance expensive irrigation equipment themselves, particularly when returns from agriculture are already uncertain. Public investment and targeted financing will be necessary. Support should, however, be linked to measurable improvements in water productivity rather than simply distributed as blanket subsidies. There is also a governance problem. Water theft, politically influential users securing disproportionate supplies and weak monitoring undermine the principle that irrigation water
should be distributed fairly. Farmers at the tail end of canals are often particularly vulnerable. Improving infrastructure without improving governance could simply make an inefficient system more expensive. Water rights must therefore mean more than entitlement on paper. A farmer’s right to water is meaningful only when the water is delivered reliably, transparently and in sufficient quantity for cultivation. This also requires a change in how agricultural success is measured. Pakistan has historically focused heavily on increasing cropped area and maximising yields. The next stage must be to produce more with less water. Water productivity — how much agricultural value is generated from each unit of water — should become a central measure of agricultural performance. The choice of crops also deserves greater attention. Farmers understandably respond to prices and market incentives, but agricultural policy should not encourage water-intensive cultivation in areas where water is chronically scarce. Crop planning must gradually reflect local water availability. This cannot mean arbitrary restrictions imposed on farmers; it means giving them better information, appropriate incentives and profitable alternatives. There is an important social dimension too.
Editor’s mail
Water reforms will fail if they are perceived as another burden imposed on farmers. Farmers need to be treated as partners in conservation. Extension services should demonstrate the financial benefits of efficient irrigation, while credit and support programmes should make improved techniques accessible to smaller growers. Pakistan cannot manufacture more river water. It can, however, ensure that more of the water it already has reaches the crops that depend upon it. That is where the debate over water rights should increasingly move. Inter-provincial allocations remain important, as do questions concerning the wider management of the Indus Basin. But for the farmer standing in a field, a water allocation means little if the distributary runs dry or the water arrives too late. The country’s agricultural future will depend not only on securing water, but on using every available drop more intelligently. Improving irrigation efficiency is therefore not merely an environmental reform. It is a question of farmers’ rights, food security and economic survival. Pakistan’s water policy must finally make the journey from the canal head to the farmer’s field its central concern. The writer is a farmer.
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Madrasas need serious oversight
THE issue of child abuse in our educational institutions, particularly in madrasas, is alarming. The recent case in Swat, where a young student was subjected to severe physical torture by his teacher, and the distressing videos that went viral on social media have once again brought this problem to the forefront. Sadly, such incidents are not rare. Across the country, cases of violence, exploitation and neglect in schools and religious institutions are frequently reported, yet they are often downplayed or dismissed in the name of safeguarding the institution’s image. What makes this situation more disturbing is that Pakistan already has laws in place for child protection. However, these laws are rarely implemented with seriousness or consistency. In the absence of proper monitoring, accountability and mandatory reporting mechanisms, legislation remains confined to paper while children remain vulnerable. Survivors of such abuse are left without justice, counselling or rehabilitation, and perpetrators continue their harmful practices unchecked. It is imperative for the government to not only enforce existing laws but also introduce stricter oversight within schools and madrasas. Institutions must be bound to establish child protection committees, ensure transparent reporting channels and provide psychological support for affected children. Public awareness campaigns and teacher training are also essential to create a safer educational environment. A society that fails to protect its children undermines its own future. Through effective law enforcement and genuine institutional accountability, we can ensure that spaces of learning truly become spaces of safety and growth. SABIHA KASHIF KARACHI
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There is no shortage of technological options. Watercourses can be properly lined where appropriate. Canal systems can be rehabilitated. Laser land levelling can reduce uneven application of water. Drip and sprinkler irrigation can be expanded for crops and areas where such systems make economic sense. Better scheduling can ensure that farmers irrigate according to crop requirements rather than habit. Digital monitoring can also help identify losses and improve the distribution of available supplies.
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NO language comes into existence on its own; every language has its own history and culture. Take Saraiki for example. It is an Indo-Aryan language with its own history and associated culture, spoken in South Punjab as well as in parts of Sindh and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. According to the 2023 census, about 28.8 million people in Pakistan speak Saraiki. This language is often compared with Punjabi and referred to as a dialect of Punjabi, which is not true; it has its own distinct history. Its writing system is also derived from the Persian-Arabic script, with some additional letters added specifically for this language. Punjabi is the most widely spoken language in Pakistan, whereas Urdu, which is the national language of Pakistan, according to the 2023 census, is spoken as a first language only by about nine per cent of the population. Although the number of Saraiki speakers is smaller than that of Punjabi and Urdu speakers, they are often not treated with respect. Saraiki speakers are frequently considered inferior or illiterate. Yet, the language holds cultural and spiritual significance, as it is considered to be the language of saints, with many Sufis using it to promote the teachings of Islam. Therefore, we should not be quick to assume a person’s intellect on the basis of their language. The fact is, if we ourselves do not value our language and culture, no one else will either. And what will happen in the end? They will disappear. Whether it is our language or our culture — be it Pashto, Balochi, Kashmiri or Saraiki — it is our duty to respect it, not to mock it and not to allow others to mock it either. ESHA ANMOL MULTAN
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Saturday, 8 August, 2026
P
MuhAMMAd Mohsin iqbAl
RESIDENT Donald John Trump occupies a singular place in the history of American leadership. He is at once a politician, a successful businessman, and an enthusiast of freestyle wrestling. His manner of thinking, planning, and decision-making bears a character distinctly different from that of his predecessors; indeed, many observers contend that it has few, if any, precedents in the annals of modern American politics. Analysts frequently describe him as a man of remarkable flexibility, yet they also acknowledge that a position defended with absolute conviction at one moment may, in the next, be replaced by its very opposite without the slightest hesitation. This characteristic became strikingly evident following the commencement of large-scale military operations against Iran on 28 February 2026. A careful examination of the period, particularly up to the defence of the Memorandum of Understanding concluded in June, reveals no fewer than seven significant shifts in President Trump’s strategic approach. At the outset, he dismissed economic concerns altogether, declaring that the financial difficulties of the American people were of no consequence and that the sole imperative was to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. By the time of the G7 summit, however, his tone had undergone a marked transformation. He began advocating the necessity of an agreement capable of shielding the global economy from a crisis comparable to the Hoover era and the Great Depression, pointing to instability in the financial markets as evidence supporting this revised position. His initial call for regime change in Iran was equally unequivocal. In a video address, he urged the Iranian people to rise against their government, declaring that the moment might represent their final opportunity for generations to come. Yet subsequent statements quietly abandoned this objective. Instead, he began speaking of normalising relations with Iran and cooperating with its existing leadership, occasionally describing those very leaders as more “reasonable” than before. During the early phase of the conflict, the complete destruction of Iran’s missile program, the industries responsible for its production, and the naval forces supporting it was presented as a principal objective. Later, however, his position softened considerably. He observed that while missiles might inflict damage upon limited areas, they were incapable of destroying the world,
A habit of second thought
and since other nations possessed similar capabilities, Iran might also retain a limited missile arsenal. It was for this reason that the Memorandum of Understanding contained no provision requiring the dismantlement of Iran’s missile program. A similar evolution occurred regarding Iran’s nuclear program. Following the military operations of 2025 and again in 2026, it was asserted that Iran’s entire uranium enrichment capability would be eliminated and that the nuclear threat would be extinguished permanently. In time, however, the objective was narrowed simply to ensuring that Iran would not acquire a nuclear weapon. Rather than insisting upon total dismantlement, reliance shifted towards international monitoring and continued negotiations. Control over highly enriched uranium, initially regarded as a non-negotiable and indispensable condition, was subsequently treated as a matter of secondary importance. It was argued that preventing the production of a nuclear weapon remained the essential objective, while questions concerning enriched uranium would be addressed in future negotiations. The instruments of pressure likewise underwent a profound transformation. Economic sanctions and financial restrictions, once regarded as the principal means of coercion, gradually gave way to incentives. Discussions emerged concerning the release of frozen assets, temporary licences for Iranian oil exports, and the possibility of reconstruction assistance amounting to hundreds of billions of dollars, with additional concessions to be granted subject to Iran’s future conduct. Likewise, the original determination to terminate Iran’s support for regional proxy groups gradually receded into the background. In its place, greater emphasis was placed upon securing a direct ceasefire and addressing the broader requirements of peace and stability throughout the Middle East. These strategic adjustments were accompanied by repeated tactical oscillations, in which stern threats were frequently followed by the postponement or cancellation of military action. A chronological review compiled up to 3 August reveals numerous announcements of major strikes that were ultimately abandoned. The latest example occurred on 1 and 2 August, when military action was suspended following requests from Iran and
several regional parties, together with the emergence of preliminary outlines for a possible understanding involving the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and measures aimed at removing the nuclear threat. On 7 April, shortly before the expiration of an ultimatum in which President Trump had threatened strikes against bridges and power stations, a two-week ceasefire was agreed. He had warned that such attacks could extinguish an entire civilisation. On 21 April, at the request of international mediators, the ceasefire was extended indefinitely, although hostilities resumed at a later stage. On 18 May, a major military operation was deferred to allow serious negotiations to proceed, but when those negotiations faltered, military action recommenced. On the night of 11 June, President Trump threatened an overwhelming assault upon Iran together with the seizure of its oil and gas resources. Yet only hours later, citing what he described as a significant diplomatic breakthrough, he cancelled the operation, thereby paving the way for the Memorandum of Understanding. Signed on 17 June, the Memorandum provided for a ceasefire, the temporary reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, limited economic relief, and a framework for sixty days of negotiations. It nevertheless expressly reserved the right to resume bombing should its provisions prove unsatisfactory. At the beginning of July, following attacks upon commercial shipping, the cease-
On 7 April, shortly before the expiration of an ultimatum in which President Trump had threatened strikes against bridges and power stations, a two-week ceasefire was agreed. He had warned that such attacks could extinguish an entire civilisation.
COMMENT 05
A similar evolution occurred regarding Iran’s nuclear program. Following the military operations of 2025 and again in 2026, it was asserted that Iran’s entire uranium enrichment capability would be eliminated and that the nuclear threat would be extinguished permanently. In time, however, the objective was narrowed simply to ensuring that Iran would not acquire a nuclear weapon. fire was declared terminated. Military strikes were launched against dozens, and subsequently scores, of targets. Congress was formally notified, and the Administration adopted an increasingly uncompromising public tone. Yet negotiations continued simultaneously. The naval blockade was reimposed, retaliatory operations persisted, and on 27 July the intensive daily bombardment was once again suspended in order to afford diplomacy another opportunity. Even in early August, fresh threats eventually yielded to renewed consideration of a possible political framework. Oil sanctions followed a similarly fluctuating course. Temporary export licences were granted, only to be withdrawn as sanctions were reimposed. Military deployments, official statements, and even the interpretation of the Memorandum itself changed repeatedly. The initial maximalist objectives—the destruction of Iran’s missile forces and navy, the complete elimination of the nuclear threat, the dismantling of regional proxy networks, and even the prospect of political change—gradually evolved into more limited and negotiable goals. Military expenditure, fluctuations in oil prices and global markets, domestic political considerations, constraints upon available munitions, and Iran’s demonstrated resilience all appear to have contributed to
this transformation. The June Memorandum of Understanding was, by its very nature, temporary and performance-based. Reports suggested that many of its principal provisions were undermined within only a few weeks, leading to renewed hostilities and a fresh round of negotiations. Thus, as the conflict entered its fifth month, the situation remained fluid, uncertain, and subject to continual change. The reasons underlying these successive alterations may have been varied. In some instances they appear to reflect tactical calculation; in others they may have arisen from necessity or from long-established habits of political conduct. Certain critics have advanced even graver allegations, contending that the pattern of market instability followed by recovery was deliberately exploited for the financial benefit of President Trump and his family. Whatever the precise combination of motives, the record extending from late February to early August consistently reveals a pattern in which ambitious and uncompromising initial objectives gradually gave way to narrower, more negotiable positions, while rapid oscillations between threats of force and gestures of restraint remained the defining characteristic of the entire period.
The man who could topple Benjamin Netanyahu
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On October 27, the voters will have their say. But in Israel, that isn’t the final word; an election triggers months of deals, threats, bribes and horse-trading to win over enough Knesset members to form a government
THE SPECTATOR Arieh Kovler
HE year is 2019 and, after almost a full term in office, Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government of right-wing and religious parties heads to a general election. Opposing him is a former IDF chief of staff heading a new centrist party which quickly soars in the polls, making him the main challenger for prime minister. That challenger was Benny Gantz. Gantz formed alliances, fought elections and got caught up in the paralysis of Israel’s 2019-20 governing crisis in which nobody was able to form a coalition. Facing the threat of the Covid-19 pandemic, Gantz agreed to a deal with Netanyahu where they’d take turns at being prime minister – with Netanyahu going first, of course. Nobody except Gantz believed his turn would come. It is August 2026 now and, after a full term in office, Netanyahu’s coalition government of right-wing and religious parties is heading to a general election. Opposing him is a former IDF chief of staff leading a new centrist party as the main challenger for prime minister. It’s a cliché to say this time it’s different. It’s always different. But Gadi Eisenkot, Netanyahu’s main electoral rival, has a compelling background, a moving personal story and is now leading the polls. Outside of Israel, you’d be forgiven for thinking that the only ethnic divide that matters is between Jews and Arabs. Within Israeli Jewish society, though, the most significant distinction is between Ashkenazim, Jews of European origin, and Mizrachim, Jews from Arab and Muslim countries. Historically, the local Jews in the region were Arabic-speakers who initially resented the poor, low-status European Ashkenazi immigrants of the early 20th century. When a huge wave of Jewish immigrants from Arab countries arrived in the late 1950s, fleeing anti-Semitism at home, they were often shunted into transit camps and treated as second-class citizens. This divide carried over into politics too. David Ben-Gurion’s Labor party became associated with Ashkenazi cronyism, low-level
corruption and background racism. Menachem Begin rode to victory for Likud in 1977 with masses of working-class Mizrachi voters. Since then, Mizrachi identity has become associated with authenticity, tradition and supporting right-wing parties, while Likud figures attack “white” Ashkenazi left-wing elitists. Mizrachi culture, food and music have gone from being marginal to the Israeli mainstream. But Israel has never had a prime minister who wasn’t Ashkenazi. Despite his Germanic-sounding last name, Eisenkot is Mizrachi, the son of working-class Moroccan immigrants; a marked contrast from Netanyahu, the nepo-baby son of a politically connected Ashkenazi college professor. Eisenkot joined the traditionally Mizrachi Golani Brigade when he was drafted into the IDF, where he rose through the ranks. (According to the British historian Max Hastings, a young Netanyahu once joked that Golani was “OK as long as they’re led by white officers.” Netanyahu denies this.) Eisenkot became commander of Golani and then military secretary to prime ministers Ehud Barak and Ariel Sharon – both former generals themselves. He became something of a problem-solver, a safe pair of hands: he led the IDF’s response to West Bank terrorism during the Second Intifada and then took over Northern Command to reshape it after the failures of the Second Lebanon War in 2006. When a scandal created an unexpected vacancy for IDF chief of staff in 2011, Netanyahu reportedly offered the job to Eisenkot; he refused, saying that the deputy chief of staff, Benny Gantz, should get the role instead. Eisenkot became Gantz’s deputy and eventual successor. The path from chief of staff to politics is well-trodden. Six of Eisenkot’s seven immediate predecessors made the jump from uniform to the Knesset. As soon as he retired, the major parties started to court Eisenkot as a candidate. He ended up going with his old boss, Benny Gantz, running in the 2022 election on his National Unity ticket. National Unity didn’t have a great election, and neither did the rest of the anti-Netanyahu parties. Bibi returned to office and Eisenkot joined the opposition. That all changed after the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023. In an effort to live up to its party
The writer is freelance columnist
The Yashar party, and Eisenkot, are notably vague on the Palestinian issue. He says now isn’t the time to discuss the two-state solution, opposes annexing the West Bank and wants a Palestinian-run (but Hamas-free) Gaza
name, National Unity joined the coalition and Eisenkot and Gantz became members of a six-person war cabinet. A few weeks later, tragedy struck. Eisenkot’s son Gal was killed in a tunnel in Gaza during a mission to retrieve the bodies of hostages. Eisenkot and Gantz became increasingly frustrated with the war cabinet’s refusal to make plans and eventually resigned, accusing Netanyahu of allowing “outside considerations and politics” to interfere with the conduct of the war with Hamas. But Eisenkot also lost patience with Gantz, his party leader, and resigned from the Knesset a year ago, making it clear he was planning a comeback at the election later this year. A few months ago, the leading opposition candidate to replace Netanyahu was Naftali Bennett, who was briefly prime minister a few years ago at the head of a shortlived rainbow coalition. Eisenkot faced pressure to join up with Bennett or another centrist challenger, such as Yair Lapid. In the end, Bennett and Lapid joined forces, leaving Eisenkot out. That decision doesn’t seem to have harmed him at all. Going it alone, Eisenkot’s Yashar (“straight,” in the moral, not sexual, sense) party is now leading in the polls. But what does Gadi Eisenkot stand for? That’s not such a simple question. His campaign focuses on his story and character: working-class Mizrachi boy made good, bereaved father of a fallen hero, honest and against corruption, security-conscious but focused on solutions. A major issue roiling Israel has been military service by Haredim, ultra-Orthodox Jewish men. Since their service exemption was struck down by the Supreme Court, the Netanyahu government has been desperately legislating to appease its Haredi coalition partners, passing giveaway legislation to try to restore the exemption and “compensate” them with policy benefits and wodges of public cash. Eisenkot, like most of the country, supports the Haredi draft. And yet, the Haredi parties aren’t ruling him out as a coalition partner; Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef, spiritual leader of the Shas party, declared that Netanyahu will never “repent” and become an observant Jew, but that he still has hope for Eisenkot. Perhaps the Haredi parties are bluffing, seeking more leverage with Netanyahu. Or perhaps they can
tell which way the wind is blowing and don’t want to be locked out of power. The Yashar party, and Eisenkot, are notably vague on the Palestinian issue. He says now isn’t the time to discuss the two-state solution, opposes annexing the West Bank and wants a Palestinian-run (but Hamas-free) Gaza. All fairly mainstream positions, but perhaps lacking in vision: in opposition, it’s easy to wave away questions about a Palestinian state as a future problem; a leader is supposed to move the country toward that future. And that’s a bit of a theme with Yashar. The party platform hits all the usual notes – education, fighting crime, cutting corruption, lowering prices – but there’s little in the way of structural reforms or ambitious plans. We get some hints from Eisenkot’s approach to military strategy. On the one hand, he was one of the pioneers of the Dahiya Doctrine, which supports the use of massive force against civilian neighborhoods that play host to terror groups. On the other, he developed the IDF’s “Campaigns between wars” strategy, using constant low-level military operations to keep foes deterred or, failing that, degraded. These suggest an approach of trying to manage continual conflict, combined with a readiness to hit hard when necessary. The attacks against Eisenkot from the right fit a familiar pattern. Netanyahu and his supporters claim he’s a gruff, uncharismatic novice, with poor English and no charm. They say that he, too, will betray his voters to the Haredi parties, so why not stick with the devil you know? Those attacks, though, cut both ways. Voters might be done with polished, charming candidates like Netanyahu, and be drawn to Eisenkot’s humble origins. The Haredi claim also neuters one of the other charges against Eisenkot: that he’s a far-left plant who’ll rush to do a deal with the Arab parties. Something about Eisenkot’s background and style has created a permission structure for center-right voters to feel like he’s “safe” to support. Much like Donald Trump in the United States, Netanyahu has reshaped politics around himself. To support Netanyahu is to be right-wing; to oppose him, even ostensibly from the right, is often enough to be considered a leftist traitor. Beyond left and right,
the two major political camps in Israel are “Only Bibi!” and “Anyone but Bibi!” The “Anyone but Bibi!” camp has had an array of leaders: Isaac Herzog, the son of a one-time president of Israel who ended up in the top job himself (with Netanyahu’s support); Yair Lapid, the media-star son of a Knesset member; Bennett, a multimillionaire startup founder; and Gantz. All men, all Ashkenazi, all somewhat well-connected. Two ended up prime minister, albeit briefly, but Netanyahu found his way back. This time it’s different, and not just because of Eisenkot. Netanyahu will be 77 on election day, 82 at the end of his term if he’s reelected. He has a pacemaker and secretly underwent treatment for prostate cancer last year. And, of course, he’s the sole political survivor of the October 7 disaster. If Netanyahu loses this time, he’s probably not coming back. And Likud’s other elected representatives, however much they back Bibi in public, are getting tired of waiting for a vacancy at the top. On October 27, the voters will have their say. But in Israel, that isn’t the final word; an election triggers months of deals, threats, bribes and horse-trading to win over enough Knesset members to form a government. These weeks are where Netanyahu’s wheeler-dealing often gives him the edge. In the past few weeks, though, the polls have shifted ever so slightly in Eisenkot’s favor, giving him the easier-looking path to power. David Bitan, an outspoken Likud representative, complained to the media that it’s unfair. Eisenkot, he said, is “both a bereaved family and Moroccan – and that gives him a very interesting advantage in these elections.” He might be right. Arieh Kovler is a political analyst and writer based in Jerusalem.
06 NEWS
SPAIN THREATENS CURBS ON ITALY IN ROW OVER CEUTA MIGRANT CONTROLS
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MADRID
AGENCIES
PAIN said on Friday it would impose restrictions on travellers from Italy unless Rome withdraws by Sunday the border checks it brought in after last week’s mass migrant influx into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta, opening a sharp dispute between the two European Union allies. Italy swiftly rejected the demand. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s office said Rome would not accept “ultimatums or impositions” and would keep in place its suspension of Schengen rules for nonEU nationals arriving from Spain until at least August 15. Her government had earlier said the tougher checks would stay until the end of the month. Madrid called Italy’s move “unjustified, contrary to the interests of the European Union and discriminatory against the Spanish population”, and said it would take “proportionate measures” if the restric-
tions were not reversed by Sunday. CEUTA CROSSINGS TRIGGER DIPLOMATIC CLASH The confrontation follows a surge at Ceuta’s border last week, when as many as 72,000 people tried to cross and dozens died. Most have since returned to neighbouring Morocco, but hundreds of unaccompanied minors remain in the enclave. Spain’s Civil Guard said it was aware of online calls for another attempted crossing on August 15, though it was unclear how many people might join. Meloni’s office said Spanish authorities had themselves warned of a possible new influx that day, adding Italy would reconsider only when it was certain there was no fresh migration wave, no security or terrorism risk to Italy, and no irregular migrants moving towards European territory. Italy said the partial suspension of the borderfree Schengen arrangements was meant to stop migrants who entered Ceuta from travelling onwards to Italy. Spain argues that rationale has no
basis, saying the migrants who entered Ceuta irregularly could not access the Schengen area and accusing Rome of relying on “spurious arguments”. MIGRATION DIVIDE DEEPENS TENSIONS The row marks a fresh deterioration in ties between Meloni and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, whose governments have taken contrasting positions on migration. Meloni has championed tougher immigration controls in Europe, while Sanchez has generally backed a more liberal line and recently supported a large-scale regularisation programme for undocumented migrants. Spanish Youth Minister Sira Rego told public broadcaster TVE1: “I think what were saying is reasonable. What doesn’t hold water at all is Italy’s stance towards Spain. The impression is that Ms Meloni is on a crusade.” In its statement on Friday, the Spanish government also said Italy had recorded the highest number of “irregular crossings in recent years”, with figures double those of Spain.
Israeli raid in Qalandia camp leaves 51 Palestinians injured JERUSALEM AGENICES
Israeli forces withdrew late Thursday from the Qalandia refugee camp north of occupied East Jerusalem after a military raid lasting nearly two days left 51 Palestinians injured, Palestinian authorities said. The Jerusalem Governorate said the operation involved raids, searches and detentions, with several homes and other buildings taken over and used as detention and field interrogation centres. The Palestine Red Crescent Society said the number of injured had risen to 51 since the raid began early Wednesday. The Palestinian Prisoners’ Society said earlier on Thursday that more than 60 Palestinians, including women and children, had either been detained or subjected to field interrogation during the operation. Israeli forces launched the large-scale raid in Qalandia and the nearby town of
Kafr Aqab early Wednesday, deploying dozens of military vehicles, bulldozers and drones. The Israeli army said the operation targeted armed individuals, “hostile infrastructure” and weapons possession and trafficking. The Jerusalem Governorate said residents faced harsh humanitarian conditions during the raid. In another development north of occupied Jerusalem, Israeli authorities issued a military order in the town of Jaba to clear vegetation and uproot olive trees on about 2.5 dunums, or 0.6 acres, of Palestinian land for the expansion of the settlement road Route 437. Israeli forces conduct near-daily raids across the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem. Since the start of the war on Gaza in October 2023, attacks by Israeli forces and occupiers across the West Bank have intensified, killing more than 1,182 Palestinians, injuring around 13,000 and resulting in nearly 24,000 arrests, according to official Palestinian figures.
Trump signs new orders to narrow birthright citizenship US
AGENCIES
President Donald Trump on Thursday signed two executive orders aimed at restricting automatic US citizenship at birth, reviving a constitutional fight just weeks after the Supreme Court struck down his earlier attempt. The new directives take a narrower approach than the order the court rejected on June 30. The administration argues they fall outside that ruling because they focus on what it describes as limited historical exceptions to birthright citizenship and broaden who would be excluded. Speaking at the Oval Office signing ceremony, White House aide Stephen Miller said, "That practice of birth tourism is, as of the signing of this order, hereby banned." Trump, who has made tighter immigration controls a central policy priority, said the Supreme Court's 6-3 decision was a "very unfortunate decision" and complained that "people are building businesses around" birth tourism. WHAT THE NEW ORDERS TARGET The executive orders also seek to limit the rights of children born in the United States to foreign government employees and to people classified as alien enemies. They could additionally affect people born in US territories if Congress passes a proposed law ending automatic citizenship there.
Trump's first 2025 executive order, signed on his first day back in office, had directed federal agencies not to recognise the citizenship of babies born in the United States if neither parent was an American citizen or lawful permanent resident. That policy would have applied to children of people in the country illegally or temporarily. The Supreme Court ruled that earlier order unconstitutional. Chief Justice John Roberts wrote that the framers of the 14th Amendment extended citizenship protections to every free-born person in the country. "Citizenship, then and now, was the right to have rights - to freely participate in our political community. We keep that promise today," he wrote.
Saturday, 8 August 2026 | KARACHI
RENEWED DISPUTE OVER THE 14TH AMENDMENT The 14th Amendment's Citizenship Clause states: "All persons born or naturalised in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside." It has long been understood to guarantee citizenship to babies born in the US, with narrow exceptions including children of foreign diplomats or members of an enemy occupying force. Trump argued that the amendment was adopted "for the babies of slaves" after the Civil War and questioned its present-day application. He said of birth tourism, "That's not the way it's supposed to work. It's a disgrace. They're
buying their way in, and we're not going to let it happen." There are no official figures showing how many foreigners travel to the United States specifically to give birth for citizenship purposes, or what cost that may impose on taxpayers. A 2020 analysis by the Centre for Immigration Studies estimated that between 20,000 and 25,000 mothers came to the US for birth tourism during a year-long period between 2016 and 2017. There were 3.6 million births in the US in 2025. LEGAL CHALLENGES EXPECTED Trump's latest orders are expected to face fresh court challenges. Legal experts said it was unclear what practical effect they might have after the Supreme Court ruling, while immigrant rights advocates said the move was an effort to sidestep the court's decision. Deborah Fleischaker of UnidosUS said, "Just five weeks ago, the Supreme Court made clear that birthright citizenship is not subject to a president's whims, it is a constitutional guarantee that has stood for more than 150 years. Today's executive orders are nothing more than an attempt to get around that ruling." Zain Lakhani of the Women's Refugee Commission said the policy could harm pregnant women seeking lawful entry to the United States "in one of the most vulnerable moments of their lives" and called for guidelines that respect the Supreme Court's decision.
Dallas gathering backs UN-based resolution of Kashmir dispute DALLAS
AGENCIES
A conference held in Dallas on the anniversary of India’s revocation of Article 370 and Article 35A ended with participants adopting a resolution that called for a peaceful, lasting settlement of the Kashmir dispute under relevant United Nations resolutions. The event was organised by Friends of Kashmir and brought together members of the Pakistani and Kashmiri diaspora, community figures and representatives of Sikhs for Justice. Pakistan’s Consul General in Houston, Aftab Chaudhry, attended as chief guest, while Friends of Kashmir Chairperson Ghazala Habib presided over the programme. Speakers voiced solidarity with people in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and discussed concerns arising from India’s 2019 move to withdraw the region’s special constitutional status. Chaudhry said Pakistan would continue to extend diplomatic, political and moral support to the people of IIOJK, adding that the revocation of Article 370 and Article 35A had made the situation in the disputed territory more complex. Habib urged greater global attention to the conerns of Kashmiris and said the Kashmiri and Sikh communities had shared experiences. She also reaffirmed support for joint advocacy on justice and human rights. Other speakers included Aftab Siddiqui, Syed Fayaz Hasan, Ghulam Jahangra and Dr Fareeha Qazi, who called on the international community to take a more active part in efforts aimed at a peaceful resolution of the dispute.
Border Talks: China, India reaffirm commitment to peace along frontier BEIJING/NEW DELHI
STAFF CORRESPONDENT
China and India on Thursday reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and stability along their disputed border as senior officials from both countries held the 36th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination (WMCC) on China-India Border Affairs in New Delhi. According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, the two sides held detailed discussions on boundary delimitation, border management and control, institutional coordination and cross-border cooperation. The meeting concluded with both countries agreeing to maintain close communication through diplomatic and military channels and work jointly to preserve peace and tranquillity in the border areas. The Chinese delegation was led by Hou Yanqi, Director-General of the Department of Boundary and Ocean Affairs at China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while the Indian side was headed by Sujit Ghosh, Joint Secretary (East Asia) at the Ministry of External Affairs. Officials from the foreign affairs, defence, interior and immigration departments of both countries also participated in the dialogue. The WMCC serves as a key bilateral mechanism for addressing border-related issues and promoting confidence-building measures between China and India, with both sides using the platform to strengthen coordination and reduce tensions along the frontier.
China strengthens coordinated disaster response as Typhoon Dolphin enters 48-hour warning zone BEIJING
STAFF CORRESPONDENT
China's meteorological, marine, water resources and agricultural authorities have stepped up coordinated emergency response measures after Typhoon Dolphin entered the country's 48-hour warning zone on Wednesday night. Authorities are leveraging advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and digital twin systems, to conduct early simulations, improve forecasting accuracy and strengthen disaster prevention efforts against the approaching typhoon. According to the National Marine Environmental Forecasting Center (NMEFC), the typhoon is moving steadily westward with a wind field extending approximately 500 to 600 kilometers from its center. Its outer rainbands have already begun affecting the East China Sea, and residents in both coastal and
inland regions are advised to closely monitor its development. Forecasts indicate that coastal waters of the East China Sea may experience significant wave heights of 4 to 7 meters around August 9, with individual wave crests expected to be substantially higher. "The typhoon has an extensive wind field and is expected to slow down after entering China's coastal waters," said Huang Huanqing, chief forecaster with the NMEFC. "Its impact may not be readily apparent from the shoreline, making the dangerous sea conditions difficult to perceive. The public should avoid approaching the coast to watch waves and should not underestimate the risks." The typhoon is also expected to bring prolonged torrential rainfall after making landfall. Saturated soil in many parts of eastern Zhejiang Province could significantly increase the risks of flash floods,
water-logging and geological disasters. The Ministry of Water Resources is using digital twin technology and AI-powered flood modeling to simulate flood evolution and develop targeted contingency plans in advance. Once potential hazards are detected, an intelligent early warning system will automatically notify responsible officials to ensure a timely emergency response. Affected by Typhoon Dolphin, giant waves over 10 meters high surged off the coast of Shitang in Wenling, east China's Zhejiang Province, August 5, 2026. /VCG According to Wang Lin, chief hydrological forecaster with the ministry, provinces including Zhejiang, Fujian, Jiangxi, Hunan, Hubei, Anhui, Jiangsu, Henan and Shandong are expected to experience heavy to torrential rainfall, with isolated areas likely to see extremely heavy downpours. "The public is advised to reduce unnecessary travel and pay close attention to flood
forecasts and flash flood warnings issued by water authorities," Wang said. The typhoon is also expected to pose significant challenges to agricultural production. Along China's coast, aquaculture facilities, including offshore fish cages, face the threat of strong waves. In eastern China, late-season rice, fruits and vegetables are vulnerable to lodging caused by strong winds and farmland inundation. Should the typhoon track further north, major autumn grain-producing regions in the Huang-Huai-
Hai Plain and northeastern China could also be affected by heavy rainfall. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs has urged farmers to clear drainage channels, improve field drainage, harvest mature crops as early as possible, and reinforce greenhouses, orchards and other agricultural facilities against strong winds. Livestock producers have also been advised to strengthen animal shelters, improve drainage systems and prepare for post-disaster disease prevention and control.
NEWS 07
Saturday, 8 August 2026 | KARACHI
CORPORATE CORNER
PIACL Board approves bonus for PIA employees KARACHI / ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT
In its 102nd Board Meeting, and the first following the transition to private management, the Board of Directors of Pakistan International Airlines Corporation Limited (PIACL) has approved a performance bonus equivalent to one month’s basic salary for airline employees.The strategic decision reflects the new leadership's immediate priority to invest in human capital and align the workforce with the airline’s broader transformation and growth strategy.Commenting on the decision, the management highlighted that the gesture aims to recognize the dedication of the staff while energizing teams for upcoming operational milestones, route revivals, and service enhancements."Our workforce is the backbone of PIACL’s revival," the Chairman of the Board noted. "By prioritizing employee welfare and motivation from day one, we are building a foundation of excellence, accountability, and commercial viability to take the national flag carrier to new heights."The decision marks a strong, positive start for the new management as it sets a clear trajectory towards operational reliability, customer-centric service delivery, and sustainable corporate growth.
Renowned hair and beauty makeover artist unveils hair care line of products
CM MARyAM ORDeRS PROVINCe-wIDe SURVey OF UNSAFe BUILDINGS, FAST-TRACKS PDP exeCUTION
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PUNJAB CM DIRECTS IMMEDIATE POST-MONSOON INSPECTION OF DILAPIDATED BUILDINGS TO AVERT FUTURE TRAGEDIES LAHORE
SALEEM JADOON
Chief Minister UNJAB Maryam Nawaz on Thursday directed authorities to conduct a province-wide survey of all dilapidated buildings immediately after the monsoon season to identify potential safety hazards, while ordering the early completion of Phase-I of the Punjab Development Programme (PDP) to accelerate urban infrastructure upgrades across the province. Chairing a special meeting to review progress on the Punjab Development Programme, the chief minister was given a comprehensive briefing on the implementation of development schemes, while deputy commissioners from across Punjab participated through video link. She directed the authorities to submit a detailed impact assessment report on sewerage and drainage projects and reviewed the progress of PDP schemes underway in Vehari, Burewala, Tandlianwala, Jaranwala, Jalalpur Jattan, Sambrial, Muridke, Khudian, Kabirwala, Chak Jhumra, Bhalwal and Attock. The meeting also reviewed develop-
ISLAMABAD
KARACHI The renowned hair and beauty makeover artist known all over for her innovative and inspiring trends Mona J, has recently launched hair care line of products. This is not just another argan oil based cold pressed product. It is the essence and gleaned experience of Mona J, herself after being in the challenging field of makeup and haircare for two decades which is almost twenty years of devoted aspiring work from her.The range of product researched and developed by the master front woman of the brand is not just another in line, which are available in the market. Mona J, created the product like she created herself as a brand and topped in the leading names.Like Mona, herself, delving deep and immersing herself in her profession the haircare product now offered by Mona J, is a definitive result of masterful haircare research and devotion to the craft and art of haircare and beauty.The product is comparable rather if not better than those available worldwide. It took Mona J, at least two years to finalize the products formulas which bagan somewhere in 2019 travelling from Italy to England, Korea and Americas and other countries to bottle and jar this unique formula for you.Similar to the confidence when you leave yourself carefree at Mona J, salons and spa to get the very best you are rest assured getting the very best of a product for your hair by the leading lady in haircare.The product which is already in demand before it's formal launch is set to be worth far more than what it costs in comparison to any given world famous brand. The results, testimonials and feedback are more than satisfactory. They are the results of sheer hard work and binding devotion to the profession of beauty and beautiful hair.
Miftah Ismail meets media representatives in Karachi
KARACHI STAFF REPORT
Former Federal Finance Minister and Secretary General of Awaam Pakistan, Mr. Miftah Ismail, held a meeting with senior media representatives at his office in Karachi.The meeting was attended by Mudasir Alam, Syed Turab Shah, and Javed Qureshi. During the discussion, Mr. Ismail exchanged views on current national issues, economic challenges, and the role of media in strengthening Pakistan’s democratic process. He emphasized the importance of responsible journalism and informed public discourse in addressing the country’s socio-economic problems.Mr. Ismail reiterated that Awaam Pakistan remains committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and people-centric policies. He also appreciated the media’s role in highlighting public issues and fostering debate on key national matters.The interaction concluded with an exchange of ideas on building stronger engagement between political leadership and the media for the larger public interest.
schemes in Sahiwal, Faisalabad, Multan, Gujranwala, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Rawalpindi and Sialkot were also presented during the meeting. The participants were informed that underground storage tanks had been made fully operational in 29 cities, while construction work was in progress in 21 others as part of the province's efforts to strengthen urban drainage infrastructure. CM Maryam Nawaz commended La-
Naqvi sets Sept 30 deadline for completion of Islamabad Safe City expansion STAFF REPORT
STAFF REPORT
ment projects in Kamalia, Toba Tek Singh, Gojra, Ali Pur Chattha, Chichawatni, Daska, Layyah, Sillanwali, Wazirabad, Bahawalnagar and Mailsi. The chief minister directed that a comprehensive case study of PDP PhaseI be prepared and also ordered the compilation of public feedback to assess the programme's effectiveness and identify areas for further improvement. Progress reports on development
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, accompanied by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, visited the Islamabad Safe City Headquarters on Friday and chaired a special meeting to review progress on the Safe City Expansion Project, directing officials to complete the ambitious initiative by September 30. During the briefing, officials informed the minister that overall work on the expansion project has reached 85 percent completion. Installation of the new surveillance network is also 85 percent complete, while 415 kilometres of optical fibre have been laid to support the upgraded system. Work on the data centre, cyber architecture, and cybersecurity infrastruc-
ture has also reached approximately 80 percent completion. Expressing satisfaction over the pace of work, Naqvi stressed that the remaining tasks must be completed within the stipulated timeframe. He said the government’s vision is to transform the Islamabad Safe City into a modern, smart, and world-class institution comparable to those in developed countries. The interior minister said the technologically advanced Safe City system would significantly strengthen public safety through enhanced surveillance, effective monitoring, and rapid emergency response capabilities. He noted that the project would play a vital role in improving law enforcement efficiency and ensuring better security for residents of
MD Horticulture Agency reviews I-Day preparations at Greater Iqbal Park LAHORE
the federal capital. Naqvi also assigned officials the task of completing the state-ofthe-art Fusion Centre within the next three months, describing it as a critical component of the upgraded Safe City network. He further directed the relevant authorities to finalise the Safe City Bill at the earliest and present it before the National Assembly without delay to provide the legal framework necessary for the project’s long-term operation and expansion. The meeting was attended by the Federal Secretary for Interior, the Director General of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), senior Safe City officials, and other relevant officers, who briefed the minister on the progress and future roadmap of the expansion project.
OUP Pakistan to Launch The City Verse, a Nationwide Student Poetry Competition
STAFF REPORT
Managing Director Horticulture Agency Lahore Ahmed Usman Javed visited Greater Iqbal Park and reviewed the ongoing arrangements for the Independence Day celebrations.During the visit, the Managing Director reviewed the arrangements for the spectacular fireworks, lighting and other Independence Day preparations at Minar-e-Pakistan on the night between August 13 and 14. He was also given a detailed briefing by the concerned officers regarding the arrangements.Beautiful green, white and crescent-themed lighting will be installed at Minar-e-Pakistan, while Greater Iqbal Park will also be specially decorated to mark Independence Day.Managing Director Ahmed Usman Javed directed the concerned officers to ensure the timely completion of all necessary arrangements to provide the citizens visiting Greater Iqbal Park with the best possible facilities on Independence Day.He further directed that quality, beautification, cleanliness and timely completion of all arrangements must be ensured. He emphasized that visitors should be provided with a pleasant and well-organized environment to celebrate Independence Day with national spirit and enthusiasm.Additional Managing Directors Tasleem Akhtar Rao and Ahmed Saeed Manj were also present on the occasion, while the concerned directors briefed the Managing Director on the Independence Day
ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT
Oxford University Press Pakistan and The City School Network have signed an MoU to launch The City Verse, a nationwide poetry competition for students in Grades 1–8 across The City School’s 150 plus campuses in Pakistan.Inspired by the Oxford International Primary and Secondary English series, The City Verse extends learning beyond the classroom by providing students with an opportunity to apply their language and creative writing skills through the creation of original poetry. Designed around a project-based learning framework, the competition encourages creativity, self-expression, and independent learning. Entries will be evaluated by an independent jury, with finalists and national winners selected from across the country.The collaboration reflects the shared commitment of OUP Pakistan and The City School Network to promoting literacy and enriching learning opportunities for students nationwide.
hore Deputy Commissioner Captain Ali Ijaz and Gujranwala Deputy Commissioner Naveed Ahmad Sheikh for their outstanding performance during the recent monsoon spell. She particularly appreciated Captain Ali Ijaz for remaining at the Baghbanpura building collapse site for 27 hours until the last trapped citizen had been rescued from the debris. The chief minister also expressed satisfaction over the completion of rainwater drainage operations in Gujranwala within six hours despite record rainfall. Maryam Nawaz said the installation of new sewerage systems had significantly improved drainage conditions in several cities. She praised deputy commissioners, assistant commissioners, WASA, and Suthra Punjab for their commendable performance during the monsoon season and lauded officers and officials who worked tirelessly day and night to facilitate the public throughout the rains. CM lauds security forces for successful anti-terror operations Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif expressed gratitude over the success of the security forces in various operations against terrorists and paid tribute to their professionalism in eliminating 10 terrorists in Azam Warsak and Dir.
Govt launches National Cultural Narrative to Promote Heritage, Tourism, and Inclusive Development
ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT
The Government of Pakistan officially launched "Naqoosh-i-Watan: National Cultural Narrative" at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA), Islamabad, bringing together federal ministers, senior government officials, development partners, academia, civil society organizations, and the private sector to reaffirm a shared commitment to preserving Pakistan's rich cultural heritage and promoting culture as a driver of sustainable development. The ceremony commenced with the National Anthem and recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by welcome remarks from the Federal Secretary, National Heritage & Culture Division, and opening remarks by the Federal Minister for National Heritage & Culture. The programme also featured presentations on the National Cultural Narrative, cultural performances by Lok Virsa, discussions on the creative economy and community development, and remarks from senior government leaders before the formal launch of the National Cultural Narrative. Speaking during the session on "Culture, Tourism and Community Development," Ms. Sumeira Hashwani, Chief Executive Officer of Hashoo Foundation, highlighted that Pakistan's cultural heritage is not merely a legacy to preserve but one of the country's greatest assets for inclusive economic growth and sustainable development. She emphasized the importance of educating young people to appreciate the country's diverse civilizations, languages, traditions, crafts, landscapes, and biodiversity, noting that preserving culture and protecting natural heritage are investments in the nation's identity, economy, and future.
PTCL, PPAF mark 79th Independence Anniversary by providing safe drinking water to 150,000 people in South Punjab and Sindh
Training session equips police officers with digital procurement procedures, PPRA rules LAHORE
STAFF REPORT
Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abdul Kareem on Friday met Punjab Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) Managing Director Sahibzadi Wasimah Umer to review the Punjab government's modern e-procurement system, discuss the implementation of PPRA Rules, and explore measures to fur-
ther strengthen efficiency, transparency and accountability in the government procurement process. The meeting, held at the Central Police Office (CPO), coincided with a special training session for Punjab Police officers and officials on the features, operational procedures, and regulatory framework of the PPRA e-procurement system, according to a statement issued by the CPO.
Speaking on the occasion, Punjab IGP Abdul Kareem described the training initiative as a significant step towards promoting transparent, technology-driven governance within the police department. He said the adoption of the online e-procurement system would ensure that government procurement is conducted strictly in accordance with the prescribed rules and regulations while substantially reducing both processing time and operational costs. The IGP said the integration of modern technology into procurement procedures would further enhance the department's overall performance, governance standards, and institutional efficiency. At the conclusion of the meeting, the IGP and the PPRA Managing Director exchanged commemora-
ISLAMABAD STAFF REPORT
The country’s leading telecom and ICT services provider, Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL), in partnership with Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF), has successfully completed a large-scale clean drinking water initiative, providing sustainable access to safe and healthy potable water to more than 150,000 people across the water-stressed regions of South Punjab and Sindh.The initiative addresses one of the most pressing challenges faced by communities whose water sources were severely damaged or contaminated during the devastating floods of 2024. The project delivers a comprehensive portfolio of climate-resilient water solutions, including Reverse Osmosis (RO) plants, rainwater harvesting systems, bio-sand filters, hand pumps and tube-wells to ensure long-term access to safe drinking water in some of Pakistan’s most vulnerable areas.
MURAD SAYS SINDH WILL NOT ALLOW BLOODSHED OVER PROVINCES DEBATE news
SCBA backs new provinces proposal, calls it key to better governance ISLAMABAD
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KARACHI STAFF REPORT
INDH Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Thursday said no one would be allowed to trigger bloodshed over the debate on creating new provinces, while insisting that any such move can only proceed through the constitutional process and has been repeatedly rejected by the Sindh Assembly. Speaking to the media after a mining technical conference organised by the Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company, Shah said the Constitution requires a two-thirds majority for the creation of new provinces. He said there was no objection to debate, but added that the Sindh Assembly had unanimously opposed the idea.
Shah also pushed back against claims of a collapsing system and told critics to “visit Thar” to see development on the ground. He said people continued to place their trust in the provincial leadership. On public demonstrations, the chief minister said peaceful protest is a fundamental right, but stressed that rallies must follow due process. He said protests should be held with administrative permission and added that causing inconvenience to the public was not acceptable. Turning to agriculture, Shah said the provincial cabinet had approved the procurement of 500,000 tonnes of wheat, with room to raise the figure to one million tonnes. He said the government’s priority was to protect local farmers. Mining conference and investment pitch Addressing the conference earlier, Shah said he hoped the gathering would
Armed robbers loot Rs6.5m from Edhi centre meant for volunteers' salaries KARACHI
STAFF REPORT
Armed robbers stormed an Edhi Foundation centre in Karachi's Sohrab Goth on Friday and made off with Rs6.5 million in cash that had just been withdrawn from a bank to pay salaries of the charity's volunteers, prompting a police investigation and directives from the Sindh government for the swift arrest of those involved. According to Edhi Foundation head Saad Edhi, the robbery took place at the organisation's Sohrab Goth centre shortly after staff members arrived with the cash withdrawn from a bank for disbursement among the foundation's volunteers. He said four armed men entered the centre soon afterwards and carried out the robbery. "The men came and they knew exactly who had the money, where it was kept, and what the situation was," Saad Edhi said. "They had precise information. The Edhi Sohrab Goth center is a very large facility, and they knew exactly where they had to go," he added. CCTV footage shared by the Edhi Foundation showed three men with their faces covered by cloth and carrying firearms as they walked inside the centre during the robbery. Police collected evidence from the crime scene and launched an investigation, reviewing CCTV footage from the surrounding area to identify the suspects. Investigators are also examining the robbers' escape route and tracking their movements after the incident.
Five Broad Peak victims flown to Skardu as search goes on ISLAMABAD
NEWS DESK
The bodies of five foreign climbers killed in the Broad Peak avalanche, including British-Nepali mountaineer Nirmal Purja, were airlifted to Skardu by a Pakistan Army helicopter on Thursday, while rescuers continued looking for two missing members of the expedition. The avalanche hit on July 30 as a 10-member international team was moving from Camp 2 to Camp 3 on Broad Peak. The expedition was led by 43-year-old Purja on the world’s 12th-highest mountain. All 10 climbers in the team were killed in the disaster. Thursday’s helicopter operation brought five of the victims to Skardu after what was described as one of the most difficult recovery efforts on the mountain. Search teams are still trying to trace the remaining two missing climbers.
The Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) on Friday endorsed Interior Minister Syed Mohsin Naqvi’s proposal to create new provinces, describing it as a constitutional step that could improve governance, promote balanced development and strengthen political stability. The endorsement came during a full court reference at the Supreme Court held in honour of Justice Musarrat Hilali on her retirement. The ceremony, presided over by Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi, was attended by Supreme Court judges, law officers, representatives of the Pakistan Bar Council (PBC), members of the legal fraternity and court officials. Addressing the reference, SCBA President Haroonur Rashid said the association supported the creation of new provinces through constitutional means, arguing that devolving admin-
help attract more investment into Pakistan’s mineral sector. He described the Thar coal project as a successful example of cooperation among local communities, investors and the government, and said no mining venture could succeed without local participation.
istrative authority would enhance governance, ensure equitable economic development and improve service delivery at the grassroots level. He said additional provinces would create equal opportunities for development, strengthen political stability and help address the country's growing administrative and economic challenges, ultimately improving the quality of life for citizens. The proposal follows recent remarks by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who urged political parties to build consensus on the creation of new provinces, arguing that structural reforms were essential to improve governance and address Pakistan's longstanding administrative issues. Separately, the Pakistan Bar Council, during its 250th meeting in Islamabad, reaffirmed that any proposal to establish new provinces must strictly adhere to constitutional provisions and be implemented through parliamentary procedure and national consensus.
Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company CEO Aamir Iqbal said specialists from Germany, the UK, Japan and the Middle East attended the event. He said Pakistan possessed large untapped gold and copper reserves worth billions of dollars, but modern mining methods were needed to extract them.
IHC asks government to explain delay in judges’ appointment summary ISLAMABAD
NEWS DESK
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Thursday signalled that it wants the federal government to clarify the status of a long-pending summary on high court judges’ appointments before deciding whether a petition over presidential inaction can be entertained. Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir heard the petition filed by Advocate Luqman Zafar Chaudhry through counsel Zahid Asif Chaudhry, challenging President Asif Ali Zardari’s failure to approve a summary sent by the prime minister after recommendations by the Judicial Commission of Pakistan for appointments to the Islamabad, Lahore, Sindh and Balochistan high courts. The plea argues that the presi-
dent has neither approved nor returned the summary and says the Constitution does not permit “indefinite silence or inaction”. It contends that the delay has held up judicial appointments and worsened the shortage of judges in the superior courts. During the hearing, Justice Tahir repeatedly questioned whether a constitutional writ could be issued against the president and asked the petitioner’s counsel to point to any precedent where a court had directed the head of state to perform a constitutional duty. The judge said, “We are asking whether a writ can be issued against the president,” while pressing for a judicial precedent on the point. Zahid Asif Chaudhry urged the court to first seek details from the government on the pending
summary. He said, “At least ask the government what the status of the summary is,” and added that there were reports the government might issue the appointments notification within the next 48 hours. The bench also asked which authority was empowered to issue the appointments notification. Counsel told the court that the Ministry of Law ordinarily issues the notification after presidential approval, but argued that since more than 15 days had passed, “the competent authority should issue the notification” if the president had failed to act. The petition seeks directions for the Presidency to disclose when it received the summary and explain the reasons for the delay. It also asks the court to direct the president, through his secretary, to approve the summary immediately.
After 12 surgeries in 55 days, Dr Mahnoor breaks her silence on surviving Quetta acid attack ISLAMABAD
NEWS DESK
The acid attack on Dr Mahnoor at Civil Hospital Quetta shocked Pakistan when news of the incident emerged in June. Now, after weeks of treatment and recovery, the young doctor has spoken publicly about what happened to her — and revealed just how difficult the battle has been since that day. Dr Mahnoor, a second-year General Surgery resident at Civil Hospital Quetta, said she was on duty on June 6 when an unknown man knocked on the door of her room. She opened it. There was no one there. A few moments later, there was another knock. When she opened the door again, the man allegedly threw acid at her. "In a matter of seconds, my life changed forever," she wrote while recounting the incident. She ran outside screaming in
pain as colleagues rushed to help her and arranged emergency treatment. She was later airlifted to Aga Khan Hospital in Karachi for specialised care. The attack had already triggered nationwide outrage, with doctors protesting over security arrangements at hospitals and authorities promising action. But for Dr Mahnoor, the story did not end with the attack. It was only the beginning of a much longer battle. Her first surgery was performed on June 7. Then came weeks of treatment, pain and uncertainty. She said her face and hands remained wrapped in bandages as she went through one procedure after another. Over the next 55 days, she underwent 12 surgeries, including skin grafting. "Every operation was another step in my fight to survive and heal," she said. And now, after spending weeks in hospital, Dr Mahnoor has
finally been discharged. Her recovery, however, is far from over. She acknowledged that there are still challenges ahead but said she has chosen to face them with hope rather than fear. The doctor also thanked her family, friends, colleagues and the medical teams who supported her throughout the ordeal, saying their prayers and care gave her the strength to continue. But perhaps the strongest part of her message came at the end. The attack may have left permanent scars, she said, but it did not take away her courage, dreams or determination. "I am still a doctor. I am still a fighter." Dr Mahnoor's case had already become one of the most widely discussed incidents involving violence against a medical professional in Pakistan this year. Her latest message now offers something that was missing from the initial headlines: Her own voice.
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Journalists’ bodies demand reversal of new foreign media travel curbs 4:40
ISLAMABAD
Jamaat-e-Islami protests against inflation, higher fuel prices, the petroleum levy and taxes disrupted traffic in multiple cities on Friday, with party workers staging sit-ins and rallies on highways, urban arteries and motorway links across the country. In Karachi, traffic congestion intensified on key roads as pressure built on both carriageways between Lasbela Chowk and Numaish Chowrangi, on roads connecting Tibet Centre with Numaish Chowrangi, and on both sides of the route between Numaish and Shahrah-e-Quaideen. A traffic police spokesperson said personnel remained deployed to keep vehicles moving. Road links affected across provinces In Sindh, JI workers blocked the National Highway in Matiari, causing long
queues on the Karachi-Punjab route. The party also held a rally from Ghani Khan Park to the Press Club in Tando Allahyar, while protesters staged a sit-in at DC Chowk in Makli, Thatta. In Shikarpur, a sit-in on Rustam Road hit traffic on highway links to Kashmore, Jacobabad and Sukkur, and a separate protest was held at Hyder Chowk in Hyderabad. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, demonstrators blocked traffic at Fawara Chowk in Abbottabad over taxes on petroleum products. Protests in Bajaur disrupted movement on the main Peshawar-Bajaur highway, while in Peshawar, party workers blocked the motorway toll plaza. In Balochistan, JI protests blocked the Peshawar-Chaman-Punjab highway at Kuchlak and the road to Jacobabad in Mastung's Dasht area. Demonstrations were also held in Nasirabad, Jaffarabad, Jhal Magsi,
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ISLAMABAD
STAFF REPORT
Pakistan’s leading journalists’ union and a major rights body have called on the government to withdraw newly issued rules requiring prior approval for foreign media reporting trips outside Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi, saying the move will further tighten restrictions on journalism. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan said the Foreign Media Facilitation Guidelines 2026, introduced by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, would undermine independent coverage rather than support it. In a statement posted on X, the commission said the policy “rather than facilitating journalism” would “risk deterring independent reporting on matters of public interest”. HRCP described the measure as part of a broader pattern of pressure on the media landscape in Pakistan. It said the country had seen “arbitrary curbs on reporting”, “increasing censorship” and “legal and administrative barriers”, adding that “the space for independent journalism has continued to shrink”. The commission also said making reporters seek state permission before travelling to large parts of the country sent “a chilling message: that critical reporting is unwelcome”. The rights body urged the government to “withdraw these restrictive measures” and meet its “constitutional and international obligation to protect freedom of expression”. The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists also denounced the notification, with PFUJ President Afzal Butt and Secretary General Arshad Ansari calling it an assault on free expression and press freedom. They said the policy had effectively stopped foreign journalists from visiting most parts of Pakistan beyond the three major cities and had also limited Pakistani journalists working for international media organisations. Questioning how correspondents were expected to continue their work under the new arrangements, the PFUJ leadership asked, “How can foreign correspondents and their Pakistani colleagues perform their professional duties after this notification?” The union said the restrictions would hurt Pakistan’s reputation and warned that journalists attached to global media outlets could lose their jobs if they were unable to travel for assignments. PFUJ demanded immediate withdrawal of the notification and said that if the government did not reverse the decision, it would have no option but to stage protests and demonstrations. The union said such steps “are taken in banana republics, not in countries that claim to follow democratic principles”.
Family challenges new medical board in Mir Raza Ali exhumation case KARACHI
NEWS DESK
A day after a judicial magistrate ordered the exhumation of Mir Raza Ali’s body for a fresh postmortem, Sindh health authorities reconstituted the medical board tasked with the procedure, triggering objections from the businessman’s family and lawyer. An official notification replaced the original eightmember judicial medical board with a five-member panel. Karachi Police Surgeon Dr Sumaiyya Syed remains convener, while the other members were changed to Prof Dr Zakiuddin, head of forensic medicine at Dow University of Health Sciences, Prof Dr Qazi Akbar of Liaquat University, Jamshoro, Dr Abid Hussain Chang as pathologist, and Hyderabad Police Surgeon Dr Waseem. Lawyer Jibran Nasir said the board had been formed only a day earlier and then altered overnight without explanation. He said the family was unhappy with the revised panel and would move the court against the latest notification. Nasir added that the family had already made clear it would not allow the exhumation to proceed if even one member of the original board was replaced. He also questioned why doctors from Karachi had been removed and specialists from other cities included, saying no reasons had been given for the changes. Nasir said the family would not permit a fresh postmortem under the newly constituted board. Ali’s father, Mir Hussain, said the development had strengthened the family’s belief that influential people were involved in his son’s killing. He has repeatedly rejected any suggestion of suicide and insisted that Ali was murdered. Hussain also said injuries were visible on his son’s head during the final washing before burial and that skin was missing from both palms. He has previously alleged that his son’s face, body and fingerprints had been burned, and questioned why the initial medical report referred only to a gunshot wound and did not mention what he described as signs of torture.
JI highway blockades snarl traffic in cities nationwide NEWS DESK
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Sohbatpur and Kachhi. A sit-in at the main chowk in Nasirabad shut the SindhBalochistan National Highway, while another at Bela Cross on the N-25 National Highway left travellers facing long queues. Marches in Islamabad and Punjab In Islamabad, JI workers gathered near Golra Mor before marching towards 26 Number Chungi. Senior party leader Liaquat Baloch joined the protest and said it was being held against the increase in petroleum product prices. In Punjab, demonstrations were reported in Dera Ghazi Khan, where Sangam Chowk, a junction linking all four provinces, was closed and traffic backed up. A sit-in at Pul 47 disrupted movement in Sargodha, while a rally from Liaquat Bagh to Committee Chowk in Rawalpindi drew a large number of party workers. Protesters said the government had completely failed to control inflation.
Published by Asad Nizami at Plot No 66-C, 1st Floor, 21st Commercial Street, Phase-II (Extension), DHA Karachi and printed at Ibn-e-Hassan Printing Press, Hockey Stadium, Karachi, for PT Print (Pvt) Limited. Ph: 021-32640318 . Email: newsroom@pakistantoday.com.pk