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‘Make-oR-bReak’ MoMent aMiD global SPotlight aS PM hailS US–iRan talkS aS hiStoRic Saturday, 11 April, 2026 | 22 Shawwal, 1447
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PREMIER SHEHBAZ URGES NATION TO PRAY FOR SUCCESS OF ISLAMABAD NEGOTIATIONS AMID INTENSIFIED EFFORTS FOR LASTING PEACE
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SAYS DIALOGUE HAS REPLACED WAR AS GULF TENSIONS EASE, CREDITING PAKISTAN’S MEDIATION IN SECURING FRAGILE CEASEFIRE g
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Rs 20.00 | Vol XVII No 16 | 8 Pages | Lahore Edition
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LAUDS FIELD MARSHAL ASIM MUNIR, FM DAR FOR ‘HISTORIC’ DIPLOMATIC ROLE IN DOUSING FLAMES OF WAR AND BRINGING WARRING PARTIES TO DIALOGUE
ANNOUNCES VISA-ON-ARRIVAL FACILITY FOR FOREIGN DELEGATES ATTENDING ISLAMABAD TALKS
US–iran talks must deliver peace as world has no ‘Plan b,’ warns bilawal ISLAMABAD
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VANCE SIGNALS OPTIMISM AHEAD OF HIGH-STAKES NEGOTIATIONS AS IRANIAN DELEGATION ARRIVES
PM reaffirms strong commitment to expand cooperation with Saudia
STAFF REPORT
ISLAMABAD
SAlEEm jAdOOn
RIME MINISTER Shehbaz Sharif on Friday described the upcoming US–Iran negotiations scheduled in Islamabad on Saturday (tomorrow) as a “make-orbreak” moment, calling it a “proud occasion not only for Pakistan but for the entire Muslim world,” and urging the nation to pray for their success amid intensified efforts to transform a fragile ceasefire into lasting peace. In a televised address to the nation late Friday night, the prime minister said he was speaking at a “historic moment” when dialogue had replaced the “language of war in the Gulf region.”
“This stage is equivalent to a make-orbreak situation, and the entire nation should pray for the success of the negotiations,” he said, adding that parties which had been engaged in conflict had now agreed to resolve their disputes through dialogue. The remarks came as Islamabad prepares to host high-stakes talks between Washington and Tehran following a conflict that began on Feb 28, when joint US–Israeli strikes triggered hostilities that spread across the Gulf region, disrupting global energy markets and key shipping routes, including the Strait of Hormuz. Pakistan has positioned itself as a mediator, facilitating engagement between both sides after advocating a two-week ceasefire earlier this week.
Diesel price cut by Rs134.81, petrol down Rs11.83
Former foreign minister and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Friday said the world does not have a “plan B” if the US–Iran talks fail to produce the desired results, stressing that “negotiations must lead to a peaceful resolution of the Middle East conflict.” Bilawal expressed these views in an interview with Sky News, where he was asked whether, in the absence of a formal treaty following the two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran, there existed any “plan B” to prevent a return to full-scale hostilities. In response, he said: “I think the international community doesn’t have a plan B. Our plan A needs to be achieving a peaceful resolution to this conflict and a more permanent peace. A war of this nature, a war of this scale, is not an option.” He further said it was the responsibility of all stakeholders and countries to push the parties towards peace to avoid being drawn into a wider regional escalation. His remarks came a day before Islamabad hosts peace talks between US and Iranian delegations, following Pakistan’s role in brokering a temporary ceasefire between the two sides.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong commitment to expanding cooperation with Saudi Arabia in all spheres, particularly in trade, investment, and economic development, during a meeting with Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Jadaan, state media reported. The Saudi finance minister, who was on a one-day visit to Islamabad, called on PM Shehbaz at the Prime Minister’s House on Friday evening, according to a statement issued by the PM Office (PMO).
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ISLAMABAD
Pakistan's diplomatic push gains global backing as ceasefire strains rise in Lebanon ISLAMABAD
ISLAMABAD
AhmAd AhmAdAni
In a major relief for inflation-hit consumers, the government has reduced petroleum prices, slashing petrol by Rs11.83 per litre and High-Speed Diesel (HSD) by a massive Rs134.81 per litre, effective April 11, 2026. According to a notification issued by the Petroleum Division, the price of petrol has been brought down from Rs378.41 to Rs366.58 per litre, while HSD has witnessed a steep reduction from Rs520.35 to Rs385.54 per litre. The sharp decline in diesel prices is being seen as particularly significant, given its widespread use across key sectors of the economy. Petrol is primarily used in motorcycles, cars, rickshaws, and small private vehicles, making it the most relevant fuel for urban consumers and middle-income households. A reduction in petrol prices is expected to ease commuting costs and provide some cushion against rising living expenses. In contrast, High-Speed Diesel plays a critical role in heavy transport, including trucks, buses, and intercity freight movement, as well as in agricultural machinery such as tractors and tube wells. The substantial cut in diesel prices is likely to lower transportation costs, which could eventually translate into reduced prices of essential commodities, including food items. It is pertinent to mention here that the extraordinary reduction in HSD prices may help curb inflationary pressures, as transport and logistics costs form a significant component of overall pricing in Pakistan.
Sindh enforces 9pm shutdown: markets, malls to close under austerity drive KARACHI
miAn AbRAR
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has intensified diplomatic outreach amid escalating regional tensions, receiving separate telephone calls from French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot and UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, as Pakistan’s role in brokering a key ceasefire continues to draw international recognition. During his conversation with Barrot, the French foreign minister congratulated Pakistan for its pivotal role in facilitating the initial ceasefire understanding between Iran and the United States. He also expressed strong support for Islamabad’s continued diplomatic engagement aimed at securing lasting peace and stability in an increasingly volatile region. The two sides held detailed discussions on unfolding regional developments, particularly the deteriorating situation in Lebanon. Both ministers expressed serious concern over reported violations of the ceasefire, stressing that all parties must adhere fully to the agreement to prevent further escalation. They underscored that respect for the truce remains essential to sustaining fragile diplomatic gains. Reaffirming their shared commitment to deepening Pakistan-France relations, the leaders agreed to expand cooperation across economic, trade, and diplomatic spheres. They also resolved to remain in close contact as the situation evolves. In a separate high-level exchange, UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper commended Pakistan’s diplomatic role, acknowledging its contribution to efforts that led to the Iran-related ceasefire. According to the Foreign Office, she paid tribute to Islamabad’s constructive engagement and reiterated Britain’s support for Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to promote durable peace in the region. Dar and Cooper also reaffirmed the strength of Pakistan-UK bilateral relations, agreeing to further enhance cooperation in multiple areas. The interaction was described as a positive and forward-looking
STAFF REPORT
STAFF REPORT
engagement, reflecting growing international backing for Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives. These diplomatic contacts come against the backdrop of renewed violence in Lebanon, where Israeli military operations have intensified despite the ceasefire framework. The escalation follows Pakistan’s mediation efforts that helped broker a temporary truce between Iran and the United States after weeks of heightened confrontation. Reports indicate that Israel has carried out some of the deadliest strikes in Lebanon since hostilities with Hezbollah escalated, resulting in significant civilian casualties. Lebanese authorities have reported hundreds killed and over a thousand injured, raising fears that continued violence could derail fragile peace efforts and trigger a broader regional crisis. Amid the escalating situation, former US President Donald Trump has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to scale back military operations, expressing hope that a wider ceasefire could hold. His remarks came after Washington announced a two-week truce with Iran, with further negotiations planned to achieve a longer-term settlement. Pakistan has maintained that the ceasefire should not remain limited to the US-Iran dimension but must also extend to Lebanon to ensure comprehensive regional stability. Officials in Islamabad have repeatedly warned that continued Israeli strikes risk undermining the agreement and weakening prospects for meaningful dialogue.
The Sindh government on Friday notified that all shops, markets and shopping malls in Karachi and other divisional headquarters of the province will close at 9pm throughout the week, including Saturday and Sunday, as part of austerity measures and in line with the federal government’s decision. In a notification dated April 10, the provincial government further stated that markets, shops and shopping malls in districts other than divisional headquarters will close at 8pm. It added that tandoors (as standalone shops), milk and dairy shops, bakeries, medical stores and pharmacies, medical laboratories, clinics and hospitals, as well as fuel stations, will remain exempt from the restriction. According to the notification, hotels, restaurants and food outlets will be allowed to operate between 7pm and 11:30pm for dinner services, while home delivery and takeaway operations will remain exempt from any timing restrictions. It further stated that marriage halls and banquet facilities across the province will be allowed to operate between 8pm and midnight. The move comes as part of a broader set of austerity and energy conservation measures adopted by governments in recent weeks amid concerns linked to the global fuel situation triggered by the US–Israel conflict on Iran. On April 6, the federal government, in a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, decided that markets and shopping malls across the country— except Sindh—would close by 8pm as part of energy conservation efforts. It was also decided that bakeries, restaurants, tandoors and other eateries could remain open until 10pm, while marriage halls, marquees and other commercial wedding venues would close by 10pm. Addressing the implementation of austerity measures, the prime minister said consultations with stakeholders were underway to ensure smooth enforcement.
Islamabad locks down as Pakistan prepares for crucial US-Iran peace talks ISLAMABAD
RAjA KAShiF AShFAq
Pakistan has intensified preparations for high-stakes negotiations between the United States and Iran, set to take place in Islamabad, with efforts focused on turning a fragile two-week ceasefire into a lasting peace agreement. Chairing a high-level review meeting, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi directed authorities to ensure foolproof security and exceptional arrangements for visiting foreign delegations. Officials decided that the Red Zone in the federal capital will be completely sealed during the talks, with access limited strictly to authorised personnel. A dedicated control room has been established at the Interior Ministry to oversee security and administrative arrangements in
real time. The talks follow Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s invitation to both Washington and Tehran after Pakistan played a key role in facilitating the ceasefire that came into effect on April 8. The upcoming negotiations come in the aftermath of a devastating conflict that erupted on February 28, when the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes targeting Iran’s leadership and military infrastructure. The escalation resulted in over 2,000 deaths within five weeks and pushed the region to the brink of a wider war. In retaliation, Iran blocked the strategic Strait of Hormuz and carried out strikes on Israeli targets and US bases across the Gulf, severely disrupting regional stability and global energy flows. The ceasefire agreement, though holding for now, remains fragile. Washington has re-
portedly put forward a 15-point proposal focusing on curbing Iran’s enriched uranium programme, limiting ballistic missile capabilities, easing sanctions, and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Tehran, however, has countered with a 10-point plan demanding control over the strait, the imposition of transit tolls, a complete halt to regional military operations, and the lifting of all sanctions. Pakistan’s mediation efforts have drawn widespread international praise, with global powers backing Islamabad’s role in de-escalating tensions and facilitating dialogue. Delegations from both sides are expected to arrive in Islamabad for Saturday’s talks. The US team will be led by Vice President JD Vance, accompanied by special envoy Steve Witkoff and senior advisor Jared Kushner. On the Iranian side, Parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghal-
ibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi are expected to lead the delegation. It remains unclear whether representatives of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) will participate. Ahead of the “Islamabad Talks,” authorities have enforced heightened security
measures, including the announcement of local holidays in Islamabad and Rawalpindi on April 9 and 10. Educational institutions, as well as public and private offices in the twin cities, have remained closed to ensure smooth and secure conduct of the negotiations.