PAKISTAN
'Monumental setback' for PM Modi's foreign policy: Congress on Pakistan's role in US-Iran peace moves
Pakistan is reportedly hosting US-Iran peace talks. Congress criticizes Prime Minister Modi's foreign policy, stating Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir's closeness to US President Donald Trump is a setback. The party claims India needs a diplomatic strategy overhaul, which Modi is incapable of achieving. This situation highlights a shift in regional engagement.
Committed to advancing regional peace and security: Pakistan PM to Iranian President
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian. Sharif highlighted Pakistan's dedication to regional peace and security. He thanked Iran for sending a delegation for talks in Islamabad. The leaders discussed the current regional situation. Sharif also updated Pezeshkian on his meetings with leaders from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkiye. Pezeshkian acknowledged Pakistan's commitment to peace efforts.
Pakistan's military chief Asim Munir takes lead on US-Iran talks in diplomatic blitz
Pakistan's military chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, is in Tehran carrying US proposals for a second round of US-Iran peace talks. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his foreign minister are engaging regional allies. This coordinated effort aims to advance the peace process. The talks are expected to take place in Islamabad this week. Security is being heightened in the capital.
Pakistan is juggling blackouts and Iran diplomacy
Pakistan is emerging as a key mediator in efforts to ease tensions between the US and Iran, with talks likely to be hosted in Islamabad. However, this diplomatic role contrasts with a worsening domestic power crisis, as the country faces prolonged outages due to LNG shortages and poor coordination in water and energy management.
Iran not planning to attend talks with US in Pakistan
Iran is not currently planning to attend talks with the United States, state media said, after President Donald Trump ordered US negotiators to travel to Pakistan on Monday, just days before a ceasefire in the Middle East expires. Iran and the United States, along with Israel, are just three days away from the end of the two-week ceasefire that halted the Middle East war, ignited by surprise US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28.
Pakistan to repay USD 1.5 billion outstanding UAE debt by April 23
Pakistan's central bank plans to settle a USD 1.5 billion loan with the United Arab Emirates by April 23. This move follows a USD 2 billion repayment to the UAE, supported by a USD 2 billion deposit from Saudi Arabia. The country anticipates a USD 1.2 billion disbursement from the International Monetary Fund.
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Pakistan's Asim Munir may be a 'red flag' & 'liability' for Trump & co, US intel warns: Report
US intelligence flags Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir as a "red flag" for the Trump administration due to his alleged deep ties with Iran's military leadership while mediating US-Iran talks. Concerns persist over Pakistan's reliability as an intermediary, despite Trump's public praise and reliance on Munir for regional de-escalation efforts.
Pakistan only a messenger; US-Iran deal complex despite peace push: Foreign affairs expert Sanjeev Srivastava
India supports US-Iran diplomatic efforts, emphasizing dialogue and de-escalation. Defence expert Sanjeev Srivastava stated Pakistan's role is limited to that of a facilitator and messenger, lacking the credibility to influence negotiations. He noted China and other nations, including India, have encouraged dialogue, creating a positive environment for talks.
Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt FMs meet in Antalya
Foreign Ministers from Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and Egypt met in Antalya. They discussed strengthening cooperation in areas of mutual interest. The ministers also exchanged views on regional dynamics. Dialogue and diplomacy were reaffirmed for peace and stability. This meeting follows previous talks between the four nations.
Pakistan's military chief concludes three-day visit to Iran
Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, concluded a three-day visit to Tehran. He met with top Iranian leaders to discuss ending the Middle East war. This visit underscores Pakistan's commitment to a negotiated settlement and regional peace. Talks between the US and Iran are expected soon in Islamabad. Iran also issued a warning regarding the Strait of Hormuz.
Pakistan keen for early approval for next IMF tranche: Aurangzeb
Pakistan is eager for the International Monetary Fund's next loan installment. A Fund team will visit next month for crucial review talks. This comes as Pakistan's Finance Minister met IMF officials in Washington. The country aims to secure funds to bolster its economy. Discussions also covered global economic shocks and reform progress.
Sarfaraz named Pakistan's test coach for Bangladesh series
Pakistan has named Sarfaraz Ahmed as the new head coach for their Test team. He will lead the squad for the upcoming two-match series in Bangladesh. This appointment follows the departure of Jason Gillespie. Shan Masood will continue as captain. Four new players have been included in the 16-member squad. Umar Gul will serve as the bowling coach.
Next round of US-Iran talks likely to be held in Pakistan on Monday: Iranian sources
Iranian and American negotiators are set to meet in Islamabad on Monday. This development signals renewed diplomatic efforts to ease tensions in West Asia. Leaders from Qatar and Turkey have also met Pakistan's Prime Minister, discussing de-escalation. Pakistan's Army Chief recently visited Tehran, aiming to prepare for further talks.
Pakistan power cuts deepen as hydropower slump hits supply
Pakistan faces a doubled electricity shortfall this week. Hydropower output has significantly decreased. This situation has led to extended power outages in northern Pakistan. The country had anticipated minimal impact from LNG supply disruptions. However, the decline in hydropower has worsened the power deficit. Pakistan is relying on fuel oil and expects hydropower to recover.
Pakistan air force escorted Iranian negotiators after U.S. talks, sources say
Pakistan’s air force escorted Iranian negotiators back home after inconclusive talks with the U.S. in Islamabad, deploying fighter jets and surveillance aircraft amid concerns the delegation could be targeted. Sources said the unusual security operation followed fears—raised by Iranian officials—of a possible threat, even as diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran are expected to continue.
No dates set for second round of Iran-US talks: Pakistan
Pakistan stated no dates are set for a second round of US-Iran talks, amidst reports of ongoing diplomatic exchanges. Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi emphasized the confidential nature of the negotiations, which involved discussions on the nuclear issue and peace in Lebanon. These efforts align with Pakistan's commitment to advancing peace through dialogue and cooperation.
Pakistan Navy successfully test-fires locally developed ship-launched anti-ship missile
Pakistan Navy has successfully test-fired a new ship-launched anti-ship missile. This indigenously developed weapon can hit targets at long distances. The missile features advanced guidance and maneuverability. It can engage targets at sea and on land with high precision. The Chief of the Naval Staff witnessed the successful launch. This marks a significant advancement in Pakistan's naval technology.
US-Iran talks: Iranian delegation alters return route from Pakistan over assassination threat as intelligence reports flag risk
An Iranian delegation altered its return flight from Pakistan after receiving threats. The team used decoy aircraft and rerouted their plane to Mashhad. From there, they traveled to Tehran by land. This occurred amid high tensions and collapsed talks with the US. Negotiations were aimed at ending a conflict impacting West Asia and global economy.
Iran war: Pakistan plans two hours of daily power outage to dodge rising bills
Pakistan plans two-hour evening power cuts to manage rising energy costs amid the Iran war, which has disrupted fuel supplies and increased reliance on expensive fossil fuels. The outages aim to control peak demand and limit electricity price hikes, with authorities directing utilities to ensure scheduled, transparent cuts.
Pakistan’s KSE-100 surges 10,000 points in 2 days on US-Iran peace talk optimism
Pakistan's stock markets surged for a second consecutive session, with the KSE-100 index gaining significantly amid hopes of renewed US-Iran peace talks. Hopes for a resolution to the conflict, potentially restoring oil flows, have boosted investor confidence. This follows a period of high volatility, with the market showing sharp returns during phases of macro stabilization linked to IMF support.
Pakistan says Saudi Arabia pledges $3 billion more in financial support
Saudi Arabia will provide $3 billion in fresh support to Pakistan and extend a $5 billion deposit rollover to help it manage upcoming debt repayments, including obligations to the United Arab Emirates.
For a few billion dollars, Pakistan has landed in dire straits
Pakistan is facing big economic stress after the UAE has demanded repayment of a multibillion-dollar deposit. This has strained the country's thin foreign exchange reserves. Rising oil prices and limited financing options have added to the pressure. Pakistan is seeking new funding sources, including international bonds and bilateral aid.
Pakistan's envoy to Russia lauds nuclear safety record of New Delhi and Islamabad
Pakistan's envoy to Russia, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, praised India and Pakistan's nuclear safety record. He stated both nations have mutual guarantees against attacking each other's nuclear facilities. Tirmizi also expressed optimism about Russia's potential role as a mediator in improving Pakistan-India relations. He emphasized the importance of these guarantees amidst regional hostilities.
Pakistan's stock markets rally: KSE-100 jumps 4,000 points on hopes for new US-Iran peace talks. What lies ahead?
Pakistan’s stock markets surged on Tuesday, with the KSE-100 jumping nearly 4,000 points amid renewed optimism over possible fresh US-Iran peace talks. The rally comes after intense volatility, including a 6,000-point crash on Monday. Easing crude prices and hopes of diplomatic progress boosted overall sentiment across global markets.
Pakistan media watchdog issues notice to channel for running 'Indian content' while reporting news of Asha Bhosle's death
Pakistan’s media watchdog has issued a show-cause notice to a leading news channel for airing “Indian content” while covering the death of legendary singer Asha Bhosle. A ban on Indian content has been in place in Pakistan since 2018.
Pakistan FM Dar dials Wang Yi, exchanges views on US-Iran talks
China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke with Pakistan's Ishaq Dar. The top priority is preventing US-Iran conflict escalation in West Asia. Both leaders emphasised dialogue and diplomacy for regional peace. Pakistan's constructive diplomatic role was acknowledged. They discussed a five-point peace initiative.
Pakistan says all options on table for funding, weighs strategic fuel reserve
Pakistan is exploring various financing options, including Eurobonds and commercial debt, to replace a $3.5 billion UAE facility and bolster its foreign reserves. Amidst Middle East war concerns, the nation is also considering a strategic petroleum reserve and accelerating renewable energy adoption to manage economic shocks.
Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif says 'full efforts' going on to resolve US-Iran conflict
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced ongoing efforts to resolve the US-Iran conflict. Direct talks were held in Islamabad, marking a historic moment. A two-week ceasefire between the two nations remains in place. While a lasting peace deal was not secured, Pakistan played a crucial role in bringing the delegations together.
Stocks sink, Iran move falters: Pakistan is a high-beta nation
Pakistan's attempt to mediate US-Iran talks and a related stock market rally ended quickly. The country's fortunes are tied to external events, not internal strength. Despite the setback, Pakistan may retain a role in ongoing backchannel diplomacy. Its strategic location and defense ties ensure continued relevance beyond mediation efforts.
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