Shehbaz Sharif

On August 18, 2026, Pakistan's Supreme Court ordered former PM Imran Khan transferred from Adiala Jail to Shifa International Hospital for medical care, citing health deterioration including vision loss. Khan was moved on August 21 but briefly taken to a public hospital instead due to security concerns, then returned to jail after being declared fit. The government plans to challenge the order, while Khan's PTI party calls it a "ray of hope" and plans a nationwide march.

8 reports · 2 sources · Updated Aug 24, 06:57 AM UTC

Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey signed the "Mecca Joint Defence Agreement" on August 7, 2026, committing to collective defense—treating an armed attack on any one as an attack on all. The pact, signed amid the U.S.-Israel war with Iran and Strait of Hormuz disruptions, aims to de-escalate regional tensions, protect maritime routes, and enhance defense cooperation. It leverages Saudi financial power, Turkey’s military capabilities, and Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal, signaling a shift in West Asian security architecture.

10 reports · 4 sources · Updated Aug 17, 02:13 PM UTC

On August 7, 2026, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey signed a mutual defense agreement in Mecca, declaring an armed attack on any one member as an attack on all. The pact aims to enhance collective deterrence amid regional tensions, including Houthi attacks, Iran-related threats, and uncertainty over US security guarantees. It includes technology transfers, intelligence sharing, and defense investments, but is not explicitly anti-Iran. Pakistan has already deployed troops to Saudi Arabia, while no Turkish troop deployment is planned.

22 reports · 7 sources · Updated Aug 14, 03:04 PM UTC

Pakistani Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited Tehran to facilitate stalled peace negotiations between the United States and Iran. Following a fragile ceasefire after recent US-Israeli strikes, the mission aims to finalize a negotiating document and de-escalate tensions impacting global energy markets. Despite deep distrust and unresolved issues regarding Iran’s nuclear program, Pakistan continues its critical mediation role. The talks seek to revive dialogue and secure a lasting resolution to the conflict that has destabilized the Middle East region.

37 reports · 19 sources · Updated Jul 21, 05:15 PM UTC

Oil prices edged lower on Tuesday as investors balanced renewed US-Iran military tensions against ongoing diplomatic efforts to prevent wider energy supply disruptions. Brent crude fell 0.5% to $88.80 per barrel, and WTI slipped 0.5% to $82.81. Diplomatic talks continued in Islamabad between Pakistani and Iranian officials, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio signaled potential negotiations. However, military operations persisted: a tanker was attacked in the Strait of Hormuz near Oman, with Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps claiming responsibility. The US military completed a tenth consecutive day of strikes targeting Iranian assets. Meanwhile, Yemen's Houthi movement announced plans to blockade Saudi vessels, raising concerns about the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a critical shipping lane for global oil trade. Analysts noted that geopolitical risks provide underlying support for crude prices, but expectations that past crises have not caused prolonged disruptions limited gains. Investors await US inventory data for further demand indications.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 10:25 AM UTC

Pakistan has announced a shift to daily petroleum price adjustments, moving from weekly revisions that were adopted after the US-Iran war began in late February. Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik stated that the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) will now set fuel prices daily based on a seven-day international market average, aiming to increase transparency and pass on global price fluctuations more quickly. The government also plans further deregulation, allowing prices to align with international markets without additional approvals. Information Minister Attaullah Tarar linked rising oil prices to the worsening West Asia situation. However, the All Pakistan Petrol Pump Owners’ Association rejected the policy, warning of protests and strikes if it is not withdrawn, citing concerns over its impact on petrol pump owners, oil tankers, and the pricing system. Additionally, following Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's visit to Turkiye, Turkish Petroleum will begin oil and gas extraction in Pakistan in October after a 20-year gap.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 07:08 AM UTC

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has welcomed the decision by Chinese firm IBI Group to establish its Pakistan Digital Economy Headquarters in the country. During a meeting with an 11-member Chinese business delegation led by IBI Founder Qian Xiaojun, the Prime Minister highlighted the strengthening business-to-business cooperation between Pakistan and China. Qian Xiaojun stated that the new headquarters would serve as a command center for Pakistan's digital transformation, offering small and medium-sized enterprises access to the Chinese market. This development follows a B2B Investment Conference held in Beijing in September 2025. Concurrently, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) approved approximately $1.32 billion in fresh funding for Pakistan after completing reviews of its loan facilities. While noting that Pakistan's economic recovery is gaining traction with a 3.8 percent GDP growth rate, the IMF warned that the country remains highly exposed to spillovers from the war in the Middle East, which could impact inflation, fuel imports, and remittances from the Gulf region.

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed the Pakistani government’s dedication to fostering a peaceful, tolerant, and inclusive society in his message marking the International Day of Living Together in Peace. Emphasizing that promoting harmony is both a constitutional responsibility and part of Pakistan’s heritage, the Prime Minister cited founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s principles of honesty and fair play. He highlighted that the Constitution safeguards citizens against discrimination based on race, ethnicity, or religion. Sharif outlined several key initiatives aimed at strengthening social cohesion, including the Paigham-e-Pakistan narrative to counter extremism, the National Action Plan on Human Rights, and the operationalization of the National Commission for Human Rights. He also mentioned recent legal reforms such as the ICT Domestic Violence Prevention and Protection Act 2026 and the National Commission for Minority Rights Act 2025. The Prime Minister called upon youth, religious leaders, and civil society to collaborate in building a united nation where dignity and equality prevail, urging collective efforts to overcome division and promote shared prosperity at both national and global levels.

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Pakistan firmly rejected US reports claiming it allowed Iranian military aircraft to park at Nur Khan Air Base to evade potential American airstrikes. While US officials alleged this move undermined Islamabad’s role as a neutral mediator in the US-Iran conflict, Pakistani officials stated the planes were present solely for diplomatic logistics during ceasefire negotiations. The controversy has prompted US lawmakers to question Pakistan’s neutrality, highlighting complex geopolitical tensions involving the US, Iran, and China amidst ongoing regional instability and stalled peace talks.

16 reports · 12 sources · Updated May 15, 04:15 PM UTC

This article analyzes the implications of the recent summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing for Global South nations, particularly Pakistan. The summit, originally scheduled for April 2026 but delayed due to conflict between the U.S. and Iran, proceeded following a fragile ceasefire brokered with Pakistan's diplomatic assistance. The meeting aimed to address regional security issues, including maritime disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and the Iran dispute. For Pakistan, reduced U.S.-China confrontation offers relief from the pressure of balancing relations with major powers, allowing a focus on development. Islamabad leveraged its historical role as a bridge between Washington and Beijing, reminiscent of the 1971 rapprochement, to facilitate dialogue. Both China and the U.S. acknowledged Pakistan's constructive efforts. The article suggests that improved Sino-American cooperation could stabilize West Asia, lower energy costs, and enable multi-alignment strategies for smaller powers without forcing binary geopolitical choices.

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has established a specialized task force to formulate Pakistan’s inaugural national policy on waste-to-energy projects. This strategic initiative aims to create a comprehensive roadmap, institutional framework, and clear strategy to advance waste-to-energy initiatives across the country. A primary objective of the proposed policy is to facilitate and attract both local and foreign investment into the sector by promoting private sector participation. Federal Minister for Power Division Sardar Awais Leghari will serve as the convener of the task force, which includes key officials such as Federal Minister for Climate Change Musadik Malik and Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani. The body also comprises representatives from federal and provincial departments related to climate change, energy, and local government, alongside private sector stakeholders. The task force is mandated to study international best practices, identify legal, regulatory, financial, and operational challenges, and recommend necessary legislative reforms. By improving coordination among stakeholders, the government seeks to accelerate the implementation of waste-to-energy projects, addressing both environmental concerns and energy needs through sustainable solutions.

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The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has declared approximately 127 houses and structures within Islamabad’s Tele Gardens Housing Scheme illegal. The authority stated that these properties were constructed on land designated as a green area under the society’s approved layout plan from 2005. In a public notice, the CDA emphasized that the disputed land belongs to the authority and any subsequent allotment, transfer, or sale is unlawful. This announcement has triggered significant anxiety among residents, who fear imminent demolition or legal action. Homeowners, many of whom invested life savings into properties valued at around Rs. 45 million each, have accused both the housing scheme management and CDA officials of negligence. Residents claim the plots were sold legally by developers associated with the B-17 and Faisal Hills groups. Affected families have appealed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for intervention, arguing they are victims of regulatory failures and disputed land transfers. This development occurs amidst broader anti-encroachment operations by the CDA in surrounding areas, highlighting ongoing tensions between urban planning enforcement and residential property rights in the capital.

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In a significant diplomatic development in May 2026, Chinese President Xi Jinping hosted US President Donald Trump for a three-day state visit, marking the first time a US leader has visited China in nine years. The trip, originally planned for March, was postponed due to the ongoing Iran war. Following Trump's departure, Russian President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to arrive for a one-day visit, making Beijing the host of leaders from both global powers within the same month for the first time. Additionally, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is undertaking a three-day visit to China. This series of high-level meetings underscores China's central role in international diplomacy amidst regional conflicts. The concurrent visits highlight complex geopolitical dynamics as Beijing engages with both Washington and Moscow. The South China Morning Post exclusively reported on the timing of Putin's visit, emphasizing the strategic importance of these engagements. These events signal a potential shift in global alliances and diplomatic efforts to address international security challenges, particularly in the context of the Middle East tensions.

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Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has explicitly denied that any immediate discussions are taking place with the federal government regarding a potential 28th Constitutional Amendment. Addressing the PPP’s parliamentary party meeting, he stated that no talks have occurred yet but reserved the right to comment on future developments. This clarification follows statements by State Minister for Law Barrister Aqeel Malik, who rejected rumors that the proposed amendment would roll back the significant provincial rights granted by the 18th Amendment. Bilawal emphasized the PPP's historical role in securing provincial representation in judicial bodies through previous amendments. Additionally, the PPP chief announced the formation of a four-member committee to handle budget negotiations with the federal government, highlighting the party's critical support for passing the national budget. He warned of economic hardships and inflation affecting citizens while expressing willingness to collaborate with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s administration to alleviate economic pressure. Bilawal also clarified that no offers had been made to him concerning Iran-US negotiations, maintaining a focus on domestic political and economic stability amidst ongoing crises.

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed a federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad, stating that the temporary ceasefire between the United States and Iran remains in effect. However, he highlighted that the ongoing conflict has created significant economic hurdles for regional nations, including Pakistan. The Prime Minister noted that Iran has largely closed the Strait of Hormuz to international shipping following US and Israeli bombing campaigns, causing major disruptions to global energy supplies. Despite these external challenges, Sharif emphasized that the government’s economic team has worked diligently over the past two years to ensure stability and avoid rationing. He called for national unity and resilience to transform Pakistan into an economic power, drawing parallels to the dedication shown in achieving nuclear status. The Prime Minister also commemorated upcoming national days, including Marka-e-Haq and Youm-e-Takbeer, praising the armed forces and historical leaders like Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif for their roles in national defense. Additionally, he honored Liaquat, a civilian martyr who confronted a suicide bomber, by announcing the posthumous award of the Sitara-e-Shujaat, while cabinet members offered prayers for victims of terrorism.

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif constituted a cabinet committee to address critical issues in wheat buying and selling across Pakistan during a federal cabinet meeting. The cabinet also approved recommendations for the Hajj Policy 2027-2030, mandating an accountability mechanism for the Ministry of Religious Affairs and private operators to protect pilgrims' rights. Additionally, the Capital Development Authority was tasked with developing low-cost housing in Islamabad’s Farash Town for residents of informal settlements. The cabinet approved departmental promotion examinations for Pakistan Customs officers through the Federal Public Service Commission. Separately, Prime Minister Sharif chaired a high-level review on housing sector reforms, emphasizing affordable housing, digitization, and vertical expansion to manage urban sprawl. He directed authorities to consult provincial governments on these measures. In diplomatic developments, Sharif met with Azerbaijan’s Justice Minister Farid Turab Oglu Ahmadov, reinforcing bilateral ties and discussing enhanced legal and judicial cooperation between the two nations. The meeting highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen mutual legal assistance and capacity building within their judicial systems.

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The Pakistan Army Rocket Force Command successfully conducted a test fire of the indigenously developed Fatah-IV ground-launched cruise missile on Thursday. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the weapon system features advanced avionics and state-of-the-art navigational aids, enabling it to engage long-range targets with high precision. The test aimed to validate technical parameters for improved accuracy and survivability while enhancing troop operational efficiency. Top national leaders, including President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, commended the achievement, praising the dedication of scientists and engineers. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also highlighted the test as a significant milestone in strengthening Pakistan’s indigenous defense capabilities and strategic deterrence. This event follows the successful launch of the Fateh-II missile system less than three weeks prior and a previous Fatah-IV test in September 2025 at a range of 750 kilometers. The development underscores Pakistan's continued progress in its domestic defense sector and military modernization efforts.

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Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja informed the National Assembly that Pakistan is strengthening its cybersecurity framework to combat rising digital fraud and cybercrime. She highlighted the establishment of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) and the National Computer Emergency Response Team (National CERT) to handle complex digital threats more effectively. The minister emphasized public awareness, noting collaborations with Meta and planned partnerships with TikTok to educate citizens on protecting sensitive data like OTPs and PINs. Additionally, Khawaja reported significant growth in Pakistan’s IT sector, with exports rising by approximately 20 percent annually. IT exports are projected to exceed $4.5 billion this fiscal year, up from $2.4 billion when the current government took office. This growth is attributed to policy reforms, including a favorable tax regime for registered software exporters and streamlined business registration processes through the Pakistan Software Export Board. The government is also investing in digital skills training for over 500,000 youth annually, aiming to enhance employability and support the expanding technology industry.

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Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar chaired a high-level committee meeting on Thursday to review tax policy proposals for Pakistan's upcoming federal budget. The session, held under the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, focused on designing balanced fiscal measures that support economic growth while expanding the national tax base. Key objectives included enhancing revenue collection, encouraging investment, and ensuring minimal burden on compliant taxpayers. Senior officials from the Finance Division, Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and related ministries participated in the deliberations. The meeting emphasized safeguarding existing taxpayers and supporting business activity to foster economic expansion. This development is part of broader efforts to shape Pakistan’s fiscal strategy for the next financial year and strengthen macroeconomic stability. It follows recent consultations between Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and an International Monetary Fund (IMF) delegation regarding the country's economic outlook. Additionally, separate discussions with the textile sector have been conducted to address export competitiveness. These activities align with ongoing government preparations for the 2026-27 budget, aiming to implement reforms that ensure fiscal stability and sustainable economic development through stakeholder engagement.

1 reports · 1 sources

An inquiry committee established by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has completed its investigation into the controversial One Constitution Avenue case in Islamabad. The committee, formed following directives from the Prime Minister to suspend eviction actions by the Capital Development Authority (CDA), has recorded statements from all relevant parties, including government officials, senior bureaucrats, and individuals linked to the property. Investigators thoroughly examined official records, evidence, and documentation, while also incorporating inputs from multiple concerned institutions to ensure a comprehensive review. The final report, described as potentially explosive, is expected to be submitted to the Prime Minister shortly. It will likely outline findings regarding responsibility for the irregularities and provide recommendations for future administrative actions. This development follows recent tensions arising from the CDA's issuance of notices to allottees of the building located in the sensitive Red Zone. Key administrative decisions are anticipated once the Premier reviews the committee's findings, which aim to resolve the dispute surrounding the high-profile property.

1 reports · 1 sources

Pakistan successfully conducted a training launch of the indigenously developed Fatah-IV ground-launched cruise missile on Thursday, supervised by the Army Rocket Force Command. The test aimed to enhance operational readiness, validate advanced technical systems, and evaluate multiple parameters under training conditions. According to Inter-Services Public Relations, the missile features advanced avionics and modern navigational technology, enabling it to engage long-range targets with high precision and improved survivability. Senior military officers, scientists, and engineers from the development agency attended the exercise to ensure system reliability. Top civilian and military leaders, including President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, commended the teams for their contributions. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also praised the achievement as a significant advancement for Pakistan’s defense sector. This event underscores Pakistan’s growing indigenous defense capabilities and strategic preparedness. It follows closely on the heels of the successful Fateh-II missile test less than three weeks prior and a previous Fatah-IV launch in September 2025, highlighting a rapid pace in the nation's missile development program.

1 reports · 1 sources

Amid escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed government ministries to formulate plans for importing fertilizer from Central Asian states. This strategic move aims to shield Pakistan's vital agricultural sector from potential supply disruptions and price hikes, particularly during the critical Kharif cropping season. Experts highlight that while Pakistan has historically relied heavily on Middle Eastern imports, the current crisis underscores an urgent need for economic diversification. Amir Jahangir, CEO of Mishal Pakistan, notes that shifting towards markets in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan not only reduces dependence on volatile maritime routes but also strengthens regional commerce. Although immediate agricultural risks are manageable, prolonged disruptions could severely impact crop yields and food security. Furthermore, analysts suggest that this pivot could evolve into a long-term structural shift, enhancing supply security and lowering transport costs. The strategy also extends to energy, with recommendations for Pakistan to explore Central Asia as an alternative source for natural gas required by domestic fertilizer plants, thereby reducing reliance on traditional suppliers like Qatar and boosting local production efficiency.

1 reports · 1 sources

Pakistan has successfully conducted a test launch of its indigenously developed Fatah-4 ground-launched cruise missile, according to a statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). The trial was organized by the Army's Rocket Force Command to validate technical parameters of various sub-systems, aiming to enhance operational efficiency, accuracy, and survivability. The military described the weapon system as equipped with advanced avionics and state-of-the-art navigational aids, capable of engaging long-range targets with high precision. Top national leaders, including President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, commended the successful test. This event follows previous launches in the Fatah series, including the Fateh-2 missile last month and an earlier Fatah-4 test in September 2025, which demonstrated a range of 750 kilometers. The development underscores Pakistan's continued focus on strengthening its strategic defense capabilities through domestic military technology advancements. The test occurs amidst broader regional tensions, as highlighted by related defense news concerning neighboring countries and global powers.

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Dr. Usman Anwar, the current Director General of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), has been assigned the additional charge of Director General of the National Police Bureau. This appointment was formalized through an official notification approved by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and became effective on May 1, 2026. Dr. Anwar will hold this dual role for a period of three months or until a regular appointment is made to the position. A seasoned officer from the Police Service of Pakistan, Dr. Anwar joined the force in 1995 and previously served as the Inspector General of Punjab Police from January 2023 before his recent transfer to the FIA earlier this year. His extensive career includes high-profile roles such as Director FIA Lahore, Additional Inspector General of the National Highways and Motorway Police, and district police officer in Okara and Sargodha. This administrative reshuffle highlights the government's strategy of utilizing experienced senior leadership to manage key law enforcement agencies during transitional periods. The decision underscores the continued trust in Dr. Anwar's capabilities to handle significant responsibilities within Pakistan's federal policing structure.

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has issued a strong call for coordinated and sustained national efforts to transform Pakistan into a robust economic power. Speaking at ceremonies connected with the "Marka-e-Haq" event, the Prime Minister emphasized that achieving significant national development requires unity, comprehensive reforms, and strategic long-term planning across key economic sectors. He stressed the importance of aligning various stakeholders to ensure consistent progress. During his address, Sharif also praised the Pakistan Armed Forces for their role in national stability and development. The speech highlights the government's focus on economic revitalization, linking it closely with broader national security and social cohesion initiatives. Additionally, related reports indicate that the Prime Minister is simultaneously pushing for renewable energy drives amid ongoing power sector reforms. This dual approach underscores an attempt to modernize infrastructure while fostering a unified national narrative. The emphasis on long-term planning suggests a shift towards sustainable economic policies rather than short-term fixes, aiming to stabilize the country's financial outlook and enhance its global economic standing through internal unity and structural improvements.

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has declared affordable housing for low-income families a top government priority during a high-level meeting on housing sector reforms. Addressing the challenges posed by Pakistan's growing population and rapid, unplanned urban expansion, the Prime Minister emphasized the need to protect agricultural land through strategic planning. Key directives included digitizing and automating housing processes to enhance transparency and governance. The government aims to attract overseas investors and boost market confidence by establishing an effective regulatory framework. Proposed measures include mandatory registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan for housing developers, promoting vertical expansion in major cities, and implementing master town planning frameworks. Officials also discussed creating a one-window system to safeguard the interests of developers and buyers. The Prime Minister instructed authorities to consult with provincial governments before finalizing these recommendations. The meeting, attended by senior cabinet members from economic, housing, and finance departments, focused on encouraging private sector participation and improving public services to address the critical housing shortage.

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed commercial banks in Pakistan to facilitate easier access to financing for women entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). During a high-level meeting reviewing government initiatives, the Prime Minister emphasized the sector's critical role in strengthening the national economy and enhancing export capacity. He instructed officials to present a concrete implementation plan with measurable targets within a defined timeline, expressing satisfaction with the roadmap prepared by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) and the Ministry of Industries and Production. Additionally, the Prime Minister ordered that processing sectors within agriculture be granted SME status to extend policy support and financial access to value-added agricultural businesses. The meeting highlighted ongoing efforts to improve market access through exhibitions and lower-cost bank financing. Officials reported that 48 initiatives are currently being implemented across eight strategic sectors. This directive aims to address longstanding challenges such as limited credit access and weak supply chain integration, noting that SMEs constitute nearly 90 percent of businesses in Pakistan yet suffer from comparatively low financing levels relative to regional economies.

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The Pakistani government has transferred the responsibility for finalizing the federal budget to Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, following dissatisfaction with initial proposals from the Tax Policy Office. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif established a high-level committee led by Dar to review and finalize tax policy measures, effectively shifting key budgetary decisions away from the Finance Ministry. This move coincides with the International Monetary Fund's review of Pakistan's proposed tax strategies for the upcoming fiscal year. The committee is tasked with determining approximately Rs. 215 billion to Rs. 230 billion in new taxes or relief, ensuring fiscal sustainability and economic growth. Simultaneously, a separate committee under Minister Ahad Khan Cheema will oversee enforcement measures aimed at generating another Rs. 215 billion through improved tax collection technologies. These actions are critical for meeting Pakistan's agreement with the IMF, which requires Rs. 430 billion in total budgetary measures. The restructuring highlights significant administrative changes in Pakistan's financial governance as it seeks to achieve a tax collection target of Rs. 15.3 trillion.

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Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Ishaq Dar, is scheduled to travel to the United States starting May 25 to attend a UN Security Council debate under China’s presidency. This visit follows Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s trip to China from May 23 to 25, where Dar will also accompany him. The coordinated diplomatic efforts aim to position Pakistan as a central actor in regional and global security discussions, emphasizing mediation and multilateralism. In New York, Dar plans sideline interactions with the UN Secretary-General and foreign ministers from the Czech Republic and Thailand, before proceeding to Washington for further meetings. While a bilateral meeting with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio remains unconfirmed, the itinerary highlights Pakistan’s strategy to balance strategic ties with China while maintaining working relations with the US and Gulf states. Against the backdrop of fluctuating tensions between Washington and Tehran, Islamabad seeks to project itself as a stabilizing middle power capable of engaging multiple sides. The upcoming Sharif-Xi meeting is expected to address economic cooperation via the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, regional connectivity, and broader geopolitical instability spanning from the Middle East to South Asia.

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed commercial banks in Pakistan to facilitate easier access to loans for women entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). During a review meeting focused on economic upliftment, the Prime Minister emphasized the critical role of SMEs in boosting national exports and economic development. He instructed the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) and the Ministry of Industries to present a concrete implementation plan with achievable targets. Key measures discussed include granting SME status to agricultural processing sectors, establishing a separate window for export financing, and creating a comprehensive SME database to formalize the economy. The State Bank Governor reported that private sector lending has already surpassed annual targets, prompting an increase in the loan provision target to Rs 1,500 billion by fiscal year 2028. Additionally, the Prime Minister reaffirmed commitments to youth empowerment through the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, focusing on IT education, vocational training, and unified loan schemes for young entrepreneurs. The government aims to align university IT curricula with international standards and provide electric bikes to low-income youth, demonstrating a dual focus on industrial growth and human capital development.

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