Author: Faiza Liaquat

Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister for Finance and Revenue, announced that the Chinese Government has praised Pakistan’s negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and promised to assist in securing the Fund’s board approval. Addressing a press conference, he highlighted productive meetings with Chinese authorities, including the Finance Minister of China and the President of the Bank of China, during a recent visit with Minister for Energy Sardar Awais Ahmad Khan Leghari. Aurangzeb noted that discussions covered various aspects of bilateral trade, economic cooperation, local energy needs, and the launch of Panda bonds in Chinese markets. The talks also addressed the…

In a heartwarming display of environmental stewardship, a group of passionate youngsters has called on every citizen to join the Punjab government’s monsoon tree planting campaign, aiming to restore the degraded Takht Pari Forest to its former lush glory. Speaking to PTV news, the group emphasized that this collective effort, driven by the belief that small actions can spark significant change, seeks to rally individuals from all walks of life to make a tangible impact on the fragile ecosystem. With the monsoon season underway, these dedicated young change-makers are ready to get their hands dirty and invite the nation to…

Pakistan Railways plans to enhance the Allama Iqbal Express passenger train with quality dining facilities by September 2024, allowing travelers to enjoy fresh meals during their journey. According to an official from the Ministry of Railways, the upgraded dining car will accommodate around 40 passengers at a time, offering a better environment with enhanced dining amenities. Pakistan Railways has already successfully introduced premium lounge dining cars on the Bahauddin Zakariya, Tezgam Express, and Khyber Mail trains. The recently added dining facility on the Khyber Mail, which runs between Karachi and Lahore, can seat up to 34 passengers and includes a…

The National Street Child Football team of Pakistan has triumphed in their first Norway Cup match, defeating the Norwegian Club, Astor, with a commanding 6-1 score. Despite Norway taking an early lead in the first half, Pakistan swiftly equalized, setting the stage for an exciting game. In the second half, the Pakistani team dominated, netting five goals. Abdul Ghani scored twice, while Essa, Junaid, Awais, and Muhammad Khan each contributed a goal. This victory is a significant milestone for the team, who will face Verdanset Football Club in their next match on July 29.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the need to further enhance bilateral relations with Tajikistan, focusing on trade and investment, during a meeting with Tajikistan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Sharifzoda Yusuf Toir, at the PM House on Friday. The prime minister welcomed the ambassador and wished him a successful tenure in Pakistan. Reflecting on his recent visit to Dushanbe, PM Sharif expressed gratitude for the warm reception and highlighted the friendly and productive discussions with President Emomali Rahmon. PM Sharif expressed satisfaction with the MoUs and agreements signed during his visit and stressed the importance of timely implementation and follow-up to further…

A cutting-edge digital system has been inaugurated at Islamabad district courts to enhance case management and improve public access to legal information. Chief Justice of Islamabad High Court, Justice Amir Farooq, unveiled the system, which aims to modernize judicial operations. The system, developed by Umar Rasheed Dar, head of the IT Department at Islamabad High Court, provides online access to case status from filing to judgment. It integrates the Islamabad High Court, District Judiciary, Bar Associations, and NADRA into a unified legal platform. Key features include the ability to send e-notices via WhatsApp and email, Kiosk machines for online case…

WhatsApp is launching a new augmented reality (AR) feature for video call effects and filters with its latest update, available through the Google Beta Program. The update, version 2.24.16.7, is currently accessible only to beta testers. WhatsApp users interested in the AR feature can try downloading the newest update from the Google Play Store, though only a select few will have access as it undergoes user testing. This update aims to enhance the visual experience of video calling by introducing facial filters and other interactive effects. Among the AR effects available to beta testers are a “touch-up tool” for smoothing…

A new Scandline Immigration Control Office, outfitted with cutting-edge forensic and IT equipment, has been inaugurated at Lahore Airport, as reported by ARY News on Saturday. Sarfaraz Khan, Director of Lahore Zone, received a thorough briefing on the advanced equipment installed in the immigration office. This facility was established in partnership with the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD). The primary objective of this new office is to enhance the ability to identify fake, suspicious, and illegal documents, while also bolstering efforts to combat illegal immigration and human trafficking at the airport. The state-of-the-art equipment enables detailed examinations of…

Munir Zahid claimed victory in the Kohat District Squash Championship by defeating Hamza Khan 2-1 in a thrilling final match held at Company Bagh Squash Court, Kohat, on Saturday. The final was attended by District Sports Officer Kohat, Zeeshan Ahmed, who served as the chief guest, along with District Squash Association President Saeed Khan Afridi, former President Muhammad Faqir Awan, Secretary Muhammad Ishaq, and other notable figures. The championship, organized with the support of the District Sports Office Kohat, saw participation from over 25 players. Munir Zahid and Hamza Khan emerged as the finalists. In the decisive match, Munir Zahid…

Following two consecutive hikes, the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD) are projected to decrease by approximately Rs3 and Rs8.50 per litre, respectively, from August 1 for the next fortnight. This reduction is primarily attributed to a decrease in the international market prices and import premiums. Sources indicate that in the last fortnight, the international market prices of petrol and HSD have fallen by around $2 and $3 per barrel, respectively. Based on current tax rates and final calculations, petrol prices are expected to drop by Rs2.90 per litre and HSD by Rs8.50 per litre. The average price of…