Author: Faiza Liaquat
Pakistani footballer Imran Kayani’s standout performance, scoring twice for Whitehawk FC in the 7th tier of English football, marks a significant contribution to their thrilling 3-2 victory over Margate. With two national team caps and five goals this season, Kayani, a Chelsea youth academy alumnus, continues to shine on the pitch while maintaining a strong connection to his roots in Rawalpindi, Pakistan.
Meta’s #LoveLocalPakistan video series, featuring collaborations with Ali Gul Pir and a digital news platform, highlights the success stories of Pakistani small and medium businesses thriving on Facebook and Instagram. The campaign aims to celebrate and support local entrepreneurs like Hala Kashigar, Colish Fragrance, Groovy Attire, and Mana’s Cookies, while also featuring Ali Gul Pir’s engaging podcast to showcase the resilience and creativity of these businesses.
Pakistani shooter Kishmala Talat clinched a Paris Olympics spot with a silver medal in the Asian Shooting Championship, becoming the third Pakistani shooter to qualify. Her achievement underscores Pakistan’s diverse presence in global sports.
The Pakistani government, in collaboration with telecom operators, is set to launch an installment plan, easing the financial strain for freelancers and content creators to acquire smartphones affordably. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to technological advancement, including the upcoming implementation of 5G, while promoting responsible spending habits.
Islamabad takes a green leap with the launch of a fleet of Chinese electric buses, signaling a shift towards eco-friendly public transport. The Capital Development Authority (CDA) plans to deploy 30 such buses on 13 routes, integrating seamlessly with existing metro routes and emphasizing sustainability with the construction of electric charging stations.
In 2023, Pakistani startups grappled with a substantial 70% funding drop to $70 million amid political and economic challenges, but a promising uptick in Q4, securing $38.6 million across 15 deals, fuels optimism for 2024’s expected rebound after the general elections and structural reforms.
Caretaker IT Minister Dr. Umar Saif announces successful tech initiatives, enabling freelancers’ remittances via PayPal and paving the way for 5G in Pakistan. He urges the incoming government to sustain digital progress.
Copper exports from Pakistan to China have surged by 9%, crossing the one billion dollar mark in the first eleven months of 2023. This rise is fueled by increased Chinese investments and a rising demand for copper products, fostering economic cooperation between the two nations.
Despite a current injury, Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan’s top javelin thrower, remains optimistic about his Paris Olympics participation, aiming for top fitness by next month after missing the podium in Tokyo. His resilience showcases the spirit of an athlete determined to make a mark on the global stage.
Pakistan’s sesame seed exports to China soared by over 112%, reaching $250.85 million from January to November 2023, positioning the country as a key player in the global market, according to Ghulam Qadir, Commercial Counsellor at the Pakistan Embassy in Beijing. Chinese consumers are increasingly drawn to the quality and flavor of Pakistani sesame seeds, marking a significant uptrend from the $117.85 million recorded in the same period last year.