India Warns Pakistan on Terrorism, Addresses China, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made several statements at the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) annual general meeting, expressing India’s stance on relations with Pakistan, China, and its neighbors. He highlighted India’s low tolerance for cross-border terrorism from Pakistan and encouraged them to dismantle such activities for normalized relations. Regarding China, Jaishankar questioned the possibility of doing business with a country that had disturbed peace and tranquility in border areas. He also emphasized the promotion of domestic manufacturing and procurement to support Indian businesses. In relation to Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan, no specific details were provided in the given content.

Indian Street Food Thrives in Pakistan’s Culinary Hub

Kavita Solanki, the owner of ‘Kavita Didi Ka Indian Khana’ in Karachi, has introduced Indian street food favorites like vada pao and pav bhaji to Pakistan. The food stall has gained popularity due to the authenticity and taste of its homemade dishes. Solanki’s clientele comprises people from all faiths, particularly those seeking a meatless option.

Pakistan to Privatize All State-Owned Enterprises, Including PIA

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced plans to privatize all state-owned enterprises, including the struggling Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), as part of efforts to tackle the country’s financial challenges. This move expands the government’s previous intention to privatize only loss-making enterprises. The decision comes amid Pakistan’s negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for a new loan agreement.

Pakistani-American Businessman Lauds PM Modi, Hopes for Similar Leadership in Pakistan

Sajid Tarar, a Pakistani-American businessman based in Baltimore, has heaped praises on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling him a strong leader who has taken India to new heights. Tarar expressed confidence that Modi will return as the country’s PM for a third term in the 2024 elections, while also hoping that Pakistan too gets a leader like him. He acknowledged PM Modi’s popularity and the rise of India in 2024, saying it’s a miracle that the 97 crore people in India are exercising their franchise despite being the largest democracy in the world.

Pakistan Announces Privatisation of State-Owned Enterprises for Enhanced Services

In a significant move to improve public services and reduce government expenses, Pakistan’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, has announced the privatisation of all state-owned enterprises, with the exception of those deemed strategically vital. The decision aims to harness the efficiency of the private sector and alleviate the burden on taxpayers. The government’s focus will now shift towards fostering a conducive business environment. The privatisation process, including key stages such as bidding, will be transparently broadcasted live to ensure accountability. The Privatisation Commission will expedite the process with the assistance of a pre-qualified panel of experts.

Shaheen Afridi Faces Verbal Abuse from Afghanistan Fan in Dublin T20I

During the second T20I between Pakistan and Ireland in Dublin, Pakistan paceman Shaheen Afridi was involved in an unpleasant incident with an Afghanistan fan who hurled foul language at him. The incident occurred as Afridi entered the field, and a video of the exchange has gone viral. Afridi maintained his composure despite the fan’s inappropriate remarks. Security personnel intervened and escorted the fan out of the stadium. Previously, Afridi had been nominated for the ICC Men’s Player of the Month Award for April 2024 alongside Gerhard Erasmus of Namibia and Muhammad Waseem of the UAE.

Pakistani Minister’s Reaction to Kejriwal’s Release: ‘Modi Lost Another Battle’

Former Pakistan Minister of Information and Broadcasting Fawad Chaudhry expressed his views on Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s release from Tihar jail after the Supreme Court granted him interim bail in the Delhi excise policy case. Chaudhry termed the release as a loss for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating that Kejriwal’s release was good news for a ‘moderate India.’ He also lamented the state of the rule of law in Pakistan, saying that civil society and other organizations had become inactive.

IMF Expresses Doubts Over Pakistan’s Debt Repayment Capacity

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has raised concerns about Pakistan’s ability to repay its debt, highlighting the country’s high fiscal shortfall and external account deficit. The IMF’s assessment comes as Islamabad seeks a fresh bailout package under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF). The global lender has warned that Pakistan faces significant risks in repaying the fund, including delayed reforms, high public debt, and low gross reserves.

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