Netflix, a leading streaming service, has gained immense popularity in Pakistan. With its extensive library of TV shows and movies, Netflix offers four tailored packages to suit various budgets and preferences. These packages range from Rs. 250 to Rs. 1,100 per month, providing options for mobile-only streaming, standard definition, high definition on two screens, and Ultra HD on four screens.
Pakistan’s challenges to basic rights are highlighted by the upcoming remembrance gathering for the late human rights advocate Asma Jahangir. Her legacy of advocating for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly the impoverished, remains crucial for the country’s progress. While institutions like the AGHS Legal Aid Cell and HRCP perpetuate her work, a broader coalition involving Pakistan’s ruling elite is necessary to ensure sustainable change and stability. The case of police officer Syeda Sheharbano Naqvi serves as an example of progress, while the threat of mob violence over blasphemy allegations underscores the ongoing challenges. Celebrating Asma Jahangir’s life and launching a national initiative in her honor can inspire a renewed commitment to human rights and inclusive development in Pakistan.
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) executive board will meet on April 29 to consider approving the release of $1.1 billion in funding to Pakistan under the $3 billion Stand-By Arrangement (SBA). This follows a staff-level agreement reached on March 20, 2024, after review talks held in Islamabad from March 14 to 19. Pakistan secured the SBA in June 2023 to avert a looming default, and the current tranche is expected to be the last under the short-term deal.
Ayesha Rashan, a 19-year-old Pakistani teenager, has received a new heart in Delhi, India, after struggling with heart disease for the past decade. After previous treatments in Pakistan and India proved ineffective, Ayesha’s family sought consultation at MGM Healthcare Hospital in Chennai. With the assistance of the Aishwaryam Trust for financial aid, Ayesha underwent a successful heart transplant surgery free of cost at MGM Healthcare. Ayesha’s mother expressed gratitude for the support and treatment received in India, acknowledging the country’s superior medical facilities compared to Pakistan.
Former Google executive and ex-head of Pakistan’s Digital Pakistan initiative Tania Aidrus has been reappointed to the federal government’s digitization project. Aidrus, who holds an MBA from MIT and a BSc from Brandeis University, will serve as ‘convener’ of the Digital Pakistan committee, tasked with making recommendations for the country’s digital infrastructure development.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has been urged to improve relations with neighboring countries, including India, to boost Pakistan’s economy. The suggestion was made by Arif Habib, a leading business tycoon, during a recent meeting with the premier in Karachi. Pakistan downgraded diplomatic and trade relations with India in 2019 after the Indian government revoked the special status of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The move strained relations between the two countries, and Pakistan has since linked the restoration of ties to the reinstatement of IIOJK’s special status.
Pakistan pace legend Wasim Akram has praised late Australian spin great Shane Warne, highlighting their close friendship despite playing for different countries. Warne, who passed away in March 2022, was a family friend of Akram’s Australian wife. Akram revealed that Warne bought a property from his in-laws and lived nearby. Akram also spoke about Warne’s exceptional skills as a bowler, his passion for the game, and his success leading Rajasthan Royals to the inaugural Indian Premier League title.
The United States has cautioned Pakistan against conducting business with Iran, warning of potential sanctions. This warning follows Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s visit to Pakistan, during which the two countries pledged to increase bilateral trade to $10bn annually and collaborate in the energy sector, including the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project. The US has imposed sanctions on Iran for decades to restrict its income from oil and petroleum products and has sanctioned entities and individuals accused of supporting its armed forces or militant groups. Pakistan is facing economic challenges and is seeking financial assistance from allies like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the US, who are considered rivals of Iran. Experts believe Pakistan needs to balance its relationships with Iran and the US, prioritizing trade and energy cooperation with Iran while addressing the risk of sanctions.
The US government has advised businesses considering deals with Iran to be aware of the potential risk of sanctions. The warning came in response to a visit by the Iranian president to Pakistan, during which the two countries signed eight memorandums of understanding and agreed to increase bilateral trade. The US recently imposed sanctions on suppliers to Pakistan’s ballistic missile program, including three Chinese companies, due to their role in supplying equipment and materials to the program. Despite the sanctions, the US maintains a good relationship with Pakistan, which it considers an important security partner in the region.
India’s External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, addressed the forum titled ‘Foreign Policy The India Way: From Diffidence To Confidence’ in Hyderabad. He highlighted the impact of the attack on Pakistan’s terror outfit on India’s foreign policy. Following the Uri and Balakot operations, India began to press Pakistan on terrorism, marking a shift from diffidence to confidence in its foreign policy.
