Following violent protests in Islamabad by Imran Khan’s PTI party, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has authorized legal action against key figures, including Bushra Bibi and Ali Amin Gandapur. A task force has been established to identify and prosecute those responsible for the violence, which resulted in casualties among security personnel. The government is also establishing a new riot control force and forensic lab to prevent future incidents.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif faced online ridicule for using a VPN to congratulate Donald Trump on his US presidential election victory, despite the platform being banned in Pakistan. His actions sparked mockery and criticism as users pointed out the hypocrisy of a leader using a banned platform while his citizens are restricted from accessing it.
Following External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s visit to Pakistan for the SCO Summit, speculation is rife about a potential meeting between Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shehbaz Sharif at the upcoming UN climate conference in Azerbaijan. While positive exchanges between Jaishankar and Pakistani leaders have fueled optimism, experts caution that the recent trajectory of relations makes a high-level meeting unlikely. The potential resumption of bilateral cricket ties, however, offers a glimmer of hope.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded to messages from Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and former Premier Nawaz Sharif, emphasizing India’s unwavering commitment to the well-being and security of its citizens. Nawaz Sharif had congratulated Modi for his third consecutive election victory and urged for a focus on hope and progressive ideas. Modi’s response referenced India’s stance that talks with Pakistan cannot take place in the presence of terrorism emanating from its territory. This was the first time that Pakistan had delayed sending a congratulatory message following a Modi election victory. Other leaders from neighboring countries, including Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, attended Modi’s swearing-in ceremony in New Delhi.
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.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has appointed Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar as the country’s Deputy Prime Minister. The decision was announced through a notification released by the Cabinet Division. Dar has also been included in the Council of Common Interests (CCI), replacing the Finance Minister. The CCI, chaired by Prime Minister Sharif, comprises all four chief ministers alongside other council members.
Amidst Pakistan’s ongoing economic crisis, a prominent business leader has advised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to reconsider relations with neighboring countries, particularly India. The suggestion was made during the premier’s visit to Karachi, with the business leader emphasizing the potential economic benefits of improved ties. Pakistan’s previous decision to downgrade relations with India in 2019 has been cited as a contributing factor to the country’s economic struggles, leading to an all-time high inflation rate and a reliance on the International Monetary Fund.
A leading business figure has called upon Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to reach out to former Prime Minister Imran Khan, currently imprisoned, in an effort to promote stability within the nation. The suggestion was made during a Q&A session with PM Shehbaz, who was in Karachi to address trade and economic concerns with the business community. The business tycoon, Arif Habib, commended PM Shehbaz’s past efforts in securing an IMF bailout package. He proposed that the Prime Minister make amends with India, a neighboring country, and with PTI founder Imran Khan to ensure stability. The business leader expressed his belief that these overtures would yield positive outcomes.
Iran President Ebrahim Raisi’s visit to Pakistan underscores the country’s delicate balancing act in maintaining cordial relations with both India and Pakistan. Despite Pakistan’s attempt to secure Raisi’s support on Kashmir, he refrained from engaging, reflecting Iran’s neutral stance. Meanwhile, India emphasized its long-standing ties with Iran, including recent high-level exchanges and cooperation.
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s visit to Pakistan aims to improve strained ties between the two countries. During talks, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif raised the Kashmir issue, while Raisi focused on the Palestine issue. Both nations agreed to collaborate on terrorism prevention and signed agreements to strengthen cooperation in various areas. President Raisi and Prime Minister Sharif highlighted the need to boost trade and communication between the two countries.
