January 2025 Current Affairs Bulletin
A chronological timeline of significant affairs curated for high-yield exam retention.
IHC judges challenge proposed CJ appointment, cite threat to judicial independence
Five IHC judges sent a letter to CJP Yahya Afridi and top high court judges opposing the reported transfer of a LHC judge to become IHC chief justice, calling it a 'fraud on the Constitution' and a threat to judicial independence. The letter, signed by Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani and four others, argued that the 26th Amendment did not allow permanent transfers and a transferred judge would lose seniority.
Read Source ArticleGSP+ benefits depend on progress in addressing ‘list of issues’, EU reminds Pakistan
The European Union reminded Pakistan that GSP+ trade benefits depend on progress in human rights issues, as EU envoy Olof Skoog highlighted concerns including blasphemy laws, enforced disappearances, and women's rights during a week-long visit. The EU statement noted Pakistan is the largest GSP+ beneficiary with exports up 108% since 2014, and urged continued reforms ahead of the new regulation.
Read Source Article‘Prudent monetary policy brings stability’: SBP chief
State Bank Governor Jameel Ahmad said prudent monetary policy had restored macroeconomic stability, addressing the Multan Chamber of Commerce. He reported SME financing rose from Rs543 billion in December 2023 to Rs638 billion in December 2024, and agriculture credit disbursement increased 14.5% year-on-year to Rs1,266 billion in the first half of FY25.
Read Source ArticleChanges to Peca law challenged in LHC over free speech concerns
Petitioners challenge Peca amendments in Lahore High Court; President Zardari assents to Digital Nation and NCW bills.
Read Source Article12 additional judges of Sindh high court sworn in
Twelve additional judges sworn into Sindh High Court, raising total strength to 40.
Read Source ArticleDon’t take GSP+ for granted, says EU envoy
EU Ambassador Skoog warns Pakistan not to take GSP+ status for granted, urges rule of law.
Read Source ArticlePresident Zardari assents to Peca amendment law despite journalists’ calls to desist
President Zardari signed the Peca Amendment Bill 2025 on Wednesday, penalizing 'fake news' with up to 3 years imprisonment and Rs2 million fine despite journalist protests.
Read Source ArticleEarlier orders in jurisdiction case invalidated by SC constitutional bench
Supreme Court's constitutional bench struck down Jan 13 and Jan 16 orders as invalid, while the government plans to challenge a later ruling by Justice Shah and Abbasi.
Read Source ArticleCommerce Minister Jam vows adherence to treaties for GSP+
Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan assured the EU of Pakistan's adherence to 27 international conventions to maintain GSP+ trade benefits extended until 2027.
Read Source ArticleSenate’s approval of contentious Peca amendments bill triggers protests across country
Senate passed Peca amendments bill penalising fake news, sparking nationwide protests by journalists and opposition.
Read Source ArticlePresident appoints 12 additional judges for SHC
President appointed 12 additional judges to Sindh High Court; Judicial Commission to meet Feb 11 for SC vacancies.
Read Source ArticlePakistan, China resolve to strengthen bilateral ties as Dar meets Chinese ambassador
Pakistan and China reviewed CPEC 2.0 progress, reaffirming all-weather strategic partnership during Dar’s meeting with Chinese envoy.
Read Source ArticleSBP cuts key policy rate by 100bps to 12pc
The SBP cut its key policy rate by 100 basis points to 12 percent, the sixth reduction since June 2024. Inflation fell to 4.1 percent year-on-year in December, and the bank targets $13 billion in foreign exchange reserves by June 2025.
Read Source ArticleSenate panel approves Peca amendment bill as opposition cries foul
The Senate Standing Committee on Interior passed the Prevention of Electronic Crimes (Amendment) Bill 2025 by majority vote, criminalizing fake news with up to three years imprisonment and a Rs2 million fine. The opposition and journalist bodies condemned the lack of stakeholder consultation, with the PFUJ announcing a nationwide protest.
Read Source ArticleMay 9 GHQ attack case: Rawalpindi ATC rejects Imran Khan’s acquittal plea
Rawalpindi ATC rejected Imran Khan's acquittal plea in the May 9 GHQ attack case on Monday. The court dismissed his application, citing the ongoing trial and that 12 witnesses have already testified.
Read Source ArticlePTI files plea against 26th Amendment
PTI petition sought to declare the 26th Amendment unconstitutional due to procedural irregularities and violation of Articles 63A,238,239. Justice Shah objected to a six-judge larger bench for an intra-court appeal, citing conflict of interest.
Read Source ArticleGovt reverses decision to halt gas supplies to captive power plants
The ECC approved a 17% gas tariff increase for captive power plants to Rs3,500 per mmBtu, reversing a prior plan to halt supplies. The decision, agreed with the IMF, raised tariffs from Rs3,000 per mmBtu and did not affect domestic consumers.
Read Source ArticleNon-textile exports soar 13pc to $7.5bn
Non-textile exports rose 12.83% to $7.56 billion in the first half of FY25, driven by engineering goods (up 28.11%) and leather products. Exports of cement increased 23.2% by value, and jewellery surged 71.78% during the period.
Read Source ArticleChanges to cybercrime law land in Senate amid outcry
Amid PTI protests and a journalists' walkout, the controversial Peca amendment bill was presented in the Senate and referred to a standing committee, while a joint session earlier passed four bills in 11 minutes. The Rawalpindi-Islamabad Union of Journalists announced a campaign against the bill, calling it a tool to impose censorship.
Read Source ArticleTurkiye’s Erdogan to attend strategic cooperation meeting in Islamabad next month
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan is expected to attend the seventh Pakistan-Turkiye High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council meeting in Islamabad tentatively on Feb 12-13, focusing on defence, security, trade, and cultural ties. Deputy PM Ishaq Dar led a preparatory meeting to review the Strategic Economic Framework 2020-24.
Read Source ArticleShort-term inflation rises 0.52pc
Short-term inflation, measured by the Sensitive Price Index, rose 0.52% year-on-year in the week ending Jan 23, the lowest reading on record, while declining 0.77% week-on-week. Major price drops included tomatoes (32.99%), eggs (10.23%), onions (9.79%), and potatoes (7.37%).
Read Source ArticlePPP’s Rabbani condemns NA’s passage of changes to Peca law after party backs vote
PPP leader Raza Rabbani condemned the National Assembly's rushed passage of the Peca (Amendment) Bill, warning it would curtail free expression via executive-controlled authorities. The bill proposes Section 26(A) imposing up to three years imprisonment and Rs2 million fine for disseminating fake news.
Read Source ArticlePM hails $20bn World Bank partnership to boost growth
PM Shehbaz hailed the World Bank's $20 billion decade-long Country Partnership Framework as transformative for Pakistan's economy and development. The framework outlines six key outcomes including reducing child stunting and improving air quality, while a World Bank official acknowledged the partnership involves high risks.
Read Source ArticleFO optimistic ties with US will deepen under Trump
Foreign Office spokesman Shafqat Ali Khan expressed optimism that Pakistan-US ties will grow under the new Trump administration, emphasizing non-interference as non-negotiable. He also distanced the FO from Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi's unofficial visit to Washington, stating it was not processed through the ministry.
Read Source ArticleNA passes controversial Peca amendment bill amid walkout
National Assembly passed the Peca amendment bill on Thursday, introducing up to three years imprisonment and Rs2 million fine for fake news. The bill was passed amid a walkout by PTI lawmakers and journalists from the press gallery.
Read Source ArticleCall for full court to settle Supreme Court jurisdiction row
SC bench on Wednesday appointed Khawaja Haris Ahmed and Ahsan Bhoon as amici curiae in a jurisdiction conflict case. The court also considered a call for the full court to settle the dispute over whether committees can override judicial orders.
Read Source ArticleGovt slashes T-bill rates by up to 41bps
Government cut T-bill yields by up to 41 basis points at Wednesday's auction, with the 12-month rate falling to 11.38 percent. The cut comes ahead of the SBP's monetary policy meeting on Jan 27, where analysts expect a further reduction.
Read Source ArticleLatest Peca changes draft lowers jail term to 3 years, fines remain at Rs2m
The latest Peca draft cuts jail term to three years from seven, retains Rs2 million fine, and proposes a Social Media Protection and Regulatory Authority.
Read Source Article‘Jurisdiction’ becomes bone of contention at apex court
During contempt proceedings, Justice Mansoor Shah argued jurisdiction once fixed cannot be removed, calling it a 'gift from God'.
Read Source ArticleJudicial Commission of Pakistan meeting tomorrow to finalise judges for SHC
The Judicial Commission will meet Thursday to consider 46 candidates, including four women, for 12 vacant Sindh High Court judgeships.
Read Source ArticleSC constitutional bench likely to hear pleas against amendment in a week’s time
A seven-judge Supreme Court bench headed by Justice Aminuddin Khan is likely to hear pleas against the 26th Amendment on Jan 27. Petitioners have demanded a full court hearing and argued the amendment is procedurally flawed and undermines judicial independence, challenging provisions on judicial performance evaluation, CJP appointment, and constitutional benches.
Read Source ArticleFinance minister says $1bn loan agreed with two Middle Eastern banks
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb confirmed a $1 billion short-term loan from two Middle Eastern banks at 6-7% interest, with one bilateral and one trade finance facility. He expressed confidence that Pakistan is in a good position for the upcoming IMF first review of the $7 billion EFF program in late February.
Read Source ArticleKP to engage with Afghan Taliban govt
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur said he will send a delegation to Afghanistan within two weeks to address Pak-Afghan issues at the provincial level. He stated that terrorism cannot be eliminated through operations and strikes, and a second delegation of tribal elders will engage with the Afghan Taliban government.
Read Source ArticleJustice Shah asks deputy registrar why case of SC jurisdiction not fixed for hearing
Justice Shah questioned deputy registrar on delay in fixing SC jurisdiction case amid transfer to Constitutional Bench.
Read Source ArticlePTI to challenge £190m case ruling tomorrow
PTI to challenge £190m case ruling claiming funds were intended for Malik Riaz, not the state.
Read Source ArticleUS delegation meets BBoIT leadership to discuss investment in Balochistan
US delegation met Balochistan Board of Investment to discuss investment opportunities in Gwadar Free Zone.
Read Source ArticlePTI slams £190m case verdict as 'murder of justice'
PTI condemned the £190m Al-Qadir Trust case verdict that sentenced Imran Khan to 14 years and Bushra Bibi to 7 years. Central Information Secretary Sheikh Waqqas Akram announced an appeal within days, calling the ruling 'murder of justice'.
Read Source ArticleTrade deficit with nine countries surges 43pc
Pakistan's trade deficit with nine neighboring countries surged 43.22% to $5.328bn in the first half of FY25, driven by higher imports from China, India and Bangladesh. Imports from China rose 30.42% to $7.541bn, while exports to the nine countries grew 7.85% to $2.404bn.
Read Source ArticleGaza ceasefire begins today after 15 months of war
Gaza ceasefire began on Sunday at 8:30am after 15 months, with Egypt confirming Israel will release over 1,890 Palestinians and Hamas 33 hostages in a 42-day first phase. The Palestinian Authority completed preparations to assume full responsibility in Gaza, while Israeli PM Netanyahu reserved the right to resume war with US support.
Read Source ArticleJudicial Commission of Pakistan approves appointment of five judges for IHC, BHC
The Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP), chaired by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi, approved the one-year appointment of five additional judges: two for Islamabad High Court (DSJ Mohammad Azam Khan and Inaam Ameen Minhas) and three for Balochistan High Court (Mohammad Asif, Muhammad Ayub Khan, and Muhammad Najamuddin Mengal). Nominees who failed to secure required votes can be renominated for future vacancies.
Read Source ArticleWhat about civil charges against military court convicts, SC asks
The Supreme Court's Constitutional Bench questioned why individuals charged under both the Pakistan Penal Code and Army Act for May 9 violence were only convicted under military law, with Justice Musarrat Hilali noting that civilian offences were ignored. The seven-judge bench, led by Justice Aminud Din Khan, heard arguments that attacking state property is not political activism and adjourned the hearing.
Read Source ArticleIMF lowers Pakistan’s GDP growth estimate to 3pc
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) lowered Pakistan's GDP growth estimate to 3% for the current fiscal year from 3.2% three months ago, while keeping the next fiscal year forecast unchanged at 4%. The downward revision is attributed to lower cotton output and industrial struggles, with global growth held at 3.3%.
Read Source ArticleImran and Bushra convicted in £190m Al-Qadir Trust case
Imran Khan sentenced to 14 years, Bushra Bibi 7 years in £190m Al-Qadir Trust case; PTI to challenge verdict.
Read Source ArticleSC asks for data on civilians tried by military courts
Supreme Court seeks data on civilians tried by military courts, noting apparent lacuna in Army Act definition.
Read Source ArticleExchange companies sell $4bn in first half of FY25
Exchange companies sold $4 billion in H1 FY25; Pakistan on track for $35bn remittances by end FY25.
Read Source ArticleUAE rolls over $2bn deposits, SBP confirms
The State Bank of Pakistan confirmed on Thursday that the UAE rolled over two $1bn deposits maturing this month for another year, with PM Shehbaz Sharif announcing the agreement last week. The rollover eases external liquidity concerns as securing financing is a key condition for the IMF's $7bn bailout for Pakistan.
Read Source ArticleFO says Wakhan Corridor part of Afghan territory, denies reports of annexation
Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan, in his maiden weekly press briefing on Thursday, rejected reports of Pakistan annexing Afghanistan's Wakhan Corridor, calling the speculation 'erroneous'. He stated that the corridor is part of Afghan territory and that Pakistan recognizes Afghanistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Read Source Article‘Anomaly’ about trials under army act baffles SC judge
Supreme Court Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail noted that despite Sections 2(1)(d)(i) and (ii) of the Pakistan Army Act allowing civilian court-martials, terrorists attacking army personnel are not liable to military justice. He questioned why the 2014 APS attack perpetrators were not tried in military courts during a hearing on the appeals against the Oct 23, 2023 judgement nullifying May 9 military trials.
Read Source ArticleSC asks if any armymen were held accountable for May 9 breaches
Justice Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi asked if any army official was held accountable for May 9 security breaches; government lawyer Khawaja Haris Ahmed said no serving officers were charged. The Constitutional Bench is hearing appeals against the October 2023 order nullifying civilian trials by military courts.
Read Source ArticleWorld Bank pledges $20bn to Pakistan under 10-year partnership framework
The World Bank pledged $20 billion (via IDA and IBRD) to Pakistan under a 10-year framework to increase tax-to-GDP ratio above 15% and add 10 GW renewable energy. The CPF also targets reducing child stunting, providing education to 12 million students, and healthcare to 50 million citizens.
Read Source ArticlePakistan not formal ally, but strong partner: White House official Kirby
White House official John Kirby stated Pakistan was never a formal US ally due to no treaty, but remains a strong counterterrorism partner. He noted 351 civilians and 573 security personnel died in 1,566 terrorism incidents in Pakistan in the first 10 months of 2024.
Read Source ArticleJustice Shah questions bar on non-CB judges from constitutional cases after 26th Amendment
Senior Puisne Judge Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah on January 14, 2025, questioned whether Article 191A of the 26th Amendment can bar non-constitutional bench judges from hearing constitutional matters. The query arose during a three-judge bench hearing of an appeal against a Sindh High Court judgement striking down Section 221(2) of the Customs Tax Act 1969.
Read Source ArticleGovernment approves revised IPP agreements with Rs137bn annual savings for consumers
The federal cabinet on Tuesday approved revised agreements with 14 IPPs, projected to save Rs137 billion annually and Rs1.4 trillion over their duration. The revision includes Rs35 billion deduction in excess profits and follows earlier terminations of five IPPs in October 2024 and settlements with eight bagasse IPPs in December 2024.
Read Source ArticlePakistan, Bangladesh underscore enduring partnership for regional resilience
Pakistan COAS General Asim Munir and Bangladesh PSO Lieutenant General S M Kamrul Hassan on Tuesday underscored the need for an 'enduring partnership' resilient against external influences. They discussed enhancing defense cooperation and regional stability, with the Bangladeshi official commending the Pakistan Army's professionalism.
Read Source ArticleUS lawmaker looks to scrap Pakistan's 'non-Nato ally' status
US Congressman Andy Biggs introduced a bill to revoke Pakistan's major non-NATO ally status, requiring actions against the Haqqani Network. Analysts said the impact is limited as Sirajuddin Haqqani serves as Afghanistan's interim foreign minister.
Read Source ArticleVerdict in Imran, Bushra's £190m Al-Qadir Trust case postponed for 3rd time
Judge Nasir Javed Rana postponed the verdict in the £190m Al-Qadir Trust case against Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi to January 17, 2025, due to their absence. The case involves allegations of legalising Rs50 billion returned from the UK.
Read Source ArticleAurangzeb says country making progress on Panda bonds: report
Finance Minister Aurangzeb said Pakistan plans to raise $200-250 million via Panda bonds from Chinese investors within six to nine months. He also confirmed an IMF mission will visit next month and GDP is expected to grow 3.5% this fiscal year.
Read Source ArticlePakistan, China commit to top-notch CPEC 2.0
Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch and Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Sun Weidong co-chaired the 5th CPEC JWG-ICC meeting in Beijing, reaffirming commitment to CPEC 2.0. The meeting emphasized industrialization, special economic zones, clean energy, agriculture, and livelihood projects.
Read Source ArticleExports to Europe rise to $3.8bn in July-Nov
Pakistan's exports to Europe rose 8.62% to $3.866 billion in July-November FY25, with a 11.67% increase to Western Europe. Exports to Eastern Europe surged 44.95%, and to the UK rose 8.25% to $935.02 million.
Read Source ArticleECP suspends Jattak’s victory notification, summons RO
The Election Commission suspended the victory notification of Balochistan minister Ali Madad Jattak from PB-45 after a tribunal ordered re-polling. The ECP summoned the Returning Officer and original Form-45 from 15 polling stations following a petition by JUI-F's Mir Usman Pirkani.
Read Source ArticleCompetence of military court judges questioned
Supreme Court Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail questioned military court judges' competence, noting his 34 years of judicial experience. The government said only 105 of 5,000 May 9 suspects were charged under the Official Secrets Act and Pakistan Army Act.
Read Source ArticleEconomy seen growing at 3.4pc in FY25
Pakistan's GDP is projected to grow 3.4% in FY25 according to a UN report, supported by a $7 billion IMF Extended Fund Facility. The report emphasizes that the programme aims for long-term structural reforms including state-owned enterprise reform and climate resilience.
Read Source ArticleGlobal moot on girls' education begins today in Islamabad
A two-day global conference on girls' education opened in Islamabad with representatives from 44 countries and over 150 dignitaries. Malala Yousafzai will address the summit on Sunday, and an 'Islamabad Declaration' on girls' education is expected to be issued.
Read Source ArticleJudicial Commission of Pakistan to appoint judges to SHC on 23rd
The Judicial Commission of Pakistan will consider 46 nominations for additional judges to the Sindh High Court on January 23, including senior advocates and district and sessions judges. The JCP had earlier sought nominations for 38 vacancies across high courts, with 12 for the SHC.
Read Source ArticleRemittances see ‘record increase’ in December with $3.1bn inflows
Worker remittances surged 29.3% year-on-year to a record $3.1 billion in December 2024, with Saudi Arabia being the largest source at $770.6 million. Overall, inflows rose 32.8% during the first half of fiscal year 2024-25 to $17.8 billion from July to December.
Read Source ArticleIMF agrees to end 18pc GST on new aircraft, NA panel told
The National Assembly Standing Committee on Privatisation was informed that the IMF has agreed to remove 18% GST on new aircraft and clean Rs45 billion negative equity of PIA. The committee also decided to seek fresh expressions of interest for PIA privatization.
Read Source ArticleSC questions military trials for May 9 accused
On Thursday, the Supreme Court constitutional bench questioned why May 9 accused were specifically tried in military courts, citing past terrorism cases tried in ordinary courts. The bench noted that 25 civilians were sentenced to 2-10 years by military courts on Dec 21, 2024, and 60 more on Dec 28.
Read Source ArticleSBP governor says debt level, balance of payments under control
SBP Governor Jameel Ahmed said on Thursday that Pakistan's external debt stood at $100.08 billion, unchanged from 2022, and remittances are expected to cross $35 billion this financial year. He also stated the inflation target is 5-7% and the current account is expected to remain in surplus in December.
Read Source ArticleNaqvi vows to strengthen Pak-US ties in farewell meeting with Blome
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi met outgoing US Ambassador Donald Blome on Thursday, vowing to strengthen bilateral ties and counter-terrorism cooperation. Naqvi declared that no unauthorized foreign nationals would be allowed to reside in Pakistan, while Blome condemned recent terrorist attacks.
Read Source ArticleSC urged to let full court hear challenges to 26th amendment
Two applications, by Afrasiab Khattak and Taufiq Asif, sought an early hearing of challenges to the 26th Amendment before a full Supreme Court bench. The applicants argued that the constitutional bench cannot adjudicate its own vires and that only the full court can ensure legitimacy.
Read Source ArticlePM Shehbaz stresses need to honour IMF commitments
PM Shehbaz at the Pakistan Stock Exchange on Wednesday stressed honouring IMF commitments, citing Pakistan achieved a 10.8% tax-to-GDP ratio against the IMF's 10.6% target. He also noted the SBP policy rate dropped from 22% to 13% and the KSE-100 index fell 1,904 points (1.64%) to 114,148.
Read Source ArticlePM boasts of stability after UAE agrees to $2bn rollover
PM Shehbaz revealed that the UAE agreed to roll over a $2 billion debt due this month, and Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto will visit Islamabad later this month to discuss bilateral trade. The cabinet declared FBR infrastructure critical under PECA 2016 and approved Flydubai’s temporary operating permits for flights between Lahore, Islamabad and Dubai.
Read Source ArticleUAE agrees to roll over payment of $2bn due by Pakistan
UAE agreed to roll over $2 billion due by Pakistan this month. PM Shehbaz said the government will approach the IMF to reduce electricity prices.
Read Source ArticleBanks advance record Rs1.9tr to private sector
Banks advanced a record Rs1.907 trillion to the private sector in July-December FY25, up 266% from a year earlier. The surge followed the SBP's 900-basis-point policy rate cut since June 2024 to 13%.
Read Source ArticleLegal community opposes civilians’ trial in military courts: Hamid Khan
Senator Hamid Khan said the legal community unanimously opposes trials of civilians by military courts. He criticized the Supreme Court for allowing military court verdicts in May 9 cases as unconstitutional.
Read Source ArticleIMF wants strict levy on captive power plants
IMF mandated gas disconnections to industrial captive power plants by end-January 2025 and proposed a levy of Rs1,700-1,800 per mmBtu to eliminate cost advantage. Compliance is critical for Pakistan to qualify for the $1bn tranche from the $7bn EFF in March.
Read Source ArticleIn talks with PM, UAE president hints at more investment
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met PM Shehbaz Sharif in Rahim Yar Khan on Sunday and expressed keen interest in minerals and agriculture collaboration. Both leaders committed to deepening economic ties and discussed renewable energy, technology, trade, and regional stability.
Read Source ArticleCabinet body defers plan to allot 14,008 acres of state land for corporate farming in Sindh
A Sindh cabinet sub-committee chaired by Home Minister Zia Lanjar deferred for a month the allotment of 14,008 acres to army-backed Green Corporate Initiative for corporate farming. The committee ordered a viability assessment and consultation with local stakeholders before renting the land for 30 years.
Read Source ArticleAsian Infrastructure Investment Bank to give $500m loan for N-5 construction
AIIB will provide $210.12 million initial financing for Pakistan's N-5 highway reconstruction, with first-phase cost at $247.75m and government contribution of $37.63m. The total multi-phase project costs $587.98m, with AIIB lending $500m and $210m disbursement expected in May 2025.
Read Source ArticleGovt to take another shot at separating IRS, Customs
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved the separation of IRS and Customs by March 31, 2025, as part of a 99-measure maritime sector overhaul. The reform creates three separate boards to replace the FBR chairman and address a Rs7.1 trillion revenue gap.
Read Source ArticleShah Mehmood Qureshi calls for national unity on nuclear programme after Bilawal’s remarks
PTI Vice-Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi asserted national consensus on Pakistan's nuclear programme after PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari's remarks accusing foreign powers of targeting it. Qureshi stressed no international conspiracy has succeeded and called for avoiding politicization of the sensitive issue.
Read Source ArticleJudicial Commission sitting to consider IHC, BHC judges on 17th
The Judicial Commission will meet on Jan 17 to consider 19 candidates for four IHC vacancies and 11 for three BHC vacancies; the Supreme Court disposed of 7,482 cases in the period Oct 28-Jan 3.
Read Source ArticleExport of services reaches $676m in November
Services exports increased 6.51% to $675.69m in November 2024, with July-November exports up 7.58% to $3.27bn; the services trade deficit narrowed 8.48% year-on-year to $1.15bn.
Read Source ArticlePunjab CM Maryam welcomes $700m Chinese investment
Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz approved a $700 million Chinese investment for an e-taxi service, a computing centre, and a data and cloud centre in Lahore; the project also includes an e-commerce platform and youth training programs.
Read Source ArticleReprieve for 19 PTI men convicted by military court
Military courts granted remission to 19 of 85 PTI activists convicted for May 9 riots, with 48 cases under appeal. Seven convicts were released from Peshawar prison on Jan 3, 2025.
Read Source ArticleSBP reserves fall $371m in two weeks
SBP foreign reserves dropped $371 million in two weeks to $11.71 billion as of Dec 27, used for external debt servicing. Pakistan faces $26.1 billion debt servicing in FY25, while UBL arranged a $300 million loan on Dec 31.
Read Source ArticlePakistan flag installed at UNSC as country becomes non-permanent member for 8th time
Pakistan began its eighth UNSC non-permanent term (2025-26) with flag installation alongside new members Denmark, Greece, Panama, and Somalia. Envoy Asim Iftikhar Ahmad pledged Pakistan's voice for the oppressed, and the country secured a seat on the ISIS and Al Qaeda Sanctions Committee.
Read Source ArticleSC regrets 'fraudulent' increase in losing candidate's votes
The Supreme Court regretted the fraudulent increase in Agriculture Minister Mir Ali Madad Jattak's votes from 195 to 5,107 in PB-45 Quetta and rejected his appeal on Nov 20, 2024. The Election Tribunal had nullified his victory and ordered repolling at 15 polling stations due to the RO's unlawful change of consolidation date.
Read Source ArticleMay 9 riots: Mercy petitions of 19 convicts accepted on humanitarian grounds
The ISPR announced on Jan 2, 2025 that 19 May 9 riot convicts had their mercy petitions accepted, remitting their two-year rigorous imprisonment sentences. The convicts were part of 85 civilians sentenced by military courts in December 2024.
Read Source ArticleIslamabad, New Delhi exchange lists of prisoners, N-installations
Under the 2008 Consular Access Agreement, Pakistan and India exchanged prisoner lists showing 108 Pakistanis and 183 Indians have served sentences but remain imprisoned. Additionally, both countries exchanged nuclear installations lists for the 34th consecutive year under the 1988 anti-attack pact.
Read Source ArticleGrazing land can only be allotted for public use: SC
Supreme Court ruled charagah grazing land cannot be allotted under Lambardari grant, only for public use with BoR permission.
Read Source ArticleCPI inflation clocks in at 4.1pc for December 2024 — lowest in nearly 7 years
Pakistan's CPI inflation fell to 4.1% YoY in December 2024, lowest in 81 months, and 1HFY25 averaged 7.22%.
Read Source ArticlePakistan enters UN Security Council at key juncture in global politics
Pakistan began its eighth two-year term as UNSC non-permanent member on Jan 1, 2025, will preside in July, and secured a seat on the IS and Al Qaeda sanctions committee.
Read Source Article