January 2026 Current Affairs Bulletin
A chronological timeline of significant affairs curated for high-yield exam retention.
A rare opportunity is at hand to appoint a new CEC with consensus
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and new Opposition Leader Mehmood Khan Achakzai have a rare opportunity to appoint a consensus CEC and two ECP members. The last such consensus was in 2020 when Imran Khan and Shehbaz Sharif agreed on Sikandar Sultan Raja as CEC.
Read Source ArticleWeekly inflation rises 4.5pc
Short-term inflation measured by SPI rose 4.52% year-on-year in the week ending Jan 29, falling 0.03% from the previous week after a 26-week upward trend. Key increases included tomatoes (7.53% WoW) and eggs (42.85% YoY), while potatoes fell 7.81% WoW.
Read Source ArticleNaqvi holds India responsible for spate of attacks in Balochistan; ISPR says 92 terrorists killed
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi accused India of planning and supporting the Balochistan attacks. ISPR said 92 terrorists were killed and 33 security personnel and civilians martyred in the operations.
Read Source ArticleAGP audit observations cannot be used against taxpayers: Supreme Court
The Supreme Court ruled audit observations by the Auditor General cannot be used by tax authorities to initiate proceedings against taxpayers, citing separate domains. Justice Munib Akhtar noted that the auditor general operates under the 2001 Ordinance while tax authorities act under fiscal statutes, with no overlap.
Read Source ArticleMeltdown on PSX: index plunges over 6,000 points
The KSE-100 index plunged 6,042.12 points (3.21%) to 182,338.12, erasing Rs568 billion in market capitalisation. The sell-off was fuelled by US-Iran tensions and a disappointing earnings announcement from Fauji Fertiliser Company.
Read Source ArticlePakistan opposes any use of force against Iran
Pakistan opposed the use of force against Iran, with PM Shehbaz Sharif telling Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian that dialogue is essential for regional peace. Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar conveyed to his Iranian counterpart that diplomacy remains the only viable path, while the Foreign Office warned the region cannot afford war.
Read Source ArticleSuper tax provisions not violative of fundamental rights, FCC holds
The Federal Constitutional Court upheld Sections 4B and 4C of the Income Tax Ordinance, ruling the super tax provisions are constitutional and not violative of fundamental rights. The court affirmed parliament's power to legislate retrospectively and allowed the super tax to apply to tax years 2015 and 2022.
Read Source ArticlePM Shehbaz congratulates nation on completion of PIA's privatisation
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the nation on PIA's privatisation as the government signed a deal with the Arif Habib-led consortium for 75% shares at Rs135 billion. The consortium also agreed to acquire the remaining 25% shares for Rs55 billion, bringing total investment to Rs180 billion.
Read Source ArticleBangladesh-Pakistan flights resume after 14 years
Biman Bangladesh Airlines resumed direct flights to Pakistan after 14 years with Flight BG341 from Dhaka, landing in Karachi at 11:03pm and receiving a water cannon salute. Pakistan Airports Authority called the resumption a new chapter in relations, and the flight was fully packed according to the Pakistan High Commission in Dhaka.
Read Source Article26 countries, including Pakistan, named founding members of Trump-led ‘Board of Peace’
Pakistan joins 25 nations as founding member of Trump's new international peace initiative Board of Peace.
Read Source ArticleSaudi Arabia won’t allow airspace to be used for military action against Iran, crown prince says
Saudi Crown Prince announces kingdom will not permit its airspace for any military strikes against Iran.
Read Source ArticlePakistan’s macroeconomic outlook to strengthen: S&P
S&P Global Ratings projects strengthening of Pakistan's macroeconomic outlook, endorsing SBP's forecasts.
Read Source ArticlePresident Zardari gives assent to 7 bills passed by parliament
President Asif Ali Zardari on Jan 26, 2026 signed seven bills into law, including the Domestic Violence Bill and Daanish Schools Authority Bill, after returning them unsigned. He then departed for an official visit to the UAE from Jan 26 to Jan 29.
Read Source ArticleFederal court restrains ECP from proceedings against PTI MNA
The Federal Constitutional Court on Jan 26, 2026 restrained the ECP from proceeding against PTI MNA Sohail Sultan from Swat on a disqualification reference under Article 63(1)(k). The court issued notices to the federal government, NA speaker, and ECP while hearing Sultan's appeal against the Peshawar High Court's decision.
Read Source ArticleCircular debt rises again by Rs75bn in first half of FY26
Power sector circular debt increased by Rs75bn to Rs1.689tr in H1 FY26 (July-Dec 2025), a 4.65% rise from Rs1.614tr at end-FY25. Payables to power producers rose to Rs903bn and K-Electric non-payments surged to Rs115bn.
Read Source ArticleSBP maintains policy rate at 10.5pc
The State Bank of Pakistan maintained its key policy rate at 10.5% as MPC noted headline inflation of 5.6% in December 2025 and a current account deficit of $244 million for the month. Real GDP grew 3.7% in Q1 FY2026, LSM expanded 6% in July-November, and forex reserves reached $16.1 billion as of January 16.
Read Source ArticleLawyers, legal experts dissect 27th Amendment, highlight its issues at Thinkfest in Lahore
At ThinkFest, lawyer Asad Rahim Khan argued the 27th Amendment undermines the Supreme Court's authority, noting that the federal constitutional court's decisions are binding on all courts but not vice versa, while pendency in the SC is only 2.8%. Another panelist, Reema Omer, said the amendment serves as a check on parliament rather than ensuring its supremacy, and Irfan Qadir defended the move as necessary to rein in an overreaching judiciary.
Read Source ArticleDar, Myanmar FM hold ‘very productive’ talks in Islamabad as Pakistan seeks to revitalise ties
Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Myanmar Foreign Minister Than Swe held productive talks in Islamabad, signing an MoU on political consultations between their foreign offices. They agreed to boost cooperation in trade, investment, and consular assistance for scamming victims, with Dar reaffirming Pakistan's support for a peaceful Myanmar.
Read Source ArticleCourts should not convert divorce cases into ‘khula’: SC
The Supreme Court ruled that family courts cannot convert divorce cases into khula without the wife's request, overturning lower court decisions. The apex court dissolved the marriage on grounds of talaq after the husband contracted a second marriage without permission, and awarded the wife her full unpaid dower of Rs1.2 million.
Read Source ArticlePakistan, Somalia abolish visas for diplomats
Pakistan and Somalia signed an agreement on January 25, 2026, abolishing visa requirements for diplomatic passport holders, witnessed by President Zardari. The visit marked Somalia's first official bilateral visit to Pakistan in 35 years, with both sides discussing cooperation in law enforcement, extradition, and mutual legal assistance.
Read Source ArticleTrade gap with nine neighbours widens 44.4pc in first half
Pakistan's trade deficit with nine neighbouring countries widened 44.42% to $7.683 billion in July-December FY26 from $5.320 billion a year earlier, as exports dropped 18.56% to $1.965 billion. Exports to China fell 5.59%, to Afghanistan plunged 56.61% (trade suspended since October 10, 2025), and to Bangladesh and Sri Lanka also declined, while imports from China rose 25.61%.
Read Source ArticleFederal cabinet gave the nod for joining Trump-led Board of Peace: PM
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that the federal cabinet approved joining the US-led Board of Peace, formed by 19 countries in Davos for Gaza reconstruction. The decision was criticized by JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman as driven by 'fear of Trump', but Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal defended it as a 'diplomatic win'.
Read Source ArticleSBP cancels another exchange firm's licence over regulatory violations
The State Bank of Pakistan cancelled Glaxy Exchange's licence on Friday for serious regulatory violations, the first exchange closure in 2026 after three in 2025. The SBP also raised the minimum paid-up capital for exchange companies to Rs800m, hindering new firms.
Read Source ArticleSC upholds tribunal order restoring sessions judge
The Supreme Court on Friday dismissed a petition by former Sindh High Court chief justice Sajjad Ali Shah, upholding a tribunal's order reinstating sessions judge Aijaz Ali Khaskheli. The tribunal had ruled in September 2024 that the dismissal was procedurally flawed because the chief justice acted as both complainant and punishing authority.
Read Source ArticleCentral bank seen cutting rates again after December surprise
A Reuters poll found 7 of 10 analysts expect a 50 bps SBP rate cut to 10.5% on Jan 26 after December inflation fell to 5.6%. The IMF cautioned against premature easing under Pakistan's $7 billion loan program.
Read Source Article‘Diplomatic win’: In joint session, govt again defends decision to join Trump-led Board of Peace
Ahsan Iqbal called Pakistan's joining the Trump-led Board of Peace a "diplomatic win" in a Friday joint session, referencing PM Shehbaz Sharif among 19 signatories in Davos. Opposition leaders Maulana Fazlur Rehman and Raja Nasir Abbas criticized the move for bypassing parliament and harming Palestinians.
Read Source ArticleJoint session of parliament today to take up bills returned by president
President Zardari summoned a Friday joint session for three returned bills (Daanish University, domestic violence, human rights) after addressing PPP concerns. He also confirmed 27 additional judges from the Sindh, Lahore, and Peshawar high courts.
Read Source ArticlePresident Zardari confirms 27 judges of Sindh, Lahore and Peshawar high courts as permanent
President Asif Ali Zardari confirmed 27 additional judges of the Sindh, Lahore, and Peshawar high courts as permanent, based on JCP recommendations. He also extended tenures of seven additional judges for six months.
Read Source ArticleConstitutional validity of 27th Amendment challenged in LHC
Senior lawyer Asad Jamal filed a constitutional petition in the Lahore High Court challenging the 27th Amendment over non-consensual transfer of judges. He argued that the amendment violates judicial independence and the separation of powers.
Read Source ArticlePM Shehbaz, other world leaders sign charter for Trump-led Board of Peace
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif joined leaders from 19 countries in Davos to sign the charter of the Trump-led Board of Peace. Permanent members must pay $1 billion, drawing criticism that it is a 'pay to play' version of the UN Security Council.
Read Source ArticleNA passes bill seeking amendments to Elections Act for secrecy of parliamentarians’ assets
The National Assembly on Wednesday passed the Elections Amendment Bill, 2026, allowing speakers to exempt parliamentarians from public asset disclosure for up to one year if it threatens their safety. The bill, opposed by PTI, also replaces 'Supreme' with 'Federal Constitutional' under the 27th Amendment.
Read Source ArticleSupreme Court upholds appellate jurisdiction in rent and family cases
The Supreme Court on December 12, 2025, overruled an office objection and affirmed its appellate jurisdiction over rent and family cases, clarifying they are maintainable under Article 185(3). The three-judge bench led by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi ruled that such cases, excluded from the Federal Constitutional Court's jurisdiction, fall within the SC's purview.
Read Source ArticleExport-led growth is the way forward for Pakistan, says PM Shehbaz
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Wednesday advocated export-led growth, highlighting a tax-to-GDP ratio of 10.5% and annual IT exports of $3 billion. He also met IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva and Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa on the sidelines.
Read Source ArticleThree permanent Islamabad High Court judges take oath
Justice Muhammad Azam Khan, Justice Muhammad Asif, and Justice Raja Inam Ameen Minhas took oath as permanent IHC judges on January 19, 2026, administered by Chief Justice Sardar Muhammad Sarfaraz Dogar. Their appointment was confirmed by the Judicial Commission of Pakistan on January 12, 2026, despite objections from senior puisne judge Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani.
Read Source ArticlePTI-nominated MWM chief Raja Nasir Abbas appointed Senate opposition leader after months-long delay
Raja Nasir Abbas, chief of Majlis Wahdat-i-Muslimeen, was appointed Senate opposition leader on January 20, 2026, supported by 22 of 32 opposition members. The position had been vacant since August 2025 after the disqualification of Shibli Faraz, with the delay due to pending court cases.
Read Source ArticleForeign direct investment plunges 43pc
Foreign direct investment in Pakistan fell 43% year-on-year to $808 million in July-December FY26, driven by heightened regional tensions. December recorded a net outflow of $135 million, with China and Hong Kong contributing 73% of total FDI.
Read Source ArticleECP seeks amendment in Elections Act to ensure timely conduct of local govt polls
The ECP proposed amending Section 219(1) of the Elections Act, 2017 to require local polls within 120 days of term expiry. The commission cited governments' repeated repeals of local government laws as causing delays in fulfilling its constitutional duty.
Read Source ArticleIMF lifts 2026 global growth forecast but flags AI, trade risks
The IMF raised its 2026 global growth forecast by 0.2 percentage points to 3.3%, citing AI and tech investment but warning of trade and AI risks. Pakistan's GDP growth is estimated at 3.2% for 2026, with US at 2.4% and euro area at 1.3%.
Read Source ArticlePrivate schools’ employees in KP entitled to social security benefits, rules Peshawar High Court
The Peshawar High Court dismissed a petition by Private Education Network and ruled that private schools in KP must provide social security benefits under the KPESSA 2021. The court lifted the stay order and declared the notification applying the act to private schools valid.
Read Source ArticleTrump invites PM Shehbaz to join Gaza ‘Board of Peace’: FO
President Donald Trump invited Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to join the Gaza 'Board of Peace,' FO spokesperson Tahir Andrabi confirmed. The board, chaired by Trump and including around 60 state heads and members like Marco Rubio, Tony Blair, Ajay Banga, Jared Kushner, and Steve Witkoff, aims for Gaza peace per UN resolutions.
Read Source ArticleGovt borrows Rs1.19tr in first half of current fiscal year
The government borrowed a net Rs1.192 trillion from scheduled banks in the first half of fiscal year 2025-26, compared to a net retirement of Rs1.255 trillion in the same period last year. The FBR collected Rs6.159 trillion July-December FY26, a shortfall of Rs331 billion from the target of Rs6.490 trillion but 10% higher year-on-year.
Read Source ArticleThree permanent judges of IHC notified
President Asif Ali Zardari appointed Justices Muhammad Azam Khan, Muhammad Asif, and Raja Inaam Ameen Minhas as permanent judges of the Islamabad High Court, with notification issued on January 17. The Judicial Commission of Pakistan confirmed them by 13 votes each out of 17 members despite objections from Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani; Justice Minhas topped with 2,039 case disposals in 2025.
Read Source ArticleSupreme Court rules pension a right, not employer's largesse
The Supreme Court ruled pension is a vested constitutional right, setting aside a Federal Service Tribunal order that denied benefits to a former senior auditor who applied 13 years after his 2007 resignation. The court held that completing 20 years of qualifying service entitles an employee to pension regardless of delayed application.
Read Source ArticleNumber of special economic zones surges to 44 under CPEC 2.0
The number of approved special economic zones under CPEC 2.0 surged from seven to 44, with 37 new zones notified through the Board of Investment. Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh reviewed progress on Karachi Industrial Park, Gilgit-Baltistan SEZ, and the approved Land Lease Policy for Bin Qasim Industrial Park.
Read Source ArticleSBP launches women finance code to tackle financial barriers
The State Bank of Pakistan began implementing the Women Entrepreneurship Finance Code, adopted July 7, 2025, with a two-day workshop in Islamabad in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank. SBP mobilized a coalition of 23 financial institutions and held a roadshow with SECP, PTA, and SMEDA to address barriers limiting women's access to formal credit.
Read Source ArticleECP suspends membership of 159 lawmakers over non-filing of assets
The Election Commission of Pakistan suspended 159 lawmakers, including 32 MNAs and 9 Senators, on Friday for failing to submit asset declarations by the January 15 deadline under the Elections Act 2017. Those suspended include Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Ali Musa Gilani, and Musadik Malik.
Read Source ArticleECP withdraws schedule of local body polls in Islamabad
The Election Commission of Pakistan withdrew the Islamabad local body polls schedule on Friday after President Asif Ali Zardari's ordinance replaced the Metropolitan Corporation with three town corporations and empowered the administrator indefinitely. The move came despite thousands of nomination papers already submitted from 125 union councils, facing rejection from PTI and civil society.
Read Source Article2,115 regular posts of doctors converted into temporary slots in Punjab
The Punjab government abolished 2,115 regular doctor posts in primary and secondary healthcare, converting them into locum positions under IMF-linked rightsizing reforms approved by the cabinet on December 15. The Pakistan Medical Association strongly condemned the decision, warning it would destroy the health system and appealed to the Lahore High Court.
Read Source ArticlePakistan-Saudi-Turkiye defence deal in pipeline, minister confirms
Defence Production Minister Raza Hayat Harraj confirmed a draft defence agreement among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and Turkiye is prepared after 10 months of talks. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated discussions are ongoing but no deal signed, as Turkiye reportedly seeks to join the bilateral Pakistan-Saudi pact from September 2025.
Read Source ArticleJCP recommends making 11 ad hoc LHC judges permanent
The Judicial Commission of Pakistan recommended confirming 11 of 13 additional Lahore High Court judges as permanent, including Justice Abher Gul Khan. Additional Judge Tariq Mahmood Bajwa was extended by six months, while Raja Ghazanfar Ali Khan was not confirmed.
Read Source ArticlePakistan needs $566bn to meet climate targets
Pakistan will need $565.7 billion to meet its NDC 3.0 climate commitments by 2035, targeting a 17% unconditional and 33% conditional reduction in emissions. The plan also includes a 30% increase in electric vehicle adoption and shifting to 60% renewable energy, guided by the Pakistan Green Taxonomy.
Read Source ArticleJCP confirms 10 additional permanent judges for Sindh High Court
The Judicial Commission of Pakistan confirmed 10 out of 12 additional judges as permanent members of the Sindh High Court, with the remaining two receiving a six-month extension. The Pakistan Bar Council elected Pir Muhammad Masood Chishti as vice chairman with 15 votes and Muneer A. Malik as executive committee chairman for 2026.
Read Source ArticleUS announces suspension of immigrant visa processing for Pakistan, 74 other countries from Jan 21
The US suspended immigrant visa processing for Pakistan and 74 other countries from January 21, affecting all visa categories, with the State Department citing the public-charge rule. Spokesperson Tommy Piggott stated the freeze aims to prevent immigrants who might rely on welfare, and no date for resumption has been given.
Read Source Article‘Limited options’ for Pakistan to circumvent US punitive tariff on Iran
US President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on countries doing business with Iran, including Pakistan, which has $3 billion in annual bilateral trade. Pakistan has limited options to circumvent the tariff, either further informalising trade or scaling back engagement, both carrying economic consequences.
Read Source ArticleJCP confirms IHC additional judges despite opposition
The Judicial Commission of Pakistan confirmed three additional Islamabad High Court judges and one Balochistan High Court judge despite opposition from JCP member Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani. The JCP also did not approve Justice Ayub Khan's confirmation and will meet again on Tuesday to consider appointing 12 Sindh High Court judges.
Read Source ArticleNew ordinance set to further delay local govt polls in Islamabad
President Asif Ali Zardari approved an ordinance replacing the Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad with three town corporations and granting the administrator indefinite tenure and tax powers, imperiling local elections scheduled for February 15. The last local government term expired in February 2021, leaving 2.5 million residents without elected representation and facing service shortages.
Read Source ArticleChina rejects India’s claim over Shaksgam valley in Kashmir, asserts territory belongs to Beijing
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning rejected India’s claim over Shaksgam valley, asserting the territory belongs to China and that Chinese infrastructure projects there are fully justified. India’s foreign ministry responded by calling the 1963 China-Pakistan boundary agreement illegal and invalid, and reiterating its stance that the entire Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh region is an integral part of India.
Read Source ArticlePPP’s displeasure forces govt to withdraw ordinance promulgated sans President Zardari’s approval
The government withdrew the Special Economic Zones (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026 after PPP walked out of the National Assembly. Law Minister Tarar admitted the ordinance was printed without the president's signature, calling it a mistake.
Read Source ArticlePM-appointed panel proposes urgent reforms to avert another IMF loan
A PM-appointed panel led by Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal called for tariff restructuring and ease of doing business to boost exports beyond $60 billion in three years. The committee warned that policy unpredictability and high energy costs undermine competitiveness and investor confidence.
Read Source ArticleIndonesia expresses desire to expand defence ties with Pakistan
Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin called on CDF Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir at GHQ to discuss bilateral defence cooperation. Both sides emphasized strengthening institutional linkages, training collaboration, and defence industrial cooperation.
Read Source ArticleSupreme Court penalises four registry officers
Chief Justice Yahya Afridi imposed major penalties on three Karachi registry officers for serious administrative lapses under the 2015 Service Rules. An additional penalty was imposed on a Lahore registry officer for transparency-related issues, the Supreme Court stated on Saturday.
Read Source ArticleKP sounds alarm as federal transfers fall short
KP warned that federal transfer shortfalls of Rs76bn in divisible pool and Rs18bn in Net Hydel Profit in July-December 2025 could derail its Rs157bn IMF-linked budget surplus target. Only Rs56bn of the Rs292bn allocated for merged districts was released, severely impacting public services.
Read Source ArticleDar calls Israel's recognition of Somaliland political aggression at OIC
At the OIC extraordinary session in Jeddah, Deputy PM Ishaq Dar called Israel's recognition of Somaliland an act of political aggression threatening regional peace and security. He reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering support for Somalia's territorial integrity and termed the recognition a flagrant violation of international law.
Read Source ArticlePBC moves court over formation of KP Assembly panel for Radio Pakistan attack probe
Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation petitioned the Peshawar High Court against KP Assembly Speaker Babar Saleem Swati's Dec 26, 2025 notification forming a 15-member committee to probe the 2023 Radio Pakistan attack, chaired by law minister Aftab Alam. The committee overlaps with an ongoing anti-terrorism trial where 75 accused, including provincial minister Meena Khan Afridi, were indicted on June 3, 2025.
Read Source ArticleHow Pakistan can protest at every step India takes towards building works on the western rivers
Pakistan can object to India's hydropower works on western rivers under the Indus Waters Treaty by invoking Annexure D paragraph 9 for design information upon project decision and by filing separate objections under the UN Charter for water coercion, according to the article. The Permanent Court of Arbitration and World Bank president have stated India's unilateral suspension of the treaty has no legal basis, allowing Pakistan to challenge each step from land acquisition to construction.
Read Source Article‘Deal very likely’: Turkiye seeks to join Pakistan-Saudi mutual defence pact, report says
Bloomberg reported that Turkiye is in advanced talks to join the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia mutual defence agreement signed by PM Shehbaz Sharif and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in September 2025 in Riyadh. The expanded alliance would combine Turkiye's defence industry, Pakistan's nuclear capability, and Saudi financial clout, with Turkiye already supplying 11% of Pakistan's arms imports and collaborating on warships and jet upgrades.
Read Source ArticleLaw minister defends 27th Amendment as 'historic step'
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar defended the 27th Amendment as a historic step establishing the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) with equal provincial representation, countering Amnesty International's criticism. The amendment addresses longstanding demands from the 2006 Charter of Democracy and aims to correct the Supreme Court's Punjab-heavy composition.
Read Source ArticleForex coffers rise to $16bn, highest level since FY21
Pakistan's forex reserves rose to $16 billion in January 2026, the highest since FY21, after increasing by $141 million in a week. The country's total liquidity stood at $21.19 billion, with debt servicing needs of $26 billion annually.
Read Source ArticleFM Dar to head to Saudi Arabia for extraordinary meeting of OIC Council of Foreign Ministers
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar will attend an OIC extraordinary meeting in Saudi Arabia on Saturday to discuss Israel's recognition of Somaliland. Pakistan joined 20 nations and the OIC in rejecting the recognition, calling it a violation of international law.
Read Source ArticleSC orders return, restoration of refugee camp land in Chitral
Supreme Court dismissed KP commissioner's plea and ordered return of 1983-acquired Chitral land, with Rs600 per Chakoram annual compensation from 2005.
Read Source ArticleGovt raises Rs1.08tr through T-bills, bond auctions
Government raised Rs1.087 trillion on Wednesday through T-bills and 10-year PIB auctions, with T-bill yields cut up to 34 basis points.
Read Source ArticleTrump pulls US out of dozens of international organisations, including key climate treaty
Trump withdrew the US from 66 international organisations, including UNFCCC climate treaty and IPCC, citing contrary interests.
Read Source ArticleBalochistan merges Levies into police, abolishes ‘B areas’
Balochistan merged the over-century-old Levies Force into police and abolished 'B' areas, converting Sibi and Loralai divisions to 'A' areas. The notification by Additional Chief Secretary Shafqaat on Monday transferred all assets and infrastructure, with CM Bugti stating it resolves administrative ambiguity.
Read Source ArticlePakistan, Saudi in talks on JF-17 jets-for-loans deal: Reuters report
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are in talks to convert about $2 billion of Saudi loans into a JF-17 jet deal worth $4bn, including $2bn for equipment, according to two Pakistani sources. Air Chief Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu visited Saudi Arabia for talks, deepening military cooperation after a mutual defence pact signed in September.
Read Source ArticleIndia engaged lobbying firm to approach US over conflict with Pakistan: report
India hired lobbying firm SHW LLC, led by former Trump aide Jason Miller, for $150,000 per month to engage US officials, including calls to White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and USTR Jamieson Greer on May 10 during the India-Pakistan conflict. The firm also arranged meetings for Indian officials like Jaishankar with Trump administration officials, contradicting New Delhi's denial of US mediation, according to The Hindu.
Read Source ArticleAmnesty International terms 27th Amendment attack on judicial independence
Amnesty International termed Pakistan's 27th Amendment a 'concerted and sustained attack' on judicial independence and called for urgent review under international human rights law. The amendment, passed after five days of heated debate, abolished the Supreme Court's Constitutional Benches, established a Federal Constitutional Court, and revised Article 243, prompting resignations of Justices Mansoor Ali Shah and Athar Minallah.
Read Source ArticleServices exports rise 17pc in July-November
Pakistan's services exports grew 16.77% year-on-year to $3.833 billion in July-November 2025, driven by an 18.51% rise in telecommunication, computer, and information services. Exports rose each month, with November up 22.26% to $814.25 million, while imports surged 12.78% to $5.146 billion, widening the trade deficit by 2.55% to $1.312 billion.
Read Source ArticleHigh-level Senate delegation to visit US from Jan 20
A Pakistani Senate delegation led by Deputy Chairman Syedaal Khan will visit the US from January 20-25, 2026, the first formal parliamentary engagement in 77 years, organized under the Pakistan Policy Institute USA. The visit aims to establish a permanent inter-parliamentary dialogue mechanism and includes the first participation of the US-Pakistan Inter-Parliamentary Group.
Read Source ArticleOpposition leader’s appointment: PTI chief whip submits documents pertaining to Omar Ayub’s cases to NA speaker
PTI Chief Whip Amir Dogar submitted documents to NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq regarding withdrawal of cases against Omar Ayub and demanded Mehmood Khan Achakzai's appointment as opposition leader. Speaker Sadiq said the constitutional process for appointment will begin afresh in the next National Assembly session after verification.
Read Source ArticleKP CM Sohail Afridi calls on lawyers to stand up for independence of judiciary
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi addressed the Islamabad Bar Association on Monday, urging lawyers to launch a movement for judicial independence and rule of law. Afridi criticized the 26th and 27th Constitutional Amendments and demanded fair trials and release of political prisoners.
Read Source ArticlePakistan, China call for more ‘visible, verifiable’ actions to eliminate terrorist groups based in Afghanistan
Pakistan and China issued a joint communique on Monday calling for more visible and verifiable actions to dismantle all terrorist organizations based in Afghanistan. China commended Pakistan's counterterrorism measures and sacrifices, and both sides agreed to deepen cooperation on security and counterterrorism.
Read Source ArticleIndia’s ‘abeyance’ claim has no standing under treaty law: Pakistan commissioner for Indus Waters
Pakistan Commissioner Syed Muhammad Mehar Ali Shah said India's 'abeyance' claim has no basis under international treaty law, as the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled in June 2025 against unilateral suspension. He reported three water flow alterations by India since April 2025 on the Chenab, Jhelum, and Indus rivers, warning that further reductions would be considered an act of war.
Read Source ArticleFM Dar, Wang Yi term Pak-China friendship ‘vital’ for regional peace, stability
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi co-chaired the 7th round of the Pakistan–China Foreign Ministers’ Strategic Dialogue in Beijing, reaffirming their all-weather strategic cooperative partnership. They agreed to celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026 and unveiled the logo for year-long commemorations, while reviewing CPEC progress and mutual cooperation.
Read Source ArticleCJP stresses swift resolution of tax disputes at high-level meeting
Chief Justice of Pakistan Yahya Afridi chaired a meeting with Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb and FBR officials to devise reforms for expeditious disposal of high-impact tax litigation. He noted prolonged tax disputes damage investor confidence and economic predictability, emphasizing the need for fast-tracking high-stakes cases and improving judicial-tax authority coordination.
Read Source ArticlePeshawar High Court declares right to fair trial applicable to all proceedings
Peshawar High Court ruled that the right to fair trial under Article 10-A applies to all proceedings even when law is silent, requiring notice, defense opportunity, impartial forum, and competent jurisdiction. Justice Mohammad Naeem Anwar rejected the provincial government's plea against a sessions judge's order that set aside a special magistrate's conviction of sugar hoarder Malik Saddam Jan and refunded Rs200,000 fine.
Read Source ArticleExports plunge over 20pc in December
Pakistan's merchandise exports plunged 20.41% year-on-year to $2.317 billion in December 2025, the fifth consecutive monthly decline, while the trade deficit widened 23.79% to $3.705 billion. In the first half of fiscal year 2025-26, exports fell 8.70% to $15.184 billion and the trade deficit expanded 34.57% to $19.204 billion.
Read Source ArticleDar arrives in Beijing to co-chair strategic dialogue with China
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar arrived in Beijing to co-chair the seventh round of the Pakistan-China Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue on January 4, becoming the first foreign dignitary to visit China in 2026. The dialogue will review bilateral cooperation and mark the beginning of the 75th anniversary of Pakistan-China diplomatic relations.
Read Source ArticleIslamabad ATC hands double life sentences to YouTuber Adil Raja, 6 others for waging war against Pakistan
An Islamabad anti-terrorism court sentenced YouTuber Adil Raja and six others, including journalists Sabir Shakir and Moeed Pirzada, to double life imprisonment for waging war against Pakistan over the May 9, 2023 riots. The court also imposed additional 10-year sentences under the Pakistan Penal Code and fines up to Rs500,000 for each offense.
Read Source ArticlePakistan witnessed 34pc increase in terrorism in 2025: report
The Pakistan Security Report 2025 by the Pak Institute for Peace Studies recorded a 34% surge in terrorist attacks to 699, resulting in 1,034 fatalities and 1,366 injuries. Security forces bore 42% of deaths (437 casualties), and 95% of attacks occurred in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.
Read Source ArticleSBP reserves rise $4.2bn in 2025
The State Bank of Pakistan's foreign reserves increased by $4.2 billion in 2025, supported by loans from friendly countries, reaching $15.915 billion. However, accumulation slowed to only $1.4 billion in the second half, with total liquid reserves at $21.012 billion.
Read Source ArticleCPI inflation slows to 5.6pc year-on-year in December
CPI inflation eased to 5.6% year-on-year in December 2025, down from 6.1% in November, with food prices dropping 1.7% month-on-month.
Read Source ArticlePTI seeks disqualification of Senator Saifullah Abro for voting in favour of 27th Amendment
PTI sought the disqualification of Senator Saifullah Abro under Article 63-A for voting in favour of the 27th Amendment on November 10 and 13, 2025.
Read Source ArticlePUC Chairman Tahir Ashrafi appointed liaison for religious harmony, Pakistani diaspora in Muslim countries
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif appointed Pakistan Ulema Council Chairman Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi as Coordinator for Religious Harmony and Pakistani Diaspora in the Middle East and Muslim countries.
Read Source Article