99 stories found
The 20th annual global 'Earth Hour' event has begun, with monuments worldwide going dark to raise climate change awareness, as millions are encouraged to switch off lights for 60 minutes, and various countries including Qatar, Serbia, Slovakia, and Denmark participate in the initiative.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has reiterated his accusation that the United States is attempting to gain control over the Nord Stream pipelines, which were damaged in 2022, in order to dominate global energy markets and further escalate geopolitical tensions.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with a delegation from the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) in Karachi, where MQM-P leaders pressed for a fast-tracked development package and Dar was appointed to head a panel to bridge differences.
Former President Trump has reiterated his rejection of a ceasefire with Iran, asserting that Iran desires a deal but fears its own people and the US. Meanwhile, oil prices continue to climb past $100, driven by lingering risks of a prolonged US-Iran war, impacting global powers as Trump and Xi pursue energy dominance, with Europe particularly vulnerable.
Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has instructed authorities to accelerate the export of surplus food items to Gulf countries, while simultaneously ensuring an uninterrupted domestic supply and calling for a comprehensive plan to expand flight operations.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has chaired a high-level meeting to discuss regional tensions and national security, with key officials including Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and provincial chief ministers in attendance.
ISLAMABAD: In another step towards tightening austerity measures, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday imposed a complete ban on the use of high-octane fuel in government vehicles, shortly after…
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called on the nation and government to adopt a responsible attitude in light of the ongoing energy crisis and scarcity.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced he rejected advice to further raise fuel prices, stating the government would instead absorb the financial burden.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif celebrated the successful 5G spectrum auction in Pakistan, where 480 megahertz were sold for $507 million, calling it a "wonderful beginning" for the country.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to take steps to expand access to housing finance for low-income citizens, aiming to boost the construction sector through affordable housing and mortgage reforms.
Govt says reserves sufficient for now as daily monitoring begins amid oil price surge and supply risks
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has affirmed that his government is ready to face any situation arising from global tensions, emphasizing economic stability and public relief as top priorities.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that Pakistan would not increase the prices of petroleum products, despite a recent rise in global oil market rates.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif departed on a brief official visit to Saudi Arabia on Thursday, accepting an invitation from Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud.
Leaders discuss regional developments, stressing stability, cooperation and continued diplomatic coordination
Donald Trump stated on social media that there would be no deal with Iran unless Tehran surrenders unconditionally, reiterating his hardline stance.
Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz following airstrikes by United States and Israel, triggering a global oil crisis
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has instructed his finance and petroleum ministers to coordinate with provincial governments to devise a strategy for conserving petroleum products and ensuring an uninterrupted supply across Pakistan.
Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif condemns Iran's drone attack in Azerbaijani territory AzerNews
• Pildat survey shows Omar Ayub, Bilawal, Tariq Fazal and Barrister Gohar among top five speakers; PM Shehbaz attended just six of 84 sittings • 27th Amendment, Elections Bill among 59 passed; ordinances declined to eight from 16, indicating reduced executive reliance • Average budget per sitting rose to Rs193.93m, up from Rs136.96m ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif was the most vocal MNA during the second parliamentary year of the 16th National Assembly, speaking for five ...
Both leaders agree to remain in close contact while continuing their efforts to bring peace, stability to the region
Says Pakistan remains committed to working with brotherly countries to promote peace
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday postponed his official visit to Russia, citing the recent “regional and internal situation”. The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) confirmed the development in a statement. It added that the premier’s visit to Russia was of “great significance” for advancing the bilateral relations between the two countries, but given the current situation, it was being postponed. A new date would be decided after “mutual consultations”, the statement added. According to Ru...
US attacks Iran LIVE updates: Israel confirmed the death of Khamenei, along with the commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, the defense minister, and the secretary of the Iranian Security Council, a close adviser to the Supreme Leader.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday visited General Headquarters in Rawalpindi, where the military leadership gave him a “detailed briefing” on the situation between Pakistan and…
A Qatari minister praised Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's visit during a call with Ishaq Dar, with both ministers reaffirming commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
Says federal government will extend all possible support to ensure early completion of projects in the province
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Qatar's Deputy Prime Minister to discuss regional issues concerning Iran and Afghanistan, reaffirming their commitment to boost bilateral cooperation in defense and security.
The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has withdrawn contempt notices against Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his cabinet in the Aafia Siddiqui case, ruling that the original order was issued by an improperly constituted bench.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has returned to London after attending the inaugural 'Board of Peace' meeting convened by US President Donald Trump in Washington.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington, where they discussed cooperation in critical minerals following a Board of Peace summit.
The White House announced that over 20 countries, including regional Middle East powers and major emerging nations, will attend Trump’s Board of Peace meeting on February 19.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif discussed mediation and reaffirmed solidarity, as foreign ministers from Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt are set to meet in Pakistan to discuss the West Asia conflict.
Prime Minister Shehbaz has once again rejected a summary proposing an increase in petrol and diesel prices, indicating a continued effort to stabilize fuel costs.
Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar confirmed that US-Iran 'indirect talks' are taking place through messages relayed by Pakistan, with Pakistan successfully intervening to prevent Israel from targeting senior Iranian officials Abbas Aragchi and Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif spoke with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), briefing him on the West Asia war and emphasizing the need to end hostilities and restore normalcy in the region, while also pushing for US-Iran talks.
Both discuss regional tensions, exchange views on political developments and national issues of importance
The Lahore High Court has sustained an objection on the maintainability of a petition filed against the acquittal of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his sons in a Rs16bn money laundering case.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called the Iranian president to urge de-escalation and a return to diplomacy, conveying Pakistan's solidarity with Iran.
Reiterates strong condemnation of attacks carried out against Bahrain
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev discussed ongoing hostilities in the Gulf region during a phone call, with both leaders calling for immediate de-escalation.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that the 5G rollout will significantly boost youth empowerment and innovation, emphasizing that the auction process was conducted transparently despite facing legal challenges.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the restructuring of the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) to align with national export targets and food security goals.
An accountability court in Lahore has formally closed the Chaudhry Sugar Mills case against Maryam Nawaz and Nawaz Sharif, after the anti-graft body reported no evidence supporting the charges.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has instructed officials to develop a strategy for exporting surplus food items to Gulf countries, ensuring Pakistan's nutritional needs are met.
Govt remains committed to providing as much relief as possible to the people during these challenging times: Sharif
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has decided to appoint PML-N’s Nehal Hashmi as the new Sindh governor, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.
US says its firepower will ‘surge dramatically’ and IDF warns of ‘surprises ahead’, as Iran launches retaliatory strikes Middle East crisis – live updates Israel and the US have bombarded Iran and…
The Prime Minister expressed the hope that his leadership would guide Iran towards peace, stability, dignity and prosperity in the years ahead.
Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif mourns 2 expats killed in UAE missile debris incidents Khaleej Times
Orders policy on growth, austerity and public relief within 48 hours
Delegation was informed about Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts and initiatives, says PMO
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended greetings to the Hindu community on Holi, emphasizing the importance of interfaith harmony, protection of worship places, and an inclusive society.
A PPP delegation met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad on Tuesday to discuss the political situation in the country as well as the regional situation. A press release issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said that a delegation of PPP parliamentarians met with the premier today. “The Pakistan People’s Party is an important coalition party of the government,” PM Shehbaz said according to the statement. “The PPP supported the government at every step in important decisions f...
Urges restraint, dialogue amid regional escalation
FO briefs evacuation of citizens being facilitated through Azerbaijan to ensure the their safe return
Says the people and armed forces of Pakistan are always ready to protect the country’s security and sovereignty
Mushahid Hussain says 'historic visit' will serve as 'stimulus for development of bilateral relations'
Global rights organizations have sent a joint letter to Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, calling on him to take action to protect press freedom and journalists, citing issues like the 27th Amendment and misuse of PECA.
US President Donald Trump further asserted that the situation could have spiralled into a nuclear war.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to meet Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and other senior leaders in Doha on Tuesday to further strengthen bilateral ties. PM Shehbaz arrived in Qatar on Monday night on a two-day official visit. According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), the premier is set to meet the Qatar emir, as well as his Qatari counterpart, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani. The Qatari prime minister will host an Iftar dinner ...
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday will depart on a two-day official visit to Doha, where he will meet the Qatari emir, the Foreign Office (FO) said. The visit is being undertaken at the invitation of Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the FO said in a press release. During his visit, PM Shehbaz will hold a bilateral meeting with Sheikh Tamim, “covering the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, including political engagement, economic collaboration, energy partnership, and p...
• Rubio hails Islamabad’s backing for Gaza plan, role in peace board WASHINGTON: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif wrapped up a two-day visit to Washington on Friday, securing a US pledge to cooperate on critical minerals and energy after aligning his country with a US President Donald Trump-led Gaza peace initiative and praising his role in defusing a regional crisis last year. PM Shehbaz met with Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday to discuss shifting the bilateral relationship toward...
The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) on Thursday approved the release of Rs19 billion for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Ramazan package. On February 12, PM Shehbaz had announced a Rs38bn Ramazan relief package, which would benefit more than 12 million families — around 36m people — through direct digital payments. In a post on X, the finance ministry said Finance Minister Muhammad Aurengzeb remotely chaired a meeting of the ECC. The post said that the ECC approved the “immediate release” of Rs19bn for the prime minister’s package to “ensure timely disbursement of assistance to vulnerable families”. “The remaining requirement out of the proposed Rs25bn will be released as and when necessary, in line with fiscal space,” the ministry said. “The prime minister’s Ramazan relief package 2026 is designed to provide targeted cash assistance to low-income households during the holy month, using National Socio-Economic Registry data to ensure transparency and objective beneficiary selection,” the finance ministry said. It added that the “funds will be disbursed directly through formal banking and digital channels to ensure secure, efficient and dignified delivery”. The ministry further said that during the meeting, the ECC also granted “in-principle approval for Rs1bn operational expenses, directing that detailed cost breakdowns be shared with the Finance Division to ensure transparency, fiscal prudence, and compliance with financial rules”. It stressed “balancing swift relief delivery with strong financial oversight” and further noted that “any unutilised funds would be surrendered in accordance with established procedures”.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif began his two-day visit to Austria on Monday, during which he will hold bilateral meetings and delegation-level talks, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said. The premier arrived in Vienna for the two-day visit on Sunday, at the invitation of Austria’s Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker. As per a PMO statement, PM Shehbaz arrived at the Austrian Chancellery today, where he was presented with a guard of honour and welcomed by Stocker. The statement said that the national anthems of both countries were played at the arrival, and both leaders “introduced their respective delegations to each other before proceeding for tête-à-tête and the delegation-level talks, wherein both sides will take stock of the entire gamut of bilateral relations”. PM Shehbaz also penned his remarks in the guest book at the Chancellery. The premier is accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and one of his aides, Tariq Fatemi, during the two-day visit. This visit marks 70 years of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. In its statement issued on Sunday, the Foreign Office (FO) noted that the trip marked “the first visit by a Pakistani prime minister to Austria in over three decades, the last having been undertaken by the then-prime minister Nawaz Sharif in 1992”.
Iranian nuclear facilities were attacked, with Israel claiming responsibility just hours after threatening to escalate military operations against Iran. Israeli forces confirmed bombing Iran's Arak heavy-water reactor, targeting key infrastructure for plutonium production, following earlier reports of US and Israeli strikes on facilities in Arak and Ardakan.
Amidst escalating Middle East tension, 22 flights have been cancelled at Dhaka airport, while Pakistan's PM Shehbaz is set to address the nation on the conflict and potential fuel crisis.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Karachi to visit PPP's Sherry Rehman and offer condolences on the passing of her daughter, expressing that the sorrow of losing a young child is unbearable for parents.
Iran has reiterated its rejection of US ceasefire efforts and a 15-point American peace proposal, instead outlining its own critical conditions for ending the conflict, including demands for war reparations and sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, while also claiming to have forced the USS Lincoln to change its position.
US President Donald Trump has confirmed 'very good' talks to end combat with Iran, leading to a delay in US strikes and a rise in markets, though Iran denies these discussions, outlines 'red lines' for peace, and continues its strikes, even firing rockets at Israel and mocking Trump.
Pakistan, Indonesia, and China have jointly called for dialogue and diplomacy as the means to resolve the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, with China urging the US and Israel to stop military action and warning of a 'vicious cycle'.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has banned the use of high-octane fuel in government vehicles following a significant levy hike that pushed prices to Rs535 per litre.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for greater unity and brotherhood among Muslims as Pakistan marked Eidul Fitr, with the PM extending greetings to the nation.
Leaders pray for peace and harmony across the Muslim world
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Kuwaiti Crown Prince discussed regional developments and reaffirmed their bilateral ties during a phone call, with the Premier renewing an invitation for an official visit.
Both leaders exchange views on regional developments, particularly the situation in Afghanistan
Jemima Goldsmith has directly appealed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to allow her sons, Kasim and Suleiman Khan, to meet their incarcerated father, Imran Khan, stating that visa applications filed in January have been pending for 60 days despite a promised 7-10 day processing time.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved salary deductions of up to 30% for employees of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs) as part of new austerity measures.
Prime Minister Shehbaz has arrived in Saudi Arabia to discuss Middle East tensions and security matters with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS).
Iranian President Pezeshkian urged global investigation into airstrikes that triggered regional conflict, warning of further security risks.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed the nation, unveiling an austerity plan to tackle the fuel crisis, and has now ordered a third-party audit of the austerity plan, which includes measures like an additional weekly holiday and school closures in Sindh and Punjab.
PM Shehbaz Sharif • PM defends ‘difficult decision’ on fuel prices, says global oil market ‘not in Pakistan’s hands’ • Public, private workplaces to shift half their staff to ‘work from home’; won’t apply to essential services such as banks, hospitals, agricultural or industrial sectors • All schools, colleges to stay closed for two weeks; higher education institutes to shift classes online • Special cabinet committee reviews fuel stocks, assesses national preparedness • Punjab, Khyber P...
The two citizens died from missile debris during the interception of Iranian missiles
Condemns attacks as “deplorable actions” that risk further escalation and undermine peace and stability in the region
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is leading an in-camera briefing for parliamentary leaders and party heads on the regional situation at the PM House in Pakistan.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan held a telephone conversation with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, offering Turkiye's contribution to re-establishing a ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
Law minister says politics should be set aside as Pakistan has relations with Iran, defence pact with Saudi
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday expressed concern over the violation of international norms and the targeting of heads of state/government following the assassination of Iran’s Supreme Leader…
New date of the visit will be announced later after mutual consulation, says government of Pakistan
US President Donald Trump commented on the escalating tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, stating Pakistan is doing 'terrifically well,' after Pakistan carried out airstrikes following an attack by Afghan forces.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that the nation is proud of its martyrs, likely in a context of national remembrance or military tribute.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan emphasized the necessity of reducing direct taxes across the board in the upcoming budget to support the business community.
Bomber struck near the checkpost during routine duty; president, PM Shehbaz, Punjab CM condemn attack
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz and Qatar's trade minister met in Doha to review bilateral economic cooperation and discuss follow-up actions from the 6th Session of the Pakistan-Qatar Joint Ministerial Commission.
Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to visit Qatar on February 23-24 for discussions with Amir Sheikh Tamim, focusing on trade, energy, investment, and regional developments.
A group of authoritarian world leaders and observers met with Donald Trump in Washington for the inaugural Board of Peace meeting, raising questions about their true objectives.
The government is paying compensation totaling more than Rs19.6 million to the families of 40 people killed in a suicide bombing at an imambargah in Islamabad this month, the Prime Minister’s Office said on Thursday. The February 6 attack, claimed by the Islamic State (IS) group, on the outskirts of the capital was the deadliest in Islamabad since a 2008 truck bombing that killed 60 people at the Marriott Hotel. “Relief cheques have been delivered to the heirs of 36 martyrs belonging to Islamabad,” PMO said in a statement, adding each victim’s family received Rs5m. Cheques will also be delivered to four families of victims living outside Islamabad, the statement said. Although officials have not released a final death toll, the statement marked the first official acknowledgement that 40 people were killed in the blast. On Feb 11, PM Shehbaz had announced compensation for those martyred and injured in the suicide attack while visiting the site of the attack. Speaking on the occasion, he said, “These terrorists have no religion, and they have crossed all the limits of cruelty.” The suicide attack occurred during Friday prayers. The last major attack in Islamabad took place in November when a suicide blast outside a court killed 12 people and wounded dozens, the first such incident to hit the capital in nearly three years.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Vienna for a two-day official visit to Austria.