In a significant diplomatic development, Minister Naqvi and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Kolokoltsev, signed multiple agreements to bolster security cooperation. The pacts focus on three core areas: Enhancing collaboration to curb illegal immigration, strengthening mutual cooperation for the repatriation of citizens residing illegally in both countries and increasing joint efforts to combat narcotics trafficking and prevent drug-related crimes.

During his meeting with Tajikistan’s Interior Minister Ramazon Rahimzoda, the discussion centred on the volatile security situation in the region. Both ministers expressed grave concern over the presence of terrorist training camps and the surge in narcotics production within Afghanistan.

They highlighted that around 25 terrorist organisations are currently operating from Afghan soil, posing a direct threat to regional stability.

Minister Naqvi also engaged with his regional counterparts to establish institutional frameworks for long-term cooperation.

In meeting with Minister of the Internal Affairs of Uzbekistan Major General Aziz Tashpulatov, the two sides discussed joint training programmes and intelligence sharing between law enforcement agencies. It was agreed that a dedicated working group will be formed to streamline cooperation between the two interior ministries.

Minister Naqvi also met with Minister of Internal Affairs of Kyrgyzstan Niiazbekov Ulan Omukanovich, where both sides agreed to deepen collaboration in areas of mutual interest. During the meeting, Naqvi congratulated Kyrgyzstan on its election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council and commended the host nation for its excellent arrangements for the SCO summit.

In talks with Kazakhstan’s Yerzhan Sadenov, the two ministers reached a consensus on intensifying efforts to tackle illegal immigration. Similar to the agreement with Uzbekistan, both sides decided to establish a formal working group to foster closer ministerial ties.

The report is the first application in Pakistan of the Infrastructure Corruption Risk Assessment Tool developed by Transparency International Australia and assesses the broader environment in which public infrastructure is planned, appraised, procured, and delivered.

The report’s central finding is that Pakistan has built a sound, formal framework for infrastructure governance but its application in practice remains uneven and weak. The assessment assigns Pakistan an overall context risk score of 6.34 out of 10, placing its infrastructure governance in the High ICRAT risk category. The high risk suggests that the infrastructure project identification, approval, authorisation and procurement processes are vulnerable to governance weaknesses. The report also notes that Pakistan’s macro-fiscal environment is a core constraint on infrastructure delivery.

It further notes that under fiscal pressure and short political cycles, project selection tends to prioritise visibility over technical merit. Discretionary development spending expands around election cycles, while the non-adherence to prioritisation framework has led to an overstretched pipeline. The PSDP “throw-forward” (unfunded commitments from approved projects) now exceeds Rs 10 trillion against an annual allocation of roughly Rs 1 trillion, meaning completion would take more than a decade at current funding levels. A similar gap between rules and practice is visible in procurement. While the PPRA Rules 2004 establish principles of open competition, successive amendments have created broad exemptions. The report finds that the NHA increasingly relies on PPRA Rule 42(f) to award large contracts directly to state-owned entities, bypassing competitive bidding. This restricts private sector participation in infrastructure markets.

TI Pakistan’s Executive Director, Kashif Ali said the recent public investment management reforms have strengthened appraisal requirements, introduced climate vulnerability considerations into project assessment, revised approval thresholds and implemented the Intelligent Project Automation System (iPAS). These represent meaningful steps. The diagnostic report however, has noted that the key challenge for infrastructure governance in Pakistan is not regulatory design but structural gap between the commitments embedded in rules and frameworks and their effective implementation.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

According to a notification issued by the Home Department on Friday, the organisation, also known as the Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) and Awami Action Committee (AAC), has been included in the First Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act as a prohibited organisation.

The notification stated that the AJK government had reasonable grounds to believe that the organisation was engaged in activities prejudicial to the peace and security of the state. It alleged that the group was involved in creating anarchy by intimidating the public, promoting hatred and generating a sense of insecurity in society.

Acting under Section 12 of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 2014, the President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir approved the inclusion of the organisation in the list of proscribed entities.

The Home Department said the decision was taken in view of evidence indicating the organisation’s involvement in activities detrimental to public order and state security. It added that the government remained committed to maintaining peace, ensuring the rule of law and protecting citizens.

Copies of the notification have been sent to federal and AJK authorities, including the Ministry of Interior, AJK President, Prime Minister, Chief Secretary, divisional commissioners, deputy commissioners, police officials, the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and Special Branch for implementation and necessary action.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

The discussion took place during a meeting in Islamabad between Dr. Oumer Hussien Oba, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Ethiopia, and Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, the Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan.

The two sides reviewed growing bilateral relations across various sectors, explored new avenues for cooperation, and reaffirmed their commitment to taking their ties to new heights.

Ambassador Dr. Oumer reaffirmed the deep-rooted and long-standing bilateral relations between the two nations, highlighting their shared history, culture, and values. Emphasising Ethiopia’s strategic positioning as the seat of the African Union and a vital gateway to the African continent, the Ambassador noted that Pakistan can leverage its relations with Ethiopia to significantly increase its footprint across Africa.

The Senate Chairman expressed his deep appreciation for the rapid economic development, impressive growth, and comprehensive domestic reforms currently taking place across Ethiopia. To further strengthen people-to-people ties, the Chairman emphasised that cultural exchanges and religious tourism must serve as essential foundations for the bilateral relationship.

Highlighting the agricultural potential of Pakistan, the Senate Chairman stressed the need to exchange knowledge and technical expertise to achieve the shared goals of development and prosperity in the Global South.

Towards the conclusion of their discussion, the two sides also agreed on establishing parliamentary friendship groups and exchanging parliamentary delegations to further strengthen institutional and diplomatic relations.

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His remarks came during a public rally in Gilgit, part of his region-wide campaign ahead of the June 7 elections.

Addressing the rally, Bilawal said it was part of the PPP’s election manifesto to grant all constitutional rights to the region, including the right to own land and financial protections under the 18th Constitutional Amendment.

He urged the people of GB to give the PPP a “heavy mandate”, so the party could continue its struggle to secure the region’s ownership rights, calling on them to spread his message.

Bilawal said legislation on the matter had been tabled in the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly and had been passed by the house.

“As per the legislation, 28,000 square miles of land owned by the government has been converted into common land. We have fulfilled our promise to this stage,” the PPP chairman said.

Bilawal added that the legislation should now be implemented.

“I request the people of Gilgit-Baltistan that this time I need a heavy majority,” he said, warning that if any party other than the PPP came into power, it would “tear this legislation apart”.

“Whether you belong to the PPP or not, I request all the people of the region to vote for the PPP, because only we can safeguard ownership rights.”

The former foreign minister said that the region was the Koh-i-Noor of Pakistan’s destiny, adding that if the PPP won the upcoming elections, it would unlock the economic potential of GB.

“The politicians of the 1990s do not understand the role technology can play,” he said.

Bilawal said that digital infrastructure was more “crucial” than transport or physical infrastructure. “Through digital connectivity, a youngster living in Gilgit-Baltistan can earn money from home,” he said.

“We will make efforts to ask China for optical fibre connectivity; if not, we will request the United States to provide satellite-based Starlink internet services so we can move forward,” the PPP chairman said.

During his address, he also made various promises to initiate public-private partnership-based projects, including a health network and a housing scheme for people affected by floods in the region.

He said the entire Muslim world was going through difficult times.

“You can see what’s happening in Palestine, Lebanon, Arab countries, and specifically Iran,” he said, asking who could represent the country in such times.

“During these times, if we want to raise the voice of Gilgit-Baltistan in Islamabad and across the world, there is no better option than President Asif Ali Zardari,” he said.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

The region is scheduled to vote on Sunday to elect a 24-member assembly amid heightened political contestation and competing allegations of uneven electoral conditions.

Opposition-linked candidates have alleged that they are being denied a level playing field. PTI-backed aspirants claimed that restrictions on campaign activity and disputes over party symbols have affected their ability to contest effectively.

A PTI-backed candidate from Ghizer-3, Raja Jehanzeb, said the party had faced constraints similar to those encountered during the 2024 general elections.

He alleged that senior PTI leaders were restricted from campaigning in Gilgit-Baltistan, while no comparable limitations were placed on other parties.

“Once again, we are facing restrictions on our electoral symbol and campaign activities,” he said.

However, leaders of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and regional election authorities rejected the claims, dismissing allegations of administrative bias or procedural irregularities.

The dispute unfolds against the backdrop of a prolonged legal battle over PTI’s internal structure.

The Election Commission of Pakistan declined to certify the party’s intra-party elections in 2024, prompting a legal challenge that remains pending before the Lahore High Court (LHC).

However, PTI-supported candidates aligned with the newly registered Gilgit-Baltistan Democratic Party (GBDP). Later, the GBDP’s registration was suspended shortly before the polls for failing to submit mandatory documents, forcing opposition candidates to run as independents.

“The move was intended to prevent PTI-backed candidates from participating under a unified platform,” claimed Raja Jehanzeb, a PTI-backed candidate contesting from the Ghizer-3 constituency.

Jehanzeb also alleged that central PTI leaders were barred from entering Gilgit-Baltistan for campaigning and faced administrative hurdles, while similar restrictions were not imposed on parties aligned with the federal government.

Bahadur Jameel, the media coordinator for the Gilgit-Baltistan Election Commission, denied any discrimination, stating that the suspension followed repeated regulatory failures by the GBDP.

“All candidates are subject to the same electoral code of conduct,” Jameel said, noting that mainstream parties had successfully obtained necessary clearances for campaign activities.

Concerns over the polling framework were also raised by the PPP, an ally of the ruling PML-N in the Centre, despite its active campaign in the mountainous region.

PPP Secretary General Nayyar Hussain Bukhari accused the federal government of violating election rules by altering voter rolls and announcing new development schemes during the campaign period to sway voters.

The regional election commission denied that the voter lists had been amended after the schedule was finalised, adding it had received no formal complaint from the PPP.

Security arrangements have also drawn scrutiny following the decision to deploy thousands of external police personnel.

A Gilgit-Baltistan police spokesman confirmed that a 17,000-strong security contingent – including police units from Punjab and Sindh provinces, the paramilitary Rangers, and the Frontier Corps – would be deployed for Sunday’s vote.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the operation was conducted on the night of June 3-4 after receiving intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists in the area. During the operation, security forces effectively engaged multiple terrorist hideouts and, after an intense exchange of fire, killed six terrorists.

The ISPR said weapons, ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and a vehicle were recovered from the slain terrorists, who were allegedly involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area.

The military said sanitisation operations were continuing to eliminate any remaining terrorists in the vicinity.

The Committee was briefed by Advisor Privatisation on the latest position and the progress achieved on Batch-I Discos (IESCO, FESCO & GEPCO). It expressed satisfaction and advised the privatisation Commission to complete the process within the agreed timelines.

DPM/ FM emphasised that while privatisation aims to improve efficiency, service delivery, and financial sustainability, a strong regulatory framework and effective oversight will remain essential to protect consumers’ interests, ensure transparency, and uphold accountability.

The meeting was attended by the Minister for Power, Adviser on Privatisation, SAPM Tariq Bajwa, Secretary Power, and senior officials from relevant ministries and departments.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

This was stated by Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, who holds the portfolios of information, transport and mass transit.

He said expansion of the EV fleet would not only improve commuting facilities, but it would also promote clean and environment-friendly transportation across the province. In his message on the occasion of the World Environment Day, the senior minister said that adopting an environment-friendly lifestyle had become essential in view of the growing environment challenges facing the world.

The minister said that the Sindh government had taken several measures to protect the environment, setting an example for sustainable development in the country.

Memon said that Sindh government’s efforts to promote green transportation aimed at reducing carbon emissions and improving urban mobility. He said that for the first time in Pakistan, eco-friendly EV buses and EV scooters had been launched, marking a significant step toward sustainable public transport.

He added that the modern transport system is providing citizens with safe, comfortable, and high-quality travel facilities while contributing to a substantial reduction in pollution and fuel consumption.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

The dialogue was organised by the Population Council with the support of UNFPA, with the aim of turning policies on reducing the rapid population growth rate into concrete actions and incorporating them into the budget.

Chief guest, Provincial Minister for Health and Population Welfare Dr. Azra Fazl Pechuho, said that the issue of rapid population growth is not limited to one sector but is linked to employment, food, education, and environmental problems. She said, “Until we make population part of all development projects, we cannot achieve progress.” She also emphasised that men’s role in family planning is very important and practical steps are being taken in Sindh to involve men in this. She urged assembly members to include the issue of rapid population growth in their budget speeches.

Population Council Country Advisor Dr. Zeba Sattar said that a budget is not just an account of expenditures but also determines the direction of policies. “We need to see whether our budget is actually meeting the health needs of the people, especially reproductive health needs.”

Economist Dr. Hammad Mukhtar said that in Pakistan the real issue is not resources but priorities. He said, “Very little is being spent on the population sector, even though this investment is very beneficial for both the economy and society.” He warned that if the issue of rapid population growth is not addressed, progress in education, health, and the economy will remain limited.

UNFPA’s Dr. Jamil Ahmed Chaudhry said that Pakistan has made important international agreements to reduce the rapid population growth rate, but the real need is to implement them. He said, “We need to focus especially on delivering family planning services to remote areas and make better use of local resources for this purpose.”

During the meeting, Sindh Assembly members agreed that the real issue is not making laws but their implementation and accountability. They demanded that adequate funds be allocated in the budget for family planning and health for human welfare and development, and said they would play an effective role in balancing resources and putting Sindh on the path to development.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

In her special message, the chief minister expressed gratitude over the significant reduction in fog levels and the improvement in environmental conditions witnessed during the past year. She also commended Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb and her entire team for achieving notable environmental improvements in Lahore and other parts of the province.

Maryam Nawaz directed the authorities to continue legal action against the use of substandard plastic bags and instructed officials to expedite the completion of Punjab’s first-ever Environment Observatory Project.

“The Earth is a beautiful planet, and it is our collective responsibility to take every possible step for its protection and survival,” the chief minister said. She noted that effective and sustainable measures aimed at reducing environmental pollution and combating smog were yielding encouraging results.

The chief minister stated that Punjab had become the first province in the region to acquire the capability of issuing early alerts regarding environmental pollution. She said that air pollution indicators were being monitored across the province through a state-of-the-art Air Quality Forecast System.

She further highlighted that Punjab’s first Environment Wall was operating round the clock, providing a 24/7 monitoring mechanism for environmental agencies and institutions.

Maryam Nawaz said that legal action was continuing against environmental violations, including smoke-emitting vehicles, brick kilns and the burning of crop residues. She added that 30 modern fog guns were being effectively utilized to combat smog, while additional fog guns were being procured for Lahore and other cities.

The chief minister said that tree plantation campaigns were continuing across the province as part of sustainable environmental protection efforts.

Under the government’s Green Punjab and Plant for Pakistan vision, extensive plantation drives were being carried out throughout Punjab, she added.

Emphasising the importance of environmental stewardship, Maryam Nawaz added that religion and moral values also taught the principles of cleanliness and environmental conservation. She stressed that effective measures to improve the environment were indispensable for the survival and well-being of future generations.

She called for a collective commitment to the protection of water resources and environmental assets, urging citizens to raise awareness about nature conservation, pollution control and climate change mitigation on World Environment Day.

Concluding her message, the chief minister appealed to the public to abandon the use of plastic and pledge their commitment to protecting the environment.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Muhammad Iqbal Memon, Inspector General of Sindh Javed Alam Odho, the Special Secretary Home Saeed Shaikh, DIG Faizullah Korejo, Coordinator to Home Minister Bilal Shaikh and senior officials of the Home Department and Sindh Police, along with representatives of the US delegation and the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) Bureau.

During the meeting, participants appreciated the longstanding partnership between the Government of Sindh, Sindh Police, and the US Government. The discussions focused on enhancing public safety, strengthening the rule of law, and improving operational capabilities of law enforcement agencies, particularly in vulnerable and high-risk areas.

The meeting highlighted the security challenges faced in the Katcha region and emphasised the need for enhanced mobility, operational readiness, and modern policing resources to effectively counter organised criminal networks and improve law enforcement effectiveness.

Participants noted that the assistance and support initiatives are aimed not only at providing equipment and resources but also at strengthening institutions, building professional capacity, and promoting sustainable law enforcement practices.

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Addressing a press conference here at the Karachi Press Club Friday, he said that the people of Gilgit-Baltistan are politically aware and will make their decision based on performance, development initiatives, and public service rather than on accusations or divisive rhetoric.

He described the recent remarks made by PML-N leader Captain Safdar Awan as unfortunate, stating that insensitive comments about the people of Sindh, their culture, and traditions are unacceptable. He emphasised that while political disagreement is a fundamental aspect of democracy, respect for public sentiment, culture, and political decorum remains the responsibility of every political leader.

Arslan Sheikh said that Sindh is a land of love, tolerance, brotherhood, and hospitality. He said greeting guests with folded hands is a centuries-old cultural tradition and a symbol of respect. To portray such gestures as weakness or political opportunism is tantamount to insulting the people of Sindh, he said.

He called upon Captain Safdar to offer a sincere apology for hurting the sentiments of the people of Sindh. He stated that if Captain Safdar genuinely wishes to understand the realities on the ground, he should visit Sindh, interact directly with the people, listen to their concerns, and witness practical politics firsthand.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

A large number of prominent literary, social, government, and journalistic personalities attended the event.

On this occasion, Prof. Dr. Siraj-ud-Daulah, Erum Tanveer, Prof Dr. Jamal Raza, Prof. Dr. Shuaib-ul-Hassan, Dr. Syed Saif-ur-Rehman (Tamgha-e-Imtiaz), Khalid Hassan Khan, Hizbullah Memon, and others addressed the ceremony.

The speakers said that in the present era, when people of all ages, especially the younger generation, are moving away from books, literary thriller films can play an effective role in reconnecting youth with literature and raising awareness about the importance of books. They added that promoting literary content among the new generation is highly essential.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

The chief minister paid tribute to the brave security forces for their professionalism and courage in carrying out the operation. She lauded their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the country and its citizens.

Maryam Nawaz stated that the nation remains determined to protect the lives and property of the people and to ensure the complete eradication of terrorism.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

According to a notification issued by registrar LHC on Friday, the D&SJ/OSD Arshad Iqbal and Shahzad Raza have been appointed as judge banking courts at Lahore against the vacant seats. Both the judges have been directed to resume their charges till June 6 (today).

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Energy’s Petroleum Division, the ex-depot price of petrol has been lowered to Rs377.78 per litre from Rs381.78 per litre.

The price of high-speed diesel has been maintained at Rs380.78 per litre.

The revised prices will come into effect from June 6, 2026.

The latest adjustment follows a series of weekly fuel price revisions amid fluctuations in international oil markets.

Last week, the government decreased petrol and diesel prices by Rs22 per litre.

The ministry has requested the government to allocate Rs228.306 million for the construction of Legal Facilitation Center, Islamabad High Court, Rs3.001 million for strengthening of planning and monitoring unit in Ministry of Law and Justice, and Rs16.773 million for automation of Federal Courts/Tribunals.

For strengthening and capacity enhancement of Legal Wings of Ministry of Law and Justice and the Federal Ministries/Division Rs50million has been proposed, and Rs12.228 for archiving and digitalisation of legislation and record of Ministry of Law and Justice.

In the budget 2026-27, an amount of Rs261.765 million has been proposed to be earmarked for the construction of litigants’ facilitation centre for litigants of District Court, and Rs226.659 for construction of administration of block of Supreme Court Branch Registry at Quetta.

For construction of Camp Office for Federal Shariat Court, Peshawar Rs39.176 has been requested while Rs34.695 million has been proposed for construction of Federal Courts Complex in Peshawar.

For expansion of Supreme Court Branch Registry at Karachi Rs290.512 has been requested, and Rs16.885 million for construction of office of the Attorney General of Pakistan, office of Advocate/Prosecutor General and allied offices in connection with the Supreme Court of Pakistan.

For the new schemes Rs820 million have been proposed in the upcoming budget. Out of that Rs500 million would be allocated for acquisition of land and construction of boundary wall/guard room for the construction of official residences of Chief Justice and the judges of the Islamabad High Court at Diplomatic Enclave, while Rs20 million has been earmarked for the feasibility study for construction of official residences of the Chief Justice and the judges of Islamabad High Court at Diplomatic Enclave.

For the construction of residences of judges of the Federal Constitutional Court at Islamabad Rs300 million have been earmarked.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

Speaking to the media during his visit to the Lahore Press Club here on Friday, the Iranian Consul General said that those who imposed war on Iran were responsible for the killing of innocent children.

Discussing the situation in the Middle East, he claimed that despite ongoing negotiations with the United States, which had been underway since February 28, war was imposed on Iran. He further alleged that attacks targeted senior Iranian leadership, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to him, missile strikes and aerial bombardments were carried out on schools, resulting in the deaths of 168 students, while the remains of one victim could not be recovered.

Drawing a comparison with the tragic attack on the Army Public School (APS) in Peshawar, in which 149 students lost their lives, he described the incident as a deeply painful event that continues to be remembered every year. He said during the conflict in Iran, schools were struck by missiles and parents painfully witnessed walls collapsing on their children.

The Consul General also alleged that an Iranian naval vessel which, he said, was not involved in the conflict, was targeted by an American missile. He described the vessel as unarmed and stated that it was attacked and destroyed without prior warning, calling the incident highly condemnable. He further claimed that approximately 3,400 people had been targeted in Iran, including 250 children. He added that Iran has endured what he described as “American terrorist sanctions” for the past 47 years. He also alleged that Iranian cities were subjected to chemical bombardment during the war.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

A workshop organized by the Institute for Research, Advocacy and Development (IRADA), in collaboration with the Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI), under the Danish Embassy-funded project titled “Shaping Pakistan’s Climate Prosperity Plan to Advance Inclusive and Equitable Development in Pakistan“, was told this here on Friday.

The training programme was aimed to enhance green skills among journalists and strengthen media reporting on climate mitigation, adaptation, climate finance, fiscal planning and governance.

According to Pakistan’s latest Nationally Determined Contribution 3.0, submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the country has committed to reducing projected greenhouse gas emissions by 50 percent by 2035. Of this target, 17 percent is unconditional and will be achieved through domestic resources and policy measures, while 33 percent is conditional on international climate finance, technology transfer and capacity support.

Speaking at the workshop, climate change expert and trainer Dr. Asif Khan said climate change was not only an environmental issue but a development and governance challenge for Pakistan.

Explaining the difference between climate and weather, he said, “Climate is what we expect in the long term, while weather is what we get on a daily basis.”

He said the distinction was important for journalists as individual weather events such as heatwaves, unusual rainfall, floods and droughts needed to be understood in the broader context of long-term climate change.

Dr. Khan said the global climate system was shaped by complex interactions between the atmosphere, cryosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere and biosphere. He said greenhouse gases were necessary to keep the Earth habitable, but excessive emissions caused by fossil fuel-based economic activity had intensified global warming and increased climate risks.

Citing global emission trends, he said greenhouse gas emissions had increased sharply since the industrial revolution, rising from around 4.22 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent in 1850 to about 53 billion tonnes in 2022.

He said the top ten emitting countries contributed nearly 70 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, while Pakistan remained among the countries facing severe climate impacts despite contributing a small share to global emissions.

The workshop was informed that the World Meteorological Organization uses seven key climate indicators to assess global climate change. These include surface temperature, ocean heat, atmospheric carbon dioxide, ocean acidification, sea level rise, glacier mass balance and sea ice extent.

Dr. Khan said these indicators showed that climate change was not limited to rising temperatures alone, but was also affecting oceans, glaciers, sea levels, water cycles and extreme weather patterns.

He said Pakistan was already experiencing the consequences of climate change through rising temperatures, heatwaves, erratic rainfall, urban flooding, glacial lake outburst floods, water stress and increasing pressure on agriculture and public infrastructure.

He pointed out that inadequate policy planning at the government level and weak implementation of the National Adaptation Plan remained major obstacles in addressing climate impacts effectively.

Dr. Khan stressed the need for stronger coordination between Pakistan’s Nationally Determined Contributions and the National Adaptation Plan, saying both frameworks should be interlinked to achieve meaningful climate resilience and sustainable development.

He said adaptation planning should not remain limited to climate departments but should be integrated into agriculture, water, energy, health, transport, housing, education, disaster management and urban development policies.

He also underlined the need for evidence-based climate policies, improved governance mechanisms and active media engagement in creating awareness about environmental risks and adaptation strategies.

Addressing the participants, organizer and Programme Officer Syeda Kashmala said the workshop was aimed at enhancing journalists’ understanding of climate change and fiscal planning through specialized training and capacity-building sessions.

She said the initiative was designed to support journalists reporting on climate mitigation and adaptation actions, enabling them to communicate environmental issues more effectively to the public.

“The broader objective of the project is to advance the integration of climate considerations into Pakistan’s fiscal and economic planning in order to promote an inclusive reform agenda for a resilient Pakistan,” she added.

The Danish Embassy-supported project focuses on strengthening Pakistan’s climate prosperity planning by promoting green skills, institutional capacity, public-private engagement and informed policy dialogue.

Participants were told that media professionals had a crucial role in translating complex climate science and policy frameworks into clear public information.

Speakers said climate reporting in Pakistan needed to move beyond disaster coverage and should also examine budget allocations, climate finance, governance gaps, adaptation planning, urban resilience, agricultural vulnerability and the implementation of national climate commitments.

More than a dozen journalists from different media organizations attended the workshop and participated in interactive discussions on climate governance, sustainable development and the role of media in promoting climate awareness.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

This was recommended by a Sub-Committee of the Senate Standing Committee on National Health Services and Regulations, which met here on Friday under the convenorship of Senator Anusha Rehman. The panel reviewed preparedness for the upcoming MDCAT 2026, discussed the existing MDCAT policy framework, where 50 percent weightage is allocated to the MDCAT test, which is not tutored by any educational institution, versus formal exam results.

The committee took up the issue of a recent advertisement issued by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), which made MDCAT mandatory for students seeking admission to MBBS programmes abroad. Members questioned the legal basis of the directive and expressed concern over what they termed an arbitrary policy decision lacking clear statutory backing.

The Convenor directed that a public hearing be convened, inviting students affected by MDCAT-related issues, medical practitioners, and vice chancellors of medical universities to contribute to the development of policies and legislative reforms aimed at addressing longstanding concerns in the medical admissions system.

The committee observed that such measures were particularly concerning in light of the 743 vacant seats currently available in medical and dental colleges across the country. While PMDC officials explained that the move was intended to discourage admissions in substandard foreign medical institutions, committee members questioned the role played by MDCAT to stop admission in substandard colleges.

The committee members question why a list of substandard medical colleges has not been maintained by PMDC to guide students not to seek admission there. The committee maintained that current measures mandated by PMDC imposing the MDCAT test as a criterion for seeking admission in foreign institutions without an explicit legal mandate require further deliberations.

The committee directed PMDC and the Secretary, Ministry of National Health Services and Regulations, to submit all relevant documents and legal provisions authorizing the council to make MDCAT compulsory for students intending to pursue medical education abroad. The committee suggested that PMDC should publish a list of foreign medical colleges and universities that do not meet recognized standards rather than imposing blanket restrictions to better guide students and parents.

The members expressed concern that certain regulatory measures were creating unnecessary difficulties for students and contributing to frustration among aspiring medical professionals. The committee also expressed concerns regarding MDCAT weightage and the challenges faced by A-Level students during the admissions process, as the syllabus of MDCAT primarily focuses on intermediate.

Members attributed the existence of vacant seats in medical and dental colleges to shortcomings in the current policy framework and emphasized the need for comprehensive reforms. The committee further highlighted the significant disparity in the cost of medical education in Pakistan compared to countries such as China, where the cost is one-third.

During the briefing, officials informed the committee that the majority of vacant seats were in dental colleges. The committee expressed reservations regarding the international non-recognition of Pakistan’s dentistry qualifications in some countries and pointed to the need for greater standardisation and alignment with global practices. The committee was also briefed on the collection, utilization, and auditing mechanisms relating to MDCAT examination fees.

The sub-committee strongly disagreed with several aspects of the current PMDC policy framework governing MDCAT and recommended a comprehensive review and revision of the process involving all relevant stakeholders.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

The launch comes at a critical time as Pakistani consumers face rising electricity costs, increasing energy insecurity, and growing interest in alternative energy solutions. The platform seeks to simplify what is often a complex and fragmented journey by providing consumers with independent information, practical tools, trusted service providers, and guidance throughout the clean energy adoption process.

Speaking at the launch, Nadeem Iqbal, Chief Executive Officer of TheNetwork for Consumer Protection, said, “Consumers are no longer passive users of energy; they are increasingly becoming producers, managers, and beneficiaries of clean energy solutions.

Yet many households struggle to navigate technical information, financing options, and supplier choices. This platform is designed to put consumers in the driver’s seat by providing trusted guidance and practical support throughout their clean energy journey.“

He added that Pakistan’s energy transition will only succeed if consumers are empowered to make informed decisions and have access to affordable, reliable, and transparent clean energy solutions.

The newly launched platform is part of a growing global movement championed by Consumers International to place consumers at the centre of the clean energy transition.

According to Consumers International’s landmark global study, households worldwide invested approximately USD 184 billion in climate mitigation measures in a single year—almost twice the level of government spending globally—demonstrating the increasingly important role consumers play in driving sustainable energy transformation.

The study identified 113 One-Stop-Shop solutions across multiple countries that are helping consumers access renewable energy technologies through trusted, integrated services.

The Pakistan OSS platform offers consumers a single entry point to access information on solar energy systems, estimate costs and savings, compare technology options, understand financing opportunities, and connect with credible suppliers and installers.

By bringing these services together under one roof, the platform aims to reduce information gaps, build consumer confidence, and protect households from misinformation and poor-quality services.

Consumers International’s Clean Energy Futures programme highlights that demand-side actions by consumers—such as adopting renewable energy technologies, improving energy efficiency, and electrifying household energy use—could contribute up to 70 percent of the emissions reductions required globally by 2050.

However, achieving this potential requires strong consumer protections, accessible information, and inclusive market models that enable households to participate effectively in the transition.

The One-Stop-Shop model addresses these challenges by supporting consumers through every stage of their journey—from awareness and decision-making to financing, installation, operation, and consumer redress.

International experience shows that such platforms can lower costs, improve trust, accelerate the adoption of renewable technologies, and strengthen energy resilience.

As part of the initiative, TheNetwork will also work with policymakers, regulators, consumer groups, industry stakeholders, and development partners to promote consumer-centred energy policies and strengthen consumer participation in Pakistan’s clean energy transition.

The launch reinforces Pakistan’s commitment to sustainable development and demonstrates how consumer empowerment can contribute simultaneously to climate action, energy affordability, and energy security.

The launch brought together leading experts, including Imtiaz Hussain Baloch, Hussain Jarwar, Mir Ahmad Shah, Dr.Zagum, and Dr. Omais Abdur Rehman, who highlighted the importance of renewable energy, supportive policies, consumer awareness, and climate action in Pakistan.

The platform aims to simplify the transition to clean energy by providing independent information, practical tools, trusted service providers, and guidance for consumers seeking affordable and sustainable energy solutions.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

Addressing a joint press conference here, they said that Chief Minister Punjab is heading the initiative at the provincial level, while the Chairman NAB is leading it at the national level. Following the success of the Punjab model, a similar Task Force has already been established in Sindh, while the process of constituting one in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is under way, they added.

The DG NAB stated that the successful operation in Punjab was carried out through effective inter-agency coordination with the Board of Revenue Punjab and district administrations, resulting in the recovery of vast tracts of State land from illegal occupation. He added that NAB Multan also demonstrated commendable performance in safeguarding State assets and combating encroachments, achieving notable successes through a series of targeted enforcement actions.

He further revealed that, in several cases, illegal occupation of State land had been facilitated through the misuse of ostensibly legitimate documentation. Investigations have also uncovered the involvement of certain revenue officials in facilitating encroachments on public land. Such officials, along with private individuals have been identified and will be proceeded against in accordance with the law.

DG NAB stated that the Bureau has achieved historic milestones with introducing reforms for accountability framework. Between 2023 and 2026, NAB secured record recoveries amounting to Rs. 15.6 trillion. During 2025 alone, NAB facilitated the return of Rs. 180 billion to more than 115,000 affectees. NAB Lahore secured recoveries worth Rs. 263.096 billion during 2025 and distributed recovered amounts among 61,700 claimants. NAB Lahore is currently investigating several large-scale public fraud cases involving 81,090 affectees, with estimated financial losses of Rs. 124 billion.

He further highlighted a number of institutional reforms introduced by NAB, including the establishment of the Accountability Facilitation Cell, Business Facilitation Cell, and Parliamentarians Facilitation Cell. Regular public hearings, e-Case Management System, digitisation of case records, and the deployment of AI-based investigative tools have significantly enhanced transparency and service delivery within the accountability regime.

Senior Member Board of Revenue Punjab Nabeel Javed stated that, as part of the broader national agenda of transparency and accountability, the Board of Revenue has also implemented key reforms, including digitization of land records, GIS-based land management systems, e-stamping and modern property transfer mechanisms.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

The NPMB, established under the Police Order 2002, comprises the Inspectors General of Police (IGPs) of all provinces, the IGPs of Railways and National Highways Police, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Islamabad Capital Territory Police, and the Director General (DG) of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). The Police Order 2002 designates the National Police Bureau (NPB) as the secretariat of the board.

The last meeting of the NPMB was held on March 17, 2022, despite the requirement under the Police Order 2002 that the board meet twice annually.

An official source said that the next meeting of the NPMB will be held by end of June 2026. Recommendations have been sought from provincial police chiefs on restructuring the NPB, internal security policy, enhancing coordination, combating terrorism and terror financing, and integrating police databases nationwide. Suggestions have also been sought regarding the establishment of a Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) in Gilgit-Baltistan and measures to improve coordination among law enforcement agencies.

Source said the board’s primary responsibilities include advising federal and provincial governments on planning, development and standardisation of police administration, training, criminal identification systems, statistics and equipment for police and other law enforcement agencies.

The board is also mandated to identify and facilitate research in areas such as criminology, terrorism, sectarian and ethnic violence, drug trafficking, organised crime, inter-provincial crime and crimes with international dimensions, he said.

Former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Sindh and ex-Director General of the National Police Bureau, Afzal Ali Shigri, told Business Recorder that standardisation of policing across the country was essential to effectively address challenges such as terrorism, terror financing and other forms of crime.

When asked about the rumors that the police force is going to be nationalised, Shigri said that the Police Order 2002 only envisaged the standardisation of policing across the country.

He said that police order contains no provision for nationalising provincial police forces and instead focuses on harmonising police structures, training, procedures and coordination mechanisms to improve law enforcement and address common security challenges.

He emphasised the need for enhanced coordination among provincial police forces, timely intelligence sharing and the provision of modern equipment to law enforcement agencies.

Shigri further said that IGPs of all provinces, AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan, should meet regularly to deliberate on emerging security challenges. He stressed that the NPB must be strengthened to effectively support police reforms and institutional development across the country.

Referring to the Police Order 2002, he said that the establishment of a National Forensic Sciences Agency (NFSA) in the federal capital had been proposed to modernise criminal investigations and address increasingly complex cases. He also said that the establishment of forensic science laboratories in the provinces was also proposed in the Police Order 2002.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

The delegation, led by Kirmani, includes Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture Usama Khan Laghari, Secretary Agriculture Punjab Iftikhar Ali Sahoo and other senior officials. During the visit, the delegation held meetings at the office of Primark Global Company to explore avenues for cooperation in the cotton sector.

Speaking on the occasion, Kirmani said the collaboration would focus on practical initiatives aimed at enhancing cotton quality and strengthening the province’s cotton value chain. He noted that Primark would play a significant role in supporting efforts to increase the production of high-quality cotton in Punjab.

Secretary Agriculture Punjab Iftikhar Ali Sahoo said that cooperation with Primark would contribute to the promotion of premium-quality cotton production and help improve the competitiveness of Punjab’s cotton sector.

The visit is part of the Punjab government’s broader efforts to seek international partnerships, modern agricultural practices and market-driven solutions to enhance productivity and sustainability in the province’s agriculture sector.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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CITIES                     TODAY                          TOMORROW
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Hyderabad         43-28 (ºC) 00-00 (%)        41-28 (ºC) 00-00 (%)
Karachi           37-29 (ºC) 00-00 (%)        36-29 (ºC) 00-00 (%)
Lahore            38-27 (ºC) 01-00 (%)        40-28 (ºC) 01-00 (%)
Larkana           46-31 (°C) 00-00 (%)        46-32 (°C) 00-00 (%)
Mirpurkhas        44-28 (°C) 00-00 (%)        42-28 (°C) 00-00 (%)
Muzaffarabad      24-17 (°C) 55-00 (%)        29-16 (°C) 25-00 (%)
Peshawar          37-24 (ºC) 25-00 (%)        38-26 (ºC) 00-00 (%)
Quetta            34-16 (ºC) 00-00 (%)        34-17 (ºC) 00-00 (%)
Rawalpindi        33-23 (ºC) 25-00 (%)        36-25 (ºC) 00-00 (%)
Sukkur            45-31 (ºC) 00-00 (%)        46-31 (ºC) 00-00 (%)
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KARACHI
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Sunset:                       07:19 pm                     (Today)
Sunrise:                      05:40 am                  (Tomorrow)
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Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

In a statement issued by the Foreign Office, Pakistan said India’s remarks were part of a “familiar and carefully choreographed attempt to conflate fact with fiction,” adding that Islamabad rejected the assertions “with the contempt they deserve.”

The statement came amid renewed exchanges between the two countries over the disputed Jammu and Kashmir region.

Pakistan reiterated its position that India remains in “illegal occupation” of the internationally recognised disputed territory of Jammu and Kashmir, arguing that the decades-old dispute remains the longest unresolved issue on the agenda of the United Nations Security Council.

“The only just and durable settlement of the dispute lies in the faithful implementation of the relevant UN Security Council resolutions, which guarantee the Kashmiri people their right to self-determination through a free and impartial plebiscite under UN auspices,” the Foreign Office said.

Islamabad also accused India of committing “grave and systematic human rights violations” in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), alleging that Indian forces continue to enjoy impunity under what it termed draconian laws imposed in the region.

The Foreign Office said India’s claims regarding Gilgit-Baltistan could not divert international attention from the situation in IIOJK and accused New Delhi of pursuing policies that undermine the rights of Kashmiris.

Pakistan further called on India to reverse what it described as illegal and unilateral actions taken in the disputed territory, particularly since August 5, 2019, repeal restrictive laws, and allow access to international human rights organisations, neutral observers and foreign media.

The statement also urged India to enable the people of Jammu and Kashmir to exercise their right to self-determination in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions.

Following the announcement of the election schedule, a comprehensive code of conduct has come into force across the region.

To ensure a transparent, free, and fair electoral process, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has slapped a strict ban on all new appointments and transfers within government departments. Furthermore, the administration has been barred from making any new announcements regarding development projects.

According to the election schedule released by the chief election commissioner, candidates can submit their nomination papers between June 9 and 19.

Reiterating the commission’s commitment to impartiality, Mughal emphasised that the elections would be conducted in a free and fair manner, ensuring a level playing field with equal opportunities for all participating political parties and candidates.

The case has been registered at the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), filed on the complaint of the actress.

The sources said the stance adopted in the FIR levels allegations of cyber harassment, blackmailing, and illegal surveillance against the accused Chadhar, his wife Sumaira Khan, and other accomplices.

According to the text of the FIR, the accused are alleged to have been illegally monitoring the actress and issuing threats to her and her family.

The case further contends that Momina refused marriage after information regarding Chadhar’s first marriage came to light, following which a series of alleged blackmailing attempts through private videos was initiated.

According to the FIR, it has also been claimed that in 2023, the accused allegedly caused the breaking of the actress’s engagement by levelling false accusations.

Further investigation into the case is underway by the police and relevant agencies, while additional stances from both parties regarding the matter are yet to emerge.

Meanwhile, during the hearing of the alleged harassment case of actress Momina at a sessions court in Lahore, the interim bail of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Member of Punjab Assembly Chadhar was approved.

The court issued orders restraining the authorities from arresting the suspect until June 24, directing the relevant agencies not to apprehend him during this period.

It is worth noting that actress Momina recently tied the knot with Hamza Habib, the pictures and video of which went viral on social media.

According to the military’s media wing, the operation was launched following intelligence reports regarding the presence of terrorists belonging to the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) aka ‘Fitna al Hindustan’, an Indian proxy.

During the operation, security forces effectively engaged multiple terrorist hideouts. After an intense exchange of fire, six Indian-sponsored terrorists were killed, the ISPR said.

The security forces said they also recovered a cache of weapons, ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and a vehicle from the possession of the deceased terrorists. The ISPR added that the killed individuals had been actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area.

“Sanitisation operations are being conducted to eliminate any remaining terrorists in the vicinity,” it maintained.

The military’s media wing reaffirmed that the relentless counter-terrorism campaign under the vision “Azm-e-Istehkam”—as approved by the Federal Apex Committee on the National Action Plan—will continue at full pace by the security forces and law enforcement agencies to completely eradicate the menace of foreign-sponsored terrorism from Pakistan.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the security forces for killing six terrorists of in Panjgur, the PM Office said.

“Security forces sent the Indian-backed terrorists, who were harming the lives and property of innocent and unarmed Pakistani citizens, to hell,” the prime minister said.

The government of Pakistan is committed to the complete eradication of terrorism from the country, he said.

Pakistan has witnessed a rise in militant attacks in recent years, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, prompting intensified intelligence-based operations by security forces.

A day ago, the ISPR reported that security forces killed four terrorists in two separate IBOs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on the night between June 3 and 4.

“An IBO was conducted in Dera Ismail Khan district after reports of the presence of terrorists.

“During the operation, security forces engaged the suspected hideout, triggering an intense exchange of fire that resulted in the killing of two terrorists,” it said.

In a separate intelligence-based operation in Mohmand district, the ISPR said, security forces effectively engaged the terrorists’ location and killed two more suspects.

The military said weapons and ammunition were recovered from the slain terrorists, who were allegedly involved in multiple terrorist activities in the area.