Cricket Rohit stars as India down Afghanistan in second Super Over BENGALURU: India edged Afghanistan in a dramatic second Super Over to sweep the Twenty20 series after the third... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 11:37pm
Pakistan NLC signs MoU with CMA CGM RAWALPINDI: National Logistics Corporation (NLC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with one of the world’s... Published 17 Jan, 2024 11:37pm
Technology Pakistan’s ICT exports increase 9% to $1.45bn in 1HFY24 Pakistan’s information communication and technology (ICT) exports increased by 9% or $64 million to $1.455 billion... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 11:16pm
World Aid for Israeli hostages and Palestinian civilians arrives at Gaza border CAIRO: Aid destined for Israeli hostages and Palestinian residents in the Gaza Strip was delivered to Egypt on... Published 17 Jan, 2024 11:16pm
South Asia Taiwan reports first major post-election Chinese military activity TAIPEI: Taiwan’s defence ministry said it detected 18 Chinese air force planes operating around Taiwan and carrying... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 11:12pm
Pakistan LHC upholds rejection of Imran Khan’s nomination papers The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Wednesday upheld the Appellate Tribunal’s decision to reject the nomination papers of... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 10:59pm
Forex UAE has confirmed rollover of $2bn deposits: SBP The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has confirmed rollover of its two deposits of $1 billion each placed with the State... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 10:59pm
South Asia Iran says it targeted ‘Iranian terrorist group’ in Pakistan DAVOS: Tehran’s top diplomat said on Wednesday that his country’s armed forces targeted an “Iranian terrorist group”... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 10:58pm
Europe Ukraine’s ally Poland looking into how to make more ammunition: foreign minister DAVOS: Poland’s new government is looking into how it can make more ammunition and military equipment as it works on... Published 17 Jan, 2024 10:57pm
Asia China urges Iran, Pakistan to ‘exercise restraint’ after deadly air strike BEIJING: China on Wednesday urged Pakistan and Iran to show “restraint”, after Islamabad said Tehran had carried out... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 10:53pm
Business & Economy Pakistan’s FDI up nearly 35% in first six months of FY24 During November alone, net FDI amounted to $211.1mn, a 538% increase when compared with the same month of the previous year Updated 17 Jan, 2024 10:52pm
Stocks KSE-100 succumbs to uncertainty even as bond yields fall After increasing in early part of session, benchmark index falls in red zone Updated 17 Jan, 2024 10:52pm
World At least $15bn needed for Gaza housing: Palestinian official DAVOS: At least $15 billion will be needed to rebuild houses in Gaza, the head of the Palestine Investment Fund said... Published 17 Jan, 2024 10:46pm
Pakistan Pakistan recalls ambassador from Iran, expels Iranian envoy after air strike Foreign minister Jalil Abbas Jilani also receives telephone call from Iranian counterpart Updated 17 Jan, 2024 10:37pm
Europe Russia says targeted French mercenaries in Ukraine strike MOSCOW: Russia said Wednesday it had targeted a group of French fighters in a long-range strike on the eastern... Published 17 Jan, 2024 10:16pm
Sports President’s Trophy round 6: WAPDA and SBP register wins on day 3 PTV stay ahead of KRL Published 17 Jan, 2024 10:06pm
World Iran launches missiles at Jaish al Adl group, Pakistan ‘condemns unprovoked violation of its airspace’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs says strike inside Pakistani territory has resulted in death of two children, injured three girls Updated 17 Jan, 2024 09:04pm
South Asia India eyes $100bn annual foreign direct investment in coming years: IT minister DAVOS: India is eyeing $100 billion in annual foreign direct investment (FDI) “in the next few years”, its IT... Published 17 Jan, 2024 08:41pm
Markets Pakistan’s current account posts significant surplus of $397mn in December Overall deficit during July-December FY24 stands at $831mn compared to $3.63bn in same period of FY23 Updated 17 Jan, 2024 08:33pm
Stocks US stocks dip after December retail sales top estimates NEW YORK: Wall Street stocks fell early Wednesday, extending a pullback after strong US retail sales pushed bond... Published 17 Jan, 2024 08:03pm
Business & Economy SBP says Pakistan has received $705.6mn from IMF Pakistan has received a tranche of $705.6 million from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), said the State Bank of... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 07:59pm
Pakistan LHC allows Sheikh Rashid to contest general elections The Lahore High Court on Wednesday allowed the Awami Muslim League (AML) chief Sheikh Rashid to contest the upcoming... Published 17 Jan, 2024 07:35pm
World UK’s Cameron says Ukraine aid in US interest DAVOS: British Foreign Secretary David Cameron appealed Wednesday for US lawmakers to approve new assistance to... Published 17 Jan, 2024 07:36pm
South Asia Iran foreign minister in Davos: Attacks on Israel will end if Gaza war stops DAVOS: Iran’s foreign minister said on Wednesday that attacks against Israel and its interests by the “Axis of... Published 17 Jan, 2024 07:29pm
Stocks Most Gulf markets retreat on interest rate cut worries Most stock markets in the Gulf ended lower on Wednesday, in line with global shares, as investors struggled with the... Published 17 Jan, 2024 07:16pm
Energy Aramco CEO predicts tighter oil markets, sees Red Sea risks DAVOS: Global oil markets will cope with Red Sea disruptions in the short run, although prolonged attacks by the... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:22pm
Forex Rupee improves marginally, settles at 280.1 against US dollar Gains Re0.15 in inter-bank market on Wednesday Updated 17 Jan, 2024 06:21pm
Sports Djokovic digs deep to reach Australian Open third round MELBOURNE: Novak Djokovic survived a huge scare to reach the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday,... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:17pm
Europe Ukraine says 2024 priority is to gain control of the skies DAVOS: Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said Wednesday his country’s priority for 2024 was to gain control... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:09pm
Business & Economy DP World, Pakistan’s JW Holding sign MoU to develop SEZs in Pakistan DP World, Dubai’s state-owned port giant, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with JW Holdings, a... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 06:08pm
Europe UN chief says parties to Gaza war ‘trampling’ on international law DAVOS: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Wednesday that parties to the conflict in Gaza were... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:06pm
World Kerry says to work on climate after exiting envoy role DAVOS: Veteran US diplomat and politician John Kerry said Wednesday he planned to keep working to address climate... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:04pm
Business & Economy Elections to pave way for economic stability in Pakistan, says Kakar Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar on Wednesday said that all speculations regarding the upcoming general... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 06:02pm
Sports Tsitsipas comes through ‘insane’ battle at Australian Open MELBOURNE: Stefanos Tsitsipas said the adrenaline rush he got in a titanic struggle to battle past home hope Jordan... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:00pm
Energy OPEC sticks to 2024 oil demand view, sees more growth in 2025 LONDON: OPEC on Wednesday stuck to its forecast for relatively strong growth in global oil demand in 2024 and said... Published 17 Jan, 2024 05:53pm
Energy Oil falls as China’s economic recovery disappoints, dollar strengthens LONDON: Oil fell more than $1 on Wednesday as economic growth in China, the world’s second-largest crude user,... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 05:49pm
Sports Man Utd cuts financial forecast after early Champions League Exit Manchester United lowered its full-year revenue and profit forecasts on Wednesday, after the English Premier League... Published 17 Jan, 2024 05:17pm
Middle East Israel kills 9 Palestinians in West Bank air strikes TULKARM, WEST BANK: Israeli air strikes killed nine Palestinians in two areas of the occupied West Bank on... Published 17 Jan, 2024 05:13pm
Money & Banking ECB’s Lagarde says summer rate cut ‘likely’ DAVOS: The European Central Bank could start cutting interest rates this summer, president Christine Lagarde said... Published 17 Jan, 2024 05:09pm
Middle East Jordan says southern Gaza hospital badly damaged by Israeli shelling nearby GAZA/ISRAEL-GAZA BORDER/DOHA: Israel stepped up its assault on Khan Younis in southern Gaza on Wednesday, pushing... Published 17 Jan, 2024 05:06pm
Exchange SECP gives go-ahead to Faysal Bank’s wholly-owned EC The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has issued the Certificate of Incorporation to Faysal... Published 17 Jan, 2024 04:58pm
USA Blinken says US in demand as he mourns ‘gutwrenching’ scenes in Gaza DAVOS: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken told business and political leaders in Davos on Wednesday he could not... Published 17 Jan, 2024 04:41pm
Stocks HDFC Bank sparks worst day for India’s Nifty, Sensex since June 2022 BENGALURU: India’s blue-chip indexes posted their worst session in 19 months on Wednesday, led by a slide in top... Published 17 Jan, 2024 04:29pm
Travel Tickets go on sale for Venice day trippers in trial scheme ROME: Tickets went on sale on Tuesday for visitors wanting to see Venice from April as part of a trial aimed at... Published 17 Jan, 2024 04:29pm
Stocks Sri Lanka shares end lower for seventh straight session BENGALURU: Sri Lankan shares closed lower on Wednesday for the seventh straight session, their longest losing streak... Published 17 Jan, 2024 04:27pm
Commodities Copper slides to one-month low on sluggish Chinese economy LONDON: Copper prices dropped to their lowest in over a month on Wednesday on worries about China’s economy after... Published 17 Jan, 2024 04:25pm
Commodities Palm falls tracking weaker rival oils KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian palm oil futures fell on Wednesday as weakness in rival vegetable oils in the Dalian and... Published 17 Jan, 2024 04:22pm
Movies & Music Lana Del Rey, Doja Cat, Tyler, the Creator to headline Coachella 2024 NEW YORK: Lana Del Rey, Doja Cat and Tyler, The Creator will headline this year’s edition of the Coachella music... Published 17 Jan, 2024 04:15pm
Bullion Rate Gold price per tola falls Rs2,000 in Pakistan Gold rates in Pakistan witnessed a fall on Wednesday, in line with a decline in the international rate. The yellow... Published 17 Jan, 2024 04:08pm
Sports Palestine coach demands ‘focus’ in pursuit of first Asian Cup win DOHA: Palestine coach Makram Daboub said his players must be “fully focused” against the United Arab Emirates at the... Published 17 Jan, 2024 03:04pm
Sports Aryna Sabalenka blasts past teenager into Australian Open third round MELBOURNE: Defending champion Aryna Sabalenka pummelled her second straight teenage qualifier into submission... Published 17 Jan, 2024 03:01pm
South Asia Indian, Chinese troops clashed twice in 2022 even as peace talks were on NEW DELHI: Indian and Chinese soldiers clashed at least two times in 2022 along their Himalayan frontier where they... Published 17 Jan, 2024 02:56pm
Middle East 24,448 Palestinians killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza since Oct. 7 DUBAI: A total of 24,448 Palestinians have been killed and 61,504 have been wounded in Israeli strikes on Gaza since... Published 17 Jan, 2024 02:53pm
USA Canada minister says study permits to students from India drop due to dispute OTTAWA: The number of study permits Canada issued to Indian students fell sharply late last year after India ejected... Published 17 Jan, 2024 02:51pm
Middle East Kuwait forms first government under new emir and prime minister DUBAI: Kuwait on Wednesday formed a government headed by Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed Sabah al-Salem al-Sabah, the... Published 17 Jan, 2024 02:49pm
Opinion Does Pakistan need copper? The Business Recorder of January 08, 2024, carried a headline ‘Co asked to share logistic requirements for Reko Diq... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 02:33pm
Luxury Louis Vuitton opens Paris Fashion Week with Pharrell Williams’ styles from American West PARIS: Pharrell Williams kicked off Paris Fashion Week with Louis Vuitton’s spring menswear show on Tuesday night,... Published 17 Jan, 2024 02:28pm
Energy Gas, LNG prices to remain relatively weak in 2024 amid subdued demand LONDON: Global prices of gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG) are expected to remain relatively weak in 2024, with... Published 17 Jan, 2024 02:21pm
Travel Winter weather snarls air, train travel across Germany DUESSELDORF, Germany: Freezing rain in central and southern Germany grounded hundreds of flights and restricted... Published 17 Jan, 2024 02:06pm
Energy Aramco boosts venture arm’s capital by $4 billion Saudi Aramco said on Wednesday it has boosted its Aramco Ventures unit by $4 billion, more than doubling the oil... Published 17 Jan, 2024 01:51pm
Forex South African rand extends losses against strong dollar JOHANNESBURG: South Africa’s rand extended its losses against the US dollar early on Wednesday, as the greenback... Published 17 Jan, 2024 01:48pm
Stocks Most Gulf markets in red on rate cut jitters Major stock markets in the Gulf fell in early trade on Wednesday as investors struggled with the possibility that... Published 17 Jan, 2024 01:46pm
Stocks FTSE 100 extends slide as inflation climbs, China data weighs The UK’s FTSE 100 extended its early-week selloff on Wednesday after a stronger-than-expected inflation reading... Published 17 Jan, 2024 01:44pm
Stocks European shares slump on hawkish ECB remarks, disappointing China data European shares opened sharply lower on Wednesday, as more hawkish remarks from European Central Bank (ECB)... Published 17 Jan, 2024 01:42pm
Europe EU 27 states will provide further funds to Ukraine BRUSSELS: The chief of the European Union’s executive Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, on Wednesday said she was... Published 17 Jan, 2024 01:40pm
Stocks Hong Kong stocks plunge more than 4% on China worries HONG KONG: Hong Kong stocks sank more than four percent Wednesday on worries about China’s economy after data showed... Published 17 Jan, 2024 01:37pm
Sports Debutant Joseph gives West Indies some hope ADELAIDE: Debutant Shamar Joseph gave the West Indies some hope after taking two top-order wickets during... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 01:01pm
Commodities Ample supply holds Chicago soybeans near two-year low CANBERRA: Chicago soybean futures fell on Wednesday and were close to last week’s two-year low on expectations of a... Published 17 Jan, 2024 12:43pm
Technology Tesla cuts Model Y prices in Germany after China price cuts Tesla Inc has slashed prices of its Model Y cars in Germany, a week after the carmaker reduced its Model 3 and Model... Published 17 Jan, 2024 12:39pm
Africa Nigeria blast kills two, dozens hurt as buildings collapse LAGOS: At least two people were killed and dozens injured when explosives stored at a private residence detonated in... Published 17 Jan, 2024 12:38pm
Business & Finance Thailand central bank offers more measures to help debtors BANGKOK: Thailand’s central bank said on Wednesday it was offering more measures this year to help debtors, as... Published 17 Jan, 2024 12:35pm
Business & Finance India’s Adani Group signs deals to invest $1.49bn in Telangana BENGALURU: India’s Adani Group on Wednesday said it signed four commitments to invest more than 124 billion rupees... Published 17 Jan, 2024 12:34pm
Companies Renault swings to growth after 4 years of sluggish volumes Renault on Wednesday posted an increase in its annual global sales volumes, returning to growth after four... Published 17 Jan, 2024 12:33pm
Energy Iran slashes February crude price to Asia SINGAPORE: Iran has set the official selling price (OSP) of its Iranian Light crude oil grade for Asian buyers at... Published 17 Jan, 2024 12:32pm
Companies UK regulator says Wizz Air has sufficiently improved refund processes LONDON: Hungarian budget carrier Wizz Air has met its commitments to Britain’s aviation regulator to improve its... Published 17 Jan, 2024 12:30pm
Mutual Funds JGB yields rise amid caution for 20-year bond auction TOKYO: Japanese government bond (JGB) yields rose on Wednesday as caution over a 20-year bond auction in the next... Published 17 Jan, 2024 12:28pm
Business & Finance UK inflation rate rises to 4% in December LONDON: Britain’s annual rate of consumer price inflation rose for the first time in 10 months in December,... Published 17 Jan, 2024 12:27pm
World GSK raises $1.24bn from latest Haleon stake sale British drugmaker GSK said on Wednesday it had raised 978 million pounds ($1.24 billion) from a discounted stake... Published 17 Jan, 2024 12:25pm
South Asia Millions of Afghans go hungry as winter cold bites PUL-E ALAM: Khurma had to borrow her neighbour’s shoes to walk to Pul-e Alam city to collect a cash handout being... Published 17 Jan, 2024 12:09pm
USA Donald Trump attends rape defamation case in New York NEW YORK: Donald Trump went straight from his victory in the Republican Iowa caucuses to a New York courtroom... Published 17 Jan, 2024 12:03pm
Europe Argentina’s ‘anarcho-capitalist’ president descends on Davos DAVOS: Argentina’s self-styled “anarcho-capitalist” leader, Javier Milei, will address the global elite in Davos on... Published 17 Jan, 2024 12:00pm
Sports Schoolgirl Andreeva living the dream after thrashing Jabeur at Australian Open MELBOURNE: Russian 16-year-old Mirra Andreeva put her school work to one side Wednesday and instead underlined her... Published 17 Jan, 2024 11:56am
Business & Finance Women’s health gap costs $1 trillion worldwide: report DAVOS: The huge gap between how women and men’s health are treated costs $1 trillion a year worldwide, the World... Published 17 Jan, 2024 11:52am
Sports Fourth seed Gauff cruises into Australian Open third round MELBOURNE: US Open champion Coco Gauff eased through to the third round of the Australian Open on Wednesday, beating... Published 17 Jan, 2024 11:49am
Sports Wozniacki says more tennis in Saudi Arabia ‘inevitable’ after Nadal move MELBOURNE: Caroline Wozniacki said Wednesday that Saudi Arabia will inevitably host more tennis tournaments but... Published 17 Jan, 2024 11:45am
Forex Australia, NZ dollars slump, bond yields climb as US rate cut hopes ebb SYDNEY: The Australian and New Zealand dollars remained vulnerable to further losses on Wednesday as hawkish US... Published 17 Jan, 2024 11:37am
Business & Finance China’s 2023 property sales fell 8.5%, investment down 9.6% BEIJING: Property sales by floor area in China fell 8.5% in 2023, compared with a 8.0% decline in the first 11... Published 17 Jan, 2024 11:34am
Exchange Pakistan’s REER index inches up in December, stands at 98.9 Pakistan’s Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER), a measure of the value of a currency against a weighted average of... Published 17 Jan, 2024 11:33am
Forex China’s yuan eases to nearly two-month low on reduced US rate cut bets SHANGHAI: China’s yuan eased against a strengthening US dollar on Wednesday, touching the weakest level in nearly... Published 17 Jan, 2024 11:22am
Stocks Asia stocks slide as China weakness, rate cut jitters weigh SINGAPORE: Asian equities slumped on Wednesday, led by Chinese stocks after a slew of data pointed to a patchy... Published 17 Jan, 2024 11:20am
Commodities China 2023 aluminium output hits record high but growth rate slows BEIJING: China’s primary aluminium output climbed to a record in 2023 but the growth rate slowed, data showed on... Published 17 Jan, 2024 11:13am
Energy China’s 2023 oil refinery output rises to record on fuel demand recovery BEIJING: China’s oil refinery throughput in 2023 rose 9.3% from a year earlier to a record, reversing a rare decline... Published 17 Jan, 2024 11:08am
Mutual Funds Rise in US yields nudges Indian bond yields higher MUMBAI: Indian government bond yields rose in the early session on Wednesday as bets of aggressive rate cuts from... Published 17 Jan, 2024 11:04am
Forex Most Asian currencies, stocks decline after hawkish Fed rhetoric Most Asian currencies extended a sell-off on Wednesday, with the South Korean won and Malaysian ringgit leading... Published 17 Jan, 2024 11:01am
Commodities London copper falls on China data, dollar pressure BEIJING: London copper fell on Wednesday after data from top consumer China underlying its economic weakness... Published 17 Jan, 2024 10:57am
Business & Finance China’s Q4 GDP shows patchy economic recovery, raises case for stimulus BEIJING: China’s economy grew slightly slower than expected in the fourth quarter, with a deepening property crisis,... Published 17 Jan, 2024 10:54am
Forex Indian rupee edges lower tracking fall in Asian peers, forward premiums recede MUMBAI: The Indian rupee weakened slightly on Wednesday tracking its Asian peers lower as paring of rate cut bets in... Published 17 Jan, 2024 10:49am
Stocks China, Hong Kong stocks drop as economic growth data disappoints SHANGHAI: China stocks hovered around five-year lows on Wednesday and Hong Kong shares tumbled to their weakest in... Published 17 Jan, 2024 10:47am
Commodities palm oil tracks rival oils lower, weaker ringgit lends support KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian palm oil futures fell on Wednesday, weighed by weakness in rival vegetable oils in the... Published 17 Jan, 2024 10:44am
Asia China’s population drops for 2nd year, with record low birth rate HONG KONG: China’s population fell for a second consecutive year in 2023, as a record low birth rate and a wave of... Published 17 Jan, 2024 10:41am
South Asia Cold wave in north India disrupts flights for fourth day MUMBAI: A cold wave bringing dense fog this week to parts of northern India disrupted flights for a fourth straight... Published 17 Jan, 2024 10:31am
Bullion Rate Gold flat after price slump as Fed comment pushes back rate-cut hopes Gold was flat on Wednesday after a sharp drop in prices in the previous session, as a US Federal Reserve official’s... Published 17 Jan, 2024 10:14am
Stocks Australian shares dip as gold, energy stocks drag Australian shares inched down on Wednesday tracking a sell-off on Wall Street overnight, with gold stocks falling... Published 17 Jan, 2024 10:10am
Stocks Japan’s Nikkei hits 34-year peak as weaker yen boosts earnings outlook TOKYO: Japan’s Nikkei share average touched a 34-year peak on Wednesday, as a weaker yen buoyed the outlook for... Published 17 Jan, 2024 10:08am
Stocks India’s Nifty 50 set to open lower tracking Asian peers BENGALURU: India’s benchmark Nifty 50 index is set to open lower on Wednesday, tracking Asian peers after China’s... Published 17 Jan, 2024 09:59am
Europe 17 injured in Russian strikes on Ukraine’s Kharkiv KYIV: At least 17 people were wounded in Russian strikes on the Ukrainian city of Kharkiv on Tuesday evening, the... Published 17 Jan, 2024 09:52am
Sports Allen’s record 137 gives New Zealand series-clinching Pakistan T20 win WELLINGTON: New Zealand sealed their T20 series against Pakistan with two games to spare Wednesday on the back of a... Published 17 Jan, 2024 09:50am
Two NTDC projects: Ali-led body to find a way out of ‘questionable’ contracts ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Power has constituted a three-member committee headed by caretaker... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 09:49am
Extension sought in $425m World Bank-financed NTM-I project ISLAMABAD: The Government of Pakistan has sought extensions in the completion of the National Transmission... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 09:49am
Forex Dollar at one-month high as rate cut expectations ease on Fed speak TOKYO: The dollar index hovered at a one-month high against a basket of currencies on Wednesday as remarks by... Published 17 Jan, 2024 09:46am
Business & Finance Petrol, HSD: PSO allowed exchange rate adjustments ISLAMABAD: The interim government has allowed Pakistan State Oil (PSO) per litre exchange rate adjustment of Rs 2.58... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 09:45am
Visa made mandatory for Afghan drivers ISLAMABAD: The government made visa mandatory for drivers of commercial vehicles at Torkham border. Visa for entry... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 09:40am
BR Research LSM and wearing apparel: Doing it wrong again Industrial activity continues to be suppressed, as the Large Scale Manufacturing index for Jul-Nov FY24 returned... Published 17 Jan, 2024 09:34am
BR Research Autos: Much ‘adieu’ in 2024 Three percent. That’s the share of imports occupied by automobile CKDs in the 3QFY22—the quarter that marked the... Published 17 Jan, 2024 09:32am
BR Research Buxly Paints Limited Buxly Paints Limited (PSX: BUXL) was incorporated in Pakistan as private limited company in 1954 and then was... Published 17 Jan, 2024 09:29am
Procurement of net-metering-based solar PV systems: PPIB set to approve model bidding documents for PSEs ISLAMABAD: The Board of Private Power and Infrastructure Board (PPIB) is all set to approve model bidding... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 08:55am
Imran hints at ‘Plan C’ ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former prime minister Imran Khan on Tuesday said that “we have... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 08:44am
PMUs at Discos: Army officers’ posting not approved by Cabinet ISLAMABAD: The Federal Cabinet has reportedly not approved physical presence of Pak Army officers in Performance... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 08:43am
‘Further sales tax or extra tax’: FBR fails to deal with legal issue of chargeability ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has failed to effectively deal with the legal issue of chargeability... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 08:39am
Pakistan Huge deployment of security forces in KP envisaged ISLAMABAD: Pakistan will saturate its northwestern region with thousands of security forces before next month’s... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 08:38am
Business & Finance Margin on PIBs declines KARACHI: Margin on long-term government investment bonds fell up to 50 basis points (bps) in the auction held on... Updated 17 Jan, 2024 08:38am
BR’s refresher: your morning briefing for the day Important updates from January 16, 2024 Published 17 Jan, 2024 08:36am
Opinion How online business ventures can help deal with unemployment challenge Business closures, downsizing, joblessness, recession, industry decline, market saturation, shutdowns, ... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Opinion AI-powered learning The time has come to revolutionize our education system by replacing traditional school, college, university and... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan 15 cases of JN.1 Covid variant detected ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for National Health Services and Regulations, Tuesday, confirmed Pakistan has detected... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan The Weather KARACHI: The weather report on Tuesday (January 16, 2024) and the forecast for Wednesday (January 17, 2024)... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Supplements Make in Pakistan: The government's role is pivotal in creating an enabling environment As Pakistan navigates the economic landscape, the emphasis on self-reliance through the promotion of indigenous... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Supplements Advocating for Equal Opportunities: Establish Fair Trade Policies Among All Export Sectors and Not Just Five It is a fact little known to the masses that when Pakistan got independence in August 1947, we inherited a marginal ... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Supplements ‘Make in Pakistan’:Need to turn it into reality Our generation grew up listening to fancy slogans of promoting ‘Make in Pakistan’, achieving Self-reliance and... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Supplements Hamdard Pakistan: Aspiring to Guide the Nation Towards Self-Reliance Self-reliance and supporting local manufacturing are pivotal for fostering economic stability and sustainability. By... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan DIGP Traffic assures HCSTSI: Solving traffic problems top priority HYDERABAD: Deputy Inspector General of Police, Traffic Hyderabad Range Fida Hussain Mastoi visited the Hyderabad... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Sherpao asks govt to reopen Torkham border PESHAWAR: Qaumi Watan Party (QWP) Chairman Aftab Ahmad Khan Sherpao on Tuesday said that the closure of the Torkham... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan ‘PML-N should present its manifesto first’ ISLAMABAD: Deputy Information Secretary Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Palwasha Khan claimed that Pakistan Muslim... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan PFA shuts down 371 food points LAHORE: The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) during last one month inspected more than 92,600 food business operators... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Pakistani national appointed as member of Albania’s NEC ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister of Albania Edi Rama has appointed a Pakistani national, Tahseen Sayed, as a member of the... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Navy establishes free medical camp in coastal areas KARACHI: In continuation to efforts for uplifting to provide standard health facilities along the coastal areas of... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan KP imposes ban on e-cigarettes to minors, in vicinity of educational institutions PESHAWAR: In a landmark development, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has imposed section 144 to ban storage, sale and use of... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan KE maintenance work at Civic Center Grid today KARACHI: KE will be undertaking a critical maintenance activity at Civic Center Grid on Wednesday (today), January... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Hearing on contempt of ECP against IK adjourned till 24th ISLAMABAD: A four-member panel headed by Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP)’s Member Sindh on Tuesday adjourned... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
World Polish truckers reach deal with govt WARSAW: Polish truckers who have blockaded some border crossings with Ukraine since November have reached an... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Asia China warns Philippines not to ‘play with fire’ over president’s Taiwan remarks BEIJING/MANILA: China summoned the ambassador from the Philippines on Tuesday and warned the country “not to play... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Europe Domestic violence victims qualify for refugee status: EU court SOFIA: Women victims of domestic violence in their country of origin qualify for refugee status or a similar... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Europe Fujitsu says morally obliged to compensate wronged UK postmasters LONDON: Fujitsu has a moral obligation to help compensate UK postmasters wrongly convicted because of a bug in its... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
World Donald Trump in court for second defamation trial after Iowa victory NEW YORK: Fresh off a campaign victory in Iowa, Donald Trump sat in a New York courtroom on Tuesday to defend ... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
World Israel pounds Gaza as fears grow of widening war GAZA STRIP, (Palestinian Territories): Israel pummelled southern Gaza on Tuesday, killing dozens, even as ... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Pakistan condemns airspace violation by Iran ISLAMABAD: Iran claimed to have launched attacks on Pakistan-based “headquarters” of Jaish al-Adl, a group... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Call for combating AIDS, TB, and Malaria ISLAMABAD: The federal secretary Ministry of National Health Services and Regulations has emphasised the need for a... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Bail applications of IK and Bushra Bibi adjourned till 30th ISLAMABAD: A local court, on Tuesday, adjourned the hearing of bail applications of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Auto Show held by AIRBFT at Isra University HYDERABAD: On the direction of the honorable Vice Chancellor, Dr. Ahmed Waliullah Kazi, the Office of Research,... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Counterfeits cost Europe 16bn euros each year: agency PARIS: Counterfeit products — mainly clothes — cost the European economy 16 billion euros a year and result in... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan CM expresses displeasure at deteriorating law & order in Sindh KARACHI: Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Former Justice Maqbool Baqar has said that he is distressed by the recent... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Govt’s non-developmental/recurring expenditure: Senate body may take up issue of ways, means ISLAMABAD: A meeting of the Senate Standing Committee on Finance is likely to take up the issue of ways and means to... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan KMC lands: land dept asked to remove encroachments KARACHI: Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab Tuesday said the Land Department should take immediate action to get rid of... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan IIAP sees record passenger flow in 2023 KARACHI: Islamabad International Airport (IIAP) has recorded its highest passenger flow ever in 2023, with a ... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Jilani to attend NAM Summit in Kampala today ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani left for Kampala, Uganda on a week-long official visit from... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Babar Ayaz passes away ISLAMABAD: Senior journalist and author Babar Ayaz, breathed his last on Tuesday after a prolonged battle with... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan ‘Millat Tractors Vendors Conference 2024’ held LAHORE: Celebrating their engineering success, Millat Tractor Limited hosted a grand “Vendors Conference 2024” ... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Disqualification in Toshakhana reference: PTI urges SC to fix IK’s plea for early hearing ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Tuesday prayed before the Supreme Court to fix former prime ... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan President for sharing latest scientific breakthroughs ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi said that there is a need to share the latest scientific breakthroughs, ... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Senate resolutions seeking postponement of polls unconstitutional: Siraj LAHORE: Chief of Jamaat-e-Islami Sirajul Haq has denounced the Senate resolutions calling for a delay in elections,... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Up-gradation of hospitals: CM reviews progress LAHORE: The caretaker Chief Minister Punjab Mohsin Naqvi inspected the up-gradation work of Ganga Ram Hospital and... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Maryam vows to restart journey of development LAHORE: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Senior Vice President and Chief Organiser Maryam Nawaz has expressed... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan 149 fertilizer dealers arrested over overcharging LAHORE: Chief Secretary Punjab Zahid Akhtar Zaman has directed that the sale of fertilizer should be continued under... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Punjab Agri Strategic Plan (2024-34): recommendations submitted LAHORE: Punjab Agriculture Strategic Plan (2024-34) recommendations were submitted in the third meeting of the plan... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan CCPO Lahore reviews performance of Iqbal Town, Saddar Divisions & Gulberg Circle LAHORE: Capital City Police Officer Lahore Bilal Siddique Kamyana chaired a review meeting at his office to assess... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Sports Nida Dar among 13 who took part in female umpires’ induction course LAHORE: Pakistan women’s team captain Nida Dar and former international women cricketer Sukhan Faiz were among the... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan Tough contest expected on all 5 NA constituencies of Peshawar PESHAWAR: A tough contest is expected on all five National Assembly and 12 provincial assembly constituencies of the... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan JI demands ECP cancel electoral symbols of PML-N and PPP KARACHI: Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) on Tuesday demanded of the Election Commission to cancel the electoral symbols of the... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan PTI rejects contents of SCBA-PBC presser ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Tuesday rejected the contents of the “political presser” by the... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan PTI’s Gohar puts his weight behind Marwat ISLAMABAD: The former chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Barrister Gohar Ali Khan on Tuesday threw his ... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan US envoy, Air Chief for fortifying ties ISLAMABAD: US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome called on Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, Chief of the... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan ‘May 9’ case: Sh Rashid arrested as ATC dismisses his bail plea RAWALPINDI: Police on Tuesday arrested Awami Muslim League (AML) chief Sheikh Rashid Ahmed after Anti-Terrorism ... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan SECP, UN Women Pakistan to host symposium on 23rd ISLAMABAD: The Securities and Exchange of Pakistan (SECP), in partnership with UN Women Pakistan, all set to host a... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan LDA demolishes 8 illegal constructions LAHORE: In an operation against illegal constructions, the Lahore Development Authority (LDA) demolished eight... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan PIDE moot: Speakers for granting financial, planning autonomy to LBs ISLAMABAD: Speakers at a seminar while calling for granting financial and planning autonomy to locally-elected ... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Rates BRIndex100 and BR Sectoral Indices KARACHI: BRIndex100 and BR Sectoral Indices on Tuesday (January 16, 2024). ==================================== BR... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Rates Shipping Intelligence KARACHI: Karachi Shipping Intelligence report incorporating changes till 7 am on Tuesday (January 16, 2024).... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Rates Kibor interbank offered rates KARACHI: Kibor interbank offered rates on Tuesday (January 16, 2024). ========================== KIBOR... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Rates LME official prices LONDON: The following were Monday official prices. ========================================= ALUMINIUM... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Rates Activities of Karachi Port and Port Qasim KARACHI: The Karachi Port Trust handled 98,533 tonnes of cargo comprising 52,339 tonnes of import cargo and 46,194... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Stocks IT drags Indian shares after recent rally BENGALURU: Indian shares fell on Tuesday, dragged by a pullback in high-weightage IT stocks after a recent rally,... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Stocks China stocks rise as investors await GDP data SHANGHAI: China stocks ended higher on Tuesday as investors awaited annual economic growth data due out on Wednesday... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Stocks European shares slip as interest rate-cut enthusiasm abates PARIS: European shares fell on Tuesday as investors reined in expectations of early interest rate cuts following... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Stocks Wall Street slips as big banks slide NEW YORK: Wall Street’s main indexes fell on Tuesday after mixed earnings from Morgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Letters Federal safety valve malfunctioning The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) deserves praise for declining to act on a yet another Senate of Pakistan... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Opinion PARTLY FACETIOUS: The iconic ‘bat’ symbol “So a review petition in the Supreme Court on taking away the bat symbol.” “Yep, and that reminds me what is... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan PPP chairman steps up his attack on beleaguered PTI RATODERO: Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Tuesday said “we didn’t think [about the consequences] when we were having a... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan PBC, SCBA hit out at PTI for targeting judges ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Bar Council (PBC) and Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) vowed not to tolerate uncalled-for... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan IK, wife indicted in Iddat case ISLAMABAD: A local court, on Tuesday, indicted Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan COAS heaps praise on POF Wah RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir visited Pakistan Ordnance Factories (POF) Wah on... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Rates Stocks end deep in the red KARACHI: Pakistan Stock Exchange on Tuesday witnessed a bearish trend and closed in deep red due to heavy selling on... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Paper Lahore Paper Market Rates LAHORE: Paper market rates in rupees on Tuesday (January 16, 2024). ======================================= Offset... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Grains Lahore Grain Market Rates LAHORE: Grain and other commodity rates in rupees on Akbari Mandi on Tuesday (January 16, 2024)... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Forex Kerb buying and selling rate of US dollar KARACHI: Dollar buying and selling rate in the kerb market in rupees on Tuesday (January 16, 2024).... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Forex Dollar's rate in interbank market KARACHI: Interbank closing rates for dollar on Tuesday (January 16, 2024). ======================== Open Bid... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Forex Open market rates of foreign currencies KARACHI: Open market rates of foreign currencies supplied by the Exchange Companies Association of Pakistan on... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Forex Currency values in terms of Special Drawing Rights WASHINGTON: The International Monetary Fund (IMF), treasuries' department's currency values in terms of Special... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Cotton & Textile Faisalabad Yarn and Fiber Prices FAISALABAD: Yarn Market Rates on Tuesday (January 16, 2024) =========================== 6/S-7/S (COTTON)... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Commodities PMEX daily trading report KARACHI: On Monday at PMEX, the traded value of Metals, Energy, COTS/FX and indices was recorded at PKR 9.880 ... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Commodities Soybeans, corn steady after falling to multi-year lows on ample supply CANBERRA: Chicago corn and soybean futures regained some ground on Tuesday after data showing strong US production... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Cotton & Textile Cotton market: Trading volume remains low LAHORE: The local cotton market on Tuesday remained steady and the trading volume remained low. Cotton Analyst... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Cotton & Textile Cotton spot rates KARACHI: official KCA spot rates for local dealings in Pakistan rupees on Tuesday, (January 16, 2024)... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Commodities Copper prices decline LONDON: Copper prices dipped on Tuesday, pressured by a buoyant dollar, but losses were curbed by fresh hopes for... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Commodities Gold dips on strong US dollar BENGALURU: Gold prices slid on Tuesday, pressured by a firm US dollar and Treasury yields, while investors eyed... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Commodities Dalian iron ore easier HANOI: Iron ore futures prices in China posted its eighth consecutive decline on Tuesday as China’s decision to... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Commodities Malaysian palm oil futures gain KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian palm oil futures rose on Tuesday, driven by top importer India’s move to allow edible oil... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Commodities Japan rubber futures snap 3-day rally on profit-taking SINGAPORE: Japanese rubber futures ended lower on Tuesday, snapping a three-day rally and sliding from a 7-week high... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Energy Oil falls as investors focus on Middle East, interest rates HOUSTON: Oil prices edged lower on Tuesday as investors weighed the impact of tensions in the Middle East against a... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Commodities Gold prices slip KARACHI: Gold prices on Tuesday saw a little decline on the local market but silver was steady, traders said. Gold... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Energy LNG shipments ‘will be affected’ by Red Sea attacks: Qatar PM DAVOS (Switzerland): Liquefied natural gas shipments will be affected by tensions in the Red Sea, Qatar’s prime... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Commodities Prices: provinces, ICT asked to curtail wholesale-retail gap ISLAMABAD: The Caretaker Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Muhammad Sami Saeed has ... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Energy FESCO staff directed to remain alert at installations FAISALABAD: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) Engr Muhammad Amir has issued... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Money & Banking Meezan Bank, IBA join hands to launch MeezanJustuju KARACHI: Meezan Bank has launched MeezanJustuju - a fully funded talent development programme for fresh graduates in... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Business & Finance EU approves new rules to shake up market price data for investors LONDON: European Union lawmakers gave the nod on Tuesday to giving investors better access to stock and bond prices... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Money & Banking Most Asian FX fall on rates outlook volatility BENGALURU: Most Asian currencies and stocks fell on Tuesday, with the South Korean won leading the losses, pressured... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Money & Banking Dollar hits one-month high NEW YORK: The dollar jumped on Tuesday as investors dialed back their expectations for a March rate cut from the US... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Money & Banking UBL Ameen partners with philanthropic organisations KARACHI: UBL Ameen has signed Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) with Indus Hospital and Health Network (IHHN),... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Editorials Ensuring human rights for all EDITORIAL: The abject state of human rights the world over during the year that has just passed was marked by... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Editorials LSM growth EDITORIAL: The latest Large-Scale Manufacturing (LSM) growth figures released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Business & Finance Sri Lanka’s Colombo port sees jump in traffic amid Red Sea tensions COLOMBO: Sri Lanka’s Colombo port has seen a big jump in container volumes in recent weeks as vessels steering... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Business & Finance FPCCI briefing on pending cases: NAB chief agrees to facilitate business community KARACHI: Atif Ikram Sheikh, President FPCCI, has apprised a high-profile, detailed and candid meeting with the... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Business & Finance SECP notifies draft amendments in NBFCs rules ISLAMABAD: The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has revised shareholding requirements for... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Business & Finance TIOs: PFVA holds orientation session to enhance exports KARACHI: The All Pakistan Fruit & Vegetable Exporters, Importers, and Merchants Association (PFVA) conducted a... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Business & Finance A separate SME policy for women entrepreneurs advocated LAHORE: The participants of the First Private Sector Consultative Session organised by the Small and Medium... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Industry PATDC, SCE conclude on a positive note in Cairo ISLAMABAD: The Fourth Pakistan-Africa Trade Development Conference (PATDC) and Single Country Exhibition (SCE)... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Industry ‘KCCI to take up ACTI issues with relevant departments urgently’ KARACHI: President Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) Iftikhar Ahmed Sheikh, after listening to... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Industry Govt’s decision to create industrial zone welcomed KARACHI: President of United Business Group (UBG) and former president of FPCCI, Zubair Tufail welcomed the federal... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Engro Coal shares acquisition: BoD authorises Hubco to execute definitive pacts KARACHI: The Board of Directors of Hub Power Company (Hubco) has authorized the company to enter into negotiations... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Pakistan JIT constituted to investigate anti-judiciary drive ISLAMABAD: The federal government on Tuesday constituted a joint investigation team (JIT) to probe the malicious... Published 17 Jan, 2024 06:02am
Europe German government considers delivery of tank ammunition to Israel FRANKFURT: Germany’s government is considering the delivery of tank ammunition to Israel to support it in its fight... Published 17 Jan, 2024 12:02am
Turkey, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia defence pact technically same as NATO's Article 5, Turkish minister says
Turkey, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia defence pact technically same as NATO's Article 5, Turkish minister says
Turkey, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia defence pact technically same as NATO's Article 5, Turkish minister says
