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Showing posts from March, 2025

Why Can’t Pakistan Bring Dr. Aafia Siddiqui Back?

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  Dr . Aafia Siddiqui’s case has been a topic of discussion in Pakistan for many years. She is a Pakistani neuroscientist who was convicted in the United States on charges of attempting to kill American officials. Many people in Pakistan believe that she was unfairly treated and demand her return. However, despite multiple efforts by Pakistani governments over the years, she remains in a U.S. prison. One major reason Pakistan cannot bring her back is the legal system of the United States. Dr. Aafia was sentenced to 86 years in prison, and U.S. law does not allow easy transfer or release of prisoners with such serious convictions. Even though Pakistan has made several diplomatic efforts, the U.S. has strict policies regarding convicted criminals. Another challenge is the political relationship between Pakistan and the United States. Although both countries have diplomatic ties, the U.S. government has not shown any willingness to negotiate her release. Pakistan has tried to disc...

Unbeaten India vs. Determined New Zealand: Who Will Lift the ICC Champions Trophy?

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  The cricketing world is abuzz as India and New Zealand prepare to face off in the ICC Champions Trophy final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on March 9, 2025. India enters the match as favorites, having remained undefeated throughout the tournament, including a notable victory against New Zealand in the group stage. India's journey to the final has been marked by consistent performances. Their batting lineup, led by captain Rohit Sharma and the in-form Virat Kohli, has been formidable. Additionally, spinner Kuldeep Yadav has played a crucial role, particularly on the Dubai pitches, making him a key player in the upcoming final. New Zealand, often considered underdogs, have showcased resilience and skill. Their journey to the final was cemented by a convincing 50-run victory over South Africa in the semi-finals, highlighted by centuries from Kane Williamson and Rachin Ravindra. Williamson's adaptability and technical prowess will be vital against India's spi...

Pakistan and UAE Strengthen Bilateral Ties

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  Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Ishaq Dar, and UAE’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation between the two countries. The discussion took place during a phone call, where both leaders expressed their dedication to enhancing partnerships across various sectors. This reflects the strong and long-standing relationship between Pakistan and the UAE. During the call, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan conveyed heartfelt Ramadan greetings to Ishaq Dar, as well as to the leadership and people of Pakistan. Ramadan is a time of unity and goodwill, and such exchanges highlight the close bond between the two nations. In response, Deputy PM Dar also extended warm wishes to the UAE leadership and its citizens, emphasizing Pakistan’s solidarity with the country. Apart from exchanging greetings, the two leaders discussed the recent visit of the UAE Crown Pri...

Pakistan and UAE Reaffirm Commitment to Strengthen Bilateral Ties

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  Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have recently reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing their longstanding bilateral relations across various sectors. This commitment was highlighted during a phone conversation between Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, and UAE's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, on March 5, 2025. Both leaders expressed mutual goodwill and discussed avenues to bolster cooperation between the two nations. The UAE has consistently played a pivotal role in supporting Pakistan's economic stability. A notable example is the UAE's financial deposit of $2 billion with the State Bank of Pakistan, underscoring its commitment to aiding Pakistan in overcoming macro-economic challenges. High-level engagements have been instrumental in strengthening the ties between the two countries. In January 2025, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan visited...

Pakistan's Optimism as IMF Reviews $7 Billion Loan Program

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  Pakistan is currently undergoing its first review of a $7 billion loan program with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), a process that began in early March 2025. This loan, secured in September 2024, aims to stabilize the country's economy and support its recovery efforts. The IMF mission's visit to Islamabad involves evaluating Pakistan's adherence to the agreed-upon fiscal reforms and policies. These discussions are crucial for the disbursement of subsequent loan installments and for ensuring that Pakistan remains on track with its economic stabilization goals. Recent economic indicators in Pakistan have shown positive trends. In February 2025, the annual inflation rate dropped to 1.5%, the lowest in nearly a decade, down from 23.1% in February 2024. This significant decline is attributed to economic stabilization efforts supported by the IMF loan. The Pakistani government remains optimistic about the outcome of the IMF review. A senior official involved in the ...

Pakistan's Recent Fuel Price Reductions: A Relief for Consumers

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  In recent months, Pakistan has witnessed a series of fuel price reductions , offering much-needed relief to consumers amid economic challenges. These adjustments, influenced by global oil market trends and domestic economic policies, have led to consecutive decreases in the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD). In August 2024, the government announced a significant reduction in fuel prices. Petrol prices were slashed by Rs8.47 per litre, bringing the cost down from Rs269.43 to Rs260.96 per litre. Similarly, the price of HSD was reduced by Rs6.70 per litre, adjusting from Rs272.77 to Rs266.07 per litre. This move aimed to provide substantial relief to the public, especially during the nation's 77th Independence Day celebrations. The trend of decreasing fuel prices continued into September 2024. On September 15, the government further reduced petrol prices by Rs10 per litre, lowering the rate from Rs259.10 to Rs249.10 per litre. HSD saw an even more significant cut of Rs...