Pakistan steps up backchannel diplomacy to salvage talks

Pakistan intensified its behind-the-scenes and overt diplomatic efforts on Wednesday to revive the stalled the US-Iran peace process, as Tehran’s envoy in Islamabad held a key meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif against the backdrop of growing uncertainty over the next round of negotiations. According to a brief statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, […]

‘Iqbal’s vision still resonates’

Speakers at a seminar on Tuesday stressed the enduring relevance of Allama Muhammad Iqbal’s philosophy and poetry, calling for greater efforts to connect the younger generation with his ideas through education and practical engagement. The seminar, titled “Iqbal and the Contemporary Era,” was organised by the Karachi Press Club in collaboration with Karwan-e-Iqbal on the […]

Sindh, Centre agree on KCR revival, new train routes

The long-discussed revival of Karachi’s rail-based transport system gained fresh momentum on Tuesday as Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and Federal Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi agreed on a wide-ranging plan covering the Karachi Circular Railway (KCR), suburban train services, new intercity routes and urban greening initiatives along railway corridors. The meeting at the Chief Minister’s […]

Govt to introduce single-point checking system at airports to cut delays

The government on Wednesday decided to introduce a single-point checking system at airports to enhance passenger facilitation and reduce delays. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi chaired a high-level meeting in Islamabad aimed at developing a joint strategy between the ministries of defence and interior to improve airport operations and public convenience. The meeting reviewed joint measures […]

In Gaza, first local vote in years offers gauge of Hamas popularity

Palestinians in one of the only Gaza cities not overrun by Israeli ground forces during the military conflict will ​vote this weekend in municipal elections that will feature some pro-Hamas candidates, offering a rare barometer of the group’s popularity. The vote in Deir al-Balah is ‌part of Palestinian Authority (PA) municipal elections that Palestinians have […]