Pakistan Viral Series

In a continued effort to support Palestinians in Gaza, the United Arab Emirates has launched its fifth aid ship under the ongoing humanitarian mission, Operation Chivalrous Knight 3. This vessel, loaded with 5,112 tonnes of essential humanitarian supplies, departed from Dubai’s Hamriyah Port and is en route to the Egyptian city of Al Arish. From there, aid will be coordinated for distribution to the people of Gaza. The UAE’s recent initiative reflects its longstanding commitment to providing relief in the face of adversity, even when logistical and political obstacles pose challenges. Operation Chivalrous Knight 3 was initiated with the aim of delivering critical resources to Palestinian civilians who have endured devastating conditions due to the conflict. The latest shipment includes food supplies, medical assistance, and other essentials vital for survival and well-being. The UAE’s sustained efforts represent more than material aid; they reflect a deep-rooted humanitarian ethos that...

  As Sudan grapples with a severe humanitarian crisis marked by conflict and displacement, the world has mobilized to provide critical support. The crisis has deeply impacted the Sudanese population, who are facing escalating hardships in accessing food, medical care, and safe shelter. In response, nations across the globe have come forward with aid initiatives to alleviate suffering and contribute to Sudan’s path toward stability. The Crisis at a Glance The situation in Sudan has deteriorated rapidly, with millions affected by violent conflict, forced displacement, and economic instability. As essential services collapse under the strain, international organizations estimate that nearly half of the country’s population is in urgent need of humanitarian assistance. The crisis has also led to a significant refugee outflow, affecting neighboring countries and raising concerns over regional stability. Global Response to Sudan’s Humanitarian Needs In the face of such challenges, a dive...

In a strategic move to enhance Pakistan’s ties with Saudi Arabia, former Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif embarked on a two-day visit to the Kingdom. The visit is part of an ongoing effort to solidify diplomatic relations, foster economic cooperation, and promote collaboration on key regional and international issues. Objectives of the Visit Shehbaz Sharif’s agenda emphasizes mutual goals, including economic development, investment opportunities, and the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Given Saudi Arabia’s role as a major supporter of Pakistan and one of its top sources of foreign remittances, the visit holds significant economic and social implications for both nations. In recent years, both countries have seen a steady expansion in areas of cooperation, from energy to defense. With Saudi Arabia aiming to diversify its economy as part of Vision 2030, Pakistan is also exploring new avenues for Saudi investment, particularly in areas like agriculture, informati...

  Nawaz Sharif, Pakistan’s former Prime Minister and leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), recently departed for London, marking a significant political development. His journey back to the UK comes after an extended stay in Pakistan, where he had returned in October 2023, ending years of self-imposed exile. The departure of Sharif has reignited debates on political accountability, the state of Pakistan’s democracy, and his potential influence on the country’s political landscape from abroad. Background and Context Nawaz Sharif, who served as Pakistan’s Prime Minister three times, left for London in 2019 under medical pretense. His departure followed a controversial conviction on corruption charges stemming from the Panama Papers investigation. His return to Pakistan in October 2023 was a carefully orchestrated political move, suggesting a potential comeback ahead of the general elections. Sharif’s arrival was met with substantial support from party members and suppor...

  The UAE’s recent ranking as the second most economically stable country globally, with a GDP growth rate of around 3.9% in 2023, holds promising benefits for Pakistan. With robust sectors in finance, tourism, and real estate, the UAE’s stability continues to draw global investors, indirectly benefiting Pakistani businesses through increased bilateral investments. In fact, UAE investments in Pakistan already total approximately $3 billion, focusing on sectors like energy, telecommunications, and real estate. This economic stability is especially significant for over 1.6 million Pakistani workers in the UAE. In 2023, remittances from the UAE to Pakistan reached $5.9 billion, crucial for Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves. A steady UAE economy means job security for these expatriates, positively impacting Pakistan’s economy. Trade between Pakistan and the UAE also flourishes, with the bilateral trade volume crossing $10 billion in 2023. The UAE, as a re-export hub, facilitates Pak...

  In his farewell address, Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa reflected on his tenure, reinforcing the essential role of an independent judiciary in safeguarding democracy, justice, and the Constitution of Pakistan. Known for his principled stance on judicial independence, Justice Isa called on judges to maintain impartiality, fairness, and transparency, stressing that these values are fundamental for sustaining public confidence in the legal system. His address underscored the judiciary’s responsibility to protect citizens’ rights, regardless of their social or economic status, echoing his long-standing commitment to justice. Justice Isa’s tenure included key judgments on human rights, social justice, and executive accountability, often at significant personal cost. In his speech, he highlighted the importance of judicial accountability and transparency, noting that these principles serve as the foundation for a just and fair society. He also touched on the challenges he faced, alluding ...

  On World Polio Day, the global community comes together to reflect on the progress made and the challenges that remain in the fight against polio. While much of the world has eradicated this crippling disease, Pakistan remains one of the few countries where polio is still endemic. The country’s battle against the virus has been long and fraught with challenges, but thanks to international support—most notably from the UAE—Pakistan is making significant strides toward a polio-free future. Pakistan’s Struggle with Polio Polio, a highly infectious disease that primarily affects children under the age of five, can lead to irreversible paralysis and even death. In Pakistan, efforts to eliminate the virus have been hindered by a range of factors, including geographic isolation in rural areas, armed conflict, and deeply ingrained misinformation about vaccines. For years, polio workers have risked their lives to deliver vaccines in the most challenging regions, facing resistance from com...

The 26th Constitutional Amendment, aimed at enhancing representation and power-sharing in Pakistan, has stirred a mix of reactions from political parties and stakeholders. The amendment, which proposes increasing the number of seats for tribal areas in the national and provincial assemblies, is seen as a step towards integrating the marginalized regions post-FATA merger. However, opinions are divided on its broader implications. The ruling government lauds the amendment as a historic milestone for Pakistan’s democracy. They argue that it rectifies decades of inequality faced by the tribal areas, ensuring their voices are adequately heard. Proponents within the government claim that this will foster greater national unity and facilitate the long-term socio-economic development of these regions. The Prime Minister’s office has described the move as a part of the government’s commitment to empowering neglected populations. However, opposition parties have been more critical. While some su...

 The 26th Constitutional Amendment in Pakistan, passed in 2024, represents significant changes to the judicial system. The amendment introduces reforms aimed at altering the structure and functioning of the judiciary, particularly targeting the power dynamics between the Supreme Court and a newly proposed Federal Constitutional Court. One of the key provisions is the establishment of the Federal Constitutional Court, which will handle constitutional matters, taking over some of the powers currently vested in the Supreme Court. This includes hearing cases related to disputes between the federation and the provinces, as well as taking over the Supreme Court’s suo motu powers. The court will be composed of judges with equal representation from all provinces, and its members will have a set retirement age of 68 years. Additionally, the amendment alters the process of appointing judges to both the Constitutional Court and the Supreme Court. A new commission, headed by the Chief Justice ...

    The 12th Pakistan-UAE Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) meeting, held after an 11-year gap, focuses on deepening bilateral ties between the two nations. Key discussions include enhancing economic collaboration across sectors like trade, investment, energy, and infrastructure. Both sides are keen to build upon recent agreements and explore new opportunities in areas such as agriculture, technology, and finance. The meeting is expected to finalize several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at fostering business-to-business connections, with the UAE showing strong interest in expanding cooperation, particularly in the fields of port operations and energy. Pakistan is also looking to present concrete projects to attract UAE investment, highlighting shared goals of economic growth and development  .   .

  The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has once again played a significant role in mediating a prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine, highlighting its growing influence as a neutral mediator in global conflicts. In the latest swap, 95 prisoners from each side were exchanged, marking the eighth such exchange facilitated by the UAE since the conflict began. This humanitarian intervention aligns with the UAE’s broader diplomatic approach, which aims to ease tensions and foster dialogue between warring nations. The UAE’s ongoing mediations are not just isolated events but part of a larger, sustainable effort to contribute to global peace and security. By acting as a neutral party, the UAE helps create conditions conducive to reducing hostilities and moving toward potential long-term settlements. Its involvement in this exchange builds upon previous successful negotiations, such as a recent swap involving 206 prisoners  . These mediations demonstrate the UAE’s commitment to humani...

  Pakistan’s 26th Constitutional Amendment is making significant progress, with the draft set to be presented in the National Assembly on October 18, 2024. This amendment proposes several key changes to the Constitution, focusing on judicial reforms, environmental rights, and representation in the legislature. One major aspect is the creation of a Federal Constitutional Court, which will take over certain jurisdictional matters from the Supreme Court, becoming the primary body for interpreting constitutional issues. This new court will have equal representation from all provinces, and its rulings will be final. Other changes include allowing the votes of party defectors to be counted, which modifies the current restrictions on party loyalty during key parliamentary decisions. Another notable proposal is an increase in the number of seats in the Balochistan Assembly, from 65 to 81, aimed at enhancing the province’s representation. There are also provisions to ensure environmental pr...

  Today, Islamabad played host to the latest Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, a gathering of Eurasian leaders touted as a platform for promoting regional cooperation in trade, security, and connectivity. As leaders convened at the Jinnah Convention Centre, one couldn’t help but question: Is the SCO evolving into a meaningful alliance, or is it just a diplomatic exercise that lacks real substance? The official agenda focused on economic collaboration and regional connectivity. However, with key players like Iran’s first vice president pulling out due to regional tensions and India represented by its external affairs minister, it’s clear that divisions remain beneath the surface. While the optics of unity were present, deeper cooperation seems more elusive, especially when key issues, such as border disputes between member states, remain unaddressed. It’s easy to see the SCO as a platform with potential, but its recent meetings, including today’s, feel more like symbol...

  Indian Foreign Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar has arrived in Islamabad to attend the 23rd Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, marking the first visit by an Indian External Affairs Minister to Pakistan in nearly a decade. His presence at this summit is being closely watched by regional and global observers, given the significance of the event and the strained relations between India and Pakistan. The SCO summit, held on October 15 and 16, brings together key leaders from member countries including Russia, China, India, Pakistan, and several Central Asian nations. Jaishankar’s visit is primarily focused on multilateral discussions under the SCO framework, which aims to enhance cooperation in areas such as regional security, economic partnerships, and counterterrorism. However, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has stated that no formal bilateral talks are planned between Jaishankar and Pakistani officials during this visit  . The significance of Jaishankar’s atte...

In a powerful display of unity and compassion, the iconic Burj Khalifa in Dubai illuminated with the message, “The UAE stands with Lebanon.” The heartfelt gesture was shared by the BRICS platform, amplifying the UAE’s continued commitment to international solidarity, especially in times of crisis. Lebanon has faced significant economic and political challenges in recent years, with the country struggling to recover from devastating crises. The UAE’s timely aid to Lebanon is seen as more than just financial assistance—it is a statement of support for a nation in distress. By lighting up the tallest building in the world with this message, the UAE sends a signal that it stands firmly with Lebanon and its people during these difficult times. The global community has taken note of this gesture, with reactions pouring in from all corners of the world. The UAE’s consistent role in global humanitarian efforts, particularly in the Middle East, showcases its leadership in fostering peace, stabi...

Abu Dhabi has cemented its position as the wealthiest city in the world in terms of capital managed by sovereign wealth funds, according to the latest report by Global SWF. As of October 1, 2024, sovereign wealth funds worldwide managed assets valued at approximately $12.5 trillion. Abu Dhabi’s wealth, driven by its vast oil reserves and strategic investment policies, has placed it at the forefront of global finance. Sovereign wealth funds (SWFs) are state-owned investment entities that manage national savings for long-term investment, often derived from surplus revenues like those from oil and gas. These funds invest in a wide range of assets, including stocks, bonds, real estate, and infrastructure, playing a critical role in both national and global economies. The Global SWF report highlights that the top six cities, including Abu Dhabi, account for two-thirds of the total sovereign wealth under management globally. Abu Dhabi’s SWFs, led by institutions such as the Abu Dhabi Investm...

  Pakistan and UAE Reaffirm Strong Diplomatic Ties Pakistan’s Acting President Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani emphasized the nation’s deep appreciation for its enduring relationship with the United Arab Emirates during a recent meeting with UAE Ambassador Hamad Obaid Ibrahim Salem Al-Zaabi at Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad. The leaders discussed enhancing cooperation in key sectors like trade, investment, and development, underscoring decades of mutual trust and partnership. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and working together toward shared economic prosperity and regional stability. This meeting marks another chapter in the robust partnership between Pakistan and the UAE, built on a shared vision for growth and collaboration.

The UAE’s humanitarian efforts in Lebanon have garnered significant attention through its “UAE Stands with Lebanon” campaign. Under the directive of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE has allocated $100 million in relief to support Lebanon amidst escalating regional tensions. A major component of this campaign is the delivery of 40 tonnes of urgent medical supplies, dispatched in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO). This aid addresses the critical needs of Lebanon’s vulnerable communities, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to humanitarian diplomacy  . Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, the UAE’s Minister of State for International Cooperation, has been at the forefront of this initiative, underscoring the UAE’s dedication to maintaining Lebanon’s unity and offering comprehensive support. The campaign reflects the UAE’s broader regional strategy, including ongoing relief efforts in other conflict zones like Gaza, where the UAE has established mobile h...

In a significant step toward addressing long-standing issues in the energy sector, the government has terminated contracts with several Independent Power Producers (IPPs). The move, part of a broader energy sector reform, aims to reduce the financial burden of power generation on the national economy, improve affordability for consumers, and ensure a more sustainable energy future. Background: The IPP Contracts and Their Controversy Independent Power Producers were introduced to meet Pakistan’s growing energy needs, especially during the energy crises of the 1990s and 2000s. Over time, however, the agreements signed with these private power companies became a point of contention. Critics have long argued that many of the contracts were overly generous, locking the government into high capacity payments regardless of electricity usage, often referred to as take-or-pay contracts. These payments have led to escalating circular debt , currently a major concern for the country’s economy. T...