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Showing posts from January, 2025

Pakistan Among 180 Countries Facing U.S. Tariffs

  In a significant shift in trade policy, the United States has imposed tariffs on imports from Pakistan, along with over 180 other countries. This decision, announced by President Donald Trump, includes a reciprocal tariff of 29% on goods imported from Pakistan, which is a response to the high tariffs that Pakistan imposes on American products, reportedly at 58%. This move is part of a broader strategy to address perceived trade imbalances and protect U.S. manufacturing interests. The imposition of these tariffs is expected to have far-reaching implications for Pakistan's economy. Leading businessman Arif Habib has expressed concerns that the tariffs will lead to increased prices for commodities and a subsequent drop in demand. The economic impact could be severe, particularly for industries reliant on exports to the U.S. market, which has traditionally been a significant destination for Pakistani goods. In addition to the immediate economic effects, the tariffs could also infl...

Pakistan Announces Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025

  Pakistan Cricket Board has announced its 15-man squad for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, slated to be hosted by Pakistan between February 19 and March 9. ¹ The very same squad is going to compete in a three-nation ODI series played against New Zealand and South Africa in Lahore and Karachi, preceding the Champions Trophy. The team has seen four changes since the last ODI series in South Africa, with Abdullah Shafique, Muhammad Irfan Khan, Saim Ayub, and Sufyan Moqim making way for Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khushdil Shah, and Saud Shakeel. Mohammad Rizwan will lead the team as captain, while Salman Ali Agha will be the vice-captain. The team, that comprehensively won the 2017 title, comprises three members Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, and Fakhar Zaman. Haris Rauf, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Saud Shakeel, the others in this team, also played for the country when it last participated in the 50-over ICC tournament, ICC Men's 50-over Cricket World Cup 2023. Ever since the IC...

Pakistan and UAE will enhance air connectivity by opening new routes for flights.

Pakistan and the UAE have agreed on improving the airlift connectivity between the two nations with an intent to further enhance their bilateral cooperation and provide enhanced travel options. The agreement has been reached by Pakistan's ambassador to the UAE, Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, in talks held with the relevant authorities of UAE. The entry of more low-cost airlines in the country will raise accessibility and affordability for passengers. This is likely to be of great benefit to the passengers and further increase the bilateral ties.  Under the agreement, Pakistan's private airline AirSial is set to commence its operations from Abu Dhabi to three major cities of Pakistan. Wizz Air , the low-cost carrier based in the UAE, will also be operative between Abu Dhabi and two Pakistani cities. The airlines are likely to start operating new routes in the following two to three months, after which they will communicate specific schedules and routes. These routes will provide much-need...

PCB to Announce Squad for Tri-Nation Series and Champions Trophy 2025

The Pakistan Cricket Board is ready to announce the cricket squad for the much-awaited Tri-Nation Series and Champions Trophy 2025 . According to informed sources, the finalization of the selection process, conducted with national selectors after close-door consultations, is likely to feature players who have remained consistent in their performances at international stages. The likely announcement in the next two days is already pouring in excitement into the hearts of cricket lovers. Sources reveal that few Pakistan cricketing superstars are going to be in the team, and some of them comprise Mohammad Rizwan, Babar Azam, Salman Agha, Kamran Ghulam, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Shaheen Afridi, and Abrar Ahmed. These cricketers have prior experience and form, which is going to help Pakistan in its preparation for the two high-stakes tournaments. Their inclusion leaves all the evidence of selectors' confidence upon them to deliver under the pressures. Reports also suggest Fakhar Zaman,...

UAE Dispatches Humanitarian Aid Convoys to Gaza Strip

In a continued effort to support the Palestinian people, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has sent three humanitarian aid convoys to the Gaza Strip as part of “Operation Chivalrous Knight 3.” The convoys, comprising 29 trucks, entered Gaza through the Egyptian Rafah Border Crossing earlier this week. The shipments include over 364 tonnes of essential supplies, such as food items, winter clothing, shelter tents, and other necessities aimed at alleviating the difficult conditions faced by Gaza residents. This initiative underscores the UAE’s commitment to providing relief during the ongoing crisis. Since the onset of the crisis, the UAE has dispatched a total of 150 aid convoys to Gaza under “Operation Chivalrous Knight 3,” delivering more than 29,025 tonnes of humanitarian assistance. These efforts are particularly focused on supporting vulnerable groups, including children and women, highlighting the UAE’s dedication to intensifying relief operations and promoting humanitarian work for P...

UAE President Meets Pakistan PM: Strengthening Bilateral Ties

On January 5, 2025, UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan visited Pakistan and met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Rahim Yar Khan. The visit marked another significant milestone in the decades-long partnership between the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Pakistan. The discussions centered on bolstering ties in key sectors, reflecting the mutual commitment of both nations to enhance their economic, trade, and political relationship. Key Areas of Discussion The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation in sectors critical to the development of both countries: 1. Trade and Investment Both leaders emphasized the importance of increasing bilateral trade and investment. The UAE is already one of Pakistan’s largest trading partners and a significant source of foreign direct investment. Sheikh Mohamed expressed a strong interest in collaborating in areas such as mining, minerals, and agriculture, highlighting Pakistan’s potential for sustainable development and gro...

WHO Evacuates 55 Patients from Gaza to UAE: A Beacon of Hope in Times of Crisis

In a monumental humanitarian initiative, the World Health Organization (WHO), in collaboration with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), successfully evacuated 55 critically ill patients from Gaza to UAE medical facilities. These patients, many of whom are children, required urgent care for severe injuries, trauma, and chronic health conditions exacerbated by the ongoing crisis in the region. This operation serves as a lifeline for those caught in a humanitarian catastrophe, reflecting the shared commitment of the WHO and the UAE to safeguard human lives. A Lifesaving Partnership The evacuation comes at a time when Gaza’s healthcare system is severely strained, with many hospitals operating beyond capacity due to limited resources, ongoing conflict, and a lack of critical medical supplies. The UAE has stepped in as a key partner, providing not just the facilities but also the expertise needed to deliver urgent care. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO’s Director-General, commended the UAE f...