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Peru and Mexico resume diplomatic relations after political dispute

The diplomatic break occurred when Mexico granted political asylum to former Peruvian Prime Minister Betssy Chavez, who faced conspiracy charges regarding former President Pedro Castillo’s 2022 attempt to dissolve Congress.

As part of the bilateral agreement to restore relations, Peru granted Chavez safe-conduct guarantees under the 1954 Caracas Convention on Diplomatic Asylum, enabling her to leave the Mexican Embassy in Lima and travel to Mexico. Peruvian Foreign Minister Carlos Espa confirmed she departed in good health.

The Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Affairs maintained that no political persecution exists in the country and stated that granting safe-conduct does not waive Peru’s legal right to request Chavez’s extradition in the future.

The diplomatic rapprochement follows commitments made by newly elected Peruvian President Keiko Fujimori ahead of her inauguration to normalize ties with Mexico, an initiative welcomed by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.

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    Pakistan urges US to back Islamabad MoU as regiona…

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has urged the United States to fully implement the June 18 Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), describing the agreement as the best path toward lasting regional peace and stability amid rising tensions involving Iran. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar conveyed the message during a meeting with US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker in Islamabad on Friday. He stressed that dialogue and diplomacy remained essential for resolving regional disputes while reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to protecting its national interests. The US diplomat acknowledged Pakistan’s constructive role in supporting regional peace and stability and congratulated the Pakistani leadership and people on Independence Day. Dar also held talks with British High Commissioner Jane Marriott, during which the two sides discussed regional and international developments, bilateral ties and ways to enhance cooperation. Dar again called for the Islamabad MoU to be implemented in its entirety. Separately, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong met the foreign minister and expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s assistance following the death of a Chinese mountaineer in an avalanche at Broad Peak, Gilgit-Baltistan. Dar assured him of Pakistan’s support in facilitating the repatriation of the deceased’s remains. Dar also spoke by phone with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty. The two leaders exchanged Independence Day greetings and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Pakistan-Egypt relations through greater cooperation and high-level engagement. The diplomatic engagements come as tensions surrounding Iran continue to intensify, with Pakistan maintaining that dialogue and diplomacy are the most viable means of addressing outstanding regional issues.

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    Karachi receives light rain as PMD forecasts more …

      Parts of Karachi experienced light rain and drizzle on Saturday afternoon, bringing a welcome drop in temperatures and creating pleasant weather across the city. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted that this spell of wet weather will continue over the next two days, with additional rain and thunderstorms expected in different parts of the metropolis. Light showers and drizzle were recorded in several neighborhoods, including Surjani Town, Gulshan-e-Maymar, and various suburban areas. Residents enjoyed cooler conditions after the rainfall, while cloudy skies covered much of the city. According to the PMD, Karachi is expected to remain mostly cloudy, with chances of light to moderate rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms during the coming 48 hours. Earlier forecasts had also warned of windstorms and thunderstorm activity, particularly during the afternoon and evening. Meteorological officials explained that the weather pattern is being influenced by a low-pressure system that had previously developed into a depression but has now weakened into a low-pressure area. The system is currently located over southeastern Rajasthan in India. Although it has weakened, it continues to draw moisture-laden monsoon winds from both the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, resulting in widespread rainfall across different regions. At the same time, a separate westerly weather system is affecting northern parts of the country, further contributing to unstable weather conditions. The PMD warned that these combined weather systems are likely to trigger thunderstorms, gusty winds, and rainfall in several districts of Sindh. Authorities also cautioned that heavy downpours in some areas could lead to urban flooding, especially in low-lying localities where drainage systems may become overwhelmed. The department stated that rain accompanied by strong winds, thunderstorms, and windstorms was expected over the next three to six hours in several districts, including Tharparkar, Mithi, Umerkot, Mirpurkhas, Badin, Thatta, Sanghar, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allahyar, Hyderabad, Matiari, Jamshoro, Shaheed Benazirabad, Ghotki, Khairpur, Jacobabad, Dadu, Larkana, Sukkur, and nearby areas. Residents in these regions have been advised to remain cautious and stay updated with official weather advisories. In response to the forecast, the Sindh government has placed all relevant departments on high alert to ensure preparedness for any weather-related emergencies. Adviser to the Chief Minister on Rehabilitation, Gyan Chand Essrani, directed the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), Rescue 1122 teams, and mobile health units to maintain round-the-clock vigilance. He instructed all emergency response agencies to continuously monitor the situation and respond promptly to any incidents caused by heavy rainfall or flooding. To strengthen emergency preparedness, PDMA Sindh has deployed 50 specially equipped response vehicles fitted with dewatering pumps across the province. These vehicles are intended to quickly remove accumulated rainwater from flooded roads and residential areas. Of the total fleet, 10 vehicles have been stationed in Karachi, while 25 have been allocated to Hyderabad and Mirpurkhas divisions. The remaining 15 vehicles have been deployed in Sukkur and Larkana divisions to support emergency operations. Authorities have urged citizens to exercise caution during heavy rain, avoid unnecessary travel, and cooperate with emergency services to ensure public safety throughout the ongoing monsoon spell.

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    Chinese suspects seek bail in organ trade case

    Three Chinese nationals arrested in a case involving the alleged illegal sale of human organs have approached the Islamabad High Court (IHC) seeking post-arrest bail. The bail petitions were heard by IHC Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir. The petitioners include Li Gang Chai, Ping Fei Guo and Wang Bao. The three suspects are facing a case registered by the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) Corporate Crime Circle. A trial court had earlier rejected their bail applications. Appearing on behalf of the petitioners, Barrister Yawar Qureshi requested the court to transfer the cases to another bench. He told the court that petitions involving similar circumstances were already pending before a different bench. The lawyer requested that the three cases also be transferred to the bench of Justice Muhammad Azam Khan. Justice Arbab Muhammad Tahir observed that Justice Muhammad Azam Khan was currently on summer vacation and transferring the cases could delay the proceedings by around a month. However, following the lawyer’s insistence, the court accepted the request for consideration of the bench change. The court directed that the case file be sent to the Chief Justice’s Office for a decision regarding the transfer of the petitions.

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    Pakistan plans $500 million export-oriented auto z…

      A major initiative has been announced to establish an automotive zone on 150 acres of land at Port Qasim in Karachi, with the government expecting the project to create new opportunities for exports and generate significant foreign exchange for Pakistan. The announcement was made during a meeting of the Port Qasim Authority Board, chaired by Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Junaid Anwar Chaudhry. The meeting reviewed plans aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s maritime infrastructure and promoting industrial and export-related activities through the country’s major port facilities. Speaking at the meeting, Federal Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said the proposed auto zone would cover approximately 150 acres at Port Qasim. He said the project was expected to generate around $500 million in annual exports, while contributing approximately $200 million in foreign exchange earnings each year According to the minister, the auto zone will provide a range of facilities linked to the automotive industry. These will include refurbishment facilities, display areas and spare-parts services. The development is expected to support businesses involved in the import, refurbishment and export of automotive products and components. The minister said the project would create new export opportunities for Pakistan’s automotive sector and help the country strengthen its position in international markets. He described the proposed auto zone as an integrated framework that would bring together automobile imports, refurbishment and exports at a single location. The initiative is also expected to encourage greater investment in the automotive sector by providing businesses with dedicated infrastructure and facilities. By bringing different stages of automotive-related activities together, the project could help improve efficiency and create opportunities for companies seeking to expand their operations in Pakistan. Port Qasim’s strategic importance as one of Pakistan’s major ports could further support the project. The location provides access to maritime transportation and international trade routes, potentially making it easier for automotive businesses to handle imported vehicles, spare parts and other related products before exporting refurbished or finished products to overseas markets. The government expects the auto zone to contribute to the country’s broader efforts to increase exports and generate foreign exchange. Pakistan has been seeking new avenues to expand its export base and reduce pressure on its foreign exchange reserves. In this context, the proposed automotive zone could provide a platform for developing value-added activities rather than relying solely on the import and sale of automotive products. The inclusion of refurbishment facilities is particularly significant because it could allow imported vehicles and automotive components to be repaired, upgraded or prepared for resale and export. Similarly, dedicated spare-parts facilities could support both local businesses and export-oriented automotive operations. The project is therefore being presented as more than a conventional industrial development. It is intended to establish an integrated automotive ecosystem connecting imports, refurbishment, display, spare parts and exports. If implemented as planned, the Port Qasim auto zone could attract investment, support businesses associated with the automotive industry, create employment opportunities and increase Pakistan’s export earnings. The government believes that the project will open new avenues for growth in the automotive sector while contributing to the country’s overall foreign exchange generation and export expansion efforts.

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    PMDC warns doctors over expired medical licences

    The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has issued an important warning to doctors whose professional licences have expired. The council has decided to take action against doctors who fail to renew their licences within the required period. Under the new decision, doctors will be given six months to complete the renewal process. Licences that are not renewed within this period may be cancelled. The PMDC has also stressed that doctors involved in clinical practice must have a valid and active licence. Doctors with expired or inactive licences could face restrictions on their professional practice. The council has advised such doctors to complete the renewal process without delay. The move is aimed at ensuring that only properly registered and authorised doctors continue to provide medical services. The PMDC maintains the registration and licensing system for medical and dental practitioners in Pakistan. Keeping licences active is an important requirement for doctors who are practising professionally. The latest warning is expected to push doctors with expired licences to complete their renewals within the specified six-month period. Doctors have been advised to remain compliant with the council’s licensing requirements to avoid possible cancellation of their licences and disruption to their clinical practice.

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    PCB unveils major domestic cricket overhaul ahead of ODI World Cup

    LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced a significant revamp of its 2026–27 domestic cricket season, introducing structural changes aimed at strengthening competition and preparing players for the upcoming ICC Men’s ODI World Cup. The new domestic calendar places greater emphasis on high-quality white-ball cricket while also reshaping Pakistan’s premier first-class competition to improve competitiveness across all formats. According to the PCB, the season will begin on August 11 in Multan with the National Champions Cup, a four-team one-day tournament. Squads for the competition will be selected by the national selection committee, providing emerging players with an opportunity to impress in the 50-over format ahead of the global tournament. The board has also confirmed that the domestic season will feature two List A competitions. Following the National Champions Cup, teams will compete in the President’s Cup, giving players additional match practice and selectors a broader pool of performances to evaluate before international assignments. One of the biggest changes announced is the expansion of regional participation. The number of regional teams has increased from 18 to 20, with Sialkot and Peshawar each receiving permission to field a second team. PCB officials believe the move will create more opportunities for talented cricketers across the country and deepen the domestic talent pipeline. In another landmark decision, the prestigious Quaid-e-Azam Trophy has been divided into Gold and Silver Divisions for the first time in the tournament’s history. The Gold Division will feature the country’s eight strongest teams, while the Silver Division will include 12 teams competing for promotion and a chance to challenge the top sides. Both divisions are scheduled to begin on November 1, with the new format designed to increase the quality and intensity of first-class cricket. The domestic campaign will conclude with the National T20 Cup, scheduled for February and March, ensuring players receive competitive exposure in all three major formats before the international season intensifies. PCB officials said the revised structure reflects the board’s long-term strategy of producing better-prepared cricketers capable of succeeding at the highest level. By increasing meaningful competition, expanding opportunities for regional teams, and aligning domestic cricket with international priorities, the board hopes to strengthen Pakistan’s player development pathway. Cricket analysts have welcomed the changes, saying the new format could raise the standard of domestic cricket while helping selectors identify consistent performers ahead of major international tournaments, including the 2027 ODI World Cup.

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