Iran holds fresh talks with Pakistan and Saudi Ara…

LAHORE: More than 317,000 Pakistanis travelled abroad for employment during the first half of 2026, as economic pressures, unemployment, inflation and limited professional opportunities continue to push workers towards international job markets. Official figures show that 317,436 Pakistanis left the country for employment between January and June. Saudi Arabia remained the most popular destination, attracting 183,951 Pakistani workers during the six-month period. The United Arab Emirates ranked second with 50,773 workers, followed by Qatar with 34,025. Bahrain received 13,329 Pakistani workers, while 4,673 travelled to Türkiye for employment. Several other countries, including Cyprus, Greece, the United Kingdom and Malaysia, also attracted Pakistani workers. Of the total number, 316,848 workers completed their overseas employment registration through the Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment (BE&OE). Another 588 workers secured employment through the Overseas Employment Corporation (OEC). The overseas workforce includes professionals from a wide range of sectors. Doctors, engineers, IT specialists, software developers, technicians and paramedical workers are among those seeking better employment prospects abroad. Experts say the continuing outflow could have both positive and negative consequences for Pakistan. Remittances sent by overseas workers provide an important source of foreign exchange and support millions of families in Pakistan. However, the departure of skilled professionals could also create challenges for sectors already facing shortages of qualified workers. Economic difficulties are being cited as a major factor behind the growing trend. Rising living costs, unemployment, heavy taxation and limited career opportunities have encouraged many young professionals to consider leaving the country. Experts have also expressed concern over Pakistan’s technological infrastructure. They argue that inadequate digital facilities, slow or disrupted internet services and limited research opportunities make it harder for professionals and businesses to compete internationally. The high cost of higher education is another concern. Young people seeking advanced qualifications often face significant financial pressure, while limited employment opportunities after graduation can encourage them to seek careers overseas. Thousands of additional Pakistanis are reportedly preparing to leave for employment and are currently completing documentation and other formal requirements through government offices. Workers travelling abroad have also reported difficulties during the departure process at airports in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad and other cities. The trend is not limited to blue-collar workers. A significant number of highly qualified professionals and students are also considering international opportunities. Some Pakistani students who travelled to Canada, Europe and the United States on scholarships have expressed a desire to return after completing their studies. However, they say their decision will depend on whether employment, research and professional opportunities improve in Pakistan.

ISLAMABAD: An anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Islamabad on Monday granted police a three-day physical remand of former senator Mushtaq Ahmad and his associate, Daniyal, in a case linked to a protest over the recent unrest in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). The suspects were presented before Duty Judge Rukhsanda Shaheen after their arrest. During the hearing, the prosecution requested a 30-day physical remand, arguing that investigators needed additional time to recover a vehicle and alleged weapons connected to the case. After hearing arguments from both sides, the court approved a three-day remand instead of the longer period requested by the prosecution and directed police to continue their investigation. The case has been registered at Islamabad’s Shalimar Police Station. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the protest and the allegations associated with it. The development comes days after Mushtaq Ahmad’s supporters claimed he had been detained for more than 24 hours after security personnel stopped him from entering Azad Jammu and Kashmir. According to his team, the detention was linked to his public support for protests taking place in the region. Following his release, Mushtaq Ahmad addressed a press conference in Islamabad, where he announced plans to hold a condolence, solidarity and peace gathering in support of the people of AJK. He invited students, journalists, civil society members and Kashmiri residents of Islamabad to participate in the event at F-10 Markaz. Earlier, Mushtaq Ahmad had stated that he was travelling to AJK carrying white flags as a symbol of peace and solidarity with families affected by the recent violence. He said security officials stopped him at Azad Pattan Bridge and prevented him from entering the region, after which he recorded a protest message and began returning to Islamabad. His team further alleged that Punjab Police later intercepted his vehicle in Kahuta and took him into custody.