فیچرڈ

  • | |

    Pakistan explores diplomatic efforts to revive US-…

    ByJustpaste.in

      ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is exploring the possibility of helping revive stalled negotiations between the United States and Iran in an effort to reduce tensions and move toward ending the conflict that has continued for nearly five months. According to informed Pakistani sources, the latest diplomatic initiative follows encouragement from China, which has expressed support for Islamabad’s mediation efforts in the region. The renewed diplomatic discussions reportedly gained momentum during the recent visit of Iran’s Interior Minister, Eskandar Momeni, to Islamabad. It was his second visit to Pakistan within ten days, highlighting the growing importance of diplomatic engagement between the two neighboring countries amid the ongoing regional crisis. During his visit, Momeni held meetings with senior Pakistani officials, including government leaders and Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir. While official statements confirmed the meetings, details of the discussions were not made public. However, sources familiar with the matter indicated that the possibility of restarting indirect negotiations between Washington and Tehran was among the issues discussed. Despite these efforts, officials acknowledged that significant challenges remain before meaningful dialogue can resume. Deep mistrust between the United States and Iran, combined with recent military escalations across the Middle East, continues to complicate prospects for renewed negotiations. Pakistan’s role as a potential mediator has become increasingly delicate due to rapidly evolving regional developments. Earlier this week, Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi movement announced a naval blockade targeting Saudi Arabia, one of Pakistan’s closest regional allies. Islamabad has strongly condemned the recent Houthi attacks, reaffirming its support for Saudi Arabia, with which it signed a mutual defence treaty last year. According to the sources, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also discussed the evolving Middle East situation with Chinese officials during his recent visit to Beijing. Although Pakistani authorities have not publicly commented on the discussions, China has confirmed its support for mediation efforts led by Pakistan and other regional partners. In an official statement, China’s Foreign Ministry said Beijing supports diplomatic initiatives aimed at restoring peace and stability in the Gulf region. The ministry also reaffirmed China’s commitment to playing an active role in encouraging dialogue and reducing tensions across the Middle East. China remains Iran’s largest trading partner and the primary buyer of Iranian crude oil despite international sanctions. Over the years, Beijing has also expanded cooperation with Tehran in areas such as technology, satellite navigation systems, and dual-use industrial components, although it has not publicly provided direct military assistance during the current conflict. Pakistan’s latest diplomatic initiative follows earlier mediation efforts undertaken jointly with Qatar. In June, the United States and Iran signed a memorandum of understanding designed to create a 60-day framework for negotiations aimed at reaching a long-term agreement. However, indirect talks failed to produce meaningful progress, with both sides accusing each other of violating the understanding, ultimately leading to renewed hostilities. The regional security situation has deteriorated further after the Houthis claimed responsibility for attacks on two Saudi oil tankers as part of their naval blockade. The development has raised concerns over global energy supplies and increased fears that another major shipping route could be disrupted alongside the already vulnerable Strait of Hormuz. Pakistani officials believe that ending attacks on Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries is now essential before any negotiations between the United States and Iran can resume. According to one official, Islamabad has already conveyed this position to Iranian authorities, emphasizing that regional stability will be a necessary first step toward successful diplomatic engagement. As tensions continue to rise, Pakistan, supported by China, appears determined to pursue dialogue as a means of preventing further escalation and encouraging a peaceful resolution to one of the Middle East’s most pressing conflicts.

  • |

    Capital Smart City emerges as Pakistan’s AI and …

    ByJustpaste.in

    Habib Rafiq Limited’s vision transforms a real estate project into a technology-driven ecosystem Pakistan’s journey towards a digital future has entered a new phase with the inauguration of Sky47 Karakoram-01, the country’s largest AI-ready data centre and cloud infrastructure facility, at Capital Smart City near Islamabad.   The landmark project has placed Capital Smart City in the spotlight as an emerging hub for artificial intelligence, cloud computing and advanced digital services, attracting attention from Pakistan’s technology sector and international investors. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, along with federal ministers, senior government officials, business leaders and technology experts. The launch of Sky47 Karakoram-01 represents a major development in Pakistan’s digital infrastructure landscape. The facility has been designed to support artificial intelligence applications, high-performance computing, cloud services, secure data hosting, cybersecurity and next-generation technology solutions. From smart city to digital technology hub Capital Smart City, located near Islamabad, is one of Pakistan’s largest and most ambitious real estate developments. Developed by Habib Rafiq Limited (HRL), the project was conceived as a modern smart city based on international standards, combining residential, commercial, educational and technological facilities. With the establishment of Pakistan’s largest AI data centre, Capital Smart City is expanding its identity beyond traditional real estate development and moving towards becoming a technology-led ecosystem. The integration of digital infrastructure, smart solutions and AI capabilities reflects a global trend where future cities are being designed around innovation, connectivity and knowledge-based economies. Habib Rafiq Limited — a legacy of development and innovation Habib Rafiq Limited (HRL) is one of Pakistan’s established engineering, construction and development companies with decades of experience in delivering major infrastructure and real estate projects. The company has contributed to Pakistan’s development landscape through projects in housing, construction, infrastructure and energy. HRL has built a reputation for undertaking large-scale developments with a focus on quality, modern planning and international standards. Capital Smart City represents one of HRL’s flagship projects, designed around the concept of a sustainable and technology-enabled urban environment. The company’s expansion into digital infrastructure through projects such as Sky47 reflects a broader vision of connecting Pakistan’s urban development with emerging technologies. Zahid Rafiq — vision behind the transformation At the centre of this ambitious journey is Mr Zahid Rafiq, Chairman Habib Rafiq Limited, whose vision has been focused on innovation, investment and long-term development. Under his leadership, HRL has continued to expand its portfolio beyond traditional construction and real estate, exploring opportunities in technology-driven projects and strategic investments. Zahid Rafiq has also been associated with major investments in Pakistan’s energy sector, contributing to the country’s economic development through diversification into key industries. His approach has been to combine infrastructure development with future-focused investment, creating projects that support economic growth, employment opportunities and technological advancement. Government support for digital transformation Addressing the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described Sky47 Karakoram-01 as an important step towards building a modern and prosperous Pakistan. The Prime Minister emphasised that investment in artificial intelligence, technology and digital infrastructure would help create opportunities for young people, strengthen the economy and improve Pakistan’s position in the global technology landscape. The participation of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir highlighted the strategic importance of strengthening Pakistan’s digital capabilities and creating an environment that encourages investment and innovation. A new chapter for Pakistan’s technology ambitions The launch of Sky47 Karakoram-01 comes at a time when countries around the world are competing to build advanced AI infrastructure and secure digital ecosystems. Experts believe that access to high-performance computing and secure data facilities will be critical for Pakistan’s future growth in sectors including fintech, e-commerce, healthcare technology, education and artificial intelligence research. The development is expected to reduce dependence on overseas data hosting, improve digital security and provide Pakistani companies with advanced technological resources within the country. As Capital Smart City evolves into a technology-driven destination, the project represents a new model of urban development where real estate, artificial intelligence and digital innovation come together. For Pakistan, Sky47 Karakoram-01 is not only a data centre — it is a statement of ambition to become part of the global digital economy.

  • | |

    Iran envoy questions UK leadership shift, links it…

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Iran’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moqadam, has raised questions over the political developments in the United Kingdom, suggesting that the leadership transition in London coincided with a major shift in British policy towards Iran. Speaking on recent geopolitical developments, the ambassador claimed that former British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer came under intense political pressure after allegedly refusing to support the United States and Israel during the Iran conflict. According to Amiri Moqadam, Starmer was subsequently accused of incompetence and forced to step down. The Iranian envoy further alleged that Britain’s new prime minister moved swiftly after assuming office by granting military base access to the United States and recalling British diplomats from Iran, describing the rapid policy changes as noteworthy. Amiri Moqadam questioned whether the timing of Starmer’s departure and the immediate foreign policy decisions taken by the incoming government were merely coincidental, implying that the sequence of events deserved closer scrutiny. The remarks come amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing diplomatic friction involving Iran and Western powers, as Tehran continues to criticise what it describes as coordinated political and military pressure from the United States and its allies.

  • | |

    Flash floods hit DG Khan, hundreds rescued

    ByJustpaste.in

    By MIR Hunbal Birmani   DG Khan: Heavy rains in the Sulaiman Range have caused flash flooding in several small and large hill torrents in Sakhi Sarwar and adjoining areas, creating difficulties for tourists returning from Mubarki, Yakbai and other tourist destinations, as well as travellers and residents of tribal areas, in crossing the waterways. Taking notice of the situation, Deputy Commissioner and Senior Commandant Dera Ghazi Khan Muhammad Usman Khalid directed an immediate rescue operation under the supervision of Political Assistant Koh-e-Sulaiman Ameer Taimoor. The Border Military Police (BMP) mobilised its personnel and vehicles and reached various routes affected by the hill torrents to rescue stranded tourists, travellers, women, children and residents of tribal areas, along with their belongings, and shift them to safe locations. On the instructions of Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Usman Khalid, BMP personnel also helped private vehicles and motorcycles cross the flooded hill torrents. At some locations, motorcycles and luggage were carried on their shoulders to help people reach safer places. During the rescue operation, the valuable belongings and vehicles of tourists and travellers were also safely moved to secure locations. The BMP team also transported a woman who was on her way to hospital for delivery in an official vehicle. Due to the timely actions of the district administration and the BMP, hundreds of tourists, travellers and local residents were rescued from difficulties caused by the flash floods and shifted to safe places Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Usman Khalid said that, in accordance with the special instructions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, all necessary arrangements had been completed in view of the monsoon rains. Teams of the district administration, Border Military Police, Baloch Levies and other relevant departments had been deployed at important routes near the hill torrents to ensure an immediate response to any emergency situation. He urged citizens and tourists to avoid going near hill torrents during rainfall and to follow the instructions issued by the administration. “The protection of the lives and property of the people is the top priority of the district administration,” he said. While on other hand , Senior officials on Thursday visited hill torrent structures and flood-prone areas in Rajan pur district to review the situation and preparedness measures. The visit was conducted by commissioner Dera Ghazi Khan ch.Ashfaq , Chief Engineer Irrigation, Dera Ghazi Khan, the Superintending Engineer Irrigation, Additional Deputy Commissioner Revenue Rajan pur, Assistant Commissioners of Jam pur and Rajan pur, the In-charge of Rescue 1122, and other relevant officials. The officials inspected the Kaha Hill Torrent siphon at RD-145 and Pull Pathan Camp at Tayyab Drain. According to officials, a peak discharge of 40,000 cusecs was recorded at Darrah, the originating point of the Kaha Hill Torrent, yesterday. However, a major portion of the floodwater dissipated during its passage, and only around 2,000 cusecs had reached RD-145 so far. The Irrigation Department has established eight camps in the area, equipped with the necessary machinery, equipment and manpower to deal with any emergency situation. Teams of the District Administration Rajan pur, Irrigation Department and Rescue 1122 are actively monitoring the situation and remain vigilant.

  • | | |

    66kg hashish seized in Karachi, major drug smuggli…

    ByJustpaste.in

    A major inter-provincial drug smuggling attempt was foiled in Karachi after a joint operation by a federal civil intelligence agency and Mochko Police resulted in the seizure of 66 kilograms of hashish and the arrest of two suspects. According to District Keamari Police, authorities received intelligence indicating that a large quantity of narcotics was being transported from Balochistan to Karachi. Acting on the tip-off, law enforcement officials established a checkpoint on Hub River Road to intercept the suspected vehicle. During the operation, officers signaled a Toyota Land Cruiser to stop. Instead of complying, the occupants attempted to flee at high speed by diverting onto an unpaved road. However, the vehicle lost control and overturned, allowing police to quickly move in and apprehend the suspects. The arrested individuals were identified as Faisal and Abdul Wali. A thorough search of the overturned vehicle led to the recovery of 66 kilograms of hashish, which had been concealed in multiple packages inside the Land Cruiser. The vehicle was also taken into police custody as part of the investigation. Police officials stated that the narcotics were allegedly being smuggled from Balochistan into Karachi as part of an inter-provincial trafficking operation. Investigators believe the suspects may be linked to a larger drug trafficking network operating across provincial borders. A case has been registered against the accused under the relevant anti-narcotics laws. Authorities have launched further investigations to identify other members of the network, determine the intended destination of the seized drugs, and uncover the full scope of the smuggling operation. Law enforcement agencies described the operation as a significant success in the ongoing fight against drug trafficking. Officials reiterated their commitment to carrying out intelligence-based operations to dismantle narcotics networks and strengthen public safety across Karachi and other parts of Pakistan. The successful seizure highlights the growing coordination between intelligence agencies and local police in combating organized crime. Authorities have urged the public to continue reporting suspicious activities, emphasizing that community cooperation remains essential in preventing drug trafficking and maintaining law and order.

  • | | |

    1,300-year-old shipwreck hides incredible gold tre…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Archaeologists have uncovered an extraordinary collection of gold coins and precious jewelry from a sunken Byzantine-era ship near Croatia’s southern coastline, offering new insights into the empire’s maritime history and suggesting that a high-ranking official may have been among the passengers. The ancient shipwreck was first discovered more than a decade ago, but researchers spent several years conducting detailed underwater excavations before releasing their findings. The results, announced on Thursday, indicate that the vessel most likely dates back to the seventh or eighth century AD, making it one of the region’s most significant archaeological discoveries in recent years. According to experts, the remarkable collection of valuables recovered from the wreck suggests that the ship was far more than an ordinary merchant vessel. Instead, archaeologists believe it may have been transporting an influential government official, noble, or other prominent figure, accompanied by attendants or security personnel. Among the most valuable discoveries are gold coins minted during the reigns of four Byzantine emperors from the Heraclian dynasty, which ruled between AD 610 and 711. Researchers also recovered ornate gold fittings from luxury boxes decorated with rubies, emeralds, and pearls, highlighting the wealth and status of those on board. The quality and rarity of the artifacts provide important clues about the Byzantine Empire’s political, economic, and cultural life during the early medieval period. Experts say the recovered objects demonstrate the sophisticated craftsmanship of the era and reveal the importance of maritime travel for government officials and elite members of society. The ongoing archaeological investigation is expected to deepen historians’ understanding of Byzantine trade routes, royal travel, and naval activity across the Adriatic Sea. Researchers hope that further analysis of the ship’s structure, cargo, and recovered artifacts will help reconstruct the vessel’s final journey and explain the circumstances that led to its sinking centuries ago. Officials involved in the excavation described the discovery as a major milestone in underwater archaeology. As conservation work continues, many of the recovered treasures are expected to be carefully preserved and studied, providing valuable information for future research into the Byzantine Empire and its influence across southeastern Europe. The discovery underscores the importance of underwater archaeological exploration and demonstrates how centuries-old shipwrecks continue to reveal remarkable stories about ancient civilizations, their rulers, and the maritime networks that connected them across the Mediterranean world.

  • | | |

    Ukraine claims strike on Russian weapons factory a…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Ukraine has claimed responsibility for a series of long-range strikes targeting key Russian military infrastructure, including a weapons components factory, a warship, and a cargo vessel allegedly linked to the transportation of Iranian military equipment. The announcement was made by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who said the operations were part of Kyiv’s continued efforts to weaken Russia’s military capabilities. In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Zelensky said Ukrainian forces carried out precision strikes overnight against facilities that support Russia’s ongoing military campaign. He described the attacks as a response to continued Russian assaults on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. According to the Ukrainian president, one of the primary targets was a factory in Russia’s Kirov region that manufactures components used in weapons deployed against Ukraine. Zelensky noted that the facility is located approximately 1,200 kilometers (745 miles) from the Ukrainian border, highlighting the growing range of Ukraine’s strike capabilities. Ukraine also claimed to have targeted an oil refinery in Tyumen, a logistics facility in Yekaterinburg, and a fuel and supply depot in Rostov-on-Don. These locations are considered strategically important for supporting Russian military operations and logistics. In addition to the strikes inside Russia, Zelensky said Ukrainian forces achieved significant results in the Caspian Sea. He claimed that a Russian warship and vessels allegedly involved in transporting Iranian military-related cargo were also targeted during the operation. Ukraine has not released further details regarding the extent of the damage. Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that one of its commercial ships was hit in the Caspian Sea and strongly condemned the incident. Iranian officials said the attack caused an explosion aboard the vessel, killing one civilian and injuring another. Tehran described the strike as an act of aggression and accused Ukraine of attempting to broaden the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Iran also stated that it would safeguard its national interests and security while condemning any attacks on its civilian maritime assets. The incident has added another layer of tension to an already complex regional situation involving Russia, Ukraine, and Iran. The claims made by Ukraine and Iran have not been independently verified, and Russian authorities have not issued a detailed public response regarding the reported strikes. As the conflict continues, long-range attacks on military and logistical targets remain a significant feature of the ongoing war, reflecting the evolving nature of the battlefield and the growing strategic reach of both sides.

  • | |

    Greek air defense system intercepts missiles fired…

    ByJustpaste.in

    A Greek-operated air defense system stationed in Saudi Arabia reportedly intercepted and destroyed two ballistic missiles launched from Yemen, preventing what officials described as a potential attack on the kingdom’s critical energy infrastructure. According to international media reports citing informed sources, the missiles were aimed at the oil refineries in Yanbu, a strategic industrial city on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast. The projectiles were intercepted before reaching their intended targets, avoiding potential damage to one of the country’s key energy facilities. Saudi Civil Defense authorities issued an emergency alert in Yanbu during the incident, warning residents of a possible security threat and advising them to remain cautious until the situation was brought under control. No casualties or damage were reported following the successful interception. Sources familiar with the incident said the attack involved two ballistic missiles fired from Yemen. A separate source also confirmed that both missiles were successfully destroyed by the air defense system before they could strike the targeted oil infrastructure. The interception was reportedly carried out using a U.S.-made Patriot air defense battery operated by Greek military personnel. Greece deployed the Patriot system to Saudi Arabia in 2021 under a bilateral defense agreement aimed at strengthening the kingdom’s air defense capabilities and protecting vital energy infrastructure from missile and drone attacks. The deployment marked a significant step in defense cooperation between Greece and Saudi Arabia, with the Patriot battery providing additional protection for critical facilities, including oil refineries and other strategic installations. Yanbu is home to some of Saudi Arabia’s most important refining and export facilities, making it a vital hub for the country’s energy sector. As a result, the city has remained a key location for enhanced security measures amid regional tensions. The reported interception comes against the backdrop of ongoing instability in the region, where missile and drone threats have periodically targeted energy infrastructure. Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in advanced air defense systems to safeguard its strategic assets and maintain the uninterrupted flow of energy supplies. While the reported attack was successfully thwarted, the incident underscores the continuing security challenges facing the region and the importance of international defense cooperation in protecting critical infrastructure. Neither Saudi authorities nor Greek officials had released a detailed official statement on the reported interception at the time of publication.

  • | |

    Pakistan keeps petrol and diesel prices unchanged …

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Government of Pakistan has decided to keep petrol and diesel prices unchanged for the next two days after implementing fuel price increases over five consecutive days. The Petroleum Division of the Ministry of Energy issued an official notification confirming that current prices will remain in effect on July 26 and 27, 2026. According to the notification, the price of petrol will remain at Rs. 335.18 per litre, while high-speed diesel (HSD) will continue to be sold at Rs. 383.46 per litre during the two-day period. The decision comes after a series of recent adjustments to petroleum prices under the government’s revised pricing mechanism. Authorities said no further changes would be made during the specified period, providing temporary stability for consumers following multiple increases. The latest notification confirms that the existing fuel rates announced on July 25 will remain effective through July 27. Officials from the Petroleum Division stated that the move is in line with the government’s current fuel pricing policy. Just a day earlier, the government had raised petrol prices by Rs. 3.66 per litre and high-speed diesel prices by Rs. 4.80 per litre. Those increases followed another hike in which petrol became Rs. 4.40 per litre more expensive and diesel increased by Rs. 3.62 per litre. Before the latest revisions, petrol was priced at Rs. 331.52 per litre, while high-speed diesel was available at Rs. 378.66 per litre on July 24. The recent adjustments reflect ongoing fluctuations in petroleum pricing driven by changes in international oil markets and domestic pricing policies. Fuel prices play a significant role in Pakistan’s economy, influencing transportation costs, industrial production, and the prices of essential goods and services. Any increase or decrease in petroleum prices has a direct impact on businesses and household budgets across the country. The government’s decision to maintain current prices for two days is expected to provide short-term certainty for consumers and businesses. However, future revisions will continue to depend on global oil prices, exchange rate movements, and the government’s fuel pricing framework. Motorists and businesses are advised to follow official announcements from the Petroleum Division for any future changes in fuel prices. The current notification confirms that petrol and diesel rates will remain unchanged until the end of July 27, unless a new directive is issued by the government.

  • | | |

    Maryam Aurangzeb says PML-N Can address Azad Kashm…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Punjab Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb has said that Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) has the ability to address the long-standing challenges and deprivations faced by the people of Azad Kashmir. She urged party workers to support PML-N candidates and work for their success. Addressing a rally in Rawalpindi, Maryam Aurangzeb highlighted what she described as the development achievements of PML-N governments and said the party has always focused on infrastructure, public welfare, and improving living standards. She criticized political opponents and said that development should be judged by practical projects rather than statements. Referring to major infrastructure initiatives, she challenged critics to deliver projects similar to the motorways built during Nawaz Sharif’s tenure and the metro services introduced during Shahbaz Sharif’s government. Maryam Aurangzeb said that development work has not been limited to Lahore, claiming that roads and infrastructure projects have been completed across Punjab. She added that the government’s focus remains on expanding facilities and improving public services. The Punjab minister also mentioned development initiatives associated with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, including public transport projects in Azad Kashmir. She said that green buses are now operating on the streets of Muzaffarabad, providing improved transportation facilities for residents. She further claimed that within 18 months, the Punjab government provided housing opportunities to around 200,000 people under the “Apni Chhat Apna Ghar” initiative. According to her, educational support programs have also been expanded, including the distribution of laptops to 100,000 students and Honhaar scholarships for 50,000 students. Maryam Aurangzeb emphasized that PML-N’s approach is based on development, education, and public welfare. She called on party supporters to actively participate in political activities and strengthen the party’s position. Her remarks came during ongoing political activities, where parties are presenting their development plans and seeking public support. The issue of development and addressing regional challenges remains a key focus in political discussions across Pakistan. PML-N leaders have repeatedly highlighted infrastructure and welfare projects as central parts of their political agenda, while opponents continue to debate the effectiveness and impact of these initiatives.