تازہ ترین

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    Canada vows dollar-for-dollar retaliation against US

    ByJustpaste.in

    Canada has announced plans to respond to new US tariffs with matching measures after last-minute trade negotiations between the two countries broke down. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the suspension of the talks shortly before a Friday deadline, saying Washington’s latest proposals did not meet Canada’s objectives. Carney said Canada would respond to US tariffs on a “dollar-for-dollar” basis. He argued that changes made to the proposed US terms at the final stage of negotiations were unfair and economically damaging. The talks had entered an intense phase in recent weeks as Canadian and US officials attempted to reach an agreement that could reduce tariffs affecting major industries. Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump had temporarily delayed additional tariffs and indicated that Washington and Ottawa were close to reaching an agreement. Officials on both sides had expressed optimism that a deal could be concluded. However, negotiations ultimately failed to produce an agreement. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer gave a different account of the breakdown. He said Canada had declined to finalise an agreement based on terms that had previously been discussed. Greer accused Ottawa of introducing new demands and withdrawing from some commitments, arguing that the changes had disrupted the balance reached during the negotiations. The disagreement marks a sharp change in tone between the two governments. Just days earlier, officials had indicated that progress was being made towards a mutually beneficial trade arrangement. Among the proposals reportedly under discussion was a reduction in US tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminium from 50 per cent to 25 per cent. Tariffs on Canadian automobiles were also being considered for reduction from 25 per cent to 15 per cent. In return, Canada was facing pressure to provide greater access to US products. One issue involved the sale of American alcoholic beverages, with Ottawa being urged to remove provincial restrictions that had been introduced in response to earlier US trade measures. With negotiations suspended, a new round of US tariffs is now affecting a broad range of Canadian products. The measures include goods such as wine, dairy products, cement, clothing and hockey equipment. The latest tariffs come on top of existing US duties on Canadian steel, aluminium, automobiles and lumber. The escalating trade dispute has created growing uncertainty for businesses on both sides of the border. Canada and the United States have closely integrated economies, with large numbers of companies and workers dependent on cross-border trade. Ontario Premier Doug Ford backed the federal government’s decision to respond strongly. He called for a reciprocal approach in which Canadian tariffs would match US measures on a dollar-for-dollar basis. The dispute has been developing since Trump returned to the White House and introduced a broad tariff programme affecting major trading partners. The measures have strained the long-standing trade relationship between Canada and the United States. Canadian negotiators have spent more than a year seeking reductions or exemptions from US tariffs affecting key sectors. Washington, meanwhile, has demanded several concessions, including changes to Canadian dairy import quotas and the removal of retaliatory restrictions on American goods. US officials have also objected to restrictions placed on American alcohol products by several Canadian provinces. Business groups have urged both governments to reach an agreement, warning that higher tariffs could increase costs, disrupt supply chains and hurt companies and consumers in both countries. The US Chamber of Commerce has also warned that prolonged tariff disputes could threaten millions of jobs connected to trade under the US-Mexico-Canada trade framework. Public opinion in Canada remains divided over how the government should respond. Recent polling indicated that some Canadians support retaliatory tariffs, while others favour continuing negotiations with Washington.

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    Pakistan eyes bigger share in global islamic economy

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan has significant room to expand its presence in the global Islamic economy by introducing innovative Shariah-compliant financial products, strengthening regulatory frameworks and developing specialized professional expertise, Secretary General of the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD) Yousef Hassan Khalawi has said. Speaking at the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) Talk Series on Islamic finance, Khalawi highlighted Pakistan’s structural advantages and said the country was well placed to capture a larger share of the rapidly evolving global Islamic economy. He noted that Pakistan has a large Muslim population, a substantial overseas Pakistani community and an expanding Islamic finance sector. The country also has a growing base of professionals working in banking, capital markets and other financial services, providing a foundation for further development of the industry. However, Khalawi stressed that Pakistan would need to move beyond conventional Islamic finance offerings if it wanted to compete more effectively in international markets. He encouraged financial institutions and regulators to focus on developing innovative products capable of addressing emerging domestic and global demand, particularly through financial technology. Fintech seen as key driver According to Khalawi, fintech could play an important role in making Islamic financial services more accessible, efficient and affordable. Digital platforms can potentially reduce transaction costs while allowing Shariah-compliant products to reach customers who remain underserved by traditional financial institutions. He also emphasized that Islamic finance should not be viewed solely as a mechanism for structuring financial transactions. Instead, he said, the sector should play a wider role in supporting economic growth, social welfare and productive investment. One area with considerable potential is Waqf-based investment. Khalawi suggested that professionally managed and transparent listed Waqf structures could enable individuals to make relatively small contributions that could collectively generate financing for projects in key social sectors. Such models, he said, could help channel funds towards education, healthcare and infrastructure while creating a more organized framework for mobilizing charitable and community-based capital. Agriculture offers untapped potential Agriculture was also identified as an important sector where Islamic finance could make a greater contribution. Khalawi called for the development of specialized Shariah-compliant financing instruments tailored to the needs of farmers, agribusinesses and other participants across the agricultural value chain. Greater technical expertise would also be required to design products that address the specific risks and cash-flow patterns associated with agriculture. Expanding access to appropriate financing could help unlock investment and support productivity in the sector. Interest-free lending and financial inclusion The discussion also examined Qard Hassan, an interest-free lending mechanism that can provide financing to individuals without imposing conventional interest charges. Khalawi said technology could help make Qard Hassan arrangements easier to administer and more accessible to potential borrowers. Digital platforms could reduce administrative expenses, improve transparency and facilitate the distribution of small-scale interest-free loans. He further highlighted the importance of establishing common Shariah standards to promote consistency across the Islamic finance industry. Differences in interpretation and product structures can create challenges for institutions seeking to operate across markets, making greater standardization important for the sector’s international growth. Professional training was another key area highlighted during the discussion. Khalawi stressed that the continued expansion of Islamic finance would require professionals with expertise in both financial markets and Shariah principles. For Pakistan, strengthening regulatory capacity, expanding specialized training and encouraging innovation could help create an ecosystem capable of supporting new Islamic financial products. The SECP discussion underscored the broader opportunity for Pakistan to position Islamic finance as a tool not only for financial-sector development but also for investment, entrepreneurship, social welfare and sustainable economic growth.

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    Mahira Khan breaks silence on Rawalpindi woman’s death

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistani actress Mahira Khan has expressed grief and anger following the death of a married woman who was found bound inside an apartment in Rawalpindi. Mahira addressed the issue through Instagram Stories, questioning the kind of values and upbringing being given to men in society. In one post, she wrote, “Wtf kind of world is this. What kind of so called men are we raising.” In another message, the actress expressed solidarity with the victim and her loved ones. She said she stood with them and acknowledged the immense pain and loss they were facing. Mahira’s comments came amid widespread concern over the death of 45-year-old Hina Javed, who was found dead in the bathroom of an apartment in Rawalpindi’s Lalkurti area. According to the police complaint, Hina was discovered with her hands tied behind her back, her mouth gagged and a wire around her neck. Police have registered a murder case and are investigating the circumstances surrounding her death. Hina’s family has accused her husband, Faisal Asghar Imam, his domestic worker and his father of involvement in the alleged killing. Police have yet to establish the responsibility of any suspect, and the allegations remain under investigation. The victim’s brother also told police that Hina had previously complained about physical and psychological abuse during her marriage. The family has alleged that she faced repeated mistreatment before her death. Police have collected evidence from the apartment and sent Hina’s body for a post-mortem examination. No arrests had been reported at the time of the initial investigation. Mahira’s remarks have added to the public discussion surrounding violence against women, domestic abuse and the need for greater accountability. Her question about how boys are raised also drew attention to the wider social responsibility of families and communities in preventing violence. The actress has previously used her public platform to speak about social issues and advocate for greater awareness of women’s rights.

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    Married woman found dead in Rawalpindi apartment

    ByJustpaste.in

    A 45-year-old woman was found dead inside an apartment in Rawalpindi’s Lalkurti area, with her hands tied behind her back and a wire around her neck. The woman, identified as Hina Javed, was discovered in the bathroom of a second-floor apartment at Askari Apartments on Thursday morning. According to the police complaint, the incident came to light after Hina’s father-in-law contacted her brother, Fahad Javed Malik, and informed him that an emergency had occurred at the residence. Malik and other family members then reached the apartment and found Hina dead. The family told police that Hina’s hands had been tied with cloth and that her mouth was gagged. A wire was also found around her neck and connected to the bathroom shower. Police collected evidence from the scene as part of the investigation. Hina’s relatives have accused her husband, Faisal Asghar Imam, his domestic worker Zeeshan Arshad and his father, Asghar Ali Fayyaz, of being involved in the alleged killing. Police have not yet established the responsibility of any suspect, and the allegations remain part of the ongoing investigation. Hina had married Faisal in November 2025. Her brother told police that she had previously complained about domestic violence and alleged that she had faced repeated physical and psychological abuse after her marriage. The family also alleged that Hina’s husband had previously subjected another wife to abuse, which they believe may be relevant to the case. Hina was employed by a semi-government organisation, while her husband had reportedly faced periods of unemployment, according to her family. Police registered a murder case under Sections 302 and 34 of the Pakistan Penal Code. Section 302 deals with murder, while Section 34 concerns acts carried out by multiple people with a common intention. The woman’s body was shifted to Benazir Bhutto Hospital for a post-mortem examination. Police said evidence from the apartment was being examined and efforts were underway to locate the suspects. Civil Lines police said the investigation was continuing and that no arrests had been made at the time of reporting. Authorities said further action would depend on the findings of the investigation and forensic examination. The complainant also alleged that Hina had faced severe physical violence and torture during her marriage. He further claimed that her husband had allegedly abused his previous wife, who later obtained a divorce. Police registered the case at Civil Lines police station under Sections 302 and 34 of the Pakistan Penal Code. The provisions relate to murder and acts allegedly committed by several people with a common intention. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding Hina’s death. Police are expected to rely on forensic evidence, the post-mortem examination and statements from family members and other witnesses to determine the actual cause of death and establish responsibility. The case has once again highlighted concerns over violence against women and domestic abuse in Pakistan. Rights advocates have repeatedly called for stronger protection mechanisms and timely action when women report threats or violence within their homes.

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    Two sewer workers die of suffocation while cleanin…

    ByJustpaste.in

    MULTAN: Two workers of the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) lost their lives after suffocating while cleaning a sewer line near BCG Chowk in Multan, according to rescue officials. The incident occurred late at night when the two employees were carrying out cleaning work inside the sewer. Rescue sources said the workers became unconscious due to a lack of oxygen and were unable to escape. Local residents later retrieved the bodies from the sewer and handed them over to the families. Police said the workers had been performing the hazardous task without proper protective equipment, raising fresh concerns about the safety measures provided to sanitation workers engaged in sewer-cleaning operations. Authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine why the workers were allowed to enter the sewer without adequate safety gear.

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    Atif Aslam performs with Fahad Mustafa, Asim Azhar…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Atif Aslam recently gave fans a special musical moment when he was joined on stage by Fahad Mustafa, Asim Azhar and Talha Anjum at the launch of his new album Subha Aye Naa. The star-studded gathering brought together some of Pakistan’s biggest names from music, television and film. (Facebook⁠) The four celebrities were spotted performing together during the event, creating a scene that quickly caught the attention of Pakistani entertainment fans. According to videos shared from the evening, Fahad Mustafa, Asim Azhar and Talha Anjum joined Atif on stage for a special rendition of his popular song “Hum Kis Gali Ja Rahe Hain.” (Instagram⁠) The unexpected combination of artists made the performance particularly exciting. Atif is known for his powerful vocals and emotional songs, while Asim Azhar has established himself as one of Pakistan’s popular contemporary singers. Talha Anjum, meanwhile, represents the country’s growing hip-hop scene through his work with Young Stunners and his solo career. Fahad Mustafa added a different element to the performance. Best known for his work as an actor, television host and producer, Fahad has also remained closely connected with Pakistan’s entertainment and music scene. The gathering came as Atif celebrated the launch of Subha Aye Naa, his fourth album, making the occasion significant for his fans. The album launch also highlighted how Pakistan’s entertainment industry continues to bring together artists from different parts of the creative world. (Facebook⁠) Social media users were quick to notice the chemistry between the four stars. Images and videos from the event showed the performers sharing the stage, giving fans a rare crossover between mainstream pop, acting and Pakistani hip-hop. For many listeners, seeing Atif Aslam perform alongside younger artists such as Asim Azhar and Talha Anjum also reflected the changing landscape of Pakistani music. While Atif remains one of the country’s most recognised voices, newer musicians are bringing different sounds and audiences into the spotlight. The album launch therefore became more than a promotional event. With four major Pakistani stars coming together for a live performance, it offered fans an entertaining celebration of the country’s evolving music culture. The memorable stage appearance is likely to remain one of the standout moments from Atif Aslam’s latest musical chapter, especially for fans who enjoyed seeing different generations of Pakistani entertainment come together.

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    Republic Policy unveils Federal democratic governa…

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: The Economic Policy and Business Development Think Tank, founded by former Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar, Gohar Ejaz and Sir Ahmed Nawaz Sukhera, hosted a policy session showcasing the Republic Policy Governance Model, a proposed federal and democratic framework aimed at reforming Pakistan’s existing system of governance. The session brought together policy leaders and prominent figures to discuss four books authored by Republic Policy: Fixing the Executive, Fixing the Legislature, Fixing the Judiciary, and The Bureaucratic Coup. A New Federal Democratic Governance Model According to Republic Policy, the proposed model seeks to establish a governance framework aligned with Pakistan’s federal constitutional structure, democratic representation, parliamentary supremacy and principles of effective public administration. The think tank said the initiative goes beyond criticism of the existing governance system and seeks to offer a practical alternative based on constitutional supremacy, democratic accountability, federalism and stronger parliamentary institutions. The model also addresses longstanding debates surrounding decentralisation, bureaucratic influence and the balance of power among the executive, legislature and judiciary. Reform Agenda Draws Appreciation Sources attending the event said the governance model and the four books received appreciation from participants, including former Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq Kakar, Gohar Ejaz and Sir Ahmed Nawaz Sukhera. A representative of Republic Policy said fundamental reforms in Pakistan’s governance system would need to become a central part of the national debate on the country’s future. “The encouragement we received is immensely encouraging for us,” the representative said, stressing the importance of continuing discussions on structural governance reforms. Focus on Constitutional Governance The Economic Policy and Business Development Think Tank was established to promote policy dialogue on economic and governance issues in Pakistan. The presentation of the Republic Policy Governance Model adds a new dimension to discussions on institutional reform, decentralisation, bureaucratic overreach and parliamentary empowerment. Republic Policy maintains that strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring governance within the framework of the Constitution are essential for improving the effectiveness and accountability of the Pakistani state.

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    Showbiz rallies behind #JusticeForHina

    ByJustpaste.in

    A growing social media campaign demanding justice for 45-year-old Hina Javed has gained attention following her death in Rawalpindi, with actress Mahira Khan and other showbiz personalities expressing support for calls for accountability. The hashtag #JusticeForHina has been circulating online as users demand a transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Hina’s death and urge authorities to ensure that anyone found responsible is brought to justice. Hina was found dead on Thursday morning inside the bathroom of a second-floor apartment at Askari Apartments in Rawalpindi’s Lalkurti area. According to her family, Hina’s brother, Fahad Javed Malik, was alerted after receiving a call from her father-in-law about an emergency at the residence. Malik and other relatives reached the apartment and found Hina dead. The family told police that Hina’s hands were tied behind her back, her mouth was covered with cloth and a wire had been placed around her neck and connected to the bathroom shower. Her body was later shifted to Benazir Bhutto Hospital for a post-mortem examination. Police have registered a murder case under Sections 302 and 34 of the Pakistan Penal Code. The provisions deal with murder and acts allegedly committed by multiple people with a common intention. Hina’s relatives have accused her husband, Faisal Asghar Imam, his father Asghar Ali Fayyaz and domestic worker Zeeshan Arshad of involvement in her death. The allegations have not been proven, and the suspects have not been convicted. Her family has also alleged that Hina faced repeated physical and psychological abuse during her marriage. Her brother claimed that she had previously complained about mistreatment. He further alleged that her husband had also been abusive toward a previous wife, who later obtained a divorce. Police are investigating the allegations and examining evidence recovered from the apartment. Civil Lines police have said that the investigation remains underway, while no arrests had been reported at the time of the latest statement. Mahira Khan’s public support has brought additional attention to the campaign. The actress previously expressed grief over the incident and questioned how society raises men in the wake of violence against women. Her remarks were widely shared across social media. Other showbiz personalities and social media users have also joined the calls for justice, turning the case into a wider public discussion about domestic violence, accountability and the protection of women. For Hina’s family, the campaign represents a demand for answers about the circumstances that led to her death. The final findings will depend on the police investigation, forensic evidence and post-mortem report.

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    Sweden probes online links after deadly school attack

    ByJustpaste.in

    Swedish police are investigating whether an 18-year-old man accused of attacking students at a high school in Fagersta had links to online communities associated with school violence. The attack took place on Friday in the central Swedish town, where the suspect allegedly used a sword to attack students. One teenage girl was killed, while two teenage boys suffered serious injuries. The victim’s parents confirmed her death to a local newspaper. Police arrested the suspect following the attack. Investigators are also examining a TikTok account that uploaded a photograph of a sword shortly before the incident. According to police, the account may have belonged to the suspect. The photograph was reportedly taken inside a restroom at the school. The account was created about a month ago and was removed after the attack. Investigators are examining material that allegedly referred to previous mass-violence incidents in Sweden and the 2011 Norway attacks carried out by far-right extremist Anders Behring Breivik. The account also reportedly mentioned a 2015 school attack in Trollhättan, Sweden, in which a masked attacker killed a teaching assistant and two students before being shot dead by police. Authorities are now examining whether online communities may have influenced or encouraged the suspect before the Fagersta attack. Prosecutors have ordered the suspect to remain in custody while investigators pursue murder and multiple attempted-murder allegations. Prosecutor Ann-Sofie Trossing said the investigation was at an intensive stage, with police conducting interviews and collecting evidence. She declined to provide further details because of the ongoing inquiry.

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    Roma Ria steps into national director role for Mis…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Roma Ria is entering a new chapter in her pageant journey as she officially steps into the role of National Director for Miss Universe Pakistan. The announcement marks an important moment for Ria, who previously represented Pakistan as Miss Universe Pakistan 2025. Sharing her feelings about the new responsibility, Ria described the appointment as a deeply meaningful achievement. She said she was “incredibly humbled, grateful, and honored” to be officially announced as the national director. The new position places Ria in a role that goes beyond the spotlight, giving her an opportunity to help shape the future of Pakistan’s participation in the Miss Universe competition. As national director, she will have a greater role in guiding the pageant, supporting contestants and helping prepare future representatives for the international stage. Ria’s transition from titleholder to leadership also adds a personal touch to the development of Miss Universe Pakistan. Having experienced the competition herself, she understands the preparation, expectations and pressure that come with representing the country internationally. Her journey has also been connected with advocacy and community work. Online references to Ria describe her as the founder of Rehmat Foundation, an initiative associated with supporting girls’ access to education. (Instagram⁠) This gives her new position a wider dimension, as her public platform has increasingly extended beyond fashion and pageantry. For Ria, the national director role appears to be about creating opportunities as much as celebrating beauty. Pageants today increasingly place emphasis on confidence, communication, social causes and leadership, allowing contestants to use their visibility to represent something larger than themselves. Her appointment could therefore signal an evolving direction for Miss Universe Pakistan, with greater attention on empowering contestants and preparing them to become confident representatives of the country. Ria’s announcement has also highlighted the significance of her own journey. From wearing the national title on an international stage to helping guide the next generation of Pakistani contestants, she is now moving from competitor to mentor and decision-maker. With gratitude at the heart of her announcement, Ria is embracing the responsibility with optimism. Her new role gives her a chance to contribute to the pageant from behind the scenes while helping future contestants step onto the global stage with confidence. As Miss Universe Pakistan continues to build its presence, Roma Ria’s move into the national director position represents a fresh beginning — one that combines pageantry, leadership and a commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for women in Pakistan. (Instagram⁠)