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Author: News Desk

  • Pak Suzuki CEO reveals plan to export upgraded cars meeting WP-29 standards 

    Pak Suzuki CEO reveals plan to export upgraded cars meeting WP-29 standards 

    Hiroshi Kawamura, the Chief Executive of Pak Suzuki Motor Company Ltd. (PSMCL), recently shared insights into the company’s endeavours to enhance the export capabilities of their cars, aligning them with numerous WP-29 standards. This significant development was reported by The News on Friday. 

    During the second round of interactive meetings with key decision-makers, conducted under the Suzuki Motors banner, Kawamura underscored the transient nature of economic challenges. He reaffirmed the company’s unwavering commitment to delivering cost-effective vehicles to the ordinary citizens of Pakistan. Furthermore, he disclosed that the company was actively engaged in the development of hybrid vehicle variants. 

    In attendance at the meeting were prominent part manufacturers, and they unanimously advocated for the promotion of localization within the automotive industry while simultaneously pursuing global market expansion. In a call for collaborative efforts, Kawamura emphasised the vital need for collective action in addressing the mounting crises faced by the automotive sector, stating, “It is imperative to take stock of the escalating crisis collectively for the automotive industry. Nothing can be achieved without local partners.” 

    During the meeting, Usman Aslam Malik, Senior Vice Chairman of the Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts and Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM), expressed unwavering support for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in their endeavours to export auto components. 

    It is important to note that WP-29 standards represent a distinctive global regulatory forum operating under the auspices of the UNECE Inland Transport Committee. Three UN Agreements, adopted in 1958, 1997, and 1998, provide the legal foundation enabling contracting parties (member countries) participating in WP-29 sessions to establish regulatory frameworks governing motor vehicles and their equipment.

    These encompass UN Regulations, appended to the 1958 Agreement; United Nations Global Technical Regulations (UN GTRs), linked to the 1998 Agreement; and UN Rules, annexed to the 1997 Agreement. 

  • IMF spokesperson urges fair taxation and protection for vulnerable in Pakistan

    IMF spokesperson urges fair taxation and protection for vulnerable in Pakistan

    The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has emphasised that its $3 billion Standby Arrangement (SBA) programme with Pakistan serves as a critical policy framework. This framework addresses both domestic and international economic imbalances while also facilitating financial support from various donors, including the refinancing of outstanding debts.

    According to Geo, during a recent press conference held at the IMF headquarters in Washington, DC, Julie Kozack, the spokesperson for the global lender, fielded questions regarding the IMF’s engagement with Pakistan. These inquiries encompassed Pakistan’s request for relief and permissions within the existing agreement, specifically in relation to rising energy costs, notably electricity bills.

    In response to concerns about potential human rights implications, particularly for minority populations and the vast number of people living below the poverty line (an estimated 92 to 95 million), the IMF spokesperson emphasised that the programme received approval on July 12. It is a nine-month standby arrangement amounting to $3 billion, designed to support the economic stabilisation programme of the Pakistani government.

    The core objectives of this programme revolve around providing a policy framework to address both domestic and external economic imbalances, along with establishing a structure to secure financial support from various donors, both multilateral and bilateral. This includes securing fresh financing and addressing upcoming debt obligations.

    The IMF outlined that policy efforts are focused on implementing the fiscal year 2024 budget, formulating appropriate monetary policies to combat inflation, and continuing reforms to enhance the sustainability of the energy sector.

    These reforms are ultimately geared towards fostering higher, more inclusive, and more resilient economic growth. They also aim to bolster social development and climate resilience by strengthening public financial management, improving tax administration, and enhancing the prioritisation of public investments.

    Furthermore, these efforts are conducted in collaboration with partner institutions, not only the IMF but also the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, underscoring a collective commitment to Pakistan’s economic stability and development.

    Kozack also highlighted IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva’s strong stance on poverty and inequality. She emphasised the importance of wealthier segments of society bearing a fair tax burden, particularly in a context where Pakistan’s tax-to-GDP ratio is notably low.

    The IMF’s commitment extends to safeguarding the interests of the poor and vulnerable members of society within the programme’s framework, aligning with the goal of achieving a more equitable and inclusive society.

  • Mannat Murad is heartwarming in the best way possible

    Mannat Murad is heartwarming in the best way possible

    ‘Mannat Murad’, written by Pakistani drama writer Nadia Akhtar and directed by Syed Wajahat Hussain, is a heartwarming blend of comedy and romance. Produced by Abdullah Kadwani and Asad Qureshi, the story revolves around two central characters: Mannat, played by Iqra Aziz, and Murad, played by Talha Chahour.

    Mannat, the youngest in her family, holds a special place as her birth came after numerous prayers and wishes, hence her name. The series thoughtfully explores the often misunderstood topic of depression, shedding light on how it’s perceived and the unfortunate neglect of mental health in our society.

    Mannat’s life unfolds in the backdrop of her progressive family, who value love, care, and individual choices. After the tragic loss of her parents, Mannat finds solace in Nafees, who becomes her loving elder brother and a pillar of support.

    On the other hand, Murad belongs to a more traditional family, where his mother’s influence casts a long shadow over his life decisions. As the sole son, Murad carries the weight of fulfilling his family’s expectations.

    The series is captivating, exploring the dynamics of love, family, and the choices we make in the face of societal expectations. It’s a story that touches the heart and offers a glimpse into the complex interplay between personal desires and family obligations.

  • ‘I was so confused’: Ice Spice addressed controversial comments by Matty Healy in podcast

    ‘I was so confused’: Ice Spice addressed controversial comments by Matty Healy in podcast

    Lead singer of the band ‘The 1975’, Matty Healy, created controversy earlier this year when while dating Taylor Swift, clips from an old podcast ‘The Adam Freidland Show’ emerged where he was seen passing racist comments about the rapper Ice Spice. The ‘About You’ singer was heard referring to the rapper as “one of the Inuit Spice Girls” and also called her “a f***ing Eskimo”. Swifties were outraged and Healy apologised.

    Now Ice Spice has addressed the controversy during an interview with Variety.

    The ‘Barbie World’ star revealed that when she heard the comments, she was quite confused:

    “When I had heard that little podcast or whatever, I was so confused. Because I heard ‘chubby Chinese lady’ or some shit like that, and I’m like, ‘Huh? What does that even mean? First of all, I’m thick. What do you mean Chinese? What?”

    The singer had apologised to the rapper, as Ice Spice noted, and they met at a party a few days ago where Matty had again apologised. She continued, “The whole time, I didn’t really care. But that’s funny because I saw him at the Jean Paul Gaultier party a couple days ago, and he was like, ‘Hey, you OK?’ and I’m like, ‘Of course.’ He apologized to me a bunch of times. We’re good.”

    Ice Spice also opened up about her friendship with Taylor Swift with whom she has collaborated on a new version of her song ‘Karma’. “That’s my sis. We was talking about a bunch of things. She’s so funny. We was sipping on a little something something. Just chatting, vibing.”

    Taylor also gushed about the rapper and in an email she had written “I relate to Ice in many ways, but I think her dedication and focus is what blew me away from the very start. She’s extremely professional without being cold. Playful and fun without ever taking her eye off the prize.”

  • Here are the dramas fans are celebrating on Ahad Raza Mir’s birthday

    Here are the dramas fans are celebrating on Ahad Raza Mir’s birthday

    Happy birthday Ahad Raza Mir! The singer and actor turns 30 today and fans are celebrating the occasion by sharing some of their favorite performances by the actor. Since the moment he stepped on to the screen in 2017 as Dr Asfandyar in ‘Yakeen Ka Safar’, he has been praised consistently. Here are some of the dramas fans are highlighting as their favorites

    Hum Tum


    We will start this article by mentioning the highlight of Ahad’s career because seriously, how could y’all forget the range he has? Ahad plays the studious Adam Sultan, who is rivals with Neha (played by Ramsha Khan). The two regularly compete to get the highest grades in college. However, their rivalry takes a huge turn when a proposal comes for Neha, and Adam realises that he has fallen for her.

    Ye Dil Mera


    Ahad plays the serious and reserved CEO of an oil industry, Amanullah Khan, who is traumatised by the death of his parents- and he believes the murderer to be Mir Farooq (played by Adnan Siddiqui) who is the father of college student Aina (played by Sajal Aly). When Amanullah attempts to get back at Mir Farooq by getting closer with Aina, both realise their past traumas are connected and work to uncover the mystery about the deaths of their loved ones.

    Yaqeen Ka Safar


    We couldn’t end this without mentioning the performance that made Ahad a household name. In this drama, he plays the traumatised Dr Asfandyar, who is grieving the death of his brother Daniyal, after he challenges a landlord’s son for gang raping a girl. He meets Zubia (played by Sajal), who ran away from her home after false accusations and suffering abuse from her family members, and the two slowly fall in love as they continue to work together.

  • Temporary pause on 100-page passports in Pakistan, e-passports introduced

    Temporary pause on 100-page passports in Pakistan, e-passports introduced

    The government of Pakistan has ceased the issuance of 100-page passports, a decision confirmed by the passport office. This change, while causing temporary inconvenience, was announced in a statement by the passport office, which expressed its regret for any disruption.

    Previously, the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports, operating under the Ministry of Interior, initiated the issuance of e-passports from passport offices nationwide, following Islamabad’s lead. In June, the federal government introduced these electronic passports.

    As outlined by the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports, the fee for a 36-page passport, valid for 5 years, is set at Rs9,000, with an urgent e-passport available for Rs15,000.

    For a 72-page e-passport, the standard fee is Rs16,500, and the urgent fee is Rs27,000. A 36-page passport, valid for 10 years, will cost Rs13,500 under normal processing, while the urgent fee is Rs22,500.

    For a 72-page passport valid for 10 years, the regular fee is Rs24,750, and the urgent fee is Rs40,500. These new fee structures went into effect on August 16, while the fees for standard passports remain unchanged.

  • Four dead, 12 Injured in a suicide blast in Hungu Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

    Four dead, 12 Injured in a suicide blast in Hungu Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

    An explosion in a mosque in Hangu, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has caused four fatalities, including a police officer, and injuries to 12 individuals on Friday, local authorities have confirmed.

    The incident took place within the confines of Doaba Police Station during the Friday sermon, when a large number of worshippers gathered at the mosque for their weekly prayers.

    Hangu District Police Officer (DPO) Nisar Ahmed reported that a group of 30–40 individuals is currently trapped beneath the debris after the mosque’s roof collapsed, and an operation is underway to rescue them.

    Ahmed said two suicide bombers were involved in the attack; one targeted the gate of the police station, and the other blew himself up inside the mosque.

    He mentioned that the 12 individuals who were saved from the debris have been transferred to a nearby hospital.

    Caretaker Chief Minister Azam Khan of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has taken notice and instructed officials to declare a state of emergency in all city hospitals.

  • Don’t miss this scholarship opportunity in the UK

    Don’t miss this scholarship opportunity in the UK

    If you are planning to pursue further studies abroad, apply for this ongoing scholarship in the UK.

    In a recent post, the Higher Education Commission (HEC) announced Commonwealth Scholarships for masters and PhD programmes for the next cohort.

    The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC) is a UK-based scholarship scheme led by international development objectives.

    The scholarship covers full tuition fees, airfare to and from the UK, and provides a living allowance to support you while you are there.

    Pakistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) students are also eligible for the scholarships.

    The deadline to apply is October 17 (Tuesday) on the CSC portal.

    According to HEC’s website, 26 nominations are available for masters, 30 for PhD and 10 for teaching faculty PhD.

    For further details and understanding of the requirements, eligibility and more, visit their website:

    1. HEC
    2. British Council
    3. Commonwealth Scholarship
    4. Commonwealth Scholarship Commission in the UK (CSC)
  • BTS’s managment to take legal action against fans sending gifts to idol’s homes

    BTS’s managment to take legal action against fans sending gifts to idol’s homes

    Jab pyar kya tou darna kya? Thora sa ab dar lo.

    Korean band BTS’s management BigHit Entertainment has announced that they’re taking legal action against fans who are sending packages directly to the band members homes. The band comprises of seven members: Suga, Jungkook, Namjoon, V, J-Hope, Jimin and Jin.

    In a statement released on Weverse, the management said a criminal case was filed against the people and investigations are currently underway:

    “Hello. This is BigHit Music. Our company regularly initiates legal proceedings against perpetrators of malicious activities related to BTS, including defamation, personal attacks, sexual harassment, the spread of groundless information, and ill-intentioned criticism. We would like to provide an update on these important activities. During this quarter, we filed multiple criminal complaints with law enforcement agencies based on evidence related to acts infringing on the rights of the artists, including defamation, submitted by our fans as well as collected through our own monitoring.”

    The statement shared details of some of the packages the fans had sent to the singers homes, which were directly causing harm to their family members.

    “In particular, we gathered ongoing evidence regarding individuals who repeatedly sent mails and packages to the artists’ residences, even causing harm to the artists’ families, and filed criminal complaints against them on charges of violating laws regarding stalking crimes (Act on Punishment of Crime of Stalking). The court has issued an interim restraining order, and a prosecutor’s investigation is underway. We remain committed to an upcompromising, zero-tolerance policy in addressing stalking crimes that infringe on the privacy and safety of our artists.”

    “A decision was handed down in the second quarter of 2022 declaring a non-suit and halting the investigations against some of the suspects, and we filed objections and requested reinvestigation of these cases. As a result, through prosecution referrals, the suspects were ultimately found guilty of personal attacks and defamation against the artists, and legal penalties were imposed.”

    Ending the note, the management requested for the fans to cooperate with them in this investigation.

  • Pakistan team’s menu in Hyderabad is fit for a king

    The menu being served to the e Pakistani cricket squad in Hyderabad during ICC World Cup 2023 has been revealed.

    According to Indian media, beef is unavailable for all teams, including the Pakistani squad. The Pakistani team’s menu includes chaanpe, mutton karahi, butter chicken, and grilled fish.

    According to Indian media, the menu will include Hyderabad’s famous Biryani, while daily protein meals will consist of mutton, chicken, and fish.

    Read More: How much will the cricket team earn under new contract?

    Pakistan requested bastami rice, spaghetti with Bolognese sauce, and vegetable pulao from the organizers.

    It should be noted that the Pakistan team will stay in Hyderabad Deccan for about 2 weeks.