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Author: News Desk

  • Pakistan welcomes largest container ship in its history at Karachi port

    Pakistan welcomes largest container ship in its history at Karachi port

    Pakistan made maritime history as Hutchison Ports Pakistan in Karachi have received the MSC Micol, the largest container ship ever to dock in the country.

    The 400-meter-long vessel, operated by the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), has a carrying capacity of more than 24,000 containers, marking a major milestone for Pakistan’s shipping industry.

    Hutchison Ports Pakistan, a subsidiary of the Hong Kong-based Hutchison Ports group, said the berthing of MSC Micol shows the country’s ability to handle next-generation container ships that dominate global trade routes.

    “MSC Micol, measuring 400 meters in length with a capacity of 24,070 TEUs, is the largest vessel ever to call at a Pakistani port, marking a historic milestone for the maritime industry,” read a statement by the terminal manager.

    The company said that the arrival of the ship reflects growing global confidence in Pakistan’s maritime potential and highlights the port’s ability to accommodate ultra-large vessels. The development is expected to help lower freight costs, improve trade efficiency and make Pakistani exports more competitive in international markets.

    Until now, Pakistan’s major ports, Karachi Port and Port Qasim, handled smaller vessels because of draft limitations. Since becoming operational in 2018, Hutchison Ports Pakistan has provided the country with its first deep-water terminal capable of receiving ships up to 400 meters long.

    Located in Karachi’s Keamari district, the terminal is part of Hutchison Ports’ global network that spans 53 ports in 24 countries. The facility plays a key role in improving trade connectivity and supporting Pakistan’s export growth under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

    Industry experts believe that welcoming ultra-large container ships will help reduce per-container handling costs and attract major shipping lines to include Pakistan in their main Asia–Europe routes, cutting dependence on transshipment through Gulf ports.

  • PTI nominee sweeps KP CM election amid Opp boycotts

    PTI nominee sweeps KP CM election amid Opp boycotts

    Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) nominee Sohail Afridi has been elected as the new chief minister (CM) of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), securing 90 votes amid opposition boycotts over an “unconstitutional” election.

    As per the details, KP Speaker Babar Saleem Swati announced Afridi’s victory as the leader of the house, confirming that the election was held in accordance with constitutional provisions. He said that the province needed a chief executive elected legally.

    Before the voting session, outgoing CM Gandapur addressed the assembly, offering his congratulations to Afridi and saying that the PTI’s political struggle would persist under the leadership of party founder Imran Khan.

    He reiterated that he had resigned at Khan’s directive and urged for an uninterrupted democratic process. Gandapur further mentioned that all actions taken during his time in office were documented and subject to scrutiny.

    Opponents, including Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), declined to participate in the voting process. Opp leader Dr Ibadullah, alongside Maulana Lutfur Rehman and Akram Durrani of JUI-F, exited the assembly before voting commenced.

    Ibadullah said that the election was unconstitutional, asserting that Gandapur remained the rightful CM. “Electing another chief minister while one is still in office is illegal. We cannot partake in this unconstitutional act,” he remarked.

    It may be noted that he was referring to the ongoing tussle between Gandapur and KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi regarding the validity of the former’s resignation.

    Governor Kundi had previously returned Gandapur’s resignation, questioning the authenticity of his signature, and had summoned him to the Governor House on October 15 for verification. 

    In a post on X, Gandapur said that the governor’s office had already acknowledged his resignation submitted on October 8 and that both his letters, dated October 8 and October 11, bore his genuine signatures.

    Earlier, the KP Assembly Secretariat confirmed that the nomination papers of four candidates, namely PTI’s Sohail Afridi, JUI-F’s Maulana Lutfur Rehman, PML-N’s Sardar Shahjehan Yousaf and PPP’s Arbab Zarak Khan, had been received but only Afridi’s candidacy proceeded due to the opposition’s boycott.

    With Afridi’s election, the PTI has regained control of the provincial setup, even though doubts still linger regarding the legality of the transition and the status of Gandapur’s resignation.

  • Saudi delegation signs MoUs to boost IT education, sports in Sindh

    Saudi delegation signs MoUs to boost IT education, sports in Sindh

    A high-level Saudi business delegation signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) on Saturday aimed at promoting IT education and sports development in Pakistan’s Sindh province, reflecting Riyadh’s growing engagement with the South Asian country.

    The delegation, headed by Mansour bin Mohammed bin Saad Al-Saud, chairman of the Saudi-Pakistan Joint Business Council, met with Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori to explore opportunities for youth development in technology, education, and sports.

    The deals, which come as the two allies continue to deepen their economic ties, come after a recent defense agreement between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. The most recent move demonstrates Riyadh’s growing interest in assisting Pakistani youth and innovative efforts.

    “Under these MoUs, the two countries will work together to provide new avenues of growth for youth through modern IT education, joint training programs, youth exchange initiatives and sports competitions,” the governor’s office said in a statement. 

    “These MoUs mark the beginning of a new phase of cooperation between Pakistan and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the fields of youth development, technology advancement and sports collaboration,” it added. 

    Tessori expressed confidence that the collaboration would strengthen bilateral connections and help young Pakistanis develop their skills.

    Earlier, the Saudi delegation also finalized two agreements to strengthen investment in Karachi’s energy sector. 

    These included a share-sale agreement with KES Power Limited and a cooperation framework between K-Electric and Trident Energy Limited to explore new ventures in the power and infrastructure industries.

    Pakistan and Saudi Arabia maintain long-standing relations rooted in faith, mutual respect, and strategic cooperation. Riyadh continues to be a key political and economic partner, with both nations now broadening their collaboration in trade, technology, and youth development.

  • Ishq Murshid, Zard Patton Ka Bunn steal the starry 2025 Hum Awards

    Ishq Murshid, Zard Patton Ka Bunn steal the starry 2025 Hum Awards

    The star-studded 2025 Hum Awards lit up the city of Houston with a grand celebration of Pakistani talent, honoring outstanding contributions across acting, writing, music, and direction.

    This year’s ceremony was graced by some of the biggest names in the industry, including Sajal Aly, Hania Aamir, Ahad Raza Mir, Faysal Quraishi, Bilal Abbas Khan, Humayun Saeed, Mehwish Hayat and Mahira Khan. It was two standout drama serials Ishq Murshid and Zard Patton Ka Bunn that truly stole the spotlight, bagging five awards each and dominating the evening.

    2025 Hum Awards – Winners List

    Best Drama: Ishq Murshid – Produced by Moomal Shunaid

    A light-hearted romantic drama that offered audiences a refreshing escape from heavier themes. Its widespread popularity and fan love cemented its win.

    Best Actor – Male: Bilal Abbas Khan for Ishq Murshid

    Bilal’s portrayal of dual characters, the suave Shahmeer Sikander and the humble Fazal Bakhsh, was both heartfelt and captivating, earning him well-deserved recognition.

    Best Actor – Female: Sajal Aly for Zard Patton Ka Bunn

    Sajal delivered a powerful performance in a socially driven narrative centered on female empowerment and resilience in a patriarchal society.

    Best On-Screen Couple: Bilal Abbas Khan & Durefishan Saleem for Ishq Murshid

    Their banters, chemistry and cuteness as Shahmeer and Shibra captured the hearts of millions, making them the viewers’ favorite jori of the year.

    Best Director: Saife Hassan for Zard Patton Ka Bunn, Farooq Rind for Ishq Murshid

    Both directors masterfully brought their respective stories to life, one rooted in romance, the other in social commentary, showcasing their versatility and vision.

    Best Writer: Mustafa Afridi for Zard Patton Ka Bunn

    Afridi’s script bravely addressed themes of gender inequality, child labor, and societal oppression, making a significant impact with its thought-provoking storytelling.

    Best OST: Ahmed Jahanzeb for Ishq Murshid

    The soulful original soundtrack became an anthem during the show’s run, perfectly capturing the emotional essence of Shahmeer and Shibra’s love story.

    Best Supporting Actress: Nadia Jamil for Khushbu Mein Basay Khat

    A seasoned performer, Jamil’s emotional depth and powerful screen presence earned her this award.

    Best Supporting Actor: Ali Tahir for Zard Patton Ka Bunn

    Tahir’s nuanced performance brought authenticity to the screen, resonating strongly with audiences.

    Most Impactful Character: Syed Tanveer Hussain for Zard Patton Ka Bunn

    Playing the role of Meenu’s father, Hussain’s character was both compelling and central to the drama’s emotional core.

    Best Actor in a Negative Role: Faysal Quraishi for Zulm

    Faysal Quraishi is known for his range and intensity and delivered a chilling and memorable performance as the villian in this drama.

     

    Best Debut – Actress: Sahar Hashmi for Zulm

    In her breakout role as Esha, Hashmi impressed critics and viewers alike with her confident and emotive screen presence.

    Best Debut – Actor: Zarrar Khan

    Transitioning from modeling to acting, Zarrar made a promising start to his drama career and is already being hailed as a rising star.

     

    Global Star Award: Hania Aamir

    Hania’s charm and popularity have transcended borders, making her a beloved figure in Pakistan, India and now in Bangladesh as well. Her charm is unmatchable and she is called by many as the ‘Queen of hearts’.

    Hum Special Golden Plate Award: Adnan Siddiqui

    In recognition of his enduring contributions to the industry, Siddiqui received this special honor, celebrating his legacy and continued relevance in Pakistani entertainment.

    Meanwhile, Humayun Saeed and Mahira Khan were honored for their contribution in Pakistan’s film Industry. The Recognition Award was presented to the movie Love Guru.

    While Ishq Murshid captivated audiences with its light-hearted storytelling and endearing romance, Zard Patton Ka Bunn struck a chord with its strong feminist narrative and social relevance. With both shows shared the spotlight equally, the 2025 Hum Awards successfully honored a wide spectrum of storytelling from the dreamy world of love to realism and resilience.

  • Journalist Saleh Aljafarawi shot dead in Gaza City clashes

    Journalist Saleh Aljafarawi shot dead in Gaza City clashes

    Palestinian journalist Saleh Aljafarawi has been killed during armed confrontations in Gaza – only days after ceasefire was led to under United States (US) President Donald Trump’s new peace plan.

    As per the details, the 28-year-old reporter, who was known for his coverage of the war, was shot dead by members of an “armed militia” while covering in the Sabra area.

    Al Jazeera’s Sanad agency verified that the footage showed Aljafarawi’s body on the back of a truck while still wearing a “press” flak jacket. He had been missing since Sunday morning.

    Although officials have not yet formally verified it, local sources said that Hamas’ security forces and Doghmush clan were involved in fighting in Sabra.

    A senior official from Gaza’s Ministry of Interior told Al Jazeera that the clashes were with “an armed militia affiliated with the [Israeli] occupation”. Security forces, the official said, had surrounded the militia, and claimed its members killed displaced residents.

    Officials have repeatedly warned that Gaza’s security situation is unpredictable and unstable despite the ceasefire remaining in effect.

    Aljafarawi had earlier told Al Jazeera what it was like to be displaced. “All the scenes and situations I went through during these 467 days will not be erased from my memory. All the situations we faced, we will never be able to forget them,” he said in January.

    The journalist had also revealed that he received several threats from Israel because of his reporting. “Honestly, I lived in fear for every second, especially after hearing what the Israeli occupation was saying about me. I was living life second to second, not knowing what the next second would bring.”

    His death adds to the devastating damage to Gaza’s media community. Since after the genocide began in October 2023, more than 270 journalists and media workers lost their lives, making it the deadliest genocide for journalists in modern history.

    Meanwhile, world leaders, including President Trump, are expected to gather in the Egyptian resort city of Sharm el-Sheikh for a Gaza summit co-hosted by Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi.

    According to Egypt’s presidential office, the meeting aims “to end the war in the Gaza Strip, enhance efforts to achieve peace and stability in the Middle East and usher in a new era of regional security and stability”.

    Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated on Sunday that a “document ending the war in the Gaza Strip” is expected to be signed during what it described as a “historic” summit.

    Neither Israel nor Hamas will be represented at the talks.

  • Arshad Nadeem’s coach Salman Iqbal Butt handed lifetime ban

    Arshad Nadeem’s coach Salman Iqbal Butt handed lifetime ban

    The Athletics Federation of Pakistan (AFP) has imposed a lifetime ban on Olympic gold medalist Arshad Nadeem’s coach Salman Iqbal Butt for “gross misconduct and violation of the federation’s constitution”.

    According to an official notification, Butt, who served as president of the Punjab Athletics Association (PAA), and Syed Habib Shah, the association’s former secretary, were found guilty of holding illegal elections for the Punjab Athletics Association.

    The issue began when Butt and Shah announced the Punjab Athletics Association elections on August 29, 2025, giving only one day’s notice. The elections were held on August 31 in clear violation of the AFP’s constitutional election procedures. Despite receiving an official warning on August 30 to stop the process and follow the proper legal framework, both officials went ahead with the elections.

    An inquiry committee was formed by the federation on September 24 to investigate the matter. The committee summoned both individuals to present their explanation but neither appeared nor submitted a written reply. After reviewing all available records, the committee presented its report to the Executive Committee.

    In its meeting on October 10, 2025, the AFP Executive Committee concluded that Salman Butt and Habib Shah had deliberately violated the federation’s constitution, disobeyed lawful directives, and acted against the integrity and harmony of the sport’s administration.

    The federation declared the Punjab Athletics Association elections held on August 31 as null and void and announced that fresh elections will be conducted under the AFP’s supervision.

    The AFP also directed all affiliated member units to end official dealings with Salman Butt and Habib Shah and to comply fully with the new directive.

    Copies of the decision have been shared with World Athletics, Asian Athletics, and the Pakistan Sports Board, while Shah has also been banned for 10 years.

  • Fans cheer Shan Masood’s dismissal to welcome Babar Azam

    Fans cheer Shan Masood’s dismissal to welcome Babar Azam

    A rare and rather awkward moment unfolded at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Sunday during the opening day of the first Test between Pakistan and South Africa. The home crowd erupted in cheers, not for a boundary or a wicket of the opposition, but for the dismissal of their own captain, Shan Masood.

    The reason was simple, Babar Azam was next in to bat.

    Masood had been playing beautifully, scoring 76 runs and sharing a solid 161-run stand with Imam ul-Haq, who made 93. But when he was trapped leg-before by South African spinner Prenelan Subrayen, the atmosphere in the stadium changed in a surprising way. Instead of disappointment, loud cheers echoed around the ground as fans eagerly awaited Babar’s arrival at the crease.

    When the big screen confirmed the umpire’s decision, the crowd once again cheered, celebrating Masood’s dismissal so they could finally see Babar bat. 

    The reaction stunned many, including South African commentator Shaun Pollock, who couldn’t hide his amusement.

    “Baz, they are Pakistan supporters. Why are they disappointed on that dropped catch?” Pollock asked during commentary.

    Bazid Khan replied, “I think you haven’t seen the scorecard. Guess who’s coming next.”

    Pollock laughed and said, “Now I understand.”

    Babar walked in to a thunderous reception, with fans chanting his name and waving flags. However, their excitement didn’t last long as the former captain fell soon after for 23. Following his dismissal, many fans started leaving the stadium.

    At stumps on day one, Pakistan reached 313 for 5, with Imam scoring 93, Shan Masood 76, Mohammad Rizwan not out on 62, and Agha Salman not out on 52. 

    For South Africa, Senuran Muthusamy picked up 2 wickets for 101 runs. 

    Day two of the Test is currently underway in Lahore.

  • Namibia stun South Africa with thrilling last-ball win in first-ever T20I match

    Namibia stun South Africa with thrilling last-ball win in first-ever T20I match

    Namibia created history on Saturday by defeating South Africa by four wickets in a thrilling T20I encounter at the Namibia Cricket Ground (NCG) in Windhoek. 

    The hosts chased down a target of 135 on the final ball of the match, securing their first-ever win against a full-member nation.

    Earlier, South Africa won the toss and opted to bat first but struggled to find rhythm on a tricky batting surface. 

    Quinton de Kock’s international comeback ended quickly as he was dismissed for just one run. Namibia’s bowlers maintained consistent pressure throughout the innings, restricting the Proteas to 134 for 8. 

    For South Africa, Jason Smith top-scored with 31 and Bjorn Fortuin added 19 runs, while Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Rubin Hermann made brief contributions.

    Ruben Trumpelmann led the attack with three wickets, while Max Heingo clinched two. Gerhard Erasmus, Ben Shikongo and JJ Smit chipped in with a wicket each.

    In response, Namibia made a steady start and kept the chase alive despite regular setbacks. They reached 51 for 3 after seven overs before losing Malan Kruger at 101 in the 17th over.

    With 34 runs needed off the final three overs, Zane Green and Ruben Trumpelmann formed a crucial 37-run partnership off just 21 balls. Their fearless batting carried Namibia home, with the winning runs coming on the very last ball.

    Defending a modest total, South Africa’s bowlers fought hard despite the injury to Gerald Coetzee, who managed to bowl only nine legal deliveries. Nandre Burger and Andile Simelane took two wickets each, while Bjorn Fortuin picked up one.

    The victory marked a historic moment for Namibia, as it was South Africa’s first-ever defeat against an associate nation in T20I cricket. The match also served as a memorable inauguration for the Namibia Cricket Ground, which hosted its first international fixture.

  • Pakistani clothing giant uses AI model in latest ad campaign, gets slammed by social media

    Pakistani clothing giant uses AI model in latest ad campaign, gets slammed by social media

    AI models may be cheaper than real humans but consumers still prefer a living person, and one clothing giant brand is finding that out on social media.

    Renowned fashion brand Nishat Linen is facing heat online after it unveiled its Autumn/Winter 2025 collection using an AI-generated model instead of a real human.

    While the brand hoped to present a modern, tech-forward image, the move has sparked criticism from fans and social media users who say the approach feels “disconnected” and even “creepy.”

    The campaign, which features a hyper-realistic AI model wearing Nishat’s new designs, quickly caught attention but not for the right reasons.

    “Show what you’re selling on actual humans. The digital articles are only for the free download, not meant to be purchased by real humans,” wrote one Instagram user. Another added, “If you’re using so much less money on campaigns, then the prices gotta be so much cheaper.”

    In response to the criticism, Nishat acknowledged the feedback, saying, “We understand the importance of seeing products on real models to get a true sense of their look and feel. We’re continuously working to provide authentic experiences while exploring new creative approaches. Your input is valuable to us as we strive to improve.”

    Still, that hasn’t stopped the conversation online. Some called the move “embarrassing,” while others mocked the brand for what they perceived as a budget-cutting tactic disguised as innovation. “Let’s use AI with our huge budget, such a big brain moment,” one user quipped sarcastically.

    “Stop using AI, isko dekh k logu ka instant dil mr jata hai. 99% people AI cheezu ko pehchan b lety hain and foran skip b kr dety hain,” one user agitatedly said. While another added: “Kinda surprised seeing such a big brand using AI.”

    One simply requested: “Please don’t use AI…”

    “This merely seems a tactic to save money on actress and models and that too being a top brand. If you don’t want to pay lacs to actresses then at least hire some commoners or struggling/newbies than using AI. Hope so this feedback helps,” one user suggested.

    Nishat isn’t alone in experimenting with AI in marketing. A growing number of fashion and retail brands are turning to artificial intelligence tools to create ad campaigns.

    Globally, brands like Zalando, Levi’s, and Balmain have tested or implemented AI-generated models in recent campaigns. Even Cosmopolitan published an entirely AI-generated magazine cover using OpenAI’s tools in 2023.

    Meanwhile, tools like Midjourney, Runway, D-ID, and Sora (OpenAI’s video generation model) are being used to generate everything from fashion videos to catalog stills with minimal human involvement.

    In 2024, Coca-Cola also faced backlash online over an artificial intelligence-made Christmas promotional video that users called “soulless” and “devoid of any actual creativity.”

  • Babar needs no introduction, his is the most important wicket: Aiden Markram

    Babar needs no introduction, his is the most important wicket: Aiden Markram

    South Africa captain Aiden Markram said on Saturday that Babar Azam’s wicket will be the key for his side as they prepare to face Pakistan in the upcoming Test series starting Sunday.

    Speaking at the pre-match press conference in Lahore on Saturday, Markram praised the Pakistani captain, calling him a world-class player. “Babar Azam needs no introduction. His wicket is always the most important,” he said.

    The Proteas skipper added that the pitches in Pakistan would favour spin bowling, and his team had prepared accordingly. “The pitches here will suit the spinners, and we have focused on playing spin,” he stated. 

    Markham noted that South Africa had a strong run in the previous World Test Championship and his squad was eager to continue their momentum: “The last Test Championship season went well for us, and we are very excited for the new one.” 

    Markram also mentioned the absence of Temba Bavuma. “Temba Bavuma is our leader, and we will definitely miss him,” he said.

    On the other hand, Pakistan captain Shan Masood said his side aims to start the World Test Championship campaign on a positive note.

    “We will try to start the Test Championship well,” Shan said during his press conference. “The PCB has done a lot of work for red-ball cricket this time. Camps were held, and players also played county cricket.”

    Acknowledging South Africa’s strength, Shan said, “South Africa are a champion team. We will give our best to lift our morale. To win a Test match, you have to take 20 wickets.”

    He stressed the importance of home conditions and adaptability. “Home series are always very important in the Test cycle. The last Test Championship didn’t bring great results, but we learned positive things. We’ll try to start this one well,” he said.

    Talking about the conditions in Lahore, Shan added, “There will be new conditions at Gaddafi Stadium, and we’ll try to understand them quickly. Sajid Khan is a key bowler for us in these conditions, but unfortunately, he was down with viral flu. We’ll select the team based on fitness.”

    He also shared his thoughts on playing surfaces and strategy. “On flat tracks, if both teams score 600 runs, there’s no benefit. For good results, sometimes you have to sacrifice personal milestones. Runs depend on conditions; scoring a century in every match isn’t necessary.” 

    The Test captain added that Pakistan would look to make the most of home conditions. “Every team prepares conditions that suit them. We included the factor of reverse swing while forming the team,” he stressed. 

    The first Test takes place from October 12 to 16 at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, and the second Test runs from October 20 to 24 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. 

    The tour will include three T20Is from October 28 to November 1 and three ODIs from November 4 to 8.