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  • Selection committee wants Babar Azam to be captain, sends name to chairman PCB

    Selection committee wants Babar Azam to be captain, sends name to chairman PCB

    The selection committee has sent Babar Azam’s name to Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the captaincy of the national cricket team.

    According to Geo News’ sources, Mohsin Naqvi entrusted the responsibility regarding the selection of team captain to the selection committee and the committee has sent Babar’s name as the man for the job. Mohsin Naqvi will take the final decision after completing consultations.

    Meanwhile, the fitness camp of the national team is going on vigorously in Kakul, in which 28 players are participating. However, Babar Azam wanted to rest for a day after returning from Umrah, which is why he did not join the camp yesterday.

    Based on the results of the fitness camp, PCB will select the squad for the series against New Zealand.

  • Pakistan steps up security for Chinese workers after bombing

    Pakistan steps up security for Chinese workers after bombing

    Pakistan ramped up security guarding Chinese engineers building Beijing-linked projects in the nation’s northwest, an official said Wednesday, a day after five workers were killed in a suicide bombing.

    Beijing is Islamabad’s closest regional ally and Pakistan has benefitted from billions of dollars of investment in recent years, but has struggled to guarantee the safety of Chinese migrant workers.

    The five Chinese engineers — plus their Pakistani driver — were killed while travelling between Islamabad and a hydroelectric dam construction site in Dasu, in northwestern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

    A high-ranking official from the provincial interior ministry told AFP on Wednesday that at the more than two-dozen sites hosting Chinese engineers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa security was stepped up.

    “Directives have been issued to all law enforcement agencies to enhance security for Chinese nationals and all other foreigners,” he said on condition of anonymity.

    “Instructions have also been given to foreign nationals to restrict their movements.”

    Information minister Attaullah Tarar told a press conference in Islamabad that security procedures would be reviewed “with a focus on identifying and addressing any gaps”.

    Meanwhile, further details emerged about the attack, which has yet to be claimed by any militant group.

    Local police officer Bakht Zahir said the five engineers killed near the city of Besham included four men and a woman, and that the bomber targeted the middle vehicle in a convoy of 12.

    “The suicide bomber rammed his vehicle into the convoy in the middle, detonating himself, causing the Chinese engineers’ vehicle to fall into a 180-foot-deep (55-metre) ravine and catch fire,” he said.

    Pakistan’s domestic chapter of the Taliban is the most active militant threat in the region, but the group’s spokesman denied involvement in a statement late Tuesday.

    China has inked more than two trillion dollars in contracts around the world under its Belt and Road investment scheme, with billions pouring into neighbouring Pakistan and aiding its crumbling economy.

    Since 2015, power plants, ports and transport projects have been under construction by joint Pakistani-Chinese teams in remote parts of the South Asian nation.

    But Chinese workers have frequently been targeted by militants hostile to outside influence, with some complaining Pakistanis are not getting a fair share of wealth from the huge projects.

    Tuesday’s attack came just days after militants attempted to storm offices of the Gwadar deepwater port in the southwest, considered a cornerstone of Chinese investment in Pakistan.

    It sparked a flurry of diplomatic activity at the Chinese embassy in Islamabad, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the foreign and interior ministers offering condolences in quick succession.

    China’s foreign ministry declared the countries “iron-clad friends” but asked Pakistan to “take effective measures to ensure the safety and security of Chinese nationals, projects, and institutions”.

  • PCB denies FICA’s claim of delay in PSL payment

    PCB denies FICA’s claim of delay in PSL payment

    The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has denied the claims of Federation of International Cricketers Associations (FICA) about delay in Pakistan Super League (PSL) payments.

    The FICA report on payments in league cricket alleged irregularities in the leagues over the past 24 months. Report said that several leagues, including the PSL and IPL, have received complaints on the issue of payments.

    After the FICA report, PCB contacted the cricketers’ association and rejected the allegations.

    Director International PCB Usman Wahla says that the FICA report has misrepresented the PSL, FICA has been informed in writing about its reservations on the report.

    Usman said that there was no case of payment delay in all the 9 editions of PSL.

  • Khawaja Asif says Afghanistan ‘source of terrorism’

    Khawaja Asif says Afghanistan ‘source of terrorism’

    Federal Minister for Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan is unlike any other border in the world – terming Afghanistan a ‘source of terrorism’ for Pakistan.

    In a post on X, formerly Twitter, he said, “In view of the increase in terrorist incidents, there is a need for a fundamental change in the border situation. The source of terrorism in Pakistan is in Afghanistan and despite our efforts, Kabul is not making any progress in this direction.”

    He also stated that Afghan authorities were aware of all the terrorist hideouts of Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) operating against Pakistan inside their territory but cooperation from Afghans on this has been negligible.

    The Minister’s comments came in the aftermath of the unfortunate terrorist attack that claimed the lives of six people including five Chinese engineers in Shangla. More importantly, over the past few days a string of terrorist attacks took place including Gawadar Port Authority Complex, PNS Siddiqi naval airbase in Turbat.

  • Leaks suggest iPhone 16 Pro Max will feature a 6.9-inch display

    Leaks suggest iPhone 16 Pro Max will feature a 6.9-inch display

    New images purportedly showcasing dummy models of the upcoming iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro have surfaced, offering enthusiasts a tantalising glimpse into the potential design evolution.

    Shared initially on the Chinese platform Baolin Video and subsequently disseminated by a Weibo user, these visuals have ignited speculation among tech aficionados.

    Pro models to get bigger

    One notable revelation from the leaked images is the difference in size between the standard and Pro variants. Reports suggest that the iPhone 16 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro Max are poised to expand to 6.3 and 6.9 inches, respectively. In contrast, the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus are anticipated to maintain the familiar 6.1 and 6.7-inch dimensions reminiscent of recent iPhone iterations.

    Redesigned aesthetics

    While the dimensions of the standard iPhone 16 models remain consistent, discernible alterations adorn their backs and sides. Notably, the dummy models feature a redesigned camera block, housing vertically aligned lenses. This adjustment is believed to accommodate spatial video recording capabilities, a feature currently exclusive to the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

    Innovative button configuration

    The leaked images also shed light on an intriguing departure from convention: the replacement of the traditional mute slider with an action button on the left edge of the iPhone 16 dummy. This transition mirrors the existing configuration found solely on the iPhone 15 Pro models. Moreover, speculation abounds regarding the elongated nature of the Action button, a potential ergonomic enhancement over its predecessor.

    Introducing the capture button

    A noteworthy addition visible on both dummy models is the introduction of a capture button—a dedicated key located beneath the power button, speculated to function as a camera shutter button. Unlike conventional physical buttons protruding from the device’s frame, the capture button is purportedly an inductive or capacitive mechanism seamlessly integrated into the side rail.

    Anticipated revelations and continued speculation

    As the tech community eagerly awaits the official unveiling, these leaks offer but a glimpse into the myriad innovations anticipated with Apple’s next-generation iPhones. With the expected launch window in early September looming on the horizon, enthusiasts can anticipate a deluge of further revelations.

    Among the speculated enhancements are a more robust chipset tailored to support cutting-edge generative AI functionalities and the integration of 48MP ultrawide cameras for the Pro variants.

  • AirCar technology purchased by Chinese company for exclusive use

    AirCar technology purchased by Chinese company for exclusive use

    A Chinese firm has acquired the technology behind a flying car, originally developed and tested in Europe. This AirCar, powered by a BMW engine and conventional fuel, completed a 35-minute flight between two Slovakian airports in 2021, utilising standard runways for take-off and landing. Its transformation from car to aircraft took just over two minutes.

    The Hebei Jianxin Flying Car Technology Company, based in Cangzhou, has obtained exclusive rights to manufacture and operate AirCar aircraft within a designated region in China. The company, after acquiring technology from a Slovak aircraft manufacturer, has established its own airport and flight school.

    China, known for spearheading the electric vehicle revolution, is now actively pursuing aerial transport solutions. Recently, Autoflight conducted a successful test flight of a passenger-carrying drone, drastically reducing travel time between Shenzhen and Zhuhai. Meanwhile, eHang, another Chinese firm, received safety certification for its electric flying taxi in 2023, with the UK government anticipating regular flying taxi operations by 2028.

    Unlike vertical take-off and landing drones, AirCar operates on traditional runways, presenting challenges in infrastructure, regulation, and public acceptance. While the sale details remain undisclosed, AirCar received airworthiness certification in 2022 and gained attention through a video by YouTuber Mr. Beast.

    Despite the excitement surrounding prototypes like AirCar, practical implementation may involve mundane aspects such as queues and security checks, according to experts. However, similar concerns once surrounded electric cars, which China has since dominated in the global market. The sale of AirCar raises speculation about China’s potential influence in the flying car industry.

  • Gold price surges to Rs229,500 per tola

    Gold price surges to Rs229,500 per tola

    The local bullion market saw a modest rise on Wednesday, with 24-karat gold fetching Rs229,500 per tola, marking a Rs100 increase from the previous session.

    Last week, gold prices had surged by Rs700 per tola. According to the Karachi Sarafa Association, the price of 24-karat gold rose to Rs196,760 per 10 grammes, up by Rs86.

    Additionally, 22-karat gold was priced at Rs180,363 per 10 grammes.

    Silver prices, however, remained steady, with 24-karat silver maintaining its price at Rs2,580 per tola and Rs2,211.93 per 10 grammes.

    Internationally, spot gold approached its all-time high, trading at $2,181.6 an ounce, marking a 0.13 per cent increase for the day.

    Investors are closely observing the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) index data, which serves as the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure of inflation.

    This data could offer insights into when the Federal Reserve might begin reducing interest rates. Lower interest rates typically benefit precious metals like gold, which do not yield interest.

  • Petrol prices expected to see notable increase next week

    Petrol prices expected to see notable increase next week

    Consumers already grappling with the burdens of inflation may soon face another blow as reports indicate an imminent hike in petroleum prices within the country.

    Recent assessments suggest a potential increase in petrol prices by over Rs9 per liter commencing April 1. This surge could propel the new price range for petrol from Rs279.75 to Rs289.25.

    Furthermore, there are indications that the government is contemplating raising the petroleum levy from Rs60 to Rs100.

    The petroleum development levy has undergone various adjustments in recent fiscal years, witnessing a notable escalation during FY-2023.

    Sources reveal that the federal government is deliberating a proposal to either subject petroleum to General Sales Tax (GST) or elevate the existing levy rate to fulfill IMF requisites for reinstating an 18 per cent GST on petrol.

    The proposed budget for the upcoming financial year outlines plans to increase the petroleum levy from Rs60 to Rs100 per liter.

    Presently, a levy of Rs60 per liter is imposed on both petrol and diesel, yielding an estimated annual revenue of Rs950 billion. Since March 2022, GST on petroleum products has been maintained at zero levels.

    In the initial budget drafts, GST was slated to be set at 18 per cent, in alignment with International Monetary Fund stipulations calling for the restoration of the standard GST rate.

    On March 15, the government opted to maintain the price of petrol while reducing the cost of high-speed diesel by Rs1.77 per litre.

    Petrol prices, fuel prices, government policy, petroleum levy, inflation, consumer concerns,

  • Teenager muslim ‘hero’ credited for saving more than 100 in Moscow attack

    Teenager muslim ‘hero’ credited for saving more than 100 in Moscow attack

    A 15-year-old boy is being credited with saving over 100 people from the terrorist massacre at a Moscow concert hall on Friday.


    The teen, Islam Khalilov, who worked as a cloakroom attendant at the Crocus City Hall, quickly moved to open doors and provide exits when he saw a large crowd of people running from the besieged concert hall.


    “At first we heard some strange sounds on the first floor. We thought maybe some noisy group had come,” he explained later in an interview, according to the Daily Mail. “I understood that if I didn’t react, I would lose my life and the lives of many people,” he added.


    “We were shown and told where to send people if something happened. I knew where to take people to keep them safe,” Khalilov said.


    Islam recalled seeing one of the terrorists and how it scared him. “To be honest I don’t consider myself a hero. It was part of my job. It is better to sacrifice oneself than allow a hundred people to die,” the boy stated in a humble tone while talking to Al Jazeera.


    Russian children’s rights commissioner awarded Khalilov and 14-year-old Artyom Donskov-who was also working at the venue during the attack-with an official thank-you letter from the government.


    Russia’s Council of Muftis announced that it would award Khalilov with the Medal for Merit, the highest award of Russia’s Islamic community in the upcoming Friday prayer at Moscow’s Cathedral Mosque, reports The Moscow Times.


    At least 139 people were killed in last Friday’s attack. Russian authorities have arrested 11 suspects, four of whom they say were directly involved in the massacre.

  • Jailed Indian opposition politician to run capital from cell

    Jailed Indian opposition politician to run capital from cell

    A senior Indian opposition politician will run the capital from his prison cell, a senior aide said Tuesday, facing down growing calls by rivals demanding he resign.

    Arvind Kejriwal, chief minister of New Delhi and a key leader in an opposition alliance formed to compete against Prime Minister Narendra Modi in upcoming elections, was arrested on Thursday in connection with a long-running corruption probe.

    Atishi Marlena Singh, New Delhi’s education minister and fellow member of Kejriwal’s Aam Aadmi Party (Common Man Party, AAP), said “statutory and constitutional provisions” allowed him to remain in his post while behind bars.

    “We are very clear that Arvind Kejriwal will remain the chief minister of Delhi,” Singh, 42, told AFP.

    “If he were to resign when there’s been no trial and no conviction, it opens up the route for other opposition chief ministers to be removed,” she added.

    India’s main financial investigation agency, the Enforcement Directorate (ED), which arrested Kejriwal, has launched probes into at least four other state chief ministers or their family members.

    All the investigations involve political opponents of Modi’s ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

    While Modi enjoys high levels of support among his backers, critics accuse him of using law enforcement agencies to intimidate opposition leaders.

    Kejriwal, 55, denies the charges against him.

    His supporters, who held a rally in the city on Tuesday demanding his release, say charges against him are politically motivated and aimed at sidelining challengers of Modi ahead of the polls.

    Modi’s political opponents and international rights groups have long sounded the alarm on India’s shrinking democratic space.

    “All the centre has to do is file some fake cases, and then the ED goes and arrests them”, according to Singh.

    Nearly a billion Indians will vote to elect a new government in six-week-long parliamentary elections starting on April 19, the largest democratic exercise in the world.

    Many analysts see Modi’s re-election as a foregone conclusion, partly due to the resonance of his assertive Hindu-nationalist politics with members of the country’s majority faith.

    Hundreds of BJP loyalists held a rival march through New Delhi on Tuesday, chanting support for Modi and demanding Kejriwal resign.

    “You can run a gang from jail but not a government,” BJP lawmaker Manoj Tiwari told the crowd. “A government cannot be run from prison”.

    In February, Jharkhand state’s chief minister Hemant Soren was arrested and jailed on corruption charges.

    Soren, who denies all charges, resigned and handed power to a colleague.