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  • Pakistan ships first rare earth minerals to US under $500m deal

    Pakistan ships first rare earth minerals to US under $500m deal

    Pakistan has dispatched its first-ever shipment of rare earth and critical minerals to the United States, marking the operational launch of a $500 million strategic partnership between the two nations.

    The historic cargo comes after US Strategic Metals (USSM) and Pakistan’s Frontier Works Organization (FWO) signed a deal at the Prime Minister’s House in Islamabad last month, according to PR Newswire. Senior authorities from both countries attended the ceremony.

    The agreement sets a framework for joint exploration, processing, and production of mineral concentrates, with plans to establish refining facilities within Pakistan in the next phase.

    “In a historic milestone for bilateral cooperation, Pakistan has successfully delivered its first batch of enriched rare earth elements and critical minerals to US Strategic Metals in the United States,” PR Newswire reported.

     
    USSM CEO Stacy W. Hastie hailed the partnership as “a major step forward” in strengthening economic ties. 

    “We see this as the first step in our exciting journey together with the Frontier Works Organization of Pakistan to provide critical minerals to the United States and bolster trade and friendship between our two countries,” he said.

    Analysts view the development as a potential game-changer for Pakistan’s underdeveloped mineral sector, which holds vast untapped reserves of copper, gold, lithium, and rare earth elements.

    With this shipment, Pakistan is emerging as a key player in the global critical minerals market, aligning its resource potential with the strategic needs of advanced industries in the US and beyond.

  • Pakistan stands out at second-most improved economy averting default risk: expert

    Pakistan stands out at second-most improved economy averting default risk: expert

    Pakistan has recorded one of the sharpest drops in default risk in Emerging Markets (EM), second only to Turkiye, said Khurram Schehzad, Adviser to the Finance Minister, on Sunday.

    Citing a Bloomberg report in his post on X, Schehzad said that the country recorded a 22% reduction in sovereign default risk over the last 15 months (from June 2024 to September 2025) as measured by CDS-implied default probability.

    The 22% reduction is the sharpest decline among major EMs, in contrast to rising default risks in countries such as Argentina, Egypt, and Nigeria, among others, he stated.

    Schehzad was of the view that the drop in the default risk signalled strengthening investor confidence in Pakistan’s economy.

    He stated that investor confidence improved following structural reforms, timely debt servicing, staying the course with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme, and positive ratings from global agencies.

    Pakistan is steadily rebuilding market credibility, Schehzad said, adding that the country was standing out as one of the most improved sovereign credit stories in the EM universe.

    The reduction in the default risks comes amid Pakistan’s ongoing negotiations with the IMF.

    Earlier this month, Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb said that talks with the IMF were heading in the “right direction”.

    Expressing his satisfaction over the pace of talks with the Washington-based lender, the finance minister said that the government was confident of boosting Pakistan’s tax-to-GDP ratio to 11%.

  • Saudi Arabia’s GO Group to set up AI hub in Pakistan

    Saudi Arabia’s GO Group to set up AI hub in Pakistan

    Saudi Arabia’s GO Telecommunications Group has announced plans to launch “GO AI Hub Pakistan”, a centre focused on artificial intelligence and digital innovation. The announcement was made during a meeting at the company’s Riyadh headquarters with Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Information Technology and Telecommunication, Shaza Fatima Khawaja.

    An official statement indicated that both parties talked about collaborating in areas such as digital infrastructure, AI development, and enhancing human capital. The initiative aims to foster joint innovation, knowledge exchange, and capacity building between the two nations.

    The “GO AI Hub Pakistan” is planned for a formal launch in October 2025, with senior officials from both governments and industry stakeholders expected to participate. The project signifies a major advancement in technological collaboration between Saudia Arabia and Pakistan.

    Talks also included upcoming initiatives related to data centre development, expansion of digital infrastructure, and training technical personnel in Pakistan. The partnership is part of broader efforts to improve regional digital connectivity and establish a foundation for innovation-driven growth.

    Minister Shaza Fatima recognized GO Group’s proficiency in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data-driven solutions, highlighting the company’s role in promoting technology adoption in the region. She also reiterated Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s Digital Nation Vision Pakistan, which seeks to establish the country as a regional leader in digital transformation and innovation.

    The creation of GO AI Hub Pakistan is anticipated to facilitate ongoing collaboration between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan in emerging technologies and the nurturing of digital ecosystems. It underscores an increasing focus on incorporating AI-driven solutions across public and private sectors to align with evolving global technological standards.

  • Cyclone Shakti intensifies off Karachi coast, expected to shift direction within 24 hours

    Cyclone Shakti intensifies off Karachi coast, expected to shift direction within 24 hours

    Cyclone Shakti, currently traversing across the northeastern Arabian Sea, is moving closer to the coast of Pakistan as it gains strength, a report from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has stated. 

    The weather system is situated approximately 390 kilometers south-southwest of Karachi. In the past 12 hours, it has continued to progress westward due to favorable atmospheric conditions. 

    The PMD indicated that the cyclone is expected to follow this path until October 5, after which it may shift northwest towards the central-northern Arabian Sea. In the next 24 hours, a further change in direction is anticipated, with a movement toward the east-northeast while gradually weakening.

    Wind speeds at the center of the cyclone were measured between 110 and 125 kilometers per hour on Saturday evening. The department cautioned that this will result in high sea waves in the northern Arabian Sea. 

    Winds along the Sindh coast could reach speeds of up to 55 kilometers per hour, creating rough and hazardous sea conditions. Fishermen have been urged to refrain from deep-sea activities until conditions improve.

    The Cyclone Warning Centre in Karachi is diligently monitoring the movement and intensity of the weather system.

  • Man accused of molesting child injured after accidentally shooting himself during arrest

    Man accused of molesting child injured after accidentally shooting himself during arrest

    A man accused of sexually abusing multiple children was injured when a pistol tucked in his waistband accidentally went off as police tried to arrest him in Jahanian.

    Saleem Iqbal is currently being treated at the nearby Civil Hospital while being held by the police.

    According to officials, three separate cases had already been registered against Iqbal at the Jahanian Police Station before his arrest attempt turned chaotic.

    The first incident happened on August 20, when Iqbal was accused of abducting 11-year-old Junaid, the son of a man named Safdar. 

    He allegedly tried to attack the child after luring him onto his motorcycle while posing as the boy’s father’s friend, and took him to a desolate area. The boy managed to escape after screaming for help, and Iqbal fled the scene.

    The suspect allegedly targeted another 11-year-old child from Ghareeb Abad in another case that was reported on September 15.

    Just weeks later, on September 29, Iqbal allegedly tried to abduct a seven-year-old girl named Sabiha Noor, as she was heading to a nearby grocery store. Using the same trick, he convinced her to accompany him on his motorcycle before attempting to assault her.

  • 9 booked for threatening flood survey team in Sargodha

    9 booked for threatening flood survey team in Sargodha

    Police in Laksian registered a case on Sunday against nine individuals accused of threatening and obstructing an agriculture department survey team at gunpoint during a flood damage assessment in Kot Momin tehsil.

    Asad Abbas, the agriculture department team leader, filed a complaint alleging that the team was intercepted in Talib Wala area of Kot Momin by a group of armed men under the supervision of Ali Abbas. 

    The suspects threatened the team with dire consequences and forced them to  leave without completing their official duties.

    Police arrested eight unidentified and one identified suspect after receiving the complaint. District Police Officer (DPO) Sohaib Ashraf took notice of the incident and instructed the Kot Momin SDPO to ensure the suspects’ immediate arrest.

    Meanwhile, Sargodha Commissioner Jahanzeb Awan, along with Deputy Commissioner (retired Capt) Muhammad Waseem, visited various sites in Kot Momin to monitor the progress of flood damage assessment surveys in Khan Muhammad, Sial Mor, and Rahanwala areas.


    Survey teams informed officials on data collection methods and verification protocols throughout the visit. In order for impacted families to obtain compensation as soon as possible, the commissioner instructed teams to expedite the process and underlined the importance of accuracy and transparency at all stages.

    He added that two additional re-verification teams would review the records to eliminate any errors or omissions.

     The commissioner further stressed the importance of coordination between the district administration, PDMA, and the revenue department to ensure relief funds reach genuine victims without delay.

    In a another incident, a man was killed after being hit by a high-speed train near Bhalwal on Sunday.

    Ali Raza, a father of two, was hit on the Sargodha-Lalamusa railway route. Police gave the body to his relatives after completing the required procedures. An investigation into the incident has been started by the Railway Police.

    In another accident, two people lost their lives and two others were seriously injured when a speeding car plunged into a canal near Ghulapur Bangla in Kot Momin.

    The victims, Naveed Ahmed (38) and Muhammad Khan (45) from Kale Da Kot, died on the spot. The injured, identified as Bilal and Omar Hayat, were taken to the THQ Hospital for medical treatment.

  • Pakistani designer Hussain Rehar makes Paris debut

    Pakistani designer Hussain Rehar makes Paris debut

    Pakistani fashion designer Hussain Rehar has made a dazzling international statement as his label debuted in Paris with its latest collection, Jeevan Spring-Summer 2026, showcased at the prestigious Hotel de Maisons.

    Known for his intricate craftsmanship and bold modern aesthetics, Rehar’s entry into the Paris fashion scene marks a significant milestone in his design journey.

    The collection was unveiled in the heart of the fashion capital, where elegance meets innovation. Pictures were shared by the brand’s official Instagram handle, runway highlights captured the spirit of the event. The caption read: “Jeevan debuts in Paris. Jeevan presented Spring-Summer ‘26 at Hotel de Maisons; a study in craft, detail and modern form. The season meets the city of lights.”

    Rehar’s Jeevan collection was a visual spectacle, effortlessly blending traditional Pakistani craftsmanship with contemporary silhouettes. Several pieces featured mirror work, shimmery golden fabrics, and tilla embroidery, lending the runway a radiant, celebratory tone. Fabrics such as jamawar, net, and organza were intricately adorned with beading, embellishments, and hand embroidery, demonstrating a mastery of detail and texture.

    Each outfit spoke volumes of Rehar’s commitment to craft and his deep understanding of form and structure. With a fine balance between delicacy and boldness, the designer presented a fresh yet culturally rooted take on modern fashion.

    The use of heritage techniques with modern tailoring not only wowed the audience but also set a new benchmark for Pakistani fashion on global platforms. The collection’s styling and execution reflected Rehar’s vision and tireless dedication, an artistic journey that now stands proudly on an international stage.

    It merits a mention here that the designer named this collection after the name of his dog.

    The show took place at the Iconic Hotel de Maisons, a renowned Parisian venue known for hosting high-profile fashion events and elite gatherings.

    Hussain Rehar’s successful debut in Paris is not just a personal triumph but also a proud moment for the Pakistani fashion industry. One thing is for sure Pakistani fashion is set to rule the world as many Pakistani brands are now being opted by several international celebrities. Doja Cat, while promoting her new album Vie at a YouTube Music listening party in New York City, was seen carrying a striking yellow Hexella Baguette bag from Warp, a contemporary leather brand based in Lahore.

    Pakistani brand Rastah by Zain Ahmed has also been worn by stars like Justin Bieber, French Montana and Riz Ahmed.

  • Wasim Akram ends debate, declares Imran Khan Pakistan’s greatest cricketer EVER

    Wasim Akram ends debate, declares Imran Khan Pakistan’s greatest cricketer EVER

    Pakistan cricket legend Wasim Akram has shut down all debates over the country’s greatest player, declaring Imran Khan as the best ever produced by Pakistan.

    Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Akram wrote, “The best ever cricketer produced by Pakistan is one and only skipper Imran Khan and please finish this debate right now.”

    Earlier this year, the Sultan of Swing talked about his experience learning from Imran on the Stick To Cricket podcast hosted by Michael Vaughan, Sir Alastair Cook, David Lloyd, and Phil Tufnell. Akram said that whatever he achieved as a cricketer, both on and off the field, was because of Imran’s influence.

    “He was the best captain I played under. He gave us confidence, led from the front, and believed in his own ability,” Akram had said.

    The 59-year-old added that while people often called him naturally talented, Imran was not gifted in the same way but succeeded through sheer hard work and determination.

    “He wasn’t talented. He worked hard. He even changed his bowling action completely, something that takes months, sometimes  never works, but he did it,” Akram said, calling his former skipper “tough but fair.”

    Wasim, who made his international debut in 1984 under Imran’s captaincy, credited the skipper for shaping him into one of the finest bowlers in the world. The two later became key figures in Pakistan’s historic 1992 World Cup triumph, a victory that cemented Imran’s name in cricket history.

    Over his international career, Imran Khan played 88 Test matches, scoring 3,807 runs at an average of 37.69 with six centuries and 18 fifties, while taking 362 wickets at an exceptional average of 22.81. In 175 One Day Internationals, he amassed 3,709 runs at 33.41 and claimed 182 wickets, with a career-best figure of 6 for 14.

  • Old video of Abrar Ahmed saying he wants to ‘punch Shikhar Dhawan’ goes viral

    Old video of Abrar Ahmed saying he wants to ‘punch Shikhar Dhawan’ goes viral

    An old video of Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed saying that he would like to box with former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan. 

    The clip, recorded during the Pakistan Super League (PSL), has now resurfaced online.

    In the viral video, the interviewer asks Abrar, “Which player would you want to box with someone who really annoys you?” To this, Abrar confidently replies, “I want to do boxing, and I’d like Shikhar Dhawan to be in front of me.”

    The video, though old, has gone viral now, especially since Abrar has recently been in the spotlight after playing in the Asia Cup 2025 and the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

    Abrar is no stranger to controversy. His signature celebration, where he nods his head to sarcastically signal the batter to “walk off,” has already triggered plenty of reactions from Indian fans. Adding fuel to the fire, the spinner once posted a photo holding a cup of tea, which many linked to Pakistan’s famous “tea is fantastic” jibe after the 2019 downing of an Indian Air Force jet. 

    Dhawan, meanwhile, has been in the spotlight for his ongoing verbal jabs with Shahid Afridi and for refusing to play in the World Championship of Legends match against the Pakistani lineup that included Afridi and other former stars.

  • Mohammad Amir finally breaks silence on cricket comeback

    Mohammad Amir finally breaks silence on cricket comeback

    Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has finally broken his silence over recent speculation about his cricketing future.

    In a statement shared on social media, Amir said, “For the past two or three days, I have been hearing that Mohammad Amir is making a comeback and taking back his retirement. No discussion has taken place with me about any comeback or withdrawing retirement, nor do I have any such plan. The decision I made regarding retirement is final.”

    He added that while many fans wanted him to return, he believed it was time for Pakistan cricket to move forward. “My fans say that I should come back, but Pakistan cricket also needs to move forward,” he said.

    Amir stressed the importance of giving young players consistent opportunities. “There are young players in the team. If the youngsters play consistently, in two or three years a strong team will be formed. I hope the team will be well-prepared for the World Cup. We played the Asia Cup final; now I hope we play the World Cup final and win as well,” he stated. 

    Speaking about recent reports that former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed might become the next chief selector, Amir said that even if Sarfaraz does not get the top post, including him in the selection committee would still be a positive step. “He has played with the current players and understands them well. Sarfaraz is an honest and straightforward person, and such people can benefit Pakistan cricket,” he said.

    The left-arm pacer also emphasized the need to involve more experienced cricketers in cricket administration and player development. “There should be good cricketers running cricket affairs. Many have come and gone, leaving things in a mess. Shoaib, Umar Gul, and Sohail Tanvir should be used in white-ball cricket, they have great expertise. Younis Khan should also be brought into the system; he is not a yes-man. We need to sit together and make decisions for the betterment of Pakistan cricket,” he said.

    Mohammad Amir’s comments come after years of back-and-forth regarding his cricketing career. 

    He first announced his retirement from international cricket in December 2020, citing issues with the team management and claiming he had suffered “mental torture.” In March 2024, he reversed that decision and made himself available for selection ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup.

    However, after Pakistan’s early exit from the tournament, Amir once again announced his retirement in December 2024.