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  • Azerbaijan signs billion-dollar deal for JF-17 Thunder jets with Pakistan

    Azerbaijan signs billion-dollar deal for JF-17 Thunder jets with Pakistan

    A $4.2 billion deal for the acquisition of JF-17 Thunder Block III aircraft, jointly produced by Pakistan and China, has reportedly been signed between Baku and Islamabad.

    According to media reports, Azerbaijan is expanding its initial purchase of JF-17 Thunder Block III fighter jets, increasing the number from 16 to a striking 40 units.

    In February 2024, Azerbaijan signed a $1.6 billion contract to acquire 16 JF-17 advanced multirole aircraft, which were reportedly delivered in September of the same year.

    Read More: Here’s how Pakistani intelligence obtained footage of IAF’s downed Rafale

    Reports suggest that the deal marked a significant enhancement of Azerbaijan’s aerial capabilities and deepened its defence cooperation with Pakistan. The latest agreement positions Pakistan among Azerbaijan’s top military suppliers, alongside Turkey, Russia, and Israel.

    According to unconfirmed reports, as of 2025, over 160 JF-17s have been built. Approximately 145 are in operational service with Pakistan, while 16 have been delivered to Myanmar, Azerbaijan, and three to Niger.

    While official confirmation from Baku and Islamabad remains pending, Dr Ahmad Shahidov, Chairman of the Azerbaijan Institute for Democracy and Human Rights and a journalist, took to X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday to announce that a $4.2 billion deal for JF-17 Block III fighter jets between the two countries has been signed.

    “Today marks more than just a military agreement. It’s a statement of brotherhood, trust, and a shared vision for the future. Azerbaijan and Pakistan, two brotherly nations, have come together to make our skies stronger, safer, and better equipped,” he wrote.

    Shahidov further stated that the acquisition of JF-17 Thunder Block III fighter jets is not just an upgrade of the air fleet but “securing our people, safeguarding our homeland’s sovereignty, and standing tall in our region”.

    “What makes this moment even prouder is that it was done hand-in-hand with our brothers in Pakistan. Through every trial and triumph, we have stood together — now, we soar together in the skies!” he added.

    Meanwhile, Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev reaffirmed their shared commitment to diversifying the strategic partnership through investment in mutually beneficial areas, the Government of Pakistan (GOP) stated in a post on X on Tuesday.

    During a pivotal bilateral meeting held in Lachin yesterday, the two leaders reportedly discussed the full spectrum of bilateral relations and expressed satisfaction with the growing political, economic, defence, and cultural cooperation between Islamabad and Baku.

    The Prime Minister also thanked Azerbaijan for its unwavering support during the recent escalation between nuclear-armed neighbours Pakistan and India.

  • SBP purchases $5.9 billion to build reserves

    SBP purchases $5.9 billion to build reserves

    The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has accumulated $5.9 billion from the currency market since the start of fiscal year (FY) 2024-25 by utilising stronger remittance inflows. According to reports, the SBP aims to build up its foreign exchange reserves even as it continues to receive financial support from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and allied nations.

    According to data compiled by a reputable domestic brokerage house, the SBP purchased a staggering $223 million in February alone. The total volume of market purchases during the first nine months of FY 2024-25 reportedly suggests that the SBP wants to accrue a respectable amount of reserves, which has caused analysts to outline how the SBP’s purchase of dollars in the aforementioned period might be the largest in recent history.

    Despite these efforts, the SBP has fallen short of its reserves target. After initially forecasting modest inflows, the SBP revised its expectations upwards, setting a new goal of $14 billion in reserves while simultaneously projecting remittances to reach $38 billion by the end of FY25.

    Following a $1 billion IMF disbursement received on May 16, SBP’s reserves rose to a respectable $11.5 billion. Reports claim that this figure indicates that nearly half of the reserve accumulation has come from dollar buying in the open market.

    Currency dealers report that despite ample liquidity, the SBP has continued to restrict import activity. Pakistan’s trade deficit in April hit a new high, while FY 2024-25 also witnessed record-high profit repatriation by foreign companies.

    For reference, repatriation of profits by foreign companies indicates a movement of funds out of the domestic market. Persistently high trade deficits and repatriation of profits abroad have reportedly pressured Pakistan’s external account.

    At the same time, Pakistan is set to receive further external support. Reports reveal that a $1.4 billion inflow is expected under the IMF’s Resilience and Sustainability Facility. Moreover, the domestic financial sector claims that Pakistan has been successful in inking a $1 billion agreement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which will result in an inflow of funds likely in the coming weeks.

    On the investment front, foreign direct investment during the first ten months of the fiscal year slightly lagged behind the previous year’s tally. However, analysts believe that a firm and strategic response to recent Indian aggression has helped Pakistan reassert its regional presence. Some see this as a potential catalyst for improved investor sentiment and renewed interest in long-term commitments to the country.

  • I wanted Azlan to be old enough to consent to my marriage: Mahira Khan

    I wanted Azlan to be old enough to consent to my marriage: Mahira Khan

    Superstar Mahira Khan has shared how her son Azlan influenced her decision to remarry. Speaking on Ahmed Ali Butt’s podcast, she revealed that while she had considered marriage earlier, she chose to wait until Azlan was mature enough to understand and support her choice.

    “I wanted to get married a few years ago, but Azlan was still young. I needed his consent,” she shared. “I wanted my son to ask me to get married again. And eventually, it was Azlan who encouraged me.”

    Mahira explained that she had fears about taking such a big step, especially as a single mother. “When Azlan was little and I thought about a second marriage, I used to think what if it doesn’t work out? What will happen to my son?”

    She shared that life with her son and family was already peaceful, and she did not want to take any risks unless her son was ready. When he finally gave his support, she felt confident to move forward.

    Mahira Khan first married Ali Askari in 2007. The couple had a son, Azlan, and parted ways in 2015 after eight years of marriage. In October 2023, Mahira tied the knot with businessman Saleem Karim.

    Reflecting on her first marriage, Mahira said she has no regrets, calling her son the most precious gift of her life. “If I hadn’t gone through my first marriage, I wouldn’t have received the best and most precious gift in the world, my son Azlan.”

    She also shared that she maintains good and friendly relations with her ex-husband, Ali Askari, and his wife, Zara.

    “It gave me my son, and that’s the best gift anyone could ever receive,” Mahira concluded.

  • $500M startup Builder.ai crashes after fake sales uncovered

    $500M startup Builder.ai crashes after fake sales uncovered

    Microsoft-backed Builder.ai has collapsed after an internal probe revealed potentially fake sales, leading the company to cut its revenue estimate to just a quarter of what was previously reported.

    One of the most well-funded tech start-ups in the UK, Builder.ai raised almost $500 million from well-known investors, including Qatar’s sovereign wealth fund. Earlier this week, the company informed employees that it would begin insolvency proceedings after its lenders declared a default.

    Builder.ai reportedly submitted provisional accounts to its auditor showing significant drops in previously reported income, prompting the lenders to step in.

    According to these estimates, the previously reported 2023 total sales figure of $180 million would be restated to approximately $45 million, while the 2024 revenue estimate of $220 million was lowered to around $55 million, sources said.

    The start-up’s founder, Sachin Dev Duggal, supervised the submission of the earlier sales figures to the board. He stepped down as chief executive earlier this year, along with the company’s chief revenue officer, Varghese Cherian.

    Duggal, however, retained the honorary title of “chief wizard” and a seat on the board. According to reports, one of the issues preceding Duggal’s exit was that many previously booked sales remained uncollected for long periods.

    These long-standing unpaid invoices concerned the board and new management regarding revenue recognition at the company, and they commissioned a law firm to conduct an internal investigation.

    The findings of the investigation were reportedly presented to the company’s senior leadership and other stakeholders last week, raising serious concerns about the legitimacy of previously recorded revenues.

    The law firm suggested there may have been a deliberate effort to inflate revenues at Builder.ai. The investigation focused on supposed “resellers” – intermediaries who allegedly sold Builder.ai’s products to clients, especially those based in the Middle East.

    According to the two sources, the investigation raised doubts about whether some of these resellers were legitimate.

    Builder.ai claims its use of artificial intelligence could make building a website or app “as easy as ordering a pizza.”

    That pitch attracted blue-chip backers like Microsoft, which is at the forefront of the AI revolution by supporting ChatGPT creator OpenAI.

    As previously reported by the Financial Times, the company borrowed $50 million from a group of tech-focused lenders in October. That loan resulted in Builder.ai’s insolvency earlier this month when its funds were seized.

    This group of lenders was reportedly led by Viola Credit, Atempo Growth, and Cadma Capital Partners.

    The latter is backed by Apollo Global Management, a private capital firm. Builder.ai stated that the company was “focused on the orderly wind down and preserving value for employees” and declined to comment.

    Cadma Capital declined to respond. Requests for comment from Duggal, Cherian, and the other lenders remain unanswered.

  • FIFA honours Shaheen Afridi alongside Football legends

    FIFA honours Shaheen Afridi alongside Football legends

    The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has paid a special tribute to Pakistan’s star fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi by featuring him alongside some of football’s biggest names.

    A recent post on the official FIFA World Cup Instagram account, shows a Shaheen Afridi jersey alongside the jerseys of football legends Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr, and Luka Modrić. All of these players are known for wearing the iconic number 10 jersey. The caption on the post said, “The iconic”, celebrating athletes who have made the number 10 jersey legendary.

    This is a proud moment for Pakistan. It is rare to see a cricketer’s greatness getting acknowledged by FIFA, and it shows how Shaheen’s popularity is rising in international sports. 

    According to reports, FIFA shared the post as part of its efforts to connect with Pakistani fans ahead of the upcoming World Cup. FIFA’s digital teams are working in different countries to increase fan engagement through social media.

    Shaheen recently led Lahore Qalandars to their third PSL title, making him the only captain to achieve this milestone.

  • Youm-e-Takbeer: PM, president reaffirm resolve to protect sovereignty, integrity

    Youm-e-Takbeer: PM, president reaffirm resolve to protect sovereignty, integrity

    President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity as the nation marks the 27th anniversary of its nuclear tests.

    In response to India’s nuclear test, conducted in May 1998 in Rajasthan, Pakistan carried out underground nuclear tests on May 28 1998, in the Chagai District of Balochistan, marking the country’s first public demonstration of its nuclear weapons capability.

    Pakistan became the seventh nation in the world, and the first Muslim-majority country, to possess nuclear arms.

    On May 10, 1998, two days after the initial test, Pakistan conducted another nuclear test, known as Chagai-II.

    On the occasion of Youm-e-Takbeer, President Zardari stated that amid the evolving regional security situation, Pakistan’s nuclear capability continues to serve as a credible minimum deterrent, one that guarantees peace and ensures that no one can compromise the country’s sovereignty and national security.

    “On this momentous occasion of Youm-e-Takbeer, I extend my heartfelt felicitations to the entire nation. Today, we observe the 27th anniversary of Youm-e-Takbeer, a day when we demonstrated our nuclear capabilities and established strategic deterrence,” he said.

    “This day serves as a reminder of our commitment to safeguarding the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of our beloved country,” he added.

    The president underscored that the nation, on this day, pays rich tribute to the scientists, engineers, and the civil and military leadership whose dedication and commitment made this achievement possible.

    “We also pay tribute to Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who laid the foundation of Pakistan’s nuclear programme, which made the country’s defence impregnable. We also acknowledge the role of Benazir Bhutto, whose stewardship further advanced and strengthened our nuclear programme,” he said.

    Referring to the recent Indian aggression, the president stated that Pakistan had shown strategic patience and reaffirmed its firm commitment to peace.

    “Our calibrated response, under Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, was measured and effective, which forced the enemy to cease its hostile actions,” President Zardari added.

    PM Shehbaz also hailed Pakistan’s nuclear journey and urged the nation to come together with renewed resolve to turn the country into an economic power.

    In his message to commemorate May 28, the prime minister thanked Allah Almighty and congratulated the people of Pakistan. He said: “Today on Youm-e-Takbeer, I thank Allah Almighty and congratulate from the core of my heart the entire nation and all patriotic Pakistanis.”

    PM Shehbaz linked this year’s commemoration with what he described as Pakistan’s recent success in defending itself from “an unjustified war imposed by India”. He hailed the nation’s spirit during the May 6–10 confrontation, stating: “The joys of Youm-e-Takbeer have further increased for a nation filled with victory.”

    Reflecting on the historic nuclear tests of May 28, 1998, conducted under the leadership of then-prime minister and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) supremo Nawaz Sharif, the prime minister stated that the decision to respond with six nuclear tests, compared to India’s five, demonstrated an “iron resolve” in the face of global pressure and sanctions.

    “I salute the nation, which made immense sacrifices for the completion of the nuclear programme and wrote a proud story of its determination and faith,” he added.

    The Armed Forces of Pakistan, along with the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and Services Chiefs (CJCSC), also extended heartfelt felicitations to the people of Pakistan.

    “Youm-e-Takbeer commemorates the momentous occasion in 1998 when Pakistan emerged as a nuclear power—restoring the strategic balance in South Asia and asserting its sovereign right to self-defence. This historic achievement epitomizes the nation’s resolve, unity, and unwavering pursuit of a dignified and peaceful existence,” Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) has said in a statement.

    The military’s media wing stated that Pakistan’s strategic capability is a national trust, reflecting the collective aspirations of its people. The commemoration of Youm-e-Takbeer is a tribute to the foresight of visionary leadership, the brilliance of our scientists and engineers, and the countless contributions of all those who have made Pakistan’s defence unassailable.

    The Armed Forces of Pakistan reiterate their unwavering resolve to defend the motherland against all threats across the full spectrum of conflict. “As responsible custodians of the nation’s strategic assets, we reaffirm that our nuclear capability remains solely for defensive purposes and stands as a guarantor of peace”, said the ISPR.

    “Let this day renew our collective pledge to remain vigilant, united, and resolute in our commitment to the security, progress, and prosperity of our beloved homeland.

    “The armed forces stand in solidarity with the nation, honouring the sacrifices that made this milestone possible and continuing the journey toward strength, stability, and self-reliance,” the military’s media wing maintained.

  • India targets 15-year-old Pakistani player, gets exposed

    India targets 15-year-old Pakistani player, gets exposed

    Pakistan’s U16 Davis Cup campaign in Kazakhstan ended with a tough 0-2 loss against India in the 11th-place playoff match of the Asia-Oceania Junior Davis Cup. However, Indian media once again turned a sporting event into a propaganda opportunity by targeting a 15-year-old Pakistani player through a misleading video.

    A short video clip went viral three days after the match, showing the young Pakistani player appearing frustrated and making a hand gesture, followed by a shrug. Indian media outlets quickly twisted the footage, labelling the player as aggressive and unsportsmanlike. This one-sided narrative was widely circulated on Indian social media, triggering a wave of hateful comments from Indian users on X (formerly Twitter).

    Pakistani sports journalist Faizan Lakhani, however, stepped in to clarify the truth and call out the biased reporting.

    “Give the kid a break. He’s only 15 years old. He lost the match from a leading position and was frustrated with himself after such a tense game. Post the full video showing the player’s frustration after the loss, including how he cried afterwards. In the video, he can be heard saying, ‘I’m not mad at you’,” Lakhani stated.

    He further added, “The coaches from both sides shook hands as well. If there had been anything unsportsmanlike, the ITF would have fined the Pakistan team. Targeting a 15-year-old kid to push your hateful agenda is pathetic stuff.”

    The full version of the video, which Indian media did not show, captures the emotional moment when the Pakistani player breaks down in tears. His frustration was clearly directed at himself, not his Indian opponent. He even clarified during the interaction that he held no anger toward the Indian player.

    Yet, Indian social media users on X have posted abusive, hateful, and vulgar remarks directed at the 15-year-old Pakistani player.

  • Two sisters sexually assaulted at Karachi home; family suspects step father

    Two sisters sexually assaulted at Karachi home; family suspects step father

    Two sisters, aged 15 and 8, were sexually assaulted in their home in North Karachi, police and doctors have confirmed. 

    Police Surgeon Dr. Summaiya Syed said that the girls’ paternal and maternal uncles took them to Dr. Ruth Pfau Civil Hospital in Karachi around 5:30 p.m.

    Medical examination findings were “strongly suggestive of sexual violence.”

    Samples were collected for cross-matching, DNA profiling, and serology.

    There were signs of “severe physical violence” on both girls.  The eight-year-old’s condition was reported as severe.


    According to Dr. Summaiya, on May 25, the girls were brought to a government hospital in New Karachi after allegedly being subjected to assault and sexual harassment.

    Central SSP Zeeshan Shafiq Siddiqi said that their father had died four years ago and their mother had married another man and was living with her and her four children.

     He said the mother had told Khwaja Ajmer Nagri police that her daughters were “maltreated by an intruder”. 

    However, on Tuesday, the girls’ uncles informed hospital authorities that their stepfather had abused them.

    He said that the police are investigating the case.

  • US suspends student visa processing as Trump ramps up social media vetting

    US suspends student visa processing as Trump ramps up social media vetting

    US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Tuesday ordered a suspension of student visa processing as President Donald Trump’s administration ramps up vetting of their social media, according to an internal cable.

    It is the latest move that takes aim at international students, a major source of revenue for US universities, after Rubio rescinded hundreds of visas and the Trump administration moved to bar Harvard University from admitting any non-Americans.

    A cable signed by Rubio and seen by AFP orders embassies and consulates not to allow “any additional student or exchange visa… appointment capacity until further guidance is issued.”

    It said the State Department “plans to issue guidance on expanded social media vetting for all such applications.”

    The cable suggested that the suspension could be brief, telling embassies to receive new guidance in the “coming days,” although US missions already frequently see major backlogs in processing applications.

    State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce did not comment directly on the cable but said that “we take very seriously the process of vetting who it is that comes into the country.”

    “It’s a goal, as stated by the president and Secretary Rubio, to make sure that people who are here understand what the law is, that they don’t have any criminal intent, that they are going to be contributors to the experience here, however short or long their status,” she said.

    Asked if students seeking to study at US universities should expect visas to be ready before terms begin in the autumn, Bruce said only: “If you’re going to be applying for a visa, follow the normal process, the normal steps, (and) expect to be looked at.”

    Rubio last week told a Senate hearing that he has revoked “thousands” of visas since Trump took office on January 20.

    Rubio has used an obscure law that allows the secretary of state to remove foreigners for activities deemed counter to US foreign policy interests.

    The most visible targets have been students involved in activism over Gaza. Trump administration officials accused students of anti-Semitism, charges strenuously denied by a number of the people targeted.

  • 6 Easy Ways to Invest in Real Estate Market

    6 Easy Ways to Invest in Real Estate Market

    Real estate offers reliable wealth-building opportunities for investors at all levels. The real estate market has a huge scope world wide and is expected to grow at a value of  US $654.39tn by 2025. The market provides multiple entry points for beginners with modest savings and experienced investors with substantial capital. Modern real estate investing goes beyond traditional landlording to include diverse strategies for different risk tolerances and financial goals.

    What are the Popular Ways to Invest in Real Estate?

    A good investment is the one with a chance of growth and a solid return on your investment. You don’t need a lot of investment to enter the real estate market and that makes it one of the most popular mediums of investment. If you are looking for the best ways to invest in the real estate market, weigh the pros and cons, contact a renowned real estate developer for professional advice, and make a decision that you’ll not regret for years to come. Some of the options to invest in real estate are:

     

    Residential Rental Properties

    Residential properties create two wealth-building mechanisms: tenants pay down your mortgage while the property typically appreciates over time. This combination makes rental properties attractive for long-term investors.

    Pro Tip: Visit potential properties at different times of day and on weekends. Neighborhoods change dramatically, revealing issues you might miss during a standard daytime viewing.

    Single-family homes make good starter investments with manageable capital requirements and straightforward management. Starting with just one tenant relationship helps build experience with a property type you likely already understand.

     

    Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)

    REITs let you invest in real estate without buying property directly. These companies own and operate income-producing real estate across various sectors. Buying REIT shares gives you partial ownership in a diversified real estate portfolio.

    Publicly-traded REITs offer much better liquidity than physical properties. You can buy and sell shares during market hours just like stocks, avoiding the months-long process of property transactions.

    Did You Know? Some REITs have delivered average annual returns over 10% during the past 25 years, beating many stock market indexes.

     

    House Flipping

    House flipping is a fusion of real estate investing with project management. The strategy involves buying undervalued properties, renovating to increase value, then selling at a profit. Success depends on buying right, controlling renovation costs, and understanding local market preferences.

    Flipping works best in rising markets where appreciation adds to renovation-based gains. Quick execution matters—each month of ownership increases carrying costs and reduces profits.

    Insider Secret: Many successful flippers build relationships with probate attorneys who alert them to estate sales before properties hit the market.

     

    Real Estate Crowdfunding

    Crowdfunding platforms have opened access to large-scale investment opportunities. These online marketplaces let you invest in commercial developments and multi-family complexes with relatively small amounts of capital. 

    Crowdfunding helps you spread modest investments across multiple projects, creating diversification previously available only to institutional investors.

    Buyer Beware: Unlike REITs, most crowdfunding investments lock up your money until project completion. Many investors get surprised when they can’t access their capital during personal emergencies.

     

    Vacation Rentals

    Short-term rentals through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO can generate higher income than traditional long-term rentals in desirable locations, though with more intensive management.

    Seasonal fluctuations significantly impact performance. Ski properties might sit vacant during summer, while beach houses earn premium rates in warm seasons but struggle during off-periods.

    Smart Strategy: Create unique features that photograph well. A friend’s themed room in an otherwise standard rental increased bookings by 40% and justified a 15% rate premium.

     

    Read Also: Eddington Film Ignites Global Buzz With Its Bold Political Themes

     

    Commercial Real Estate

    Commercial properties typically have longer leases (three to ten years), providing stable income streams. However, vacant units can take significantly longer to fill than residential properties.

    Industrial properties like warehouses and distribution centers have gained value with e-commerce growth. These buildings generally require less management than residential or retail properties.

    Case Studies: Real estate investors reveal that the commercial property investment taught them that triple-net leases (where tenants pay taxes, insurance, and maintenance) create much more passive income than residential properties that constantly need attention.

    Investment Type

    Initial Investment

    Typical Annual Return

    Time Commitment

    Risk Level

    Liquidity

    Residential Rentals

    $20K-100K+ (down payment)

    5-10%

    High

    Medium

    Low

    REITs

    $500+

    3-8%

    Very Low

    Low-Medium

    High

    House Flipping

    $50K-100K+

    15-20% per project

    Very High

    High

    Medium

    Crowdfunding

    $1K-10K+

    8-12%

    Low

    Medium-High

    Very Low

    Vacation Rentals

    $50K-100K+ (down payment)

    8-15%

    High/Medium (managed)

    Medium-High

    Low

    Commercial Real Estate

    $100K-1M+

    6-12%

    Medium-Low

    Medium

    Low

    Your first investment probably won’t make you rich but will teach valuable market lessons. You can start with a duplex that barely breaks even but can give you the confidence and experience that lead to profitable ventures later.

    Conclusion

    Real estate is a great way to invest your hard earned money and grow your funds. The market has one of the highest potential of growth with each passing year globally, as the market was valued at USD 8537.74 Billion in 2022, and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.27% from 2023 to 2032. Look for the best way to invest in the real estate market as you have options ranging from residential to commercial and vacational to house flipping investments. Decide the best model for yourself based on the available resources and expected outcomes.