BusinessS&P flags Pakistan as most exposed APAC economy in prolonged Middle East war
S&P Global Market Intelligence says Pakistan faces the highest macro-financial stress risk in Asia-Pacific under a prolonged Middle East war scenario. It projects GDP growth at 3.2% in FY2027 and warns of pressure on inflation, the current account and external financing.
May 19, 2026
BusinessCurrent account balance turns negative once more
Pakistan recorded a $324 million current account deficit in April 2026 as imports rose faster than exports, according to SBP data. Remittances and services exports provided support, but the trade gap widened sharply.
May 19, 2026
World5 dead, including 2 teen suspects, after shooting at San Diego's largest mosque
Police and emergency personnel responded to a reported active shooter situation at the Islamic Centre of San Diego in Clairemont on Monday. Officials confirmed a major law enforcement presence, while no casualties were mentioned in the source report.
May 19, 2026
NATIONALCDF Asim Munir rejects impact of external terror, propaganda
Field Marshal Asim Munir said propaganda, fake news and externally backed terrorism could not derail Pakistan’s progress during a visit to Quetta. ISPR said he also stressed peace in Balochistan required development, governance and security efforts together.
May 19, 2026
SportsPakistan lose both openers in pursuit of 437 against Bangladesh in Sylhet Test
Pakistan reached 101-2 at lunch on day four of the second Test in Sylhet after losing both openers in a chase of 437 against Bangladesh. Shan Masood and Babar Azam were unbeaten as Pakistan still needed 335 runs.
May 19, 2026
NATIONALKP seeks immediate restoration of CNG gas supply
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has asked Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to restore gas supply to the province’s CNG sector. He said K-P has a gas surplus and warned that diverting supply to fertiliser plants could trigger widespread agitation.
May 19, 2026
LocalTrade leader, brother shot dead in Pindi
A trader leader and his brother were shot dead by a motorcyclist in Gujar Khan, Rawalpindi, police said. In a separate incident, a 28-year-old worker died of smoke inhalation in a warehouse fire in Ganj Mandi.
May 19, 2026
HEALTHPsychiatrist warns of growing disconnection epidemic
A psychiatrist has warned that excessive screen use is eroding communication and trust within families. Dr Uzma Masroor said the International Day of Families also highlights the role of households in well-being, sustainable living and environmental responsibility.
May 19, 2026
NATIONALRana Sanaullah renews call for opposition talks in Senate session
Rana Sanaullah told the Senate that political issues should be resolved through dialogue and said a formal meeting between the prime minister and opposition leader could be held if needed. The Senate also processed several bills, including measures on juvenile justice, consumer protection and disabi
May 19, 2026
NATIONALFederal cabinet suspends market closure restrictions until May 31
The federal cabinet has suspended previously imposed market and business closing-time restrictions until May 31. The exemption applies to shops, malls, bazaars, restaurants, bakeries and grocery stores nationwide.
May 19, 2026
BusinessCCP clears CDC investment in Naymat Collateral Management
The Competition Commission of Pakistan has approved CDC’s proposed investment in Naymat Collateral Management Company after a Phase-I review. The regulator said the deal would not significantly affect competition because the two firms operate in separate business segments.
May 19, 2026
PoliticsFazlur Rehman urges Zardari to 'defend' 18th Amendment
Maulana Fazlur Rehman has urged President Asif Ali Zardari to protect the 18th Amendment amid speculation over a possible 28th Amendment. He also called for fresh elections and sought a parliamentary briefing on foreign affairs.
May 19, 2026