NATIONALChina has urged Pakistan to continue mediation efforts related to Iran-US tensions and issues surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. The call came during a phone conversation between Wang Yi and Ishaq Dar, who also discussed regional stability and coordination with Kuwait.
BusinessPakistan’s economy grew 3.7pc in FY2025-26, below the official target of 4.2pc, while per capita income rose by $150 to $1,901. The Planning Ministry said services led growth, with industry and agriculture posting slower gains.
WorldThe United States will temporarily lift visa bond requirements for eligible World Cup ticket-holders from 50 countries, a State Department official said. The waiver also applies to eligible players, coaches and team staff registered through FIFA PASS by April 15, 2026.
NATIONALThe Supreme Court has ruled that mentioning full protocols in drug test reports under the unamended 2001 rules is directory, not mandatory. The 4-1 judgement resolves conflicting precedents on the evidentiary value of forensic reports in narcotics cases.
BusinessPakistan’s development spending remained slow in the first 10 months of FY26, with PSDP utilisation reaching 56pc despite a reduced budget. Official data showed actual spending of Rs469.9bn against releases of Rs571.2bn.
NATIONALPakistan’s passport has been ranked 100th in the latest Henley Passport Index, with visa-free access to 30 destinations. The index shows Pakistan remains among the lowest-ranked countries despite some improvement since 2021.
NATIONALA pre-monsoon spell with thunderstorms and hail injured 12 people, including four women and two children, in parts of Balochistan. The storm also damaged mud houses, trees, signboards and electricity poles in and around Dera Murad Jamali.
PoliticsBalochistan Awami Party chief Khalid Hussain Magsi has rejected reports of a merger with PML-N, saying BAP will remain an independent political force. He also urged an end to rumours about political arrangements in the province.
CITYKarachi dairy farmers have demanded an immediate Rs100 per litre increase in fresh milk prices, warning that production may stop otherwise. Officials say costs have risen, but a further hike is not under consideration at present.
WorldA planned $1.1 billion Trump-branded hotel and apartment tower on Australia’s Gold Coast has been scrapped. Developer David Young said the Trump brand had become ‘toxic to Australians’, though he still hopes to complete the project under another luxury brand.
CITYKarachi recorded a maximum temperature of 40.1°C on Wednesday as dusty winds swept across the city. The Met Office said hot and dry weather is likely to continue in most parts of Sindh.
HEALTHThe Sindh High Court has sought a detailed report within two weeks on the disputed Rs2.133 billion procurement of robotic surgery systems for Liaquat University Hospital. The petition alleges irregularities in bidding, inflated pricing and proposed third-party payments.
