BusinessThe Arif Habib-led consortium has submitted a standby letter of credit and bank guarantee for the government’s remaining 25pc stake in PIA. The move advances the airline’s privatisation process, with full private control expected by early May.
CITYTwo detained suspects, identified as Alam Sher and Hashim, were killed in an alleged encounter in Lahore’s Chung area, police said. An inquiry has been launched under standard procedure for custodial deaths.
BusinessThe SECP has approved in principle a phased reform roadmap for exchange-traded funds after consultations with key market stakeholders. The plan includes wider AMC participation, broker incentives and a proposal to add passive products to the VPS.
NATIONALPakistan and Norway have signed an MoU allowing Pakistani seafarers to work on Norwegian-flagged vessels. The agreement recognises Pakistani training and certification and is expected to expand jobs and maritime cooperation.
NATIONALSecurity sources said the Pakistan Army targeted and destroyed multiple Afghan Taliban posts in the Chaman sector in response to what they described as unprovoked aggression. They said Operation Ghazab Lil Haq remains under way.
NATIONALThe Islamabad High Court has ordered the federal government to appoint a finance member to the Telecommunication Appellate Tribunal by May 18. The court warned that PM Shehbaz Sharif may be summoned if the delay continues.
WorldEU lawmakers have backed a consent-based definition of rape and urged the European Commission to propose bloc-wide legislation. The move follows the removal of a common rape definition from EU rules adopted in 2024 after opposition from some member states.
WorldKing Charles told the US Congress that Britain and the United States remain united in defending democracy despite differences over the Iran war. His remarks came during a four-day state visit to Washington.
NATIONALThe government has removed the licence requirement for net metering consumers using solar systems of up to 25kW. The change, approved by Nepra, will take effect from February 9, 2026.
NATIONALPunjab held its first comprehensive tourism showcase in Lahore, bringing public and private stakeholders together. Officials said the expo highlighted heritage, culture, eco-tourism and investment-ready projects across the province.
CITYThree men were shot dead in Faisalabad’s Lundianwala area after a dispute during wheat harvesting turned violent, police said. Authorities said two suspects, including a retired SP and his nephew, have been taken into custody.
BusinessOil prices retreated from earlier highs after the UAE said it would leave OPEC and OPEC+, but remained firm as the Strait of Hormuz stayed largely closed. Brent rose to $111.16 a barrel, while WTI climbed to $99.86.
