Powerus, a US drone manufacturer, has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Pakistan Army, securing an initial order for drone technology. The deal’s specifics remain confidential due to security concerns. The company is merging with Aureus Greenway Holdings, linked to Donald Trump’s sons, although they reportedly have no direct involvement in the business operations.
Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to its defense agreements with Saudi Arabia amid rising tensions in the Middle East. Foreign Office spokesperson Sajjad Haider Khan addressed the situation, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and diplomacy. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will lead Pakistan’s delegation at the upcoming UN General Assembly session, focusing on regional and global concerns. Khan also tackled issues regarding Sikh pilgrims and India-Pakistan relations.
Pakistan aims to expand its swap line with China as it awaits a response from the US regarding a proposed $10 billion exchange stabilization facility. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb highlighted the importance of foreign financing for the country’s economic stability, while addressing concerns about rising oil prices due to ongoing Middle East conflicts.
Authorities recovered the bodies of two siblings allegedly thrown into a canal by their father in Mirpur, Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The search for a third child has been called off. The father has been arrested and is under investigation as police explore the circumstances surrounding the children’s disappearance.
The Pakistan Bar Council has condemned the ongoing daily increases in fuel prices, urging the government to take immediate action to control inflation and provide relief to citizens. They expressed concern over the impact on the purchasing power of the middle and lower classes, calling for the elimination of unnecessary privileges enjoyed by government officials. The PBC also criticized proposed ‘smart lockdowns’ as ineffective solutions to the economic crisis. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a relief scheme for motorcycle and rickshaw owners.
Pakistan’s position in the Global Gender Gap Report 2026 by the World Economic Forum reveals it ranks third from the bottom, despite some improvements in gender parity, particularly in education.
A UN mission has reported that the US may have committed war crimes in Iran by striking a school and sports center. The report criticizes both the US military actions and Iran’s harsh crackdown on protests.
The Punjab Assembly has initiated a review of artificial intelligence in public services through its Special Committee No. 13, focusing on citizens’ rights, data security, and effective governance. The committee is set to analyze the Punjab Safe Cities Authority’s AI e-challan system and the Punjab Socio-Economic Registry welfare assistance.
Pakistan abstained from a UN Security Council vote on extending the mandate of the panel overseeing Iran sanctions, amid divisions over the Iran nuclear issue. The resolution faced opposition from China and Russia, leading to its rejection. Pakistan’s representative expressed concerns about the complexities of the situation and advocated for diplomatic solutions.
The inaugural Pakistan-China Boundary Joint Commission meeting took place in Islamabad, reinforcing cooperation and discussing border management strategies. Both sides agreed on a framework for future meetings, emphasizing the importance of their strategic partnership.
