As the government carries out a crackdown on Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, supporters in Punjab province say authorities are targeting the businesses of people sympathetic to the former prime minister.

Imran Khan supporters say their businesses targeted in Pakistan

Amid the ongoing economic crisis, Pakistan's Finance Minister Ishaq Dar unveiled the annual budget for 2023-24 on Friday (June 9) on the floor of the National Assembly. It was a 14.5 trillion rupee (around $50.5 billion) budget, with over half set aside to service 7.3 trillion rupees of debt. This is being deemed as the last budget of the government before the general elections later this year.&nbsp;

One of the key takeaways from the budget speech was when the minister said that the government was not imposing new taxes for the upcoming year.&nbsp;

As quoted by local media outlets, Dar said that the budget is "not an election budget" and is focusing on the "elements of the real economy". He further added that for the next year, GDP growth had been budgeted at 3.5 per cent, terming it a "modest target".&nbsp;

The government has set aside about 950 billion rupees for vote-winning development projects ahead of a general election later this year. Other measures include civil service pay rises of up to 35 per cent and a 17.5 per cent increase for state pensions.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/more-than-100-leaders-who-defected-imran-khans-pti-form-new-party-allegedly-backed-by-military-602503">More than 100 leaders, who quit Imran Khan’s PTI, form new party allegedly backed by military</a>&nbsp;

The economy of the nation has been stricken by a balance-of-payments crisis as it attempts to service crippling external debt. Months of political chaos have worsened the situation.&nbsp;

The cost of living crisis is also troubling the common people as inflation has rocketed, the rupee has plummeted and the country can no longer afford imports. This has led to a severe decline in industrial output.&nbsp;

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<h2>Pakistan defence budget&nbsp;</h2>

Pakistan also hiked defence spending by 15.5 per cent and allocated over Rs 1.8 trillion. Dar said that a sum of Rs 1,804 billion has been proposed for defence, which is higher than Rs 1.523 billion allocated last year. The defence expenditure is 15.5 per cent higher than last year, making up about 1.7 per cent of the GDP.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-imran-khan-gets-bail-in-murder-case-says-lawyer-602350">Imran Khan gets bail from Islamabad high court in lawyer’s murder case</a>&nbsp;

The defence sector expenses are the second biggest component of the annual expenditure after the debt payments, which for the next year would be Rs 7,303 billion and is the biggest single expense of the country. The minister declared a 3.5 per cent GDP growth target for the next year, which is a moderate target.&nbsp;

The minister said that the inflation target for the next fiscal year would be 21 per cent while the budget deficit would be 6.54 per cent of the GDP. He said that the export target would be Rs 30 billion and the target of remittances would be Rs 33 billion.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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Amid the ongoing economic crisis, Pakistan's Finance Minister Ishaq Dar unveiled the annual budget for 2023-24 on Friday (June 9) on the floor of the National Assembly.

Amid the ongoing economic crisis, Pakistan's Finance Minister Ishaq Dar unveiled the annual budget for 2023-24 on Friday (June 9) on the floor of the National Assembly. It was a 14.5 trillion rupee (around $50.5 billion) budget, with over half set aside to service 7.3 trillion rupees of debt. This is being deemed as the last budget of the government before the general elections later this year. One of the key takeaways from the budget speech was when the minister said that the government was not imposing new taxes for the upcoming year. As quoted by local media outlets, Dar said that the budget is "not an election budget" and is focusing on the "elements of the real economy". He further added that for the next year, GDP growth had been budgeted at 3.5 per cent, terming it a "modest target". The government has set aside about 950 billion rupees for vote-winning development projects ahead of a general election later this year. Other measures include civil service pay rises of up to 35 per cent and a 17.5 per cent increase for state pensions. Also read: More than 100 leaders, who quit Imran Khan’s PTI, form new party allegedly backed by military The economy of the nation has been stricken by a balance-of-payments crisis as it attempts to service crippling external debt. Months of political chaos have worsened the situation. The cost of living crisis is also troubling the common people as inflation has rocketed, the rupee has plummeted and the country can no longer afford imports. This has led to a severe decline in industrial output. Watch this report: × Pakistan defence budget Pakistan also hiked defence spending by 15.5 per cent and allocated over Rs 1.8 trillion. Dar said that a sum of Rs 1,804 billion has been proposed for defence, which is higher than Rs 1.523 billion allocated last year. The defence expenditure is 15.5 per cent higher than last year, making up about 1.7 per cent of the GDP. Also read: Imran Khan gets bail from Islamabad high court in lawyer’s murder case The defence sector expenses are the second biggest component of the annual expenditure after the debt payments, which for the next year would be Rs 7,303 billion and is the biggest single expense of the country. The minister declared a 3.5 per cent GDP growth target for the next year, which is a moderate target. The minister said that the inflation target for the next fiscal year would be 21 per cent while the budget deficit would be 6.54 per cent of the GDP. He said that the export target would be Rs 30 billion and the target of remittances would be Rs 33 billion. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan unveils $51 billion budget with focus on ‘elements of real economy’, hikes defence spending

Pakistan's former Prime Minister is caught up in an endless tangle of legal battles. He arrived today at the Islamabad court today for not one or two court cases but 11 court cases. One of the cases is a crucial one that pertains to the murder of a senior Supreme Court lawyer Abdul Razzaq Shar.

Pakistan: 11 court cases bring Imran Khan to Islamabad

Donkeys are plentiful in neighboring Pakistan now to put facts on the table what is interesting is that the Pakistani government has said that the population of donkeys is of course increasing but the same of course cannot be said for the economic condition of the country.

Pakistan eyes millions from donkey exports

Not so long ago, Jahangir Tareen was an aide of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, now he has launched his own party with defectors from Imran Khan's party by his side. This comes as the government continues with its crackdown on the former Prime Minister and his party.

Is it the end of the road for Imran Khan?

it was a pretty big day in Pakistan today the Shehbaz Sharif government announced its very first budget after having come to power. While it was the first time for the Finance Minister, the timing is a very crucial one they remember is a lot that is riding on Ishaq Dar and also his budget 2023-24 as Pakistan is facing one of its worst economic crises.

Decoding Pakistan's latest budget

Pakistan political turmoil: Imran Khan's former aide Jahangir Tareen launches new party | WION

The former PTI leader made the announcement during a press conference in Lahore with several other PTI defectors — including those who left in the aftermath of the May 9 incidents — by his side.

Jahangir Tareen launches Istehkam-i-Pakistan Party with PTI defectors by his side

The Shehbaz Sharif administration, which is unveiling the budget for 2023–24, is facing challenging times as the economy of Pakistan is in disarray and appears to have fallen short of all of its goals for this year.

Pakistan releases new budget amid severe economic crisis

Pakistan Economic Survey (PES) 2022-23 revealed that the number of donkeys in the country has increased, triggering a buzz in the media which is already obsessed with the population of donkeys in the South Asian nation.&nbsp;

The survey revealed that the population of donkeys saw an increase of 100,000 to reach 5.8 million during the fiscal year 2022-23, as compared with 5.7 million during the previous one.&nbsp;

Talking about the cattle population, the survey mentioned that the number of buffaloes also grew, reaching 45 million from 43.7 million in the last fiscal year.&nbsp;

The fresh data showed that the population of sheep and goats increased to 32.3 and 84.7 million respectively.

However, the number of camels, horses and mules witnessed no significant change in the last&nbsp;four years and remained at 1.1 million and 0.4 million, and 0.2 million respectively.&nbsp;

Pakistan has been reeling under sever economic crisis. Most of the sectors in the dwindling economy are impacted because of the crisis, but amid the worsening situation, the livestock sector has emerged as the largest contributor to the agriculture sector.&nbsp;

Data has revealed that the livestock sector accounts for approximately 62.68 per cent of the agriculture value added and 14.36 per cent of the national GDP during fiscal year 2023 and It grew at 3.78 per cent compared to 2.25 per cent last year.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-establish-spy-base-in-cuba-off-southeastern-united-states-602299">China to establish 'spy base' in Cuba off southeastern United States</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Donkey population and China&nbsp;</h2>

Pakistan-based news outlets reported that rumours say that Pakistan is mulling over earning millions of dollars annually in foreign exchange just by exporting donkeys to China.&nbsp;

Local reports mentioned that the world’s third largest population of donkeys is in Pakistan, with more than five million animals. China stands at number one.&nbsp;

Some reports mentioned that the population of donkeys has seen substantial growth in Pakistan because of huge demand from China. The demand forces so many people in Pakistan to rear donkeys to earn foreign exchange worth millions of dollars annually.&nbsp;

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<h2>Why does China import donkeys?&nbsp;</h2>

China has a huge demand for donkeys as it needs them to meet the rising demand for gelatin-based traditional Chinese medicine ejiao. Millions of donkeys are slaughtered for the same.&nbsp;

Reports have mentioned that almost every part of the donkey's body, including meat, hide and milk, has&nbsp;demand&nbsp;in the market and has an economic value, with meat being normally demanded in Chinese street food. Sometimes the meat is being used without the customers' knowledge.&nbsp;

Traditional Chinese medicines are used to enrich or nourish the blood, enhance the immune system, and slow down ageing.&nbsp;

A report published in 2019 by the Donkey Sanctuary mentioned a gruesome reality, revealing how donkeys are transported on long journeys without access to food or water. It mentioned that many donkeys were stolen from communities that rely on the animals for their livelihoods and some die en route.

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Pakistan Economic Survey (PES) 2022-23 revealed that the number of donkeys in the country has increased, triggering a buzz in the media which is already obsessed with the population of donkeys in the South Asian nation.

Pakistan Economic Survey (PES) 2022-23 revealed that the number of donkeys in the country has increased, triggering a buzz in the media which is already obsessed with the population of donkeys in the South Asian nation. The survey revealed that the population of donkeys saw an increase of 100,000 to reach 5.8 million during the fiscal year 2022-23, as compared with 5.7 million during the previous one. Talking about the cattle population, the survey mentioned that the number of buffaloes also grew, reaching 45 million from 43.7 million in the last fiscal year. The fresh data showed that the population of sheep and goats increased to 32.3 and 84.7 million respectively. However, the number of camels, horses and mules witnessed no significant change in the last four years and remained at 1.1 million and 0.4 million, and 0.2 million respectively. Pakistan has been reeling under sever economic crisis. Most of the sectors in the dwindling economy are impacted because of the crisis, but amid the worsening situation, the livestock sector has emerged as the largest contributor to the agriculture sector. Data has revealed that the livestock sector accounts for approximately 62.68 per cent of the agriculture value added and 14.36 per cent of the national GDP during fiscal year 2023 and It grew at 3.78 per cent compared to 2.25 per cent last year. Also read: China to establish 'spy base' in Cuba off southeastern United States Donkey population and China Pakistan-based news outlets reported that rumours say that Pakistan is mulling over earning millions of dollars annually in foreign exchange just by exporting donkeys to China. Local reports mentioned that the world’s third largest population of donkeys is in Pakistan, with more than five million animals. China stands at number one. Some reports mentioned that the population of donkeys has seen substantial growth in Pakistan because of huge demand from China. The demand forces so many people in Pakistan to rear donkeys to earn foreign exchange worth millions of dollars annually. Watch this report: × Why does China import donkeys? China has a huge demand for donkeys as it needs them to meet the rising demand for gelatin-based traditional Chinese medicine ejiao. Millions of donkeys are slaughtered for the same. Reports have mentioned that almost every part of the donkey's body, including meat, hide and milk, has demand in the market and has an economic value, with meat being normally demanded in Chinese street food. Sometimes the meat is being used without the customers' knowledge. Traditional Chinese medicines are used to enrich or nourish the blood, enhance the immune system, and slow down ageing. A report published in 2019 by the Donkey Sanctuary mentioned a gruesome reality, revealing how donkeys are transported on long journeys without access to food or water. It mentioned that many donkeys were stolen from communities that rely on the animals for their livelihoods and some die en route. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Why does donkey population continue to rise in Pakistan? Is China responsible?

Cash-strapped Pakistan's economy is in the doldrums and data from the country's economic survey a day before the country's budget proves that fact. In fact, the country's economy failed to achieve any of the targets it set out in 2022-23. Pakistan's GDP growth rate crashed to 0.3% in 2022-23.

Pakistan Economic Survey: GDP growth misses 5% target, grows by 0.3% in 2022-23

Cash strapped Pakistan's economy is in doldrums and data from the country's economic survey a day before the country's budget proves that fact. In fact, the country's economy failed to achieve any of the target its set out in 2022-23. Pakistan's GDP growth rate crashed to 0.3% in 2022-23.

Pakistan floods cost economy over $31 billion

Pakistan: GDP growth misses 5% target

Indians and Pakistanis disagree and squabble over many things, often over the Partition of the undivided subcontinent in 1947 or their bone of contention, Kashmir, where terrorism and separatism are often indistinguishable from each other. But the two nations are occasionally united by a common love for Bollywood films and music. 
 
It is appropriate to recall a popular number sung by Kishore Kumar in the 1970s to highlight Pakistan's predicament in a week that has been tumultuous even by the country's frenetic public life standards in which corrupt politicians, feudal landlords, political generals, religious extremists and a struggling middle class create a social mess that makes democracy difficult. Former prime minister Imran Khan's arrest and the eruption of widespread public anger against the all-powerful army has been visually strong enough to ask: where is this going to end? 
 
In the 1972 movie Amar Prem,&nbsp;a plaintive number's lyrics by Anand Bakshi are evocative of betrayals, unpleasant surprises and dilemmas of the kind Pakistan is facing now. 
 
Majhdhaar mein naiyyaa dole, 
to maanjhee paar lagaaye 
maanjhee jo naav duboye 
usay kaun bachaaye?

(Translation from Hindi)

When the boat dwindles in midriver currents, 
the boatman takes it to the shore, 
but when the boatman drowns a boat, 
who can save it? 
 
Right now, Pakistan is in the throes of an existential dilemma. Who is the boatman who must sail it out of the current economic and political crisis? And more important, pray, who is the boatman who sank it? Is it the army with its history of meddling in civilian affairs? Is it the ruling coalition of the Pakistan People's Party and the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) that is reeking of familiar political vendetta? Or Imran Khan himself, having betrayed the army that once steered him quietly to the top? 
 
ALSO READ|<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-accuses-iran-of-cross-border-attacks-at-trilateral-counterterrorism-conference-in-beijing-602259">&nbsp;Pakistan accuses Iran of cross-border attacks at trilateral counterterrorism conference in Beijing</a> 
 
Earlier this week, as angry crowds swirled to storm military facilities across Pakistan, including the venerable army headquarters in the cantonment city of Rawalpindi, I found myself surrounded on Twitter after what I thought was a merely factual tweet about an "attempted revolution" by supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI), Khan's party. 
 
People who I could sense were the party's critics and opponents were eager to tell me that I was ill-informed, by implication suggesting that the former cricket captain was not as popular as it seemed and that the street protests were stage-managed and would be short-lived. If the arson and looting we saw in videos and on TV were any indication, my critics were not too informed of what was going on either. 
 
Whispers, hints and gossip suggest the army is itself divided, but here we enter the territory of rumours blessed by the WhatsApp University. What is clear is that the measured, mellow reaction of Pakistan's army has been remarkable for its restraint in a country where the military is known to have seized power whenever there was chaos or&nbsp;even mere political opposition to its wishes. The generals are rarely known to bide their time or watch in silence. 
 
The current context is of a Pakistan that is torn between tilting towards the US, its long-time military backer, and China, its recent love interest in economic and diplomatic matters. 
 
Khan's official declaration of sovereignty and his open diplomatic flirting with President Vladimir Putin's Russia when the Ukraine war broke out might want some to say that his politics resembles his serially monogamous and allegedly polygamous romantic life. Whatever the truth, his dalliance did not augur well for his prime minister's chair. 
 
As he found himself out of office in what might be called a civilian coup by his rivals, his street hero self resurfaced. &nbsp;But he is now tangled in a chain of corruption and other police cases, under one of which the paramilitary Pakistani Rangers arrested him from the Islamabad High Court (literally abducted as per video shots). The judiciary has granted him bail, but its own role is shaky. 
 
The tussle between the judiciary and the military is now as visual and loud as a Bollywood thriller can be. PMLN leader Maryam Nawaz, daughter of the deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif, is openly slamming the Chief Justice of Pakistan as Imran's man and accuses him of aiding a criminal. 
 
Here's the puzzle now: If Imran Khan is popular as he claims to be, elections can solve Pakistan's problems at least in terms of giving it some political heft. But there is a rulebook that the coalition in power may throw at Khan, having wrapped him up in more than 100 cases. 
 
Under Article 62(1)(f) of the Pakistan constitution, a person cannot be qualified as a member of the national or provincial legislatures if he is not ‘Sadiq and Ameen’ – truthful and trustworthy. Any old flimsy tale is now valid ground to keep the Khan away from elections. 
 
The subtext seems to be that the army will call the shots as the CJI is being discredited. Few can match Pakistan's army in raw, brute power evidenced by a history of coups. But, if gossip about a divided army (the belief or wishful thinking of PTI supporters) is any indication, there is the possibility of a political implosion. In the scenario of such a crisis, the country's familiar theme of martial law may play out again. Even if Imran Khan is popular, the chances of his supporters cinematically driving the generals back into their barracks is more Bollywood than Rawalpindi. 
 
That leaves us wondering as to what the Americans will do. Uncle Sam has left Afghanistan doddering, and he is not going to step into Pakistan's mess anytime soon. But Imran Khan's last rants were against American influence in his departure from power. That should endear him to the Chinese mandarins. Investments in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor have crossed $65 billion, and if not to increase their regional influence, at least to save Chinese money, Beijing may play its own geopolitical game. In fact, early signs are already there. 
 
So the boat is still rocking midstream, and the reticent army is watching a confrontation between the executive and the judiciary. If there are serious differences within the army, which has historically been a disciplined force respecting hierarchical commands internally, we are yet to see any clinching evidence. 
 
Whoever takes the next big step, has to contend with the fact that the US cannot be wished away. &nbsp;The International Monetary Fund, in which the US commands the highest vote share, said after Imran's arrest and the bail granted to Khan by the Supreme Court of Pakistan that the country needs "significant additional financing" to tide over its balance of payments crisis. 
 
If the army helps Imran Khan's rival groups, it would be a familiar case of generals rigging a democracy. PPP was founded by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who was once close to General Ayub Khan but later formed his party to take on the generals. &nbsp;Bhutto was himself deposed in a coup by General Zia ul Haq, a man he appointed as army chief over the heads of seniors. You never know who is what in Pakistan. 
 
If the Constitution is cited to keep Khan out of an election process, it would be a case of the army confronting the judiciary again. In Pakistan's political soap opera, friends turn foes fast. That much we have seen in Imran Khan's colourful personal life as well. 
 
Back to the same Bollywood song :

Koi dushman thes lagaaye, 
to meet jiyaa bahlaaye 
manmeet jo ghaav lagaaye, 
use kaun miTaaye? 
 
(Translation from Hindi)

When an enemy hurts you, 
a friend can console you. 
but when a close friend gives you a wound, 
who can remove it?

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) 
&nbsp;

Indians and Pakistanis disagree and squabble over many things, often over the Partition of the undivided subcontinent in 1947 or their bone of contention, Kashmir, where terrorism and separatism are often indistinguishable from each other.

Indians and Pakistanis disagree and squabble over many things, often over the Partition of the undivided subcontinent in 1947 or their bone of contention, Kashmir, where terrorism and separatism are often indistinguishable from each other. But the two nations are occasionally united by a common love for Bollywood films and music. It is appropriate to recall a popular number sung by Kishore Kumar in the 1970s to highlight Pakistan's predicament in a week that has been tumultuous even by the country's frenetic public life standards in which corrupt politicians, feudal landlords, political generals, religious extremists and a struggling middle class create a social mess that makes democracy difficult. Former prime minister Imran Khan's arrest and the eruption of widespread public anger against the all-powerful army has been visually strong enough to ask: where is this going to end? In the 1972 movie Amar Prem, a plaintive number's lyrics by Anand Bakshi are evocative of betrayals, unpleasant surprises and dilemmas of the kind Pakistan is facing now. Majhdhaar mein naiyyaa dole, to maanjhee paar lagaaye maanjhee jo naav duboye usay kaun bachaaye? (Translation from Hindi) When the boat dwindles in midriver currents, the boatman takes it to the shore, but when the boatman drowns a boat, who can save it? Right now, Pakistan is in the throes of an existential dilemma. Who is the boatman who must sail it out of the current economic and political crisis? And more important, pray, who is the boatman who sank it? Is it the army with its history of meddling in civilian affairs? Is it the ruling coalition of the Pakistan People's Party and the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) that is reeking of familiar political vendetta? Or Imran Khan himself, having betrayed the army that once steered him quietly to the top? ALSO READ| Pakistan accuses Iran of cross-border attacks at trilateral counterterrorism conference in Beijing Earlier this week, as angry crowds swirled to storm military facilities across Pakistan, including the venerable army headquarters in the cantonment city of Rawalpindi, I found myself surrounded on Twitter after what I thought was a merely factual tweet about an "attempted revolution" by supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI), Khan's party. People who I could sense were the party's critics and opponents were eager to tell me that I was ill-informed, by implication suggesting that the former cricket captain was not as popular as it seemed and that the street protests were stage-managed and would be short-lived. If the arson and looting we saw in videos and on TV were any indication, my critics were not too informed of what was going on either. Whispers, hints and gossip suggest the army is itself divided, but here we enter the territory of rumours blessed by the WhatsApp University. What is clear is that the measured, mellow reaction of Pakistan's army has been remarkable for its restraint in a country where the military is known to have seized power whenever there was chaos or even mere political opposition to its wishes. The generals are rarely known to bide their time or watch in silence. The current context is of a Pakistan that is torn between tilting towards the US, its long-time military backer, and China, its recent love interest in economic and diplomatic matters. Khan's official declaration of sovereignty and his open diplomatic flirting with President Vladimir Putin's Russia when the Ukraine war broke out might want some to say that his politics resembles his serially monogamous and allegedly polygamous romantic life. Whatever the truth, his dalliance did not augur well for his prime minister's chair. As he found himself out of office in what might be called a civilian coup by his rivals, his street hero self resurfaced. But he is now tangled in a chain of corruption and other police cases, under one of which the paramilitary Pakistani Rangers arrested him from the Islamabad High Court (literally abducted as per video shots). The judiciary has granted him bail, but its own role is shaky. The tussle between the judiciary and the military is now as visual and loud as a Bollywood thriller can be. PMLN leader Maryam Nawaz, daughter of the deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif, is openly slamming the Chief Justice of Pakistan as Imran's man and accuses him of aiding a criminal. Here's the puzzle now: If Imran Khan is popular as he claims to be, elections can solve Pakistan's problems at least in terms of giving it some political heft. But there is a rulebook that the coalition in power may throw at Khan, having wrapped him up in more than 100 cases. Under Article 62(1)(f) of the Pakistan constitution, a person cannot be qualified as a member of the national or provincial legislatures if he is not ‘Sadiq and Ameen’ – truthful and trustworthy. Any old flimsy tale is now valid ground to keep the Khan away from elections. The subtext seems to be that the army will call the shots as the CJI is being discredited. Few can match Pakistan's army in raw, brute power evidenced by a history of coups. But, if gossip about a divided army (the belief or wishful thinking of PTI supporters) is any indication, there is the possibility of a political implosion. In the scenario of such a crisis, the country's familiar theme of martial law may play out again. Even if Imran Khan is popular, the chances of his supporters cinematically driving the generals back into their barracks is more Bollywood than Rawalpindi. That leaves us wondering as to what the Americans will do. Uncle Sam has left Afghanistan doddering, and he is not going to step into Pakistan's mess anytime soon. But Imran Khan's last rants were against American influence in his departure from power. That should endear him to the Chinese mandarins. Investments in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor have crossed $65 billion, and if not to increase their regional influence, at least to save Chinese money, Beijing may play its own geopolitical game. In fact, early signs are already there. So the boat is still rocking midstream, and the reticent army is watching a confrontation between the executive and the judiciary. If there are serious differences within the army, which has historically been a disciplined force respecting hierarchical commands internally, we are yet to see any clinching evidence. Whoever takes the next big step, has to contend with the fact that the US cannot be wished away. The International Monetary Fund, in which the US commands the highest vote share, said after Imran's arrest and the bail granted to Khan by the Supreme Court of Pakistan that the country needs "significant additional financing" to tide over its balance of payments crisis. If the army helps Imran Khan's rival groups, it would be a familiar case of generals rigging a democracy. PPP was founded by Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, who was once close to General Ayub Khan but later formed his party to take on the generals. Bhutto was himself deposed in a coup by General Zia ul Haq, a man he appointed as army chief over the heads of seniors. You never know who is what in Pakistan. If the Constitution is cited to keep Khan out of an election process, it would be a case of the army confronting the judiciary again. In Pakistan's political soap opera, friends turn foes fast. That much we have seen in Imran Khan's colourful personal life as well. Back to the same Bollywood song : Koi dushman thes lagaaye, to meet jiyaa bahlaaye manmeet jo ghaav lagaaye, use kaun miTaaye? (Translation from Hindi) When an enemy hurts you, a friend can console you. but when a close friend gives you a wound, who can remove it? (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Who is the boatman, who is the passenger? Sinking Pakistan needs some answers

Pressure is growing on Imran Khan in the latest updates the country's Army Chief Asim Munir has issued a stern warning. General Asim Munir says efforts to create distortions won't help the perpetrators of the May 9th violence. He hasn't named the former Prime Minister or PTI here but the warning is very clear.

Pakistan Military hints at action against PTI for May 9th violence

Iran, Pakistan and China, on Wednesday, held their first trilateral counterterrorism and regional security consultations in Beijing where Islamabad condemned Tehran for providing sanctuaries to insurgents for staging cross-border attacks in a bid to debase CPEC.

On the other hand, during the talks, Tehran accused Islamabad of not doing enough to prevent terrorists from conducting cross-border terrorism into Iran, as per Voice of America (VOA) reports as cited by ANI.

Baloch anarchists oppose CPEC, asserting that it is aiding Pakistan's efforts to deprive the local population of the region's natural resources.

"The delegations held detailed discussions on the regional security situation, particularly the threat of terrorism faced by the region," said a post-meeting statement in Islamabad, which shared no further details, Voice of America (VOA) reported.

The Pakistani and Chinese foreign ministries said that the three nations had decided to institutionalise and hold the meeting regularly, as per VOA reports,&nbsp;

Senior Chinese, Pakistani and Iranian counterterrorism officials, each from their respective foreign ministries, led their teams at Wednesday's dialogue.

As per analysts, the main agenda of the discussion was Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province which is at the paramountcy of a multibillion-dollar Chinese-funded programme, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), reported VOA.

"The establishment of a trilateral security mechanism between China, Pakistan and Iran reflects their shared concerns regarding security in Balochistan," observed Baqir Sajjad, a Pakistan fellow at the Wilson Center in Washington.&nbsp;

He said that stability in Balochistan was extremely important in the successful implementation of CPEC projects, reported VOA.

"Collaboration among these countries can potentially contribute to improved regional security and counter the activities of insurgents who find refuge in Iran," he said.

Balochistan, which is a Pakistani province bordering Iran, for the longest time has experienced a low-level insurgency, led by outlawed ethnic Baloch groups.

Islamabad asserts that the insurgents use shelters on Iranian soil to stage cross-border attacks in their bid to debase CPEC. The Iranian authorities deny the presence of Baloch extremists on their soil, as per VOA reports.

CPEC has built road networks and power plants across Pakistan and to the Arabian Sea deep-water Gwadar port in Balochistan.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Iran, Pakistan and China, on Wednesday, held their first trilateral counterterrorism and regional security consultations in Beijing where Islamabad condemned Tehran for providing sanctuaries to insurgents for staging cross-border attacks in a bid to debase CPEC.

Iran, Pakistan and China, on Wednesday, held their first trilateral counterterrorism and regional security consultations in Beijing where Islamabad condemned Tehran for providing sanctuaries to insurgents for staging cross-border attacks in a bid to debase CPEC. On the other hand, during the talks, Tehran accused Islamabad of not doing enough to prevent terrorists from conducting cross-border terrorism into Iran, as per Voice of America (VOA) reports as cited by ANI. Baloch anarchists oppose CPEC, asserting that it is aiding Pakistan's efforts to deprive the local population of the region's natural resources. "The delegations held detailed discussions on the regional security situation, particularly the threat of terrorism faced by the region," said a post-meeting statement in Islamabad, which shared no further details, Voice of America (VOA) reported. The Pakistani and Chinese foreign ministries said that the three nations had decided to institutionalise and hold the meeting regularly, as per VOA reports, Senior Chinese, Pakistani and Iranian counterterrorism officials, each from their respective foreign ministries, led their teams at Wednesday's dialogue. As per analysts, the main agenda of the discussion was Pakistan's southwestern Balochistan province which is at the paramountcy of a multibillion-dollar Chinese-funded programme, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), reported VOA. "The establishment of a trilateral security mechanism between China, Pakistan and Iran reflects their shared concerns regarding security in Balochistan," observed Baqir Sajjad, a Pakistan fellow at the Wilson Center in Washington. He said that stability in Balochistan was extremely important in the successful implementation of CPEC projects, reported VOA. "Collaboration among these countries can potentially contribute to improved regional security and counter the activities of insurgents who find refuge in Iran," he said. Balochistan, which is a Pakistani province bordering Iran, for the longest time has experienced a low-level insurgency, led by outlawed ethnic Baloch groups. Islamabad asserts that the insurgents use shelters on Iranian soil to stage cross-border attacks in their bid to debase CPEC. The Iranian authorities deny the presence of Baloch extremists on their soil, as per VOA reports. CPEC has built road networks and power plants across Pakistan and to the Arabian Sea deep-water Gwadar port in Balochistan. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan accuses Iran of cross-border attacks at trilateral counterterrorism conference in Beijing

Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir warns May 9 violence perpetrators, says 'won't spare those behind it'

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan has secured bail on Thursday from the Islamabad High Court over murder charges, blocking his arrest for 14 days. The ousted prime minister is now free on bail in several other cases.

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan gets protective bail on murder charges

Today marks another hectic day for the former Pakistan Prime Minister, fighting legal battles in Islamabad. In fresh woes, the cricketer-turned-politician has been formally named in lawyer murder case. As simultaneous confrontations play out between Khan and the Army Chief, and the government and the judiciary, the former leader is becoming increasingly isolated. Analysts say Pakistani authorities are seeking to destroy Imran Khan's support ahead of elections.

Imran Khan to blame for lawyer's murder? Former Pak leader becoming increasingly isolated | Details

The United States has called on Pakistan to grant consular access to Khadija Shah, a prominent fashion designer with dual citizenship who was detained during the recent series of protests witnessed in the South Asian nation.&nbsp;

Speaking to the press during a media briefing on Tuesday (June 6th) State Department principal deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel confirmed Shah's dual nationality and stated that the US has requested consular access to her.

<h2>What the&nbsp;State Department&nbsp;spokesperson said</h2>

"Shah is a dual national and so we continue to engage directly with the government&nbsp;of&nbsp;Pakistan."

"We've been following the case and have asked Pakistani officials for consulate access to her," said Patel during the media briefing.

"As we previously said, we always urge foreign governments to follow consular notifications for all procedures when American citizens are detained," he said while answering a question about Shah's arrest.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-top-court-lawyer-killed-in-quetta-drive-by-shooting-imran-khan-blamed-601426">Pak top court lawyer killed in Quetta drive-by shooting, Imran Khan blamed</a>

The US State Department spokesperson also mentioned that additional US citizens have been arrested in Pakistan. He added that the US government is prepared to provide "appropriate assistance" and expects Pakistani authorities to uphold the detainees' fair-trial rights.

"Whenever a US citizen is arrested overseas, we stand ready to provide all appropriate assistance and we expect Pakistani authorities to respect all fair-trial guarantees owed to these detainees," said Patel, as cited by news agency AFP.

<h2>Who is Khadija Shah?</h2>

Khadija Shah is the founder of luxury fashion brands 'Elan' and 'Zaha'. She was brought before an anti-terrorism court following the protests triggered by the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan on May 9.

According to Shah's family, she participated in peaceful protests on May 9, during which some demonstrators criticised the influential military and alleged a plot to sideline Imran Khan. Shah's family claims that she willingly appeared for questioning but was subsequently arrested. When she appeared in court, her face was covered, they added.

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-imran-khan-loyalist-khadija-shahs-apology-video-surfaces-days-after-her-arrest-597743">Pakistan: Imran Khan loyalist Khadija Shah's apology video surfaces days after her arrest</a>

Shah, as per reports, is one of the prime suspects in the Jinnah House vandalism case. Recently, a video of the Imran Khan supporter apologising for her involvement in the violent events of May 9 surfaced. In the video, Shah alleged that the Pakistan Army barged into her home and roughened up her family members.&nbsp;

"They (authorities) barged into my house at midnight and abducted my husband and father. They roughed up my husband in front of our children... my domestic workers were also subjected to torture."

<h2>Imran Khan's detention and subsequent arrests&nbsp;</h2>

Since the Supreme Court ruled that Khan's detention was illegal and allowed him to be released, thousands of individuals, including grassroots supporters and Khan's key aides, have been rounded up by Pakistani authorities.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The United States has called on Pakistan to grant consular access to Khadija Shah, a prominent fashion designer with dual citizenship who was detained during the recent series of protests witnessed in the South Asian nation.

The United States has called on Pakistan to grant consular access to Khadija Shah, a prominent fashion designer with dual citizenship who was detained during the recent series of protests witnessed in the South Asian nation. Speaking to the press during a media briefing on Tuesday (June 6th) State Department principal deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel confirmed Shah's dual nationality and stated that the US has requested consular access to her. What the State Department spokesperson said "Shah is a dual national and so we continue to engage directly with the government of Pakistan." "We've been following the case and have asked Pakistani officials for consulate access to her," said Patel during the media briefing. "As we previously said, we always urge foreign governments to follow consular notifications for all procedures when American citizens are detained," he said while answering a question about Shah's arrest. Also read | Pak top court lawyer killed in Quetta drive-by shooting, Imran Khan blamed The US State Department spokesperson also mentioned that additional US citizens have been arrested in Pakistan. He added that the US government is prepared to provide "appropriate assistance" and expects Pakistani authorities to uphold the detainees' fair-trial rights. "Whenever a US citizen is arrested overseas, we stand ready to provide all appropriate assistance and we expect Pakistani authorities to respect all fair-trial guarantees owed to these detainees," said Patel, as cited by news agency AFP. Who is Khadija Shah? Khadija Shah is the founder of luxury fashion brands 'Elan' and 'Zaha'. She was brought before an anti-terrorism court following the protests triggered by the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan on May 9. According to Shah's family, she participated in peaceful protests on May 9, during which some demonstrators criticised the influential military and alleged a plot to sideline Imran Khan. Shah's family claims that she willingly appeared for questioning but was subsequently arrested. When she appeared in court, her face was covered, they added. Also read | Pakistan: Imran Khan loyalist Khadija Shah's apology video surfaces days after her arrest Shah, as per reports, is one of the prime suspects in the Jinnah House vandalism case. Recently, a video of the Imran Khan supporter apologising for her involvement in the violent events of May 9 surfaced. In the video, Shah alleged that the Pakistan Army barged into her home and roughened up her family members. "They (authorities) barged into my house at midnight and abducted my husband and father. They roughed up my husband in front of our children... my domestic workers were also subjected to torture." Imran Khan's detention and subsequent arrests Since the Supreme Court ruled that Khan's detention was illegal and allowed him to be released, thousands of individuals, including grassroots supporters and Khan's key aides, have been rounded up by Pakistani authorities. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US asks Pakistan for consular access to Imran Khan supporter Khadija Shah

US asks Pakistan to grant consular access to Khadija Shah

Bangladesh is surpassing Pakistan in various fields. The nation is levelling up from its "impoverished" status and is now the 33rd largest economy in the world. What does this mean for Pakistan? Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Bangladesh performs better than Pakistan in most matrix

The United States has called on Pakistan to grant consular access to Khadija Shah. Khadija, a famous fashion designer is accused of leading the attack on the Lahore corps commander's house during the violence that broke out on the ninth of May. She was detained in connection with the incident.

Dual national Khadija Shah in Pakistan custody inciting attack on Jinnah house | World News | WION

Caught in a political quagmire defectors from Imran Khan's PTI have now formed a new group calling themselves the 'Democrats' According to the reports the group is being led by the former Punjab Home Minister Hashim Dogar and Education Minister Dr. Murad Raas. At least 35 ex-lawmakers have reportedly joined the breakaway party.

PTI defectors form a new group called 'Democrats' led by Hashim Dogar and Dr. Murad Raas

In a drive-by shooting on Tuesday (June 6)&nbsp;on Quetta's Airport Road, senior Supreme Court attorney Advocate Abdul Razzaq Shar was fatally shot by armed motorcyclists, according to the police.

While verifying the event, Jamil Shaheed Station House Officer (SHO) Gul Muhammad told the Dawn&nbsp;that Shar was being pursued by unidentified people on three motorbikes while en route to the Balochistan High Court (BHC).

“According to eyewitnesses, he was travelling in his relative’s vehicle,” the official said.

The lawyer died while being taken from the scene to the Quetta Civil Hospital after suffering injuries. Shar was shot 16 times during the attack, according to police surgeon Ayesha Faiz&nbsp;who spoke to the Dawn.

“A post-mortem examination of his body was not carried out due to the family’s insistence,” she said, adding that the bullets Shar sustained on his chest, neck and stomach proved to be fatal.

SHO Muhammad stated that the attack location had been secured by the police and that an investigation was being conducted to identify and apprehend any culprits.

Abid Kakar, the president of the Quetta Bar Association, condemned the killing and announced a full boycott of the BHC and subordinate courts as well as a three-day period of mourning for Shar.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-lahore-hc-orders-immediate-release-of-ptis-shah-mahmood-qureshi-601162">Pakistan: Lahore HC orders immediate release of PTI's Shah Mahmood Qureshi</a>

Advocate Shar recently filed a petition with the court outlining the threats against him, according to senior attorney Mir Ataullah Lango.&nbsp;

<h2>PTI leader Imran Khan blamed&nbsp;</h2>

Imran Khan, the chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, was "directly responsible" for the death of attorney Shar, according to Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) Ataullah Tarar.

He asserted that the targeted death was connected to a treason case, which Tarar stated will be resolved in the next proceedings.

On June 29, Shar filed a plea with the BHC asking for the former prime minister to be tried in accordance with Article 6 of the Constitution. The division bench of the BHC, which included&nbsp;Chief Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan and Justice Muhammad Amir Nawaz Rana, heard the appeal.

Advocate Shar had argued that Imran should be convicted under Article 6 since he had advised the president to dissolve the National Assembly in violation of the Constitution.

Also watch |&nbsp;Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan blocked from mainstream media

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Following the original hearing, the BHC bench served notices to Additional Attorney General Rauf Atta and Deputy Attorney General Muhammad Naeem Kasi, instructing them to respond at the upcoming hearing planned for June 7 (tomorrow).

The SAPM said today at a news briefing in Islamabad that Imran "got the lawyer killed to protect himself from the treason case".

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In a drive-by shooting on Tuesday (June 6) on Quetta's Airport Road, senior Supreme Court attorney Advocate Abdul Razzaq Shar was fatally shot by armed motorcyclists, according to the police.

In a drive-by shooting on Tuesday (June 6) on Quetta's Airport Road, senior Supreme Court attorney Advocate Abdul Razzaq Shar was fatally shot by armed motorcyclists, according to the police. While verifying the event, Jamil Shaheed Station House Officer (SHO) Gul Muhammad told the Dawn that Shar was being pursued by unidentified people on three motorbikes while en route to the Balochistan High Court (BHC). “According to eyewitnesses, he was travelling in his relative’s vehicle,” the official said. The lawyer died while being taken from the scene to the Quetta Civil Hospital after suffering injuries. Shar was shot 16 times during the attack, according to police surgeon Ayesha Faiz who spoke to the Dawn. “A post-mortem examination of his body was not carried out due to the family’s insistence,” she said, adding that the bullets Shar sustained on his chest, neck and stomach proved to be fatal. SHO Muhammad stated that the attack location had been secured by the police and that an investigation was being conducted to identify and apprehend any culprits. Abid Kakar, the president of the Quetta Bar Association, condemned the killing and announced a full boycott of the BHC and subordinate courts as well as a three-day period of mourning for Shar. Also read | Pakistan: Lahore HC orders immediate release of PTI's Shah Mahmood Qureshi Advocate Shar recently filed a petition with the court outlining the threats against him, according to senior attorney Mir Ataullah Lango. PTI leader Imran Khan blamed Imran Khan, the chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, was "directly responsible" for the death of attorney Shar, according to Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) Ataullah Tarar. He asserted that the targeted death was connected to a treason case, which Tarar stated will be resolved in the next proceedings. On June 29, Shar filed a plea with the BHC asking for the former prime minister to be tried in accordance with Article 6 of the Constitution. The division bench of the BHC, which included Chief Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan and Justice Muhammad Amir Nawaz Rana, heard the appeal. Advocate Shar had argued that Imran should be convicted under Article 6 since he had advised the president to dissolve the National Assembly in violation of the Constitution. Also watch | Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan blocked from mainstream media Following the original hearing, the BHC bench served notices to Additional Attorney General Rauf Atta and Deputy Attorney General Muhammad Naeem Kasi, instructing them to respond at the upcoming hearing planned for June 7 (tomorrow). The SAPM said today at a news briefing in Islamabad that Imran "got the lawyer killed to protect himself from the treason case". WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Pak top court lawyer killed in Quetta drive-by shooting, Imran Khan blamed

In a joint report, two United Nations bodies, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have predicted that the food insecurity in Pakistan and Afghanistan may exacerbate. This is conditional and depends on the worsening of the economic and political crisis the two nations are experiencing.

As per Khaama Press, the two nations have been declared "early warning hotspots". The warning, as per ANI, has been issued in a report jointly published by the two bodies for the period from June to November.

<h2>What did they say?</h2>

As per the report, Afghanistan and Pakistan, along with "the Central African Republic, Ethiopia, Kenya, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Syrian Arab Republic, are hotspots with very high concern, and the warning is also extended to Myanmar in this edition."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-ex-pakistan-army-chief-qamar-bajwa-verbally-abused-by-afghan-man-in-france-600733">Watch: Ex-Pakistan Army chief Qamar Bajwa verbally abused by ‘Afghan man’ in France</a>

The report further said that in all these areas, a high number of people are facing acute food insecurity, which is coupled with other factors.

"All these hotspots have a high number of people facing critical acute food insecurity, coupled with worsening drivers that are expected to further intensify life-threatening conditions in the coming months."

<h2>Pakistan's troubles</h2>

As per the report, between September and December 2023, some 8.5 million people in the country will probably face acute food insecurity.

Pakistan is currently witnessing terrible political turmoil. On top of that, the nation's International Monetary Fund (IMF) financial bailout has already been delayed by around seven months.

For Pakistan, whose GDP in 2021 amounted to merely $350 billion in 2021, the repayment amount of $77.5 billion over the next three years is "substantial", reports Khaama Press.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nearly-80-afghan-school-girls-poisoned-in-taliban-ruled-afghanistan-600753">Nearly 80 Afghan school girls poisoned in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan</a>

The report predicts that Pakistan's coal and food export revenues could witness a decline if the economic and political crisis persists and the security situation in border areas continues to deteriorate.

As per the report, "The political crisis and civil unrest are likely to worsen ahead of general elections scheduled for October 2023, amid growing insecurity in the northwest of the country. A shortage of foreign reserves and a depreciating currency are diminishing the country's ability to import essential food items and energy supplies and increasing food items' prices besides causing nationwide energy cuts."

<h2>Afghanistan's distress</h2>

Almost 70 per cent of Afghanistan is struggling to afford two square meals a day. As per Khaama Press, economic and political crises are further impacting households' buying power and reducing their ability to purchase food and other essential goods.

As per a report by news agency ANI: "Afghanistan has become insular after the Taliban assumed power in August 2021."

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a joint report, two United Nations bodies, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have predicted that the food insecurity in Pakistan and Afghanistan may exacerbate.

In a joint report, two United Nations bodies, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have predicted that the food insecurity in Pakistan and Afghanistan may exacerbate. This is conditional and depends on the worsening of the economic and political crisis the two nations are experiencing. As per Khaama Press, the two nations have been declared "early warning hotspots". The warning, as per ANI, has been issued in a report jointly published by the two bodies for the period from June to November. What did they say? As per the report, Afghanistan and Pakistan, along with "the Central African Republic, Ethiopia, Kenya, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Syrian Arab Republic, are hotspots with very high concern, and the warning is also extended to Myanmar in this edition." Also read | Watch: Ex-Pakistan Army chief Qamar Bajwa verbally abused by ‘Afghan man’ in France The report further said that in all these areas, a high number of people are facing acute food insecurity, which is coupled with other factors. "All these hotspots have a high number of people facing critical acute food insecurity, coupled with worsening drivers that are expected to further intensify life-threatening conditions in the coming months." Pakistan's troubles As per the report, between September and December 2023, some 8.5 million people in the country will probably face acute food insecurity. Pakistan is currently witnessing terrible political turmoil. On top of that, the nation's International Monetary Fund (IMF) financial bailout has already been delayed by around seven months. For Pakistan, whose GDP in 2021 amounted to merely $350 billion in 2021, the repayment amount of $77.5 billion over the next three years is "substantial", reports Khaama Press. Also read | Nearly 80 Afghan school girls poisoned in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan The report predicts that Pakistan's coal and food export revenues could witness a decline if the economic and political crisis persists and the security situation in border areas continues to deteriorate. As per the report, "The political crisis and civil unrest are likely to worsen ahead of general elections scheduled for October 2023, amid growing insecurity in the northwest of the country. A shortage of foreign reserves and a depreciating currency are diminishing the country's ability to import essential food items and energy supplies and increasing food items' prices besides causing nationwide energy cuts." Afghanistan's distress Almost 70 per cent of Afghanistan is struggling to afford two square meals a day. As per Khaama Press, economic and political crises are further impacting households' buying power and reducing their ability to purchase food and other essential goods. As per a report by news agency ANI: "Afghanistan has become insular after the Taliban assumed power in August 2021." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

United Nations labels Afghanistan, Pakistan 'early warning hotspots', predicts worsening food insecurity

Coverage of Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan has disappeared from all mainstream news channels in the country after the media regulator asked networks to block out people involved in rioting last month.

Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan blocked from mainstream media

EX-Pakistan PM Imran Khan blocked from mainstream media

June is an important month for India's key Neighbors on either side as both Pakistan and Bangladesh are scheduled to announce their budgets for the fiscal year 2023 and 2024 on June 9th and June 26th respectively. As the world grapples with an inflation crisis we take a look at how both countries have fared so far.

Bangladesh races past Pakistan on all fronts as Pakistan battles ongoing fiscal crisis

Bangladesh and Pakistan to table budget in June | Latest News

It has been more than half a year since the catastrophic 2022 floods that ravaged Pakistan and uncertainty still looms over the relief with no rehabilitation process clearly visible. In Pakistan Sindh province the flood waters have not receded yet and the drainage infrastructure still hasn't been repaired. Watch this report to know the aftermath of the floods in Pakistan.

Victims await relief months after catastrophic 2022 floods in Pakistan

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