Pakistan's former prime minister and PTI chairman Imran Khan plans to carry on with the party’s long march towards Islamabad despite the government’s decision to ban it. WION's correspondent Anas Mallick brings in more exclusive report.

Pakistan Political Crisis: Imran leads mega rally against coalition government

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Wednesday emphasised upon Pakistan the urgency of removing fuel and energy subsidies to achieve programme objectives.

IMF presses Pakistan of removing fuel, energy subsidies for programme revival

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman and former Prime Minister Imran Khan has called off his most anticipated long march, giving a six-day ultimatum to government to dissolve assemblies and announce fresh elections.

Imran calls off long march for now, gives 6-day ultimatum to Shehbaz Sharif govt

Saudi Arabia is finalising the extension of the kingdom's $3 billion deposit to Pakistan, says Saudi Minister of Finance Mohammed al-Jadaan. Last year, Saudi Arabia deposited $3bn in the State Bank of Pakistan to help support its foreign reserves.

Saudi Arabia likely to finalise extension of $3bn deposit to Pakistan

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam is confident of his side's chances in the upcoming series against West Indies at home. The hosts will take on West Indies in a three-match ODI series which will be part of the World Cup 2023 qualifying round. It is all set to be a crucial series for the Men in Green, who will be hoping to continue their fine form after beating Australia 2-1 in the 3-match ODI series at home earlier this year.

Ahead of the start of the series, Babar reserved special praise for young batter Abdullah Shafique. While talking about his talent and skills, the Pakistan skipper went on to compare Shafique with the legendary Rahul Dravid and Kane Williamson. Dravid is regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time and was known for his splendid technique and grit.

Dravid, who is fondly called 'The Wall' by the cricket fans around the world, had a solid defensive game and used to frustrate the best of bowlers with his sublime batting. Williamson, on the other hand, is one of the most graceful batters in world cricket at present. Babar said there are shades of both Dravid and Williamson in Shafique's game.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-invested-a-lot-in-him-shoaib-akhtar-lauds-ex-india-captain-for-kl-rahuls-rise-482108">Virat Kohli invested a lot in him: Shoaib Akhtar lauds ex-India captain for KL Rahul's rise</a>

"I personally watch and definitely enjoy Abdullah's stylish batting. He plays very clean, his stance and the way he ducks the ball are impressive. Usually, we compare him to Kane Williamson and Rahul Dravid. We call him Dravid," Babar told Dawn News speaking ahead of the West Indies series.

"In the presence of Abdullah, the place of opener Shan Masood, another polished batter, may be in doubt but our main aim in selecting an individual is the team's interest," he added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-india-spinner-amit-mishra-takes-brutal-dig-at-shahid-afridi-after-latters-tweet-on-yasin-malik-482053">Ex-India spinner Amit Mishra takes brutal dig at Shahid Afridi after latter's tweet on Yasin Malik</a>&nbsp;

Shafique made his debut for Pakistan in a T20I against Zimbabwe in November 20 and has so far played only 5 Tests and 3 T20Is for his country. He has 547 runs in 5 Tests at an impressive average of 68.37, including 1 hundred and 4 fifties to his name. In T20Is, he has scored 41 runs so far.

Shafique is part of Pakistan's ODI squad for the upcoming series against West Indies and will also be in action in the Test series against Nicholas Pooran's men at home.

&nbsp;

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam is confident of his side's chances in the upcoming series against West Indies at home. The hosts will take on West Indies in a three-match ODI series which will be part of the World Cup 2023 qualifying round.

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam is confident of his side's chances in the upcoming series against West Indies at home. The hosts will take on West Indies in a three-match ODI series which will be part of the World Cup 2023 qualifying round. It is all set to be a crucial series for the Men in Green, who will be hoping to continue their fine form after beating Australia 2-1 in the 3-match ODI series at home earlier this year. Ahead of the start of the series, Babar reserved special praise for young batter Abdullah Shafique. While talking about his talent and skills, the Pakistan skipper went on to compare Shafique with the legendary Rahul Dravid and Kane Williamson. Dravid is regarded as one of the greatest batters of all time and was known for his splendid technique and grit. Dravid, who is fondly called 'The Wall' by the cricket fans around the world, had a solid defensive game and used to frustrate the best of bowlers with his sublime batting. Williamson, on the other hand, is one of the most graceful batters in world cricket at present. Babar said there are shades of both Dravid and Williamson in Shafique's game. Also Read: Virat Kohli invested a lot in him: Shoaib Akhtar lauds ex-India captain for KL Rahul's rise "I personally watch and definitely enjoy Abdullah's stylish batting. He plays very clean, his stance and the way he ducks the ball are impressive. Usually, we compare him to Kane Williamson and Rahul Dravid. We call him Dravid," Babar told Dawn News speaking ahead of the West Indies series. "In the presence of Abdullah, the place of opener Shan Masood, another polished batter, may be in doubt but our main aim in selecting an individual is the team's interest," he added. Also Read: Ex-India spinner Amit Mishra takes brutal dig at Shahid Afridi after latter's tweet on Yasin Malik Shafique made his debut for Pakistan in a T20I against Zimbabwe in November 20 and has so far played only 5 Tests and 3 T20Is for his country. He has 547 runs in 5 Tests at an impressive average of 68.37, including 1 hundred and 4 fifties to his name. In T20Is, he has scored 41 runs so far. Shafique is part of Pakistan's ODI squad for the upcoming series against West Indies and will also be in action in the Test series against Nicholas Pooran's men at home.

'We call him Rahul Dravid': Babar Azam heaps praise on Pakistan youngster ahead of West Indies series

The battle between Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif and PTI Chief Imran Khan has reignited. The last political fight ended with Imran Khan's ouster and the outcome of this one remains to be seen as Pakistan is inching towards a political turmoil again.

Pakistan Political Turmoil: Shehbaz Sharif versus Imran Khan again

In the past couple of months, political turmoil in Pakistan grabbed the world's attention when the country's parliament chose Shehbaz Sharif as prime minister of the nation on April 11.&nbsp;

The crisis led to the ouster of his predecessor Imran Khan. The former Pakistan prime minister called for general elections and quite a few times mentioned the involvement of a "foreign conspiracy" to oust him from power. Shehbaz has denied such allegations.&nbsp;

As per the latest report, Shehbaz Sharif may be forced into early elections. Local media reports have stated that the PML-N said that the polls would only be held in August 2023.&nbsp;

The reports have mentioned that Shehbaz Sharif has been asked by his elder brother and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to call for early elections in the country.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the coalition parties in the ruling government urged Shehbaz to not go into early elections. The coalition partners have also asked Shehbaz to make crucial decisions to take the country out of the current economic crisis.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;PTI chief Imran Khan calls for March to Islamabad

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On the other hand, Pakistan's government on Tuesday (March 24) banned a planned protest march by ousted Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah announced at a news briefing hours after a policeman was shot and killed during a crackdown on Khan's supporters across the country.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In the past couple of months, political turmoil in Pakistan grabbed the world's attention when the country's parliament chose Shehbaz Sharif as prime minister of the nation on April 11.

In the past couple of months, political turmoil in Pakistan grabbed the world's attention when the country's parliament chose Shehbaz Sharif as prime minister of the nation on April 11. The crisis led to the ouster of his predecessor Imran Khan. The former Pakistan prime minister called for general elections and quite a few times mentioned the involvement of a "foreign conspiracy" to oust him from power. Shehbaz has denied such allegations. As per the latest report, Shehbaz Sharif may be forced into early elections. Local media reports have stated that the PML-N said that the polls would only be held in August 2023. The reports have mentioned that Shehbaz Sharif has been asked by his elder brother and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to call for early elections in the country. Meanwhile, the coalition parties in the ruling government urged Shehbaz to not go into early elections. The coalition partners have also asked Shehbaz to make crucial decisions to take the country out of the current economic crisis. WATCH | PTI chief Imran Khan calls for March to Islamabad × On the other hand, Pakistan's government on Tuesday (March 24) banned a planned protest march by ousted Prime Minister Imran Khan. Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah announced at a news briefing hours after a policeman was shot and killed during a crackdown on Khan's supporters across the country. (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 government may be forced into early elections: Reports

Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan has vowed to defy a government ban on his planned march to Islamabad. Khan has urged his supporters to take to the streets as planned.

Pakistan's ousted PM Imran Khan vows to defy government ban on protest

Pakistan's former prime minister and PTI chairman Imran Khan plans to carry on with the party’s long march towards Islamabad despite the government’s decision to ban it.

Pakistan: Ex-PM Imran khan to lead the long march in Islamabad despite ban

PTI workers and leaders took to the streets and are heading towards the federal capital from various parts of the country despite the government’s decision to ban it.

Imran Khan's Freedom March: PTI supporters take to the streets despite ban

Imran Khan, Chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and a former Prime Minister of Pakistan, has declared that a long march will be held in Islamabad on May 25.

Pakistan: Former PM Imran Khan announces PTI long march in Islamabad on May 25

Jacobabad in Pakistan is one of the world's hottest cities. It is in the grip of a heatwave with temperatures rising to 51 degrees Celsius but for the brick makers here there is no respite from scorching heat

Residents suffer from frequent heatstroke in Pakistan's hottest city

The top Islamic court in Pakistan has ordered the government to adopt an interest-free banking system by 2027. But what is Islamic banking and why does the Shariah Court want it in Pakistan?

What is Islamic banking and why does the Shariah Court want it in Pakistan?

In addition to a worsening political crisis, Pakistan is also battling with a brewing financial crisis. The Pakistani rupee plunged deeper against the US dollar this week.

Pakistan reels under economic crisis, talks with IMF continues

Shireen Mazari, who is Pakistan's former human rights minister, was arrested on Saturday (May 21) by the Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) Punjab and Islamabad police over a decades-old land grabbing allegation.&nbsp;

The senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader, who served as the Federal Minister for Human Rights from 20 August 2018 to 10 April 2022, was arrested on the orders of Punjab CM Hamza Shahbaz, media reports said.&nbsp;

Her daughter Imaan Mazari informed in a tweet that her mother was detained by police near her Islamabad home. "Male police have beaten and taken my mother away and I have been told that anti-corruption wing of Lahore has arrested her," she said.&nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-praises-india-for-reducing-fuel-prices-defying-us-pressure-481126">Imran Khan praises India for reducing fuel prices, defying 'US pressure'</a>

Pakistan-based ARYnews reported that she did not appear in front of authorities in a case that was registered in DG Khan over a 129-acre land dispute. Meanwhile, the Islamabad Police in its statement said that Mazari was booked in the same property case.&nbsp;

Pakistan-based media outlets also aired footage of Shireen's arrest where she could be heard protesting when Pakistan female police officers dragged her out of a car.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistani-court-extends-interim-bail-of-pm-sharif-hamza-in-money-laundering-case-480985">Pakistani court extends interim bail of PM Sharif, Hamza in money laundering case</a>

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I want to thank everyone who supported me when I was picked up illegally, dragged out of the car with no warrant. My cell was snatched! My driver was blindfolded &amp; beaten up. I was being driven on the Motorway to some place in Punjab! Thankfully I am back home safe with my family
— Shireen Mazari (@ShireenMazari1) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShireenMazari1/status/1528109155273170944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Mazari tweeted: "I want to thank everyone who supported me when I was picked up illegally, dragged out of the car with no warrant. My cell was snatched! My driver was blindfolded &amp; beaten up. I was being driven on the Motorway to some place in Punjab! Thankfully I am back home safe with my family."&nbsp;

While speaking to Geo TV, former information minister Fawad Chaudhry also alleged that Mazari was manhandled during the arrest.&nbsp;

Later, Hamza Shahbaz said that he issued orders to the Rawalpindi police to release Shireen Mazari ."I have directed the Rawalpindi police to release Shireen Mazari," Hamza Shahbaz said as quoted by news agencies.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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Shireen Mazari, who is Pakistan's former human rights minister, was arrested on Saturday (May 21) by the Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) Punjab and Islamabad police over a decades-old land grabbing allegation.

Shireen Mazari, who is Pakistan's former human rights minister, was arrested on Saturday (May 21) by the Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE) Punjab and Islamabad police over a decades-old land grabbing allegation. The senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader, who served as the Federal Minister for Human Rights from 20 August 2018 to 10 April 2022, was arrested on the orders of Punjab CM Hamza Shahbaz, media reports said. Her daughter Imaan Mazari informed in a tweet that her mother was detained by police near her Islamabad home. "Male police have beaten and taken my mother away and I have been told that anti-corruption wing of Lahore has arrested her," she said. ALSO READ | Imran Khan praises India for reducing fuel prices, defying 'US pressure' Pakistan-based ARYnews reported that she did not appear in front of authorities in a case that was registered in DG Khan over a 129-acre land dispute. Meanwhile, the Islamabad Police in its statement said that Mazari was booked in the same property case. Pakistan-based media outlets also aired footage of Shireen's arrest where she could be heard protesting when Pakistan female police officers dragged her out of a car. ALSO READ | Pakistani court extends interim bail of PM Sharif, Hamza in money laundering case I want to thank everyone who supported me when I was picked up illegally, dragged out of the car with no warrant. My cell was snatched! My driver was blindfolded & beaten up. I was being driven on the Motorway to some place in Punjab! Thankfully I am back home safe with my family — Shireen Mazari (@ShireenMazari1) May 21, 2022 × Mazari tweeted: "I want to thank everyone who supported me when I was picked up illegally, dragged out of the car with no warrant. My cell was snatched! My driver was blindfolded & beaten up. I was being driven on the Motorway to some place in Punjab! Thankfully I am back home safe with my family." While speaking to Geo TV, former information minister Fawad Chaudhry also alleged that Mazari was manhandled during the arrest. Later, Hamza Shahbaz said that he issued orders to the Rawalpindi police to release Shireen Mazari ."I have directed the Rawalpindi police to release Shireen Mazari," Hamza Shahbaz said as quoted by news agencies. (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: Senior PTI leader Shireen Mazari arrested in land dispute case

Political turmoil continues to fasten in Pakistan as war of wards between the ruling coalition and the main opposition PTI continues. In the latest country's former premier and PTI chairman Imran Khan says that people of Pakistan must not bow down their heads in front of the Shehbaz Sharif administration whom he called thieves and robbers.

Imran Khan: Don't bow your head before thieves

Facing economic turmoil, Pakistan has decided to ban imports of luxury items. The list of banned items includes jams, crockery, kitchenware even tissue paper. What made Pakistan take such a drastic step? Palki Sharma reports.

Gravitas: From Jams to Tissue Paper: Pak bans import of luxury items

After PTI Chairman and former Pak PM Imran Khan’s objectionable comment against Maryam Nawaz during his Multan rally, journalists, civil societies members and politicians criticized Khan for his sexist comment.

Pakistan: Imran Khan's sexist rant against Maryam Nawaz sparks outcry

Pakistan cricketer Fakhar Zaman recently made a hilarious remark on the ongoing economic situation in his country. The Pakistan rupee hit an all-time low of Rs 200 against the US dollar on Thursday amid political and economic instability in the country. As per the predictions of the analysts, the Pakistan rupee might continue to slide in the coming days.

Pakistan rupee hit an all-time low of Rs 200 against the US dollar on Thursday (May 19) amid political and economical instability in Pakistan. The Pakistani rupee has been on the slide for a month now and is expected to go down further. Taking a dig at the situation after the Pakistani rupee hit a new low against the USD, Zaman said he hopes it won't break his 201 runs record.

Zaman holds the record for the highest individual score by a Pakistan batter in ODI cricket. He slammed a brilliant knock of 210 runs against Zimbabwe in 2018.&nbsp;“I want the dollar not to break my 210 runs record,” - Zaman hilariously told a reporter responding to a query, as quoted by Cricket Pakistan.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-hints-at-taking-a-break-from-cricket-amid-poor-form-will-talk-to-india-head-coach-rahul-dravid-480953">Virat Kohli hints at taking a break from cricket amid poor form, will talk to India head coach Rahul Dravid</a>

Zaman also credited Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Ramiz Raja for supporting the players by increasing their monthly stipends. After his appointment as the PCB chief last year, Raja had decided to increase the monthly stipend of all domestic players in Pakistan.

“It is a good thing that Ramiz [Raja] ensured an increase in the monthly stipends. He was very supportive in the meeting. he shared. Increase in the salaries will benefit our cricket,” said Zaman.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pathetic-comment-sunil-gavaskar-slammed-for-distasteful-remark-on-shimron-hetmyer-and-his-wife-480937">'Pathetic comment': Sunil Gavaskar slammed for distasteful remark on Shimron Hetmyer and his wife</a>

Zaman last featured for Pakistan in their recently-concluded T20I series against Australia at home last month. He played the final T20I against the Aussies and was dismissed for a duck. In the two ODIs that he played against the Aussies before the T20Is, Zaman had scored 84 runs.

The opening batter has been in and out of the team in the last couple of years but will be hoping to cement his spot in the squad ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia this year.

Pakistan cricketer Fakhar Zaman recently made a hilarious remark on the ongoing economic situation in his country. The Pakistan rupee hit an all-time low of Rs 200 against the US dollar on Thursday amid political and economic instability in the country.

Pakistan cricketer Fakhar Zaman recently made a hilarious remark on the ongoing economic situation in his country. The Pakistan rupee hit an all-time low of Rs 200 against the US dollar on Thursday amid political and economic instability in the country. As per the predictions of the analysts, the Pakistan rupee might continue to slide in the coming days. Pakistan rupee hit an all-time low of Rs 200 against the US dollar on Thursday (May 19) amid political and economical instability in Pakistan. The Pakistani rupee has been on the slide for a month now and is expected to go down further. Taking a dig at the situation after the Pakistani rupee hit a new low against the USD, Zaman said he hopes it won't break his 201 runs record. Zaman holds the record for the highest individual score by a Pakistan batter in ODI cricket. He slammed a brilliant knock of 210 runs against Zimbabwe in 2018. “I want the dollar not to break my 210 runs record,” - Zaman hilariously told a reporter responding to a query, as quoted by Cricket Pakistan. Also Read: Virat Kohli hints at taking a break from cricket amid poor form, will talk to India head coach Rahul Dravid Zaman also credited Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Ramiz Raja for supporting the players by increasing their monthly stipends. After his appointment as the PCB chief last year, Raja had decided to increase the monthly stipend of all domestic players in Pakistan. “It is a good thing that Ramiz [Raja] ensured an increase in the monthly stipends. He was very supportive in the meeting. he shared. Increase in the salaries will benefit our cricket,” said Zaman. Also Read: 'Pathetic comment': Sunil Gavaskar slammed for distasteful remark on Shimron Hetmyer and his wife Zaman last featured for Pakistan in their recently-concluded T20I series against Australia at home last month. He played the final T20I against the Aussies and was dismissed for a duck. In the two ODIs that he played against the Aussies before the T20Is, Zaman had scored 84 runs. The opening batter has been in and out of the team in the last couple of years but will be hoping to cement his spot in the squad ahead of the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia this year.

'Hope USD doesn't break my 210 runs record': Pakistan batter takes a dig at economic situation of his country

Pakistani government could withdraw subsidies on petroleum products as Pak reeling under economic crisis. Meanwhile, talks between IMF and Pakistan are scheduled to continue till May 24th.

Pakistan-IMF Talks in Doha: Pak rupee plunges to new all-time low

The interim bail of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz has been extended by a special court in Lahore. The father and son duo have been accused of laundering money worth approximately $80,000.

The Sharif family, including three-time prime minister Nawaz Sharif, the brother of the new prime minister, have been embroiled in countless corruption and money laundering allegations. The family denies the accusations and argues they are politically motivated.&nbsp;

"It was said that matters were handled through fake companies and transactions of Rs2 billion were done through one account. Many of the charges filed by the previous investigation team were not included in the new challan," said Mohammad Amjad Pervaiz, Shehbaz and Hamza's counsel.

"There is a world of difference between the FIR and the challan," he added.

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According to Shehbaz, "My salary would be Rs10 million but I did not take it. I also went on official tours using my own money. I used to get the government car refueled from my own pocket. I saved the nation billions of rupees."

"Baseless propaganda was done in this case for 1.5 years. The suspects tolerated insults despite a lack of evidence. It seems the FIA is inspired by [streaming platform] Netflix. This is a film-inspired FIR," he argued.

Nepotism and cronyism are deeply entrenched in the Muslim-majority nation of more than 220 million people, with power mostly shared between two families, the Sharifs and the Bhuttos, for much of Pakistan's history.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pak-pm-imran-khan-faces-massive-backlash-for-his-misogynistic-comments-on-maryam-nawaz-480896" hreflang="en">Imran Khan faces massive backlash for his misogynistic remarks on Maryam Nawaz</a>

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan was voted in by an electorate weary of two-party dynasties in 2018 on a promise of sweeping away decades of entrenched corruption and cronyism.

But he was ousted by the two powerful families after he struggled to maintain support with soaring inflation, a feeble rupee and crippling debt.

Since his ouster, Khan has taken to the streets and held massive rallies that attract thousands in the hope of forcing an early election before the next October 2023 poll. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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The interim bail of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz has been extended by a special court in Lahore. The father and son duo have been accused of laundering money worth approximately $80,000.

The interim bail of Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his son Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz has been extended by a special court in Lahore. The father and son duo have been accused of laundering money worth approximately $80,000. The Sharif family, including three-time prime minister Nawaz Sharif, the brother of the new prime minister, have been embroiled in countless corruption and money laundering allegations. The family denies the accusations and argues they are politically motivated. "It was said that matters were handled through fake companies and transactions of Rs2 billion were done through one account. Many of the charges filed by the previous investigation team were not included in the new challan," said Mohammad Amjad Pervaiz, Shehbaz and Hamza's counsel. "There is a world of difference between the FIR and the challan," he added. According to Shehbaz, "My salary would be Rs10 million but I did not take it. I also went on official tours using my own money. I used to get the government car refueled from my own pocket. I saved the nation billions of rupees." "Baseless propaganda was done in this case for 1.5 years. The suspects tolerated insults despite a lack of evidence. It seems the FIA is inspired by [streaming platform] Netflix. This is a film-inspired FIR," he argued. Nepotism and cronyism are deeply entrenched in the Muslim-majority nation of more than 220 million people, with power mostly shared between two families, the Sharifs and the Bhuttos, for much of Pakistan's history. Also read | Imran Khan faces massive backlash for his misogynistic remarks on Maryam Nawaz Former Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan was voted in by an electorate weary of two-party dynasties in 2018 on a promise of sweeping away decades of entrenched corruption and cronyism. But he was ousted by the two powerful families after he struggled to maintain support with soaring inflation, a feeble rupee and crippling debt. Since his ouster, Khan has taken to the streets and held massive rallies that attract thousands in the hope of forcing an early election before the next October 2023 poll. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Pakistani court extends interim bail of PM Sharif, Hamza in money laundering case

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto is currently on his maiden visit to the US. India has now slammed his Kashmir remark at the UNSC.

India slams Pakistan FM Bilawal Bhutto's Kashmir remark at UNSC

Pakistan is battling crises on multiple fronts, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif could address the nation over Pak's falling economy. On the other side, Maryam Nawaz slammed former PM Imran Khan and called him incompetent.

Pakistan: Maryam slams Imran Khan, calls him incompetent

Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto met his US counterpart Antony Blinken. Is Pakistan, and US trying to mend ties? Bilawal Bhutto Zardari responds to WION's questions and talked about competing with India.

Pakistan FM's maiden U.S. visit: Bilawal Bhutto Zardari responds to WION's questions

A Pakistani American delegation travelled to Israel last week. The purpose of the visit was to promote "Israel-Pakistan ties". Pakistan doesn't have diplomatic ties with Israel. Is Islamabad attempting an outreach? Palki Sharma brings you a report.

Gravitas: Is Pakistan attempting an Israel outreach?

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari is currently in the United States. He now defended former PM Imran Khan's Moscow visit.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto defends former PM Imran Khan's Moscow visit

Pakistan has banned the import of 38 luxury goods amid the ongoing economic crisis. The move will help the south Asian nation to preserve forex reserves.

Pakistan bans the import of 38 luxury goods amid the ongoing economic crisis

Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto meets his US counterpart Antony Blinken. Is Pakistan, and US trying to mend ties? Watch this report.

Pakistan FM Bilawal Bhutto meets US counterpart Antony Blinken

In the middle of a worsening financial crisis, a major political turmoil now looms over the ruling coalition in Pakistan. The fate of PML-N led coalition headed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hangs in the balance and the next few days will be very crucial for him as well as his government.

Pakistan: Economic turmoil brews political chaos, fate of Shehbaz govt hangs in balance

Pakistan banned imports of several luxury items under the so-called "emergency economic plan" on Thursday as the economic crisis accentuates on account of low foreign reserves and the weakening Pakistani rupee.

The announcement was made by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Twitter saying that the decision would "save the country precious foreign exchange".

“My decision to ban import of luxury items will save the country precious foreign exchange. We will practice austerity &amp; financially stronger people must lead in this effort so that the less privileged among us do not have to bear this burden inflicted on them by the PTI govt,” he said.

The decision comes as the dollar witnessed a meteoric rise against the Pakistani rupee over the past few weeks on account of the country's rising import bill, growing current account deficit and depleting foreign exchange reserves.

On Thursday, the dollar shattered all records and soared to Rs 200 in the interbank market.

Earlier, Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb announced during a press conference on Thursday said that it was "an emergency situation" and Pakistanis would have to make sacrifices under the economic plan, adding that the impact of these bans would be around $6 billion.

Among the list of banned items include

<ul>
	<li>Automobiles</li>
	<li>Mobile phones</li>
	<li>Home appliances</li>
	<li>Fruits and dry fruits (except from Afghanistan)</li>
	<li>Crockery</li>
	<li>Private weapons and ammunition</li>
	<li>Shoes</li>
	<li>Chandeliers and lighting (except energy savers)</li>
	<li>Headphones and loudspeakers</li>
	<li>Sauces</li>
	<li>Doors and window frames</li>
	<li>Travelling bags and suitcases</li>
	<li>Sanitary ware</li>
	<li>Fish and frozen fish</li>
	<li>Carpets (except from Afghanistan)</li>
	<li>Preserved fruits</li>
	<li>Tissue paper</li>
	<li>Furniture</li>
	<li>Shampoos</li>
	<li>Confectionary</li>
	<li>Luxury mattresses and sleeping bags</li>
	<li>Jams and jelly</li>
	<li>Cornflakes</li>
	<li>Toiletries</li>
	<li>Heaters, blowers</li>
	<li>Sunglasses</li>
	<li>Kitchen ware</li>
	<li>Aerated water</li>
	<li>Frozen meat</li>
	<li>Juices</li>
	<li>Pasta</li>
	<li>Ice cream</li>
	<li>Cigarettes</li>
	<li>Shaving goods</li>
	<li>Luxury leather apparel</li>
	<li>Musical instruments</li>
	<li>Salon items like hair dryers etc</li>
	<li>Chocolates</li>
</ul>

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Pakistan banned imports of several luxury items under the so-called "emergency economic plan" on Thursday as the economic crisis accentuates on account of low foreign reserves and the weakening Pakistani rupee.

Pakistan banned imports of several luxury items under the so-called "emergency economic plan" on Thursday as the economic crisis accentuates on account of low foreign reserves and the weakening Pakistani rupee. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Twitter saying that the decision would "save the country precious foreign exchange". “My decision to ban import of luxury items will save the country precious foreign exchange. We will practice austerity & financially stronger people must lead in this effort so that the less privileged among us do not have to bear this burden inflicted on them by the PTI govt,” he said. The decision comes as the dollar witnessed a meteoric rise against the Pakistani rupee over the past few weeks on account of the country's rising import bill, growing current account deficit and depleting foreign exchange reserves. On Thursday, the dollar shattered all records and soared to Rs 200 in the interbank market. Earlier, Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb announced during a press conference on Thursday said that it was "an emergency situation" and Pakistanis would have to make sacrifices under the economic plan, adding that the impact of these bans would be around $6 billion. Among the list of banned items include Automobiles Mobile phones Home appliances Fruits and dry fruits (except from Afghanistan) Crockery Private weapons and ammunition Shoes Chandeliers and lighting (except energy savers) Headphones and loudspeakers Sauces Doors and window frames Travelling bags and suitcases Sanitary ware Fish and frozen fish Carpets (except from Afghanistan) Preserved fruits Tissue paper Furniture Shampoos Confectionary Luxury mattresses and sleeping bags Jams and jelly Cornflakes Toiletries Heaters, blowers Sunglasses Kitchen ware Aerated water Frozen meat Juices Pasta Ice cream Cigarettes Shaving goods Luxury leather apparel Musical instruments Salon items like hair dryers etc Chocolates 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 bans import of luxurious items as weak rupee, low reserves batter economy

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