As Pakistan Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif kicks off with a visit to rain- and flood-ravaged Balochistan, assuring people there of all measures for their relief amid calamity. Beyond natural calamity, Pakistan's big economic troubles - soaring inflation and debt, and IMF demands - pose a huge challenge.

Pakistan: Shehbaz Sharif returns as Pak PM for second term, big challenges ahead

Pakistan has elected its new President. Pakistan's former President Asif Ali Zardari becomes the 14th President of the country. He will replace the incumbent Dr Arif Alvi. Watch to know more!

Pakistan: Asif Ali Zardari becomes 14th Pak President, beats PTI backed candidate Achakzai

Pakistan's former President Asif Ali Zardari is set to be elected as the 14th President of the country. The new President will replace the incumbent Dr Arif Alvi.

Pakistan to elect new President, Asif Ali Zardari set to be elected as President | World DNA

On Inside South Asia this week with Bhairavi Singh: India election: Focus on political parties wooing the women’s vote Floods hit Pakistan's Balochistan again. Shehbaz Sharif visits the region Nepal’s political leadership in crisis India opens key naval base in Lakshadweep close to the Maldives Dhaka Fire Tragedy Kills 46. What's causing repeated fire tragedies in Bangladesh?

Nepal's musical chairs | Celebrating South Asia's women politicians

Pakistan set to elect new President. Pakistan's former President Asif Ali Zardari is set to be elected as the 14th President of the country. The new President will replace the incumbent Dr Arif Alvi. Watch to know more!

Pakistan: Asif Ali Zardari set to be elected as Pakistan's President again

<p>Pakistan's national and provincial assemblies, along with the Senate, commenced voting on Saturday (Mar 9) to elect the nation's 14th president. The election, which began at 10 am local time, has two prominent contenders - Asif Ali Zardari, representing the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Mahmood Khan Achakzai, backed by the opposition led by jailed former prime minister Imran Khan.</p>

<p>This comes days after Shehbaz Sharif was elected for a&nbsp;second term as the Prime Minister of Pakistan on March 3, garnering 201 votes, while Omar Ayub Khan, supported by the PTI, received 92 votes.</p>

<p>The president of Pakistan is chosen indirectly by the Electoral College of Pakistan. It consists of the Senate, National Assembly, and provincial assemblies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In this process, the votes of members from the Senate and National Assembly count as singular votes. However, the votes from provincial assembly legislators are adjusted to ensure each province's equal representation in the election.</p>

<p>Polling will continue until 4 pm.</p>

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<p>According to state-run broadcaster Radio Pakistan, "A joint session of the parliament will be held at the parliament house in Islamabad today in which the members of National Assembly and the Senate will exercise their right to vote." The voting process is conducted through a secret ballot, media reports said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Faisal Karim Kundi, the spokesperson for the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), in December last year declared that Asif Ali Zardari would run as their presidential candidate in the 2024 elections.</p>

<p>Additionally, the PML-N also pledged its support for Zardari's candidacy.</p>

<p>Moreover, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement - Pakistan (MQM–P), Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), Awami National Party (ANP), and Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) have also announced their endorsement of Zardari.</p>

<p>The PTI-backed Sunni Ittehad Council nominated Mahmood Khan Achakzai, leader of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PMAP), as their presidential candidate on March 2, 2024. Outgoing President Arif Alvi's&nbsp;five-year term officially ended in September last year, Pakistani law allows a president to remain in office until a successor is elected.</p>

<p>Senator Sherry Rehman from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has been appointed as the polling agent for Zardari, while Senator Shafiq Tareen will act as Achakzai’s polling agent in parliament.</p>

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<p>Presidential candidate Asif Zardari has already cast his vote in the elections.&nbsp;PML-N’s Ishaq Dar also cast his vote in Presidential poll contested by coalition&nbsp;partner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prior to the election, outgoing President Arif Alvi received a farewell guard of honour.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-war-expansion-in-israeli-settlement-in-gaza-un-will-there-be-a-separate-palestinian-state-698240">Israel war: Expansion in Israeli settlement in Gaza: UN; Will there be a separate Palestinian state?</a></strong></p>

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<p>In addition to political challenges, the election&nbsp;also comes at a time when Pakistan is facing an economic crisis. The country narrowly avoided default in June last year by securing a $3 billion bailout deal from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan's national and provincial assemblies, along with the Senate, commenced voting on Saturday (Mar 9) to elect the nation's 14th president. The election, which began at 10 am local time, has two prominent contenders - Asif Ali Zardari, representing the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Mahmood Khan Achakzai, backed by the opposition led by jailed former prime minister Imran Khan.

Pakistan's national and provincial assemblies, along with the Senate, commenced voting on Saturday (Mar 9) to elect the nation's 14th president. The election, which began at 10 am local time, has two prominent contenders - Asif Ali Zardari, representing the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Mahmood Khan Achakzai, backed by the opposition led by jailed former prime minister Imran Khan. This comes days after Shehbaz Sharif was elected for a second term as the Prime Minister of Pakistan on March 3, garnering 201 votes, while Omar Ayub Khan, supported by the PTI, received 92 votes. The president of Pakistan is chosen indirectly by the Electoral College of Pakistan. It consists of the Senate, National Assembly, and provincial assemblies. In this process, the votes of members from the Senate and National Assembly count as singular votes. However, the votes from provincial assembly legislators are adjusted to ensure each province's equal representation in the election. Polling will continue until 4 pm. Also Read | Canada says it will resume funding to the UN Palestinian refugee agency According to state-run broadcaster Radio Pakistan, "A joint session of the parliament will be held at the parliament house in Islamabad today in which the members of National Assembly and the Senate will exercise their right to vote." The voting process is conducted through a secret ballot, media reports said. Faisal Karim Kundi, the spokesperson for the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), in December last year declared that Asif Ali Zardari would run as their presidential candidate in the 2024 elections. Additionally, the PML-N also pledged its support for Zardari's candidacy. Moreover, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement - Pakistan (MQM–P), Balochistan Awami Party (BAP), Awami National Party (ANP), and Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) have also announced their endorsement of Zardari. The PTI-backed Sunni Ittehad Council nominated Mahmood Khan Achakzai, leader of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PMAP), as their presidential candidate on March 2, 2024. Outgoing President Arif Alvi's five-year term officially ended in September last year, Pakistani law allows a president to remain in office until a successor is elected. Senator Sherry Rehman from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has been appointed as the polling agent for Zardari, while Senator Shafiq Tareen will act as Achakzai’s polling agent in parliament. Also Read | Israel-Hamas truce 'looking tough' before Ramadan as group says 'no compromise' Presidential candidate Asif Zardari has already cast his vote in the elections. PML-N’s Ishaq Dar also cast his vote in Presidential poll contested by coalition partner. Prior to the election, outgoing President Arif Alvi received a farewell guard of honour. Watch | Israel war: Expansion in Israeli settlement in Gaza: UN; Will there be a separate Palestinian state? × In addition to political challenges, the election also comes at a time when Pakistan is facing an economic crisis. The country narrowly avoided default in June last year by securing a $3 billion bailout deal from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). (With inputs from agencies)

Asif Ali Zardari vs Mahmood Khan Achakzai: Pakistan's 14th president to be elected soon

Pakistan to elect its new President, Zardari set to be President for second time

For the first time, a member of the minority Sikh community took oath as a minister in Pakistan's Punjab province. Ramesh Singh Arora took oath as a minister in newly appointed CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif's cabinet.

Pak's Punjab gets a Sikh minister for first time | Ramesh Singh Arora joins Maryam Nawaz's cabinet

<p>Revving round a dusty oval in the heart of Pakistan's largest city, women on motorbikes practise looping a row of safety cones, their helmets securing colourful headscarves in place.</p>

<p>It is a rare sight in the culturally conservative country, where women are typically relegated to the back seats of cars or to riding side-saddle on motorbikes, ferried by a male relative.</p>

<p>"Change is under way," says Zainab Safdar, demonstrating how to mount a two-wheeler while cloaked in a pink body-covering abaya.</p>

<p>The 40-year-old is an instructor for the "Rowdy Riders", a women-only group teaching novices in Karachi everything from the basics of balancing on a bicycle to high-octane gear changing and negotiating traffic.</p>

<p>Since being founded in 2017 by a handful of pioneering riders, the self-described "Rowdies" have swollen in number to more than 1,500 housewives, students and professionals.</p>

<p>"In the past, there were misconceptions about girls riding bikes," Safdar said, referring to doubts about their abilities. "Fortunately, with greater awareness, these notions have been dispelled."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shehbaz-sharif-thanks-indian-pm-modi-for-congratulatory-wishes-on-becoming-pakistans-pm-697666">Shehbaz Sharif thanks Indian PM Modi for congratulatory wishes on becoming Pakistan PM</a></p>

<p>Women's participation in the workforce is impacted by the limited availability of public transport services that ensure their safety.</p>

<p>In the sprawling megacity, granting women the skill and confidence to join legions of male bikers in the helter-skelter of congestion unlocks a new tier of freedom.</p>

<p>Most of the riders hail from Karachi's middle class, but rigid gender norms often still hold sway.</p>

<p>University lecturer Shafaq Zaman said "it took a while to get permission" from her family to start classes to master a pedal bike two months ago.</p>

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<p>Among the few dozen bikers assembled under the mid-afternoon sun, she looks on with her seven-year-old daughter Aleesha as a convoy of women open up their engines and rip past in a haze of dust.</p>

<p>"I am so inspired that now I have my own dream for me, that I want to ride on a heavy bike. I want to ride the whole of Pakistan," 30-year-old Zaman said.</p>

<p>Her story is not unusual. In Pakistan, very young boys are often seen steering motorbikes, but many of the "Rowdies" did not learn to ride a bicycle until well into adulthood.</p>

<p>"There should be a bike in every house, and usually there is, but it's rotting because men do not use it and women don't know how to," said Sana Kamran, sitting confidently astride a 110cc Suzuki.</p>

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<p>"If women can manage household responsibilities and earn a living, why can't they ride a bike for their convenience?" the 41-year-old asked.</p>

<p>Motorbikes are ubiquitous across Pakistan -- most commonly red Honda models or cheaper Chinese reproductions, considered capable of mastering any terrain.</p>

<p>The quest to conquer a bike has seen 26-year-old Farwa Zaidi suffer multiple bone fractures -- but the injuries are a badge of honour she wears as proudly as the "Rowdy Riders" crest on her jacket.</p>

<p>"Here I am, standing strong," she said alongside her 70cc electric scooter.</p>

<p>At four feet and six inches (137 centimetres) tall, Zaidi said her small stature made it difficult to claim a spot on crammed city buses. Learning to ride gave her a new sense of possibility. "Once we master cycling, it instils a new-found confidence in our ability to conquer other challenges," she says.</p>


Revving round a dusty oval in the heart of Pakistan's largest city, women on motorbikes practise looping a row of safety cones, their helmets securing colourful headscarves in place.

Revving round a dusty oval in the heart of Pakistan's largest city, women on motorbikes practise looping a row of safety cones, their helmets securing colourful headscarves in place. It is a rare sight in the culturally conservative country, where women are typically relegated to the back seats of cars or to riding side-saddle on motorbikes, ferried by a male relative. "Change is under way," says Zainab Safdar, demonstrating how to mount a two-wheeler while cloaked in a pink body-covering abaya. The 40-year-old is an instructor for the "Rowdy Riders", a women-only group teaching novices in Karachi everything from the basics of balancing on a bicycle to high-octane gear changing and negotiating traffic. Since being founded in 2017 by a handful of pioneering riders, the self-described "Rowdies" have swollen in number to more than 1,500 housewives, students and professionals. "In the past, there were misconceptions about girls riding bikes," Safdar said, referring to doubts about their abilities. "Fortunately, with greater awareness, these notions have been dispelled." Also Read | Shehbaz Sharif thanks Indian PM Modi for congratulatory wishes on becoming Pakistan PM Women's participation in the workforce is impacted by the limited availability of public transport services that ensure their safety. In the sprawling megacity, granting women the skill and confidence to join legions of male bikers in the helter-skelter of congestion unlocks a new tier of freedom. Most of the riders hail from Karachi's middle class, but rigid gender norms often still hold sway. University lecturer Shafaq Zaman said "it took a while to get permission" from her family to start classes to master a pedal bike two months ago. Also Read | Foiled terror plot: Pakistan police arrest three terrorists near Adiala jail where ex-PM Imran Khan is held Among the few dozen bikers assembled under the mid-afternoon sun, she looks on with her seven-year-old daughter Aleesha as a convoy of women open up their engines and rip past in a haze of dust. "I am so inspired that now I have my own dream for me, that I want to ride on a heavy bike. I want to ride the whole of Pakistan," 30-year-old Zaman said. Her story is not unusual. In Pakistan, very young boys are often seen steering motorbikes, but many of the "Rowdies" did not learn to ride a bicycle until well into adulthood. "There should be a bike in every house, and usually there is, but it's rotting because men do not use it and women don't know how to," said Sana Kamran, sitting confidently astride a 110cc Suzuki. Watch | Xi urges preparation for military conflict | South-China sea can face Chinese aggression? × "If women can manage household responsibilities and earn a living, why can't they ride a bike for their convenience?" the 41-year-old asked. Motorbikes are ubiquitous across Pakistan -- most commonly red Honda models or cheaper Chinese reproductions, considered capable of mastering any terrain. The quest to conquer a bike has seen 26-year-old Farwa Zaidi suffer multiple bone fractures -- but the injuries are a badge of honour she wears as proudly as the "Rowdy Riders" crest on her jacket. "Here I am, standing strong," she said alongside her 70cc electric scooter. At four feet and six inches (137 centimetres) tall, Zaidi said her small stature made it difficult to claim a spot on crammed city buses. Learning to ride gave her a new sense of possibility. "Once we master cycling, it instils a new-found confidence in our ability to conquer other challenges," she says.

Pakistan's women 'rowdy riders' take on traffic and tradition

<p>Shehbaz Sharif, after being elected as Pakistan's&nbsp;Prime Minister, used X (formerly Twitter) to thank Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his congratulatory wishes.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> for felicitations on my election as the Prime Minister of Pakistan 🇵🇰</p>
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMShehbaz/status/1765724615177814487?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>On Monday (Mar 4), Shehbaz, representing a six-party coalition led by his Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan People's Party (PPP), was sworn in as Pakistan's 24th Prime Minister.</p>

<p>"Congratulations to&nbsp;@CMShehbaz&nbsp;on being sworn in as the Prime Minister of Pakistan," PM Modi wrote on social media platform X.</p>

<p>Sharif officially took office during the inauguration ceremony held at the presidential office in Islamabad, the nation's capital. This event occurred subsequent to his parliamentary election as prime minister, notwithstanding objections from lawmakers affiliated with incarcerated former prime minister Imran Khan.</p>

<p>After the swearing-in ceremony, the newly appointed prime minister convened the inaugural meeting with his financial team. As per Reuters, he directed them to commence negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concerning an extended funding arrangement, given that the existing agreement is scheduled to lapse in April.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Shehbaz Sharif, after being elected as Pakistan's Prime Minister, used X (formerly Twitter) to thank Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his congratulatory wishes.

Shehbaz Sharif, after being elected as Pakistan's Prime Minister, used X (formerly Twitter) to thank Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his congratulatory wishes. Thank you @narendramodi for felicitations on my election as the Prime Minister of Pakistan 🇵🇰 — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) March 7, 2024 × On Monday (Mar 4), Shehbaz, representing a six-party coalition led by his Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan People's Party (PPP), was sworn in as Pakistan's 24th Prime Minister. "Congratulations to @CMShehbaz on being sworn in as the Prime Minister of Pakistan," PM Modi wrote on social media platform X. Sharif officially took office during the inauguration ceremony held at the presidential office in Islamabad, the nation's capital. This event occurred subsequent to his parliamentary election as prime minister, notwithstanding objections from lawmakers affiliated with incarcerated former prime minister Imran Khan. After the swearing-in ceremony, the newly appointed prime minister convened the inaugural meeting with his financial team. As per Reuters, he directed them to commence negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concerning an extended funding arrangement, given that the existing agreement is scheduled to lapse in April. (With inputs from agencies)

Shehbaz Sharif thanks Indian PM Modi for congratulatory wishes on becoming Pakistan PM

In a joint operation, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) and the police foiled an attempt to attack Central Jail Adiala, arresting three terrorists on Thursday night.

Pakistan: Terrorist attack on Adiala central jail thwarted

<p>Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, former prime minister of Pakistan, was hanged in 1979 after being convicted of murder, but he didn't get a fair trial, the Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday (Mar 6).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bhutto served as the fourth president of Pakistan from 1971 to 1973 and also as the ninth prime minister of the South Asian nation from 1973 to 1977.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fourty-four years ago, Bhutto was hanged after a trial under the military regime of late General Zia-ul-Haq.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ex-prime minister founded the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), which is now run by his grandson and former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In remarks telecast live of the ruling, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa said, "We didn't find that the fair trial and due process requirements were met."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/unexpected-snowfall-takes-several-lives-in-pakistan-afghanistan-northwest-indian-shivers-in-march-697135">Unexpected snowfall takes several lives in Pakistan, Afghanistan; Northwest India shivers in March</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Bilawal's father, Asif Ali Zardari, had filed a judicial reference during his tenure as president in 2011, and the ruling was in response to that.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The reference sought an opinion by the top court on revisiting the death sentence awarded to Bhutto.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The chief justice said that it was a unanimous decision taken by a nine-member bench headed by him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The larger bench consisted of Justice Sardar Tariq Masood, Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Yahya Afridi, Justice Amin-ud-Din Khan, Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhel, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Justice Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi and Justice Musarrat Hilali.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The CJP Isa announced the unanimous opinion, stating, "The proceedings of the trial by the Lahore High Court and of the appeal by the Supreme Court of Pakistan do not meet the requirements of the fundamental right to a fair trial and due process enshrined in Articles 4 and 9 of the Constitution, and later guaranteed as a separate and fundamental right under Article 10A of the Constitution."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bolstered-by-maldives-china-pact-president-muizzu-asks-indian-officials-to-leave-by-may-10-696762">Emboldened after pact with China, President Muizzu says all Indian officials will leave by May 10</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Why timing of the Achakzai's raid is notable</strong></p>

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<p>Pakistan's top court also acknowledged that there had been "some cases in our judicial history that created a public perception that either fear or favour deterred the performance of a duty to administer justice in accordance with the law".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We must therefore be willing to confront our past missteps and fallibilities with humility, in the spirit of self-accountability, and as a testament to our commitment to ensure that justice must be served with unwavering integrity and fidelity to the law," Justice Isa said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, he also admitted that "we cannot correct ourselves and progress in the right direction until we acknowledge our past mistakes".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shehbaz Sharif, who recently took oath as the prime minister after a disputed election in February, hailed the ruling.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is a positive development that a wrong done by a court has been corrected by a court," Sharif said in a statement from his office.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bilawal also reacted to the judgement. Taking to his official X social media account, he said that the SC's opinion came "44 years after judicial murder and more than 12 years after [the] presidential reference was filed".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The pursuit of justice was a labour of love by President Asif Ali Zardari in the name of his wife Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. Our family waited 3 generations to hear these words," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, former prime minister of Pakistan, was hanged in 1979 after being convicted of murder, but he didn't get a fair trial, the Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday (Mar 6).

Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, former prime minister of Pakistan, was hanged in 1979 after being convicted of murder, but he didn't get a fair trial, the Supreme Court ruled on Wednesday (Mar 6). Bhutto served as the fourth president of Pakistan from 1971 to 1973 and also as the ninth prime minister of the South Asian nation from 1973 to 1977. Fourty-four years ago, Bhutto was hanged after a trial under the military regime of late General Zia-ul-Haq. The ex-prime minister founded the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), which is now run by his grandson and former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. In remarks telecast live of the ruling, Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa said, "We didn't find that the fair trial and due process requirements were met." Also read: Unexpected snowfall takes several lives in Pakistan, Afghanistan; Northwest India shivers in March Bilawal's father, Asif Ali Zardari, had filed a judicial reference during his tenure as president in 2011, and the ruling was in response to that. The reference sought an opinion by the top court on revisiting the death sentence awarded to Bhutto. The chief justice said that it was a unanimous decision taken by a nine-member bench headed by him. The larger bench consisted of Justice Sardar Tariq Masood, Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Yahya Afridi, Justice Amin-ud-Din Khan, Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhel, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Justice Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi and Justice Musarrat Hilali. The CJP Isa announced the unanimous opinion, stating, "The proceedings of the trial by the Lahore High Court and of the appeal by the Supreme Court of Pakistan do not meet the requirements of the fundamental right to a fair trial and due process enshrined in Articles 4 and 9 of the Constitution, and later guaranteed as a separate and fundamental right under Article 10A of the Constitution." Also read: Emboldened after pact with China, President Muizzu says all Indian officials will leave by May 10 Watch: Why timing of the Achakzai's raid is notable × Pakistan's top court also acknowledged that there had been "some cases in our judicial history that created a public perception that either fear or favour deterred the performance of a duty to administer justice in accordance with the law". "We must therefore be willing to confront our past missteps and fallibilities with humility, in the spirit of self-accountability, and as a testament to our commitment to ensure that justice must be served with unwavering integrity and fidelity to the law," Justice Isa said. Meanwhile, he also admitted that "we cannot correct ourselves and progress in the right direction until we acknowledge our past mistakes". Shehbaz Sharif, who recently took oath as the prime minister after a disputed election in February, hailed the ruling. "It is a positive development that a wrong done by a court has been corrected by a court," Sharif said in a statement from his office. Bilawal also reacted to the judgement. Taking to his official X social media account, he said that the SC's opinion came "44 years after judicial murder and more than 12 years after [the] presidential reference was filed". "The pursuit of justice was a labour of love by President Asif Ali Zardari in the name of his wife Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. Our family waited 3 generations to hear these words," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Ex-Pakistan PM Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, hanged in 1979, didn’t get a fair trial, rules Supreme Court

A joint operation by the counter terrorism department and Rawalpindi police foiled an attack on the Adiala central jail in the early hours of Thursday, Security forces have apprehended three alleged terrorists they claim were involved in this attempt. Watch to know more!

Pakistan: Adiala Central Jail attack attempt foiled, 3 armed terrorists apprehended

With Pakistan's $3 billion bailout programme about to expire in April, new prime minister Shehbaz Sharif directed officials to expedite talks with the International Monetary Fund. The decision was made by Sharif following a briefing by Finance Secretary Imdad Ullah Bosal following his oath of office as leader of Pakistan on Monday.

Pakistan faces $25 billion debt payments

Pakistan's Cricketers will train with the army in a special camp to improve their fitness levels. WION Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo and Pakistan bureau chief Anas Mallick get you the details.

Pakistani cricketers to train with the army

In Brazil, heavy floods have affected over 100 thousand people in the northwestern state of Acre. Over 12,000 people have been displaced in Acre state after heavy flooding hit the region following several days of torrential rain.

35 dead in Pakistan's extreme weather | Arctic may soon be ice free: Report

Freezing rain and unexpected snowfall have claimed the lives of at least 35 people in remote areas of Pakistan. According to the disaster management authorities, among the victims, 22 children have lost their lives, after being crushed in landslides that buried their homes.

Pakistan meteorologists blame climate change for unusual weather

<p>In a recent development highlighting the ongoing concerns surrounding proliferation trading between Pakistan and China, Indian customs officials intercepted a Malta-flagged merchant ship, CMA CGM Attila, at the Nhava Sheva port on January 23. The vessel, en-route to Karachi, was carrying a suspicious cargo that raised red flags among port authorities, leading to a thorough inspection by Indian authorities and subsequent seizure of the consignment. This interception is part of a broader effort by Indian authorities to prevent the illegal transfer of dual-use military-grade items to Pakistan.</p>

<p>The seizure was prompted by specific intelligence received by port officials, who became suspicious after scanning the official documents submitted for the consignment. The documents identified the consigner as 'Shanghai JXE Global Logistics Co Ltd' and the consignee as 'Pakistan Wings Pvt Ltd' based in Sialkot, Pakistan. Further investigation revealed that around 22000 kg consignment, initially believed to be destined for Pakistan Wings, was actually shipped by Taiyuan Mining Import and Export Co Ltd and intended for Cosmos Engineering in Pakistan.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjNgdKxntWEAxUkgWMGHf8OCd0QxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-keeping-close-tabs-on-chinese-pakistani-naval-drills-in-northern-arabian-sea-sources-to-wion-658875" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-keeping-close-tabs-on-chinese-pakistani-naval-drills-in-northern-arabian-sea-sources-to-wion-658875&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNgdKxntWEAxUkgWMGHf8OCd0QxfQBKAB6BAgSEAE">India keeping close tab on China-Pakistan naval drills in northern Arabian Sea: Sources to WION</a></strong></p>

<p>Cosmos Engineering, a known Pakistani defense supplier, has been under scrutiny since March 2022 when Indian authorities intercepted a shipment of thermoelectric instruments at the same port. These incidents underscore a pattern of attempts by Pakistan to acquire dual-use and restricted items for military purposes through intermediaries.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjNgdKxntWEAxUkgWMGHf8OCd0QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-vying-to-control-pakistani-media-with-the-help-of-proposed-nerve-centre-us-report-642774" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/china-vying-to-control-pakistani-media-with-the-help-of-proposed-nerve-centre-us-report-642774&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjNgdKxntWEAxUkgWMGHf8OCd0QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">China vying to control Pakistani media with the help of proposed `nerve centre`: US report</a></strong></p>

<p>The link between Pakistan Wings and Quantum Logix, a US-sanctioned entity for its activities contrary to national security interests, raises further concerns about the clandestine nature of these transactions. Quantum Logix has been on US Department of Commerce’s Export Administration Regulations (EAR) entities list on June 14 last year.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;China-Pakistan: 'All-weather' allies</strong></p>

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<p>This seizure is reminiscent of previous instances where China attempted to supply prohibited items to Pakistan under the guise of legitimate goods. In February 2020, an autoclave, potentially intended for Pakistan's missile program, was seized from a Chinese ship mis declaring the item as an "industrial dryer." This incident, along with the recent interception, highlights Pakistan's persistent efforts to circumvent international regulations, including the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), for its military ambitions.</p>


In a recent development highlighting the ongoing concerns surrounding proliferation trading between Pakistan and China, Indian customs officials intercepted a Malta-flagged merchant ship, CMA CGM Attila, at the Nhava Sheva port on January 23.

In a recent development highlighting the ongoing concerns surrounding proliferation trading between Pakistan and China, Indian customs officials intercepted a Malta-flagged merchant ship, CMA CGM Attila, at the Nhava Sheva port on January 23. The vessel, en-route to Karachi, was carrying a suspicious cargo that raised red flags among port authorities, leading to a thorough inspection by Indian authorities and subsequent seizure of the consignment. This interception is part of a broader effort by Indian authorities to prevent the illegal transfer of dual-use military-grade items to Pakistan. The seizure was prompted by specific intelligence received by port officials, who became suspicious after scanning the official documents submitted for the consignment. The documents identified the consigner as 'Shanghai JXE Global Logistics Co Ltd' and the consignee as 'Pakistan Wings Pvt Ltd' based in Sialkot, Pakistan. Further investigation revealed that around 22000 kg consignment, initially believed to be destined for Pakistan Wings, was actually shipped by Taiyuan Mining Import and Export Co Ltd and intended for Cosmos Engineering in Pakistan. Also read: India keeping close tab on China-Pakistan naval drills in northern Arabian Sea: Sources to WION Cosmos Engineering, a known Pakistani defense supplier, has been under scrutiny since March 2022 when Indian authorities intercepted a shipment of thermoelectric instruments at the same port. These incidents underscore a pattern of attempts by Pakistan to acquire dual-use and restricted items for military purposes through intermediaries. Also read: China vying to control Pakistani media with the help of proposed `nerve centre`: US report The link between Pakistan Wings and Quantum Logix, a US-sanctioned entity for its activities contrary to national security interests, raises further concerns about the clandestine nature of these transactions. Quantum Logix has been on US Department of Commerce’s Export Administration Regulations (EAR) entities list on June 14 last year. Watch: China-Pakistan: 'All-weather' allies × This seizure is reminiscent of previous instances where China attempted to supply prohibited items to Pakistan under the guise of legitimate goods. In February 2020, an autoclave, potentially intended for Pakistan's missile program, was seized from a Chinese ship mis declaring the item as an "industrial dryer." This incident, along with the recent interception, highlights Pakistan's persistent efforts to circumvent international regulations, including the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), for its military ambitions.

India seizes dual-use items bound for Pakistan from China

<p>Pakistan's capital Islamabad has re-entered the times of a Sharif in power. For the second time in about two years, Shehbaz Sharif won the maximum number of votes in the National Assembly by lawmakers elected through disputed elections. On Sunday (March 3), the former Punjab chief minister and the younger brother of three-time former prime minister Nawaz Sharif won 202 votes of support against 92 polled in support of Umar Ayub Khan, the grandson of military ruler Ayub Khan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Sharifs first rose to power due to political patronage by the military dictator Zia ul-Haq in the 1980s, who attempted to clothe his authoritarian regime in democracy's fatigues, and Nawaz Sharif emerged as his 'blue-eyed' boy of choice to beat wildly popular Benazir Bhutto.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shehbaz-sharif-elected-pakistan-pm-weeks-after-disputed-elections-696118">Shehbaz Sharif 'elected' Pakistan PM weeks after disputed polls</a></strong></p>

<p>This time around, to win Pakistan's top job for the second time around, Shehbaz Sharif's party buried differences with the powerful military in the face of their common rival, jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, who was at odds with top generals over key policy differences.</p>

<h2><strong>What made Shehbaz Sharif military's preferred choice to be Pakistan PM?</strong></h2>

<p>At 72, Shehbaz has been elected prime minister despite his elder brother Nawaz Sharif winning a seat in the National Assembly and being favourite to be sworn in again.</p>

<p>A common feature that makes him a military favourite is his allegiance to support separatism in India's&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir. This puts him in the league of his Pakistan Peoples' Party allies whose leaders in the past have called for a 'thousand-year war' over Kashmir despite severe losses in all wars fought&nbsp;over the Indian Union territory since 1947.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shehbaz Sharif makes no direct mention of ties with India, Afghanistan during his first address after being elected to bcm Pakistan PM even as he substantially raked Kashmir. He gave a detailed account on ties with China, role for CPEC, ties with US, Europe, Saudi, UAE etx <a href="https://t.co/cyX5F66UMD">https://t.co/cyX5F66UMD</a></p>
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<p>When Imran Khan was ousted from power in April 2022 following a no-trust vote, Shehbaz succeeded as the country's premier. He managed to secure a desperately needed International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout and kept the nation barely afloat almost until August 2023 when he gave up the premiership to caretaker PM Anwar-ul Haq Kakar.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Pakistan: Shehbaz Sharif elected Pakistan PM for second term</strong></p>

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<p>At the time, Nawaz Sharif was in self-imposed exile in London and disqualified from holding public office over the Panama Papers scandal. He returned to Pakistan in October to lead the election campaign ahead of the February 8 polls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before his inaugural stint as prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif was known more as an administrator than a politician. He has served as CM thrice in the country's largest province, Punjab.</p>

<p>As prime minister, Shehbaz emerged as a peacemaker between coalition parties who have often been at odds with one another over key policies.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Pakistan's capital Islamabad has re-entered the times of a Sharif in power. For the second time in about two years, Shehbaz Sharif won the maximum number of votes in the National Assembly by lawmakers elected through disputed elections.

Pakistan's capital Islamabad has re-entered the times of a Sharif in power. For the second time in about two years, Shehbaz Sharif won the maximum number of votes in the National Assembly by lawmakers elected through disputed elections. On Sunday (March 3), the former Punjab chief minister and the younger brother of three-time former prime minister Nawaz Sharif won 202 votes of support against 92 polled in support of Umar Ayub Khan, the grandson of military ruler Ayub Khan. The Sharifs first rose to power due to political patronage by the military dictator Zia ul-Haq in the 1980s, who attempted to clothe his authoritarian regime in democracy's fatigues, and Nawaz Sharif emerged as his 'blue-eyed' boy of choice to beat wildly popular Benazir Bhutto. Also read | Shehbaz Sharif 'elected' Pakistan PM weeks after disputed polls This time around, to win Pakistan's top job for the second time around, Shehbaz Sharif's party buried differences with the powerful military in the face of their common rival, jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, who was at odds with top generals over key policy differences. What made Shehbaz Sharif military's preferred choice to be Pakistan PM? At 72, Shehbaz has been elected prime minister despite his elder brother Nawaz Sharif winning a seat in the National Assembly and being favourite to be sworn in again. A common feature that makes him a military favourite is his allegiance to support separatism in India's Jammu and Kashmir. This puts him in the league of his Pakistan Peoples' Party allies whose leaders in the past have called for a 'thousand-year war' over Kashmir despite severe losses in all wars fought over the Indian Union territory since 1947. Shehbaz Sharif makes no direct mention of ties with India, Afghanistan during his first address after being elected to bcm Pakistan PM even as he substantially raked Kashmir. He gave a detailed account on ties with China, role for CPEC, ties with US, Europe, Saudi, UAE etx https://t.co/cyX5F66UMD — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) March 3, 2024 × When Imran Khan was ousted from power in April 2022 following a no-trust vote, Shehbaz succeeded as the country's premier. He managed to secure a desperately needed International Monetary Fund (IMF) bailout and kept the nation barely afloat almost until August 2023 when he gave up the premiership to caretaker PM Anwar-ul Haq Kakar. Also watch | Pakistan: Shehbaz Sharif elected Pakistan PM for second term × At the time, Nawaz Sharif was in self-imposed exile in London and disqualified from holding public office over the Panama Papers scandal. He returned to Pakistan in October to lead the election campaign ahead of the February 8 polls. Before his inaugural stint as prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif was known more as an administrator than a politician. He has served as CM thrice in the country's largest province, Punjab. As prime minister, Shehbaz emerged as a peacemaker between coalition parties who have often been at odds with one another over key policies. (With inputs from agencies)

Meet Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif, military's new favourite to run crisis-ridden nation

Shehbaz Sharif was sworn in as Pakistan's Prime Minister for a second time on Monday, following weeks of delays in forming a coalition government. People on the streets of Pakistan have expressed their concerns about the high cost of living in the country and are pessimistic about the newly elected Prime Minister's ability to improve the situation.

Gravitas | Pakistan’s Shehbaz Sharif takes oath as Prime Minister

More than four weeks after Pakistan held elections, the country finally has a new Prime ministerial face amid protests and poll rigging accusations Nawaz Sharif's younger brother Shehbaz Sharif secured a majority vote in Parliament but an uphill task on reviving Pakistan's economy awaits the incoming leader. Watch to know more!

Pakistan elections: Shehbaz Sharif secures 201 of 336 votes in National Assembly

Pakistan International Airlines has a new headache; its flight crew members are going missing in Canada. Last month, A crew member did not report for her return flight from Toronto to Karachi. Authorities checked her hotel room, they found her uniform and a note. In 2023, At least seven PIA crew members went missing while on duty in Canada. What's the story?

Gravitas | Pakistan's 'donkey' airline & the mystery of the missing crew

Indian authorities seized a Pakistan-bound Chinese ship for carrying covert equipment that could be used by Pakistan for its nuclear programme. Pakistan has claimed that the cargo contained only "commercial goods."

Gravitas | Is Pak trying to smuggle in 'nuclear cargo'?

Pakistan is mining a ban on social media as resolution to ban social media platforms such as X, YouTube, Instagram, Tik Tok and Facebook has reached Pakistan's Senate. This resolution is scheduled for debate on Monday. As per Senate Secretariat documents, the resolution is aimed at the younger generation for what it perceives as negative and devastating effects of social media. Watch to know more!

Pakistan Social Media Debate: Resolution to ban social media reaches Pak senate

PML-N leader and younger brother Shehbaz Sharif inherits a mountain of economic crisis and years-long political instability, as he took oath as the prime minister earlier today. Will Sharif be Pakistan's first prime minister to serve a full term?

Shehbaz sharif takes oath as Pakistan's next prime minister

Shehbaz Sharif was on Monday sworn in as Pakistan's 24th Prime Minister, taking over the reins of the cash-strapped country for a second time since 2022, amidst staggering economic and security challenges.

Shehbaz Sharif takes oath as Pakistan's 24th Prime Minister

Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) has announced to hold countrywide demonstrations on Monday (today) against the "raid" at the house of its chairman and presidential nominee, Mahmood Khan Achakzai.

Pakistan: Why timing of the Achakzai's raid is notable

Pakistan: Achakzai's party calls for nationwide protest

Torrential rains in West and Northwest Pakistan over the past 48 Hours has claimed over 30 lives. Dozens of people are reportedly injured or even homeless, at least 26 rain related deaths were reported in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province on Thursday. 18 children are among the 26 who died due to collapsed buildings in Pakistan's Northwestern region. All schools have been shut in Balochistan. As per reports more than 150 houses are damaged due to rainfall triggered landslides in the country. Watch to know more!

Pakistan rain and floods: More than 30 killed in heavy rain in Pakistan

Pakistan: PkMAP announces countrywide protest against raid at Achakzais house

Torrential rains in west and north-west Pakistan over the past 48 hours have claimed over 30 lives. Dozens of people are reported injured and homeless.

Heavy rainfall triggers floods, landslides in Pakistan

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