According to US media reports, the Joe Biden administration is close to a formal agreement with Pakistan to use its airspace to conduct military and intelligence operations in Afghanistan.

US to use Pakistan's airspace for counter-terrorism in Afghanistan, may sign a deal

A pilot turned veterinarian is on a mission in Pakistan to save and feed stray dogs. He has dedicated his to life to animal welfare. Watch his story.

Dr. Ghani Ikram dedicated his life to animal welfare

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has asked Balochistan Governor Amanullah Khan Yasinzai to resign saying that he wanted to appoint a new governor. In a letter to Yasinzai, Imran Khan maintained that it was a "pleasure" to work with him.

However, the letter states that "dexterity and deftness" was required given the "current political situation". It quickly adds that the PM's decision was in no way a bad reflection on the governor's "competence"

Here is Imran Khan's full letter

<img alt="Imran Khan's letter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fdc44802-d12f-4e43-83fb-c137a8b53b2c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%20Image%202021-05-02%20at%204.57.50%20PM.jpeg" />

Balochistan, the largest province of Pakistan has vital Chinese interests. Many major projects to be developed under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) are in Balochistan. The region has long resented Pakistani rule and there are even armed groups carrying out operations against Pakistani forces.

The heavy Chinese involvement in the province has exacerbated the resentment in the local population.

Despite Balochistan being rich in minerals and natural resources, it is Pakistan`s poorest province and regularly ranks at the bottom of the country`s socioeconomic indicators on healthcare, education, and population welfare

Amanullah Khan Yasinzai was appointed as the governor of Balochistan by President Dr Arif Alvi on the recommendation of Prime Minister Imran in October 2018, reported Dawn.

The Balochistan Governor served as He served as the chief justice of the Balochistan High Court (BHC) from 2005 to 2009

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has asked Balochistan Governor Amanullah Khan Yasinzai to resign saying that he wanted to appoint a new governor. In a letter to Yasinzai, Imran Khan maintained that it was a "pleasure" to work with him.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has asked Balochistan Governor Amanullah Khan Yasinzai to resign saying that he wanted to appoint a new governor. In a letter to Yasinzai, Imran Khan maintained that it was a "pleasure" to work with him. However, the letter states that "dexterity and deftness" was required given the "current political situation". It quickly adds that the PM's decision was in no way a bad reflection on the governor's "competence" Here is Imran Khan's full letter Balochistan, the largest province of Pakistan has vital Chinese interests. Many major projects to be developed under China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) are in Balochistan. The region has long resented Pakistani rule and there are even armed groups carrying out operations against Pakistani forces. The heavy Chinese involvement in the province has exacerbated the resentment in the local population. Despite Balochistan being rich in minerals and natural resources, it is Pakistan`s poorest province and regularly ranks at the bottom of the country`s socioeconomic indicators on healthcare, education, and population welfare Amanullah Khan Yasinzai was appointed as the governor of Balochistan by President Dr Arif Alvi on the recommendation of Prime Minister Imran in October 2018, reported Dawn. The Balochistan Governor served as He served as the chief justice of the Balochistan High Court (BHC) from 2005 to 2009

Pakistan PM Imran Khan asks Balochistan governor to resign

A Pakistani court has granted opposition leader and Pakistani Muslim League- Nawaz (PML-N) chief Shehbaz Sharif post-arrest bail in money laundering case.

The Lahore High Court on Thursday granted Shehbaz's bail. The three-judge bench, headed by Justice Ali Baqar Najafi, gave a unanimous verdict, Dawn reported.

According to the short court order, the PML-N leader was required to furnish two bail bonds worth Pakistani Rs 5 million each.

Shehbaz, the brother of former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, was arrested on September 28, 2020, in the money laundering reference after the LHC refused to further extend his pre-arrest bail.

He was first granted interim pre-arrest bail last year on June 3. After his arrest, he remained in the bureau's custody for 23 days till the trial court sent him on judicial remand on October 20, 2020.

Shehbaz Sharif, the former Punjab Chief Minister, is accused of accumulating assets worth Pakistani Rs7,328 million in connivance with his co-accused family members, benamidars, front persons and close associations and for developing an organized system of money laundering.

The anti-graft watchdog has nominated a total of 20 individuals in the reference - Shahbaz's wife Nusrat, his sons Hamza and Suleman, and daughters Rabia Imran and Javeria Ali.

Previously, Shehbaz was also arrested by NAB on October 5, 2018 in Ashiana-i-Iqbal Housing Scheme and later in the Ramzan Sugar Mills case. The LHC had released him on bail in both cases on February 17, 2019.

A Pakistani court has granted opposition leader and Pakistani Muslim League- Nawaz (PML-N) chief Shehbaz Sharif post-arrest bail in money laundering case. The Lahore High Court on Thursday granted Shehbaz's bail.

A Pakistani court has granted opposition leader and Pakistani Muslim League- Nawaz (PML-N) chief Shehbaz Sharif post-arrest bail in money laundering case. The Lahore High Court on Thursday granted Shehbaz's bail. The three-judge bench, headed by Justice Ali Baqar Najafi, gave a unanimous verdict, Dawn reported. According to the short court order, the PML-N leader was required to furnish two bail bonds worth Pakistani Rs 5 million each. Shehbaz, the brother of former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, was arrested on September 28, 2020, in the money laundering reference after the LHC refused to further extend his pre-arrest bail. He was first granted interim pre-arrest bail last year on June 3. After his arrest, he remained in the bureau's custody for 23 days till the trial court sent him on judicial remand on October 20, 2020. Shehbaz Sharif, the former Punjab Chief Minister, is accused of accumulating assets worth Pakistani Rs7,328 million in connivance with his co-accused family members, benamidars, front persons and close associations and for developing an organized system of money laundering. The anti-graft watchdog has nominated a total of 20 individuals in the reference - Shahbaz's wife Nusrat, his sons Hamza and Suleman, and daughters Rabia Imran and Javeria Ali. Previously, Shehbaz was also arrested by NAB on October 5, 2018 in Ashiana-i-Iqbal Housing Scheme and later in the Ramzan Sugar Mills case. The LHC had released him on bail in both cases on February 17, 2019.

Pakistan opposition leader Shehbaz Sharif granted bail in money laundering case

Mr. Lavrov planted a sapling on the premises of the Ministry and then went inside the building for a joint photo session, followed by the delegation-level talks.

Sergey Lavrov meets Pakistan counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will face a test on Saturday as he seeks vote of confidence from the parliament. The vote of confidence will be held in Pakistan's National Assembly. On Thursday, Khan declared his intention to seek vote of confidence in parliament after Pakistan Finance Minister Abdul Hafiz Sheikh lost his bid for Senate seat. Imran Khan government had been expected to win the indirect election given the numerical superiority but members of his ruling coalition are widely believed to have voted against Sheikh.

The Senate is the upper house of Pakistan's bicameral parliament.

Khan's party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI), became the largest party in the Senate in Wednesday's poll. But although it gained ground, interim results on Thursday showed his ruling coalition was still a few seats short of a clear majority.

Imran is not the first Pakistani Prime Minister to face a vote of confidence in the National Assembly. In fact, under the Eighth Amendment to the Constitution, all prime ministers of Pakistan, from 1985 to 2008, received a vote of confidence from the National Assembly.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-election-commission-convenes-meet-to-discuss-pm-imran-khans-allegations-against-it-368284">Pak election commission convenes meet to discuss PM Imran Khan's allegations against it</a>

These included the late Benazir Bhutto, Nawaz Sharif, Mir Zafarullah Jamali, Chaudhry Shujaat, Shaukat Aziz, and Yousuf Raza Gilani, reported Geo News. But Imran Khan is also the second in the history of Pakistan who has sought for a `voluntary` vote of confidence. Prior to it, Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had sought a voluntary vote of confidence from the National Assembly after his reinstatement was granted by the Supreme Court in 1993.

(With agency inputs)

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will face a test on Saturday as he seeks vote of confidence from the parliament. The vote of confidence will be held in Pakistan's National Assembly.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan will face a test on Saturday as he seeks vote of confidence from the parliament. The vote of confidence will be held in Pakistan's National Assembly. On Thursday, Khan declared his intention to seek vote of confidence in parliament after Pakistan Finance Minister Abdul Hafiz Sheikh lost his bid for Senate seat. Imran Khan government had been expected to win the indirect election given the numerical superiority but members of his ruling coalition are widely believed to have voted against Sheikh. The Senate is the upper house of Pakistan's bicameral parliament. Khan's party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI), became the largest party in the Senate in Wednesday's poll. But although it gained ground, interim results on Thursday showed his ruling coalition was still a few seats short of a clear majority. Imran is not the first Pakistani Prime Minister to face a vote of confidence in the National Assembly. In fact, under the Eighth Amendment to the Constitution, all prime ministers of Pakistan, from 1985 to 2008, received a vote of confidence from the National Assembly. Also Read | Pak election commission convenes meet to discuss PM Imran Khan's allegations against it These included the late Benazir Bhutto, Nawaz Sharif, Mir Zafarullah Jamali, Chaudhry Shujaat, Shaukat Aziz, and Yousuf Raza Gilani, reported Geo News. But Imran Khan is also the second in the history of Pakistan who has sought for a `voluntary` vote of confidence. Prior to it, Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had sought a voluntary vote of confidence from the National Assembly after his reinstatement was granted by the Supreme Court in 1993. (With agency inputs)

Imran Khan to seek vote of confidence in Pakistan parliament today

Continuation on the FATF's “grey" list means that Pakistan will not get any respite from difficulties in trying to access finances in the form of investments

Will Pakistan Come Off the FATF Grey List?

Pakistani interior minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed is facing a lot of criticism for his statement on "test" of tear gas on protesters. Last week, police in Islamabad fired 1000 tear gas shells on protesting government employees. Ahmed said that it was "necessary to test the tear gas as it had been unused for a long time" as per Pakistani news outlet Dawn. He has also been quoted as saying that "only a little was tested, not a lot"

The government employees were protesting as they demanded salary hike. Ahmed said that "real problem" was not the tear gas shelling but the pay raise that "amounts to billions of rupees in this time of inflation".

Sheikh Rashid Ahmed made these remarks as he addressed a ceremony in Rawalpindi.

His remarks have naturally have been received as being absolutely insensitive and he is receiving a lot of flak from opposition leaders and public alike.

"In any other country, a statement like this would mean immediate firing of the minister and an apology from the government," said PML-N leader Mohammad Zubair.

"To the fascist, douchebag interior minister Sheikh Rasheed, people suffocating to death is a joke," tweeted filmmaker Haroon Riaz

Earlier, the federal ministers, including Rasheed, have said the government will fulfil demands of the protestors. However, the protesters have reiterated that the government will have to issue a notification confirming the increase in their salaries. Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairperson Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) vice president Maryam Nawaz have backed the government employees protest.

In a tweet, Maryam had demanded the government to stop the "merciless torture" of the government employees."For God`s sake, stop this merciless torture...Do not make the innocent government employees suffer from tear gas, shelling and baton-charging. They are not enemies but poor Pakistanis who are asking for their rights," she added.

(With ANI inputs)

Pakistani interior minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed is facing a lot of criticism for his statement on "test" of tear gas on protesters. Last week, police in Islamabad fired 1000 tear gas shells on protesting government employees.

Pakistani interior minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed is facing a lot of criticism for his statement on "test" of tear gas on protesters. Last week, police in Islamabad fired 1000 tear gas shells on protesting government employees. Ahmed said that it was "necessary to test the tear gas as it had been unused for a long time" as per Pakistani news outlet Dawn. He has also been quoted as saying that "only a little was tested, not a lot" The government employees were protesting as they demanded salary hike. Ahmed said that "real problem" was not the tear gas shelling but the pay raise that "amounts to billions of rupees in this time of inflation". Sheikh Rashid Ahmed made these remarks as he addressed a ceremony in Rawalpindi. His remarks have naturally have been received as being absolutely insensitive and he is receiving a lot of flak from opposition leaders and public alike. "In any other country, a statement like this would mean immediate firing of the minister and an apology from the government," said PML-N leader Mohammad Zubair. "To the fascist, douchebag interior minister Sheikh Rasheed, people suffocating to death is a joke," tweeted filmmaker Haroon Riaz Earlier, the federal ministers, including Rasheed, have said the government will fulfil demands of the protestors. However, the protesters have reiterated that the government will have to issue a notification confirming the increase in their salaries. Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairperson Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) vice president Maryam Nawaz have backed the government employees protest. In a tweet, Maryam had demanded the government to stop the "merciless torture" of the government employees."For God`s sake, stop this merciless torture...Do not make the innocent government employees suffer from tear gas, shelling and baton-charging. They are not enemies but poor Pakistanis who are asking for their rights," she added. (With ANI inputs)

Fired tear gas on employees to test it as it had been unused for a long time: Pakistan Minister

Two 11 week old white tiger cubs that died in the Pakistani Zoo last month, are most likely died of COVID-19. An autopsy report found that the cub's lungs were badly damaged.

Two 11 week old white Tiger cubs died due to COVID-19 in Pakistan

After a lull of about a month, the Progressive Democratic Movement (PDM), has decided to step up its activities to pin down the Imran Khan government. In furthering its aim, PDM chief, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, in the presence of Maryam Nawaz of Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari of Pakistan People's Party (PPP), held a press conference on February 4 in Islamabad.&nbsp;

As per the latest plans, the PDM will organize a long march towards Islamabad. This anti-government alliance with the blessings of former Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, has also decided that all parties will contest state elections together, rejecting the open ballot method. This is in complete defiance of the government decision as the proposed constitutional amendment had endorsed for the open ballot system in the Senate Polls. The PDM has also described this march as the Mehngai March (March against inflation). This assumes significance as the electricity, gas and petroleum costs have skyrocketed in Pakistan in the recent past.

Meanwhile, opposition parties in Pakistan continue to be in a non-cooperation mode during the proceedings of the parliament. Also, there is no let up in the cases of corruption in government circles and Prime Minister Imran Khan remains under criticism for heading a corrupt government though his party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), had pledged an honest and clean governance during the election campaign of 2018.&nbsp;

Earlier, political commentators in Pakistan had assessed that PDM had run out of steam and was no longer force to reckon with. However, with the recent renewed plans by the PDM which comprises all the principal opposition parties, Imran Khan is expected to be under mounting pressure. Therefore, March 26 and run up to that date, remains crucial meriting close watch.

In a separate development, Prime Minister Imran Khan was castigated by well known military veteran, Lt Gen (retd) Talat Masood for the prime minister’s generous showering of praise and yearning for the Chinese political system of governance. In a writeup in a popular newspaper, The Express Tribune, dated February 3, 2021, Gen Masood finds PM’s opinion on Chinese governance as worrisome as it needs clarity which needs to be addressed to the general public.&nbsp;

Coming down heavily on the Pakistani Prime Minister, Gen Masood, charges his PM for being disillusioned with democracy and finds the role of the Opposition and the checks and balances in it frustrating.

The commentator also questions that if left to himself, PM Imran Khan would probably adopt a quasi-Chinese model with a token Opposition and greater freedom of action. Gen Masood, with vast political and military experience finds the Chinese communist system as harsh curbing individual freedom.

No doubt, Chinese leaders including Deng Xiaoping have brought about some elementary changes by partially opening the economy to generate wealth, yet this was at the cost of immense political and religious freedom.

This point is of particular importance in Pakistan and the leadership has to sensitise itself to the aspirations and expectations of the people of the four provinces and give them due representation. Even the mention of a presidential system or a quasi-Chinese model would invite a serious backlash. Pakistani military rulers had all the power at their command, similar to Imran Khan’s dream scenario, yet they failed miserably and left behind legacies the consequences of which Pakistan is still suffering.

The PM should realise as warned by Gen Talat Masood that at times he is setting aside key requirements of democratic governance by bypassing institutions. His reliance on the military may give him the confidence to bypass constitutional and legal obligations but these have a downside of weakening democracy and undermining his own role and that of the cabinet.

Gen Talat Masood further writes that good leadership demands they leave in their wake, legacies that place the country on a stable trajectory and not get embroiled in endless controversies. Their main aim should be to build the edifices of the country and create new ones where necessary.&nbsp;

For Pakistani leadership, high priority should be placed on strengthening parliament, correcting courses in civil-military relations, building a firm foundation for the economy, and expanding and deepening relations with friendly countries. Pakistan also needs to develop capabilities to deal with challenges like climate change and cybersecurity and maintain a hard focus on improving health and education facilities.&nbsp;

A country where 44% of the population is illiterate and a very high percentage of children are challenged, and is drowned by the burden of multiple problems, has to seriously rethink its priorities. For it is easier to take out processions but difficult to plan, address its weaknesses and rebuild the country.&nbsp;

By the observations of this war veteran in China, it can be easily surmised that the Pakistani think-tanks generally are averse to the Chinese system of economy and governance. Prime Minister Imran Khan going overboard to warm up to China, as seen currently, does not seem to have the endorsement of a large section of the Pakistani polity.

In the meantime, the Pakistan National Assembly witnessed an unprecedented and nasty chaos in its session of February 4. Many members engaged in physical scuffles which many say was perhaps the first time in Pakistan’s parliamentary history.&nbsp;

The Speaker, having failed to control the rowdiness, had to be provided a security ring by his protection team as the atmosphere inside the National Assembly was charged. The opposition staged a walkout registering their protest due to what they alleged the bullish behaviour of the ruling PTI.&nbsp;

In another significant statement emanating from the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, while addressing at the graduation ceremony at the Pakistan Air Force Academy on Feb 2, called upon India and Pakistan to resolve the longstanding “issue” of Jammu and Kashmir in a dignified and peaceful manner.&nbsp;

He claimed that Pakistan was a peace-loving country and wanted to co-exist. However, he also said that the Armed Forces of Pakistan are fully capable and prepared to thwart any threat.&nbsp;

In view of this statement, India being a non-aggressor in all the previous wars with Pakistan might walk an extra mile to reciprocate in the larger interest of peace and tranquil between the two countries.&nbsp;

Yet, India in likelihood, will wait and weigh about the sincerity of Gen Bajwa’s statement which, on the face of it, has raised “hopes” of a reconciliation.

(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.)

After a lull of about a month, the Progressive Democratic Movement (PDM), has decided to step up its activities to pin down the Imran Khan government. In furthering its aim, PDM chief, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, in the presence of Maryam Nawaz of Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari of Pakistan People's Party (PPP), held a press conference on February 4 in Islamabad.

After a lull of about a month, the Progressive Democratic Movement (PDM), has decided to step up its activities to pin down the Imran Khan government. In furthering its aim, PDM chief, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, in the presence of Maryam Nawaz of Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N) and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari of Pakistan People's Party (PPP), held a press conference on February 4 in Islamabad. As per the latest plans, the PDM will organize a long march towards Islamabad. This anti-government alliance with the blessings of former Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, has also decided that all parties will contest state elections together, rejecting the open ballot method. This is in complete defiance of the government decision as the proposed constitutional amendment had endorsed for the open ballot system in the Senate Polls. The PDM has also described this march as the Mehngai March (March against inflation). This assumes significance as the electricity, gas and petroleum costs have skyrocketed in Pakistan in the recent past. Meanwhile, opposition parties in Pakistan continue to be in a non-cooperation mode during the proceedings of the parliament. Also, there is no let up in the cases of corruption in government circles and Prime Minister Imran Khan remains under criticism for heading a corrupt government though his party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), had pledged an honest and clean governance during the election campaign of 2018. Earlier, political commentators in Pakistan had assessed that PDM had run out of steam and was no longer force to reckon with. However, with the recent renewed plans by the PDM which comprises all the principal opposition parties, Imran Khan is expected to be under mounting pressure. Therefore, March 26 and run up to that date, remains crucial meriting close watch. In a separate development, Prime Minister Imran Khan was castigated by well known military veteran, Lt Gen (retd) Talat Masood for the prime minister’s generous showering of praise and yearning for the Chinese political system of governance. In a writeup in a popular newspaper, The Express Tribune, dated February 3, 2021, Gen Masood finds PM’s opinion on Chinese governance as worrisome as it needs clarity which needs to be addressed to the general public. Coming down heavily on the Pakistani Prime Minister, Gen Masood, charges his PM for being disillusioned with democracy and finds the role of the Opposition and the checks and balances in it frustrating. The commentator also questions that if left to himself, PM Imran Khan would probably adopt a quasi-Chinese model with a token Opposition and greater freedom of action. Gen Masood, with vast political and military experience finds the Chinese communist system as harsh curbing individual freedom. No doubt, Chinese leaders including Deng Xiaoping have brought about some elementary changes by partially opening the economy to generate wealth, yet this was at the cost of immense political and religious freedom. This point is of particular importance in Pakistan and the leadership has to sensitise itself to the aspirations and expectations of the people of the four provinces and give them due representation. Even the mention of a presidential system or a quasi-Chinese model would invite a serious backlash. Pakistani military rulers had all the power at their command, similar to Imran Khan’s dream scenario, yet they failed miserably and left behind legacies the consequences of which Pakistan is still suffering. The PM should realise as warned by Gen Talat Masood that at times he is setting aside key requirements of democratic governance by bypassing institutions. His reliance on the military may give him the confidence to bypass constitutional and legal obligations but these have a downside of weakening democracy and undermining his own role and that of the cabinet. Gen Talat Masood further writes that good leadership demands they leave in their wake, legacies that place the country on a stable trajectory and not get embroiled in endless controversies. Their main aim should be to build the edifices of the country and create new ones where necessary. For Pakistani leadership, high priority should be placed on strengthening parliament, correcting courses in civil-military relations, building a firm foundation for the economy, and expanding and deepening relations with friendly countries. Pakistan also needs to develop capabilities to deal with challenges like climate change and cybersecurity and maintain a hard focus on improving health and education facilities. A country where 44% of the population is illiterate and a very high percentage of children are challenged, and is drowned by the burden of multiple problems, has to seriously rethink its priorities. For it is easier to take out processions but difficult to plan, address its weaknesses and rebuild the country. By the observations of this war veteran in China, it can be easily surmised that the Pakistani think-tanks generally are averse to the Chinese system of economy and governance. Prime Minister Imran Khan going overboard to warm up to China, as seen currently, does not seem to have the endorsement of a large section of the Pakistani polity. In the meantime, the Pakistan National Assembly witnessed an unprecedented and nasty chaos in its session of February 4. Many members engaged in physical scuffles which many say was perhaps the first time in Pakistan’s parliamentary history. The Speaker, having failed to control the rowdiness, had to be provided a security ring by his protection team as the atmosphere inside the National Assembly was charged. The opposition staged a walkout registering their protest due to what they alleged the bullish behaviour of the ruling PTI. In another significant statement emanating from the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, while addressing at the graduation ceremony at the Pakistan Air Force Academy on Feb 2, called upon India and Pakistan to resolve the longstanding “issue” of Jammu and Kashmir in a dignified and peaceful manner. He claimed that Pakistan was a peace-loving country and wanted to co-exist. However, he also said that the Armed Forces of Pakistan are fully capable and prepared to thwart any threat. In view of this statement, India being a non-aggressor in all the previous wars with Pakistan might walk an extra mile to reciprocate in the larger interest of peace and tranquil between the two countries. Yet, India in likelihood, will wait and weigh about the sincerity of Gen Bajwa’s statement which, on the face of it, has raised “hopes” of a reconciliation. (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.)

Opinion: PDM renews plans to corner Imran Khan

#BoycottCannoli is trending in Pakistan after two cafe owners shamed their manager for his English-speaking skills. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more about the colonial hangover of Pakistan's elite.

Gravitas: Pak cafe owners laugh at manager's English

Lt General Bilal Akbar is appointed as Pakistan’s new envoy to Saudi Arabia, with the move signaling the military establishment’s desire to take control of bilateral ties.

WION Dispatch: Pakistan appoints former military general as Saudi envoy

Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said that there will be a big turn out at the rally in Loralai on Wednesday against the incumbent Imran Khan government.

"People`s response to the PDM public meetings is unprecedented," said the Maulana."The people across the country and the opposition alliance are on the same page, as they consider the 2018 elections were massively rigged," he added.The Maulana is to lead a PDM rally from Quetta to Loralai, where the opposition alliance will hold a public meeting, reported Dawn.The Loralai rally is part of the PDM protest against the `corrupt` government of Imran Khan.

A number of rallies have been organised since October 16 in Malakand, Bahawalpur, Peshawar, Karachi, Multan and Lahore demanding the resignation of Imran Khan by January 31st on corruption charges.Earlier, at the Malakand rally, the Maulana had declared that the nation is ready to offer any sacrifice to oust Imran Khan. He pledged that jihad would continue till `rulers stopped oppressing the poor`.Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz vice president Maryam Nawaz is also expected to attend the PDM show in Loralai and former Prime Ministers Yousaf Raza Gillani and Raja Pervez Ashraf would represent the PPP, reported Dawn.

Also, Mehmood Khan Achakzai of the Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party and leaders of other member parties of the alliance would participate in the public meeting, reported Dawn.As per the Maulana, the government has no moral justification to remain in power and it will have to resign as the PDM and the people across the country are on one page

."The mandate of the people in the last elections was stolen and it is no more secret," he said, adding that the opposition did not accept it.The Maulana also criticised the government over the Mach incident in which 11 coalminers of the Hazara community were killed by unidentified gunmen.The Maulana also asked that if there was no terrorism in the country as the government claimed then why were coal miners slaughtered.He raised the issue of targeted killings in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as well. He said that innocent people were being killed while the government claimed to have crushed the backbone of terrorism in the country.

Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said that there will be a big turn out at the rally in Loralai on Wednesday against the incumbent Imran Khan government.

Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said that there will be a big turn out at the rally in Loralai on Wednesday against the incumbent Imran Khan government. "People`s response to the PDM public meetings is unprecedented," said the Maulana."The people across the country and the opposition alliance are on the same page, as they consider the 2018 elections were massively rigged," he added.The Maulana is to lead a PDM rally from Quetta to Loralai, where the opposition alliance will hold a public meeting, reported Dawn.The Loralai rally is part of the PDM protest against the `corrupt` government of Imran Khan. A number of rallies have been organised since October 16 in Malakand, Bahawalpur, Peshawar, Karachi, Multan and Lahore demanding the resignation of Imran Khan by January 31st on corruption charges.Earlier, at the Malakand rally, the Maulana had declared that the nation is ready to offer any sacrifice to oust Imran Khan. He pledged that jihad would continue till `rulers stopped oppressing the poor`.Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz vice president Maryam Nawaz is also expected to attend the PDM show in Loralai and former Prime Ministers Yousaf Raza Gillani and Raja Pervez Ashraf would represent the PPP, reported Dawn. Also, Mehmood Khan Achakzai of the Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party and leaders of other member parties of the alliance would participate in the public meeting, reported Dawn.As per the Maulana, the government has no moral justification to remain in power and it will have to resign as the PDM and the people across the country are on one page ."The mandate of the people in the last elections was stolen and it is no more secret," he said, adding that the opposition did not accept it.The Maulana also criticised the government over the Mach incident in which 11 coalminers of the Hazara community were killed by unidentified gunmen.The Maulana also asked that if there was no terrorism in the country as the government claimed then why were coal miners slaughtered.He raised the issue of targeted killings in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as well. He said that innocent people were being killed while the government claimed to have crushed the backbone of terrorism in the country.

PDM chief Fazlur Rehman expects huge turnout at Loralai rally

Bangladesh has demanded an apology from Pakistan for the 1971 genocide. The message was conveyed by State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam to Pakistani envoy at Dhaka, Imran Ahmed Siddiqui.

WION Dispatch: Bangladesh demands apology from Pakistan for 1971 genocide

The police chief told the court that a protest by the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) was going on near the site on the day of the incident which was sponsored by Maulana Faizullah.

WION Dispatch: Pakistan Supreme Court orders reconstruction of vandalised hindu temple

Gunmen killed at least 11 mine workers at a remote coal mine in Balochistan on Sunday. The victims of the attack were from the minororty Shiite Hazra community. The ethnic Hazra community make up most of the Shiite population in Quetta, the capital in Balochistan. The region is Pakistan's largest and poorest region and rife with insurgency and violence.

"Dead bodies of the 11 miners have been taken to a local hospital," Khalid Durrani, a government official in the area, told AFP.

The attack took place before dawn on Sunday in far-flung and mountainous Machh area when the miners slept. Four injured miners are being treated at a local hospital.

A security official told AFP the attackers first separated the miners, tied their hands and feet, took them out into the hills and later killed them.&nbsp;

Both Durrani and the security official said the victims belonged to the Hazara community.

Durrani said the mine was deep in the mountains.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-40-more-arrested-over-attack-on-hindu-temple-in-northwest-pakistan-354175">Over 40 more arrested over attack on Hindu temple in Northwest Pakistan</a>

It was not clear how exactly the miners were killed, he told AFP.

The assailants fled after the attack. Both officials said police and members of the local paramilitary force were on the scene, where a search operation had been launched to trace the attackers.

No group has claimed responsibility.

In a tweet, Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned "the killing of 11 innocent coal miners in Machh" as a "cowardly inhumane act of terrorism".

Liaqat Shahwani, a spokesman for the provincial government, confirmed the incident and told private TV channel Geo that it was an act of terrorism.

Though Pakistan's mines are notorious for poor safety standards, such attacks against miners are rare.

(With AFP inputs)

Gunmen killed at least 11 mine workers at a remote coal mine in Balochistan on Sunday. The victims of the attack were from the minororty Shiite Hazra community. The ethnic Hazra community make up most of the Shiite population in Quetta, the capital in Balochistan.

Gunmen killed at least 11 mine workers at a remote coal mine in Balochistan on Sunday. The victims of the attack were from the minororty Shiite Hazra community. The ethnic Hazra community make up most of the Shiite population in Quetta, the capital in Balochistan. The region is Pakistan's largest and poorest region and rife with insurgency and violence. "Dead bodies of the 11 miners have been taken to a local hospital," Khalid Durrani, a government official in the area, told AFP. The attack took place before dawn on Sunday in far-flung and mountainous Machh area when the miners slept. Four injured miners are being treated at a local hospital. A security official told AFP the attackers first separated the miners, tied their hands and feet, took them out into the hills and later killed them. Both Durrani and the security official said the victims belonged to the Hazara community. Durrani said the mine was deep in the mountains. Also Read | Over 40 more arrested over attack on Hindu temple in Northwest Pakistan It was not clear how exactly the miners were killed, he told AFP. The assailants fled after the attack. Both officials said police and members of the local paramilitary force were on the scene, where a search operation had been launched to trace the attackers. No group has claimed responsibility. In a tweet, Prime Minister Imran Khan condemned "the killing of 11 innocent coal miners in Machh" as a "cowardly inhumane act of terrorism". Liaqat Shahwani, a spokesman for the provincial government, confirmed the incident and told private TV channel Geo that it was an act of terrorism. Though Pakistan's mines are notorious for poor safety standards, such attacks against miners are rare. (With AFP inputs)

Gunmen kill 11 miners in Balochistan

Asif, a critic of Prime Minister Imran Khan, is now among a number of prominent PML-N leaders facing graft charges, including party president Shehbaz Sharif.

Pakistan anti-corruption body arrests former foreign minister Khawaja Asif

The district administration had decided not to allow the opposition leaders to hold the public procession given the rising numbers of coronavirus infections across the country.

Pakistan Democratic Movement holds massive rally in Mardan

This is a very simple method with which you can easily plant 50-60 plants in the time it would normally take to plant one the traditional way.

Your Story: Pakistan could lose its forests in 50 years

In a first, a Pakistan back UN resolution saw over half the members of the New York headquarter body not voting for. The resolution "Promotion of interreligious & intercultural dialogue", saw 52 abstentions, and 51 countries not voting for

Major embarrassment for Pak at U.N as 100 nations reject its resolution

Earlier today, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Ali Qasim Gilani along with 30 opposition members were arrested.

Pak govt cracks down on opposition ahead of PDM rally in Multan

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Saturday slammed Prime Minister Imran Khan-led "heartless government" for sacking more than 4,500 employees of the Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM) and vowed to re-instate them once his party is in power.Bhutto said in his tweet, "The heartless government`s sacked 4,500 workers of Pakistan Steel mills. PPP will return each and everyone back to work."

"The land of this historical industrial asset belongs to the people of Sindh. We will not let the PTI (Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf) get away with this economic murder. Sack Imran, not workers," he added

According to a report by Geo News, the PSM sacked 4,544 of employees, including the divisional and assistant managers, belonging to category 2,3, and 4 pay groups.

Earlier, Minister for Industries and Production Hammad Azhar had announced the government`s decision to privatise PSM as it had become a burden on the national exchequer.Geo News quoted him as saying that PSM employees had not been working for the last many years and now they would get a financial package of around Rs 2.3 million per employee as compensation.

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Saturday slammed Prime Minister Imran Khan-led "heartless government" for sacking more than 4,500 employees of the Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM) and vowed to re-instate them once his party is in power.

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Saturday slammed Prime Minister Imran Khan-led "heartless government" for sacking more than 4,500 employees of the Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM) and vowed to re-instate them once his party is in power.Bhutto said in his tweet, "The heartless government`s sacked 4,500 workers of Pakistan Steel mills. PPP will return each and everyone back to work." "The land of this historical industrial asset belongs to the people of Sindh. We will not let the PTI (Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf) get away with this economic murder. Sack Imran, not workers," he added According to a report by Geo News, the PSM sacked 4,544 of employees, including the divisional and assistant managers, belonging to category 2,3, and 4 pay groups. Earlier, Minister for Industries and Production Hammad Azhar had announced the government`s decision to privatise PSM as it had become a burden on the national exchequer.Geo News quoted him as saying that PSM employees had not been working for the last many years and now they would get a financial package of around Rs 2.3 million per employee as compensation.

Bilawal Bhutto slams Imran Khan's 'heartless government' for sacking over 4,500 PSM employees

The results for Pakistan's sham & void election in Gilgit-Baltistan are out. Thousands have hit the streets saying the mandate has been stolen by Pakistan-Tehreek-I-Insaaf. Molly Gambhir gets you the story.

Gravitas: Pakistan's sham election in Gilgit-Baltistan

Allama Khadim Hussain Rizvi the founder of an influential Pakistani Islamist party, Tehreek-i-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP) has died on Thursday in Lahore at the age of 54. The cause of his death was not immediately clear.

Allama Khadim Hussain Rizvi Passes Away in Lahore

Amid the growing protest over the emerging election results of the Gilgit Baltistan region, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday announced a ban on rallies and gatherings.

Addressing the country following a meeting of the National Coordination Committee (NCC) on the coronavirus, Imran Khan announced a ban on gatherings and rallies -- particularly ahead of the campaigns during the Gilgit Baltistan polls, Geo News reported.

"We reviewed the rising cases of the COVID-19 and the second wave -- which is being experienced in the entire world, especially Europe and America, where cases are rising rapidly and even more than there were before," Imran Khan said, Geo News quoted.

As the results were seen favouring Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in the illegally occupied Gilgit Baltistan, the major political parties have hit the streets claiming the polls are rigged.

The elections were held on Sunday in Gilgit Baltistan in 24 constituencies of the Legislative Assembly. Khan`s PTI won eight seats while PPP three seats and independent candidates seven, according to unofficial results PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari alleged rigging in three constituencies.

Addressing a sit-in in Gilgit, he said rigging was made to snatch the mandate of PPP in Gilgit 1, Ghizer 3 and a constituency in Skardu.Earlier in a tweet, Bilawal Zardari said that the legislative assembly election in Gilgit-Baltistan "has been stolen" and that he will be shortly joining a protest in the region.

"My election has been stolen. I will be joining the people of Gilgit-Baltistan in their protest shortly," Bilawal tweeted.Meanwhile, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Vice President Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Monday claimed that PTI won a few seats in Gilgit Baltistan`s elections through `rigging`, `bullying`, and with the help of turncoats.

India has slammed Islamabad for its decision to hold elections in the illegally occupied region of Gilgit-Baltistan, saying that any action to alter the status of the region has no legal basis.

Amid the growing protest over the emerging election results of the Gilgit Baltistan region, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday announced a ban on rallies and gatherings.

Amid the growing protest over the emerging election results of the Gilgit Baltistan region, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday announced a ban on rallies and gatherings. Addressing the country following a meeting of the National Coordination Committee (NCC) on the coronavirus, Imran Khan announced a ban on gatherings and rallies -- particularly ahead of the campaigns during the Gilgit Baltistan polls, Geo News reported. "We reviewed the rising cases of the COVID-19 and the second wave -- which is being experienced in the entire world, especially Europe and America, where cases are rising rapidly and even more than there were before," Imran Khan said, Geo News quoted. As the results were seen favouring Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in the illegally occupied Gilgit Baltistan, the major political parties have hit the streets claiming the polls are rigged. The elections were held on Sunday in Gilgit Baltistan in 24 constituencies of the Legislative Assembly. Khan`s PTI won eight seats while PPP three seats and independent candidates seven, according to unofficial results PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari alleged rigging in three constituencies. Addressing a sit-in in Gilgit, he said rigging was made to snatch the mandate of PPP in Gilgit 1, Ghizer 3 and a constituency in Skardu.Earlier in a tweet, Bilawal Zardari said that the legislative assembly election in Gilgit-Baltistan "has been stolen" and that he will be shortly joining a protest in the region. "My election has been stolen. I will be joining the people of Gilgit-Baltistan in their protest shortly," Bilawal tweeted.Meanwhile, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Vice President Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Monday claimed that PTI won a few seats in Gilgit Baltistan`s elections through `rigging`, `bullying`, and with the help of turncoats. India has slammed Islamabad for its decision to hold elections in the illegally occupied region of Gilgit-Baltistan, saying that any action to alter the status of the region has no legal basis.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan announces ban on rallies and gatherings

On Monday, a 13-year-old Christian girl’s custody was given to her husband by Sindh High Court in Pakistan.

Pakistan: 13-year-old Christian girl married off to Muslim man after being abducted

A massive explosion has killed seven persons and injured 112 in Peshawar, Pakistan. The blast was reported at the Dir Colony.

Pakistan: Huge explosion kills 7, injures 112 in Peshawar

A Pakistani reporter who went missing in Karachi returned home on Saturday, his family and government officials said.

Pak journalist returns home a day after going missing in Karachi

Pakistan, the country ranked among the most dangerous for journalists in past, has seen another scribe go missing. Pakistan's Geo News said that its senior reporter, Ali Imran Syed went missing on Friday (October 23). The reporter, who left his house to go to a bakery did not return even after many hours. His family told Geo News that Imran Ali Syed left his phone in his house before heading out. His car was parked outside his house at the time of the disappearance.

The police have been informed of Ali&nbsp;Imran Syed's disappearance.

Other media reports suggest that the disappearance of Syed has come just days after he obtained video footage of Nawaz Sharif's son-in-law being arrested from a hotel in Karachi.

Captain Safdar, former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's son-in-law, was arrested and released earlier this week. Nawaz Sharif, who is in UK for medical treatment, condemned this and told reporters that there was a 'state above state' in Pakistan. The reference was taken to be aimed at Pakistan Army.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-still-not-implementing-financial-sanction-on-un-listed-terrorists-fatf-">Pak still not implementing financial sanction on UN-listed terrorists: FATF</a>

Journalists in Pakistan have always been under threat. The mysterious disappearances or even killing of journalists has had many pointing fingers at Pakistani establishment. This has been especially true when journalist criticising the establishment have disappeared mysteriously.

In May this year, editor of an ethnic Baloch news website was found dead in Sweden. Sajid Hussain, the journalist, was forced to flee Pakistan in 2012 after he got death threats. Soon after he was found dead, BBC reported that a press freedom charity had pointed fingers at Pakistani intelligence for Hussain's death.

Again in July, a prominent Pakistani journalist who raised voice against Pakistani establishment went missing. Matuiullah Jan, who went missing from Islamabad, had previously been attacked in 2017.

In an interview to an American NGO, Committee to Protect Journalists, in February, Jan said that his broadcast career turned south after a military spokesman publicly displayed his name and photo on a list of journalists who were accused of distributing anti-state propaganda.

Pakistan, the country ranked among the most dangerous for journalists in past, has seen another scribe go missing. Pakistan's Geo News said that its senior reporter, Ali Imran Syed went missing on Friday (October 23).

Pakistan, the country ranked among the most dangerous for journalists in past, has seen another scribe go missing. Pakistan's Geo News said that its senior reporter, Ali Imran Syed went missing on Friday (October 23). The reporter, who left his house to go to a bakery did not return even after many hours. His family told Geo News that Imran Ali Syed left his phone in his house before heading out. His car was parked outside his house at the time of the disappearance. The police have been informed of Ali Imran Syed's disappearance. Other media reports suggest that the disappearance of Syed has come just days after he obtained video footage of Nawaz Sharif's son-in-law being arrested from a hotel in Karachi. Captain Safdar, former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's son-in-law, was arrested and released earlier this week. Nawaz Sharif, who is in UK for medical treatment, condemned this and told reporters that there was a 'state above state' in Pakistan. The reference was taken to be aimed at Pakistan Army. Also Read | Pak still not implementing financial sanction on UN-listed terrorists: FATF Journalists in Pakistan have always been under threat. The mysterious disappearances or even killing of journalists has had many pointing fingers at Pakistani establishment. This has been especially true when journalist criticising the establishment have disappeared mysteriously. In May this year, editor of an ethnic Baloch news website was found dead in Sweden. Sajid Hussain, the journalist, was forced to flee Pakistan in 2012 after he got death threats. Soon after he was found dead, BBC reported that a press freedom charity had pointed fingers at Pakistani intelligence for Hussain's death. Again in July, a prominent Pakistani journalist who raised voice against Pakistani establishment went missing. Matuiullah Jan, who went missing from Islamabad, had previously been attacked in 2017. In an interview to an American NGO, Committee to Protect Journalists, in February, Jan said that his broadcast career turned south after a military spokesman publicly displayed his name and photo on a list of journalists who were accused of distributing anti-state propaganda.

Another journalist goes missing in Pakistan

In a decision that was on expected lines, Pakistan continues to remain on the FATF grey list that will impact the economy of the country.

Pakistan to stay on terror financing Grey List till Feb 2021

Pakistan's anti-corruption body has slapped a fresh corruption case on deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif, compounding the legal woes of the embattled Opposition leader who has frequently attacked the powerful military as well as the government.

Sharif, the 70-year-old supremo of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) who was ousted from power in 2017 by the Supreme Court on corruption charges, is currently in London for medical treatment.

The National Accountability Bureau also approved cases against Sharif's ex-personal secretary Fawad Hasan Fawad, former federal minister Ahsan Iqbal, former foreign secretary Aizaz Chaudhry and former Intelligence Bureau (IB) chief Aftab Sultan, Dawn newspaper reported.

On Thursday, a total of 11 cases were approved at NAB's Executive Board Meeting (EBM) presided over by its chairman, retired Justice Javed Iqbal.

According to the National Accountability Bureau, a fresh case was approved against Sharif along with Chaudhry, Sultan, and Fawad for ''illegally&nbsp;purchasing 73 high-security vehicles for the security of foreign dignitaries.''

They are accused of favouritism and illegal use of vehicles, causing a loss of over Rs 1,952 million to the national exchequer.

The EBM also approved a case against Ahsan Iqbal and Mohammad Ahmed, contractor/owner of private firm Ahmed and Sons, for increasing the scope of the Sports City project in Narowal from Rs 30 million to Rs 3 billion by ''abusing the authority.''

They are accused of illegally providing the funds of the federal government to provincial government projects after the 18th Amendment by using personal influence, which inflicted huge losses on the national exchequer.

The case against Iqbal was approved two days after he had said in a private TV talk show that the NAB had been investigating the Narowal Sports City case against him for the last two-and-a-half years but did not file a reference.

Sharif is already facing several cases of corruption and misuse of authority which he has declared as a result of political vendetta by the current government led by Prime Minister Khan.

The approval of fresh cases followed a recent speech by Prime Minister Khan that the Opposition would see a ''different Imran Khan'', which was interpreted as a threat to arrest more opposition leaders and court cases.

Apart from Sharif and his close aides, the NAB approved cases worth billions of rupees of alleged corruption against several officials and businessmen for causing losses to the country in different projects.

Sharif criticised the military establishment in recent speeches at gatherings of the opposition Pakistan Democratic Movement.

Days before the July 2018 general elections, Sharif was convicted in the Avenfield properties case and sentenced to 10 years in prison. His daughter Maryam was sentenced to seven years in prison for abetment and his son-in-law Captain (retd) Mohammad Safdar to one year.

In December 2018, anti-corruption court judge Arshad Malik convicted Sharif in Al-Azizia Steel Mills case and sentenced him to seven years in prison. Judge Malik was later dismissed from service over misconduct.

Pakistan's anti-corruption body has slapped a fresh corruption case on deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif, compounding the legal woes of the embattled Opposition leader who has frequently attacked the powerful military as well as the government.

Pakistan's anti-corruption body has slapped a fresh corruption case on deposed prime minister Nawaz Sharif, compounding the legal woes of the embattled Opposition leader who has frequently attacked the powerful military as well as the government. Sharif, the 70-year-old supremo of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) who was ousted from power in 2017 by the Supreme Court on corruption charges, is currently in London for medical treatment. The National Accountability Bureau also approved cases against Sharif's ex-personal secretary Fawad Hasan Fawad, former federal minister Ahsan Iqbal, former foreign secretary Aizaz Chaudhry and former Intelligence Bureau (IB) chief Aftab Sultan, Dawn newspaper reported. On Thursday, a total of 11 cases were approved at NAB's Executive Board Meeting (EBM) presided over by its chairman, retired Justice Javed Iqbal. According to the National Accountability Bureau, a fresh case was approved against Sharif along with Chaudhry, Sultan, and Fawad for ''illegally purchasing 73 high-security vehicles for the security of foreign dignitaries.'' They are accused of favouritism and illegal use of vehicles, causing a loss of over Rs 1,952 million to the national exchequer. The EBM also approved a case against Ahsan Iqbal and Mohammad Ahmed, contractor/owner of private firm Ahmed and Sons, for increasing the scope of the Sports City project in Narowal from Rs 30 million to Rs 3 billion by ''abusing the authority.'' They are accused of illegally providing the funds of the federal government to provincial government projects after the 18th Amendment by using personal influence, which inflicted huge losses on the national exchequer. The case against Iqbal was approved two days after he had said in a private TV talk show that the NAB had been investigating the Narowal Sports City case against him for the last two-and-a-half years but did not file a reference. Sharif is already facing several cases of corruption and misuse of authority which he has declared as a result of political vendetta by the current government led by Prime Minister Khan. The approval of fresh cases followed a recent speech by Prime Minister Khan that the Opposition would see a ''different Imran Khan'', which was interpreted as a threat to arrest more opposition leaders and court cases. Apart from Sharif and his close aides, the NAB approved cases worth billions of rupees of alleged corruption against several officials and businessmen for causing losses to the country in different projects. Sharif criticised the military establishment in recent speeches at gatherings of the opposition Pakistan Democratic Movement. Days before the July 2018 general elections, Sharif was convicted in the Avenfield properties case and sentenced to 10 years in prison. His daughter Maryam was sentenced to seven years in prison for abetment and his son-in-law Captain (retd) Mohammad Safdar to one year. In December 2018, anti-corruption court judge Arshad Malik convicted Sharif in Al-Azizia Steel Mills case and sentenced him to seven years in prison. Judge Malik was later dismissed from service over misconduct.

Pak's anti-corruption body slaps fresh graft case on Nawaz Sharif

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