Pakistan's establishment is resorting to "all kinds of blackmail" to ensure a continuous outflow of leaders, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader and&nbsp;former prime minister Imran Khan told WION in Islamabad on Wednesday after he was until June 19 in the Al-Qadir Trust case involving an alleged corruption of over Rs 50 billion.

The South Asian nation's military-intelligence nexus is often dubbed as "establishment", and has been widely described as the real power running the country's state of affairs.

"The government and establishment are the same thing. The country is being run by the establishment," Khan told WION on Tuesday.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/to-coup-or-not-coup-pakistan-armys-options-after-imran-khans-mini-intifada-592986">To coup or not coup: Pakistan Army’s options after Imran Khan’s 'mini-intifada'</a>

Asked about PTI's top politicians abandoning ship after the events of May 9, 2023, Imran Khan told WION:

"There is unprecedented pressure put on the individuals by the agencies. Such things have never happened before."

A number of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's top leaders, including&nbsp;Shireen Mazari, Fawad Chaudhry, Imran Ismail, Aamir Mehmood Kiani, Ali Zaidi and Maleeka Bokhari, among others have left the party in the weeks following May 9, 2023.

"They [agencies] approach them, they blackmail them, they show them the tapes, they destroy their businesses. They barge into their homes," he added.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Pakistan: Imran Khan and his wife put on no-fly list

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Khan said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led ruling alliance's accusation&nbsp;deeming&nbsp;PTI to be a "terror outfit" is nothing short of a conspiracy.

"It is a conspiracy to somehow get the PTI out of the election race," he said. "This has nothing to do with the events of May 9," added the PTI chief while referring to the violent demonstrations which erupted in parts of Pakistan following his arrest on May 9 in the Al-Qadir Trust case.

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Pakistan's establishment is resorting to "all kinds of blackmail" to ensure a continuous outflow of leaders, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader and former prime minister Imran Khan told WION in Islamabad on Wednesday after he was until June 19 in the Al-Qadir Trust case involving an alleged corruption of over Rs 50 billion.

Pakistan's establishment is resorting to "all kinds of blackmail" to ensure a continuous outflow of leaders, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader and former prime minister Imran Khan told WION in Islamabad on Wednesday after he was until June 19 in the Al-Qadir Trust case involving an alleged corruption of over Rs 50 billion. The South Asian nation's military-intelligence nexus is often dubbed as "establishment", and has been widely described as the real power running the country's state of affairs. "The government and establishment are the same thing. The country is being run by the establishment," Khan told WION on Tuesday. ALSO READ | To coup or not coup: Pakistan Army’s options after Imran Khan’s 'mini-intifada' Asked about PTI's top politicians abandoning ship after the events of May 9, 2023, Imran Khan told WION: "There is unprecedented pressure put on the individuals by the agencies. Such things have never happened before." A number of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's top leaders, including Shireen Mazari, Fawad Chaudhry, Imran Ismail, Aamir Mehmood Kiani, Ali Zaidi and Maleeka Bokhari, among others have left the party in the weeks following May 9, 2023. "They [agencies] approach them, they blackmail them, they show them the tapes, they destroy their businesses. They barge into their homes," he added. ALSO WATCH | Pakistan: Imran Khan and his wife put on no-fly list × Khan said that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led ruling alliance's accusation deeming PTI to be a "terror outfit" is nothing short of a conspiracy. "It is a conspiracy to somehow get the PTI out of the election race," he said. "This has nothing to do with the events of May 9," added the PTI chief while referring to the violent demonstrations which erupted in parts of Pakistan following his arrest on May 9 in the Al-Qadir Trust case. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Exclusive | Pakistan is being run by the 'establishment': Imran Khan

Meet 82-year-old Yasmeen Lari working to fortify Pakistan's rural communities that live on the frontlines of the havoc wrought by climate change. Pakistan is still recovering from the floods that battered the country last year. We take you to a flood-proof settlement in Pono village in the Sindh province of Pakistan. Can these climate-resilient homes become the ultimate solution for the needy?

Pakistan's first female architect constructs flood-proof houses

Former Pakistan Prime Minister and PTI Chief Imran Khan on Wednesday claimed that the police have surrounded his house and that he could be arrested any moment.

Is Imran Khan instigating anti-army sentiments?

The National Accountability Bureau of Pakistan has summoned Bushra Bibi wife of former Premiere and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chairman Imran Khan. This is in connection with the Al-Qadir trust case. A three-member team of the Anti-Graft body had delivered summons at former PM Imran Khan's Zamabak residence directing her to make an appearance today.

Bushra Bibi to be questioned in Al-Qadir trust case

Imran Khan, the former prime minister of Pakistan, was granted two-week bail by the Islamabad High Court a few days after his detention on corruption-related accusations by an anti-graft organisation. Imran Khan's immediate release was ordered by the Supreme Court on Thursday, which deemed his arrest to be "unlawful" and "illegal." Khan's arrest sparked widespread protests across Pakistan, and as his fans went on the rampage and looted and destroyed government facilities, the police tightened their prohibitory orders. Following nearly 2,000 arrests and at least eight fatalities, the administration enlisted the army to assist in bringing the situation back under control.

Imran Khan arrest updates: Former Pakistan PM granted bail in Al-Qadir Trust case

Pakistan's former Prime Minister Imran Khan's arrest in the Qadir Trust case has been termed 'illegal' by the Supreme Court. It said that the way Imran Khan was arrested was wrong and hence ordered 'immediate' release for him.

Imran Khan released by Pakistan Supreme Court | Chief Justice slams PTI workers for violence

Pakistan has sought an Interpol red corner notice against Farhat Shahzadi, a close friend of Bushra Bibi — the wife of former prime minister Imran Khan — over money laundering charges.

Red corner notice, as per Interpol, is not an international arrest warrant, rather it is a request to law enforcement globally to "locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender, or similar legal action."

As per the PTI news agency, Farhat Shahzadi, alias Farah Khan and Farah Gogi, left the country weeks before Imran Khan was ousted from power in April last year. Her departure from Pakistan came amidst allegations by the then-opposition that claimed she was involved in corruption.

Pakistan-based publication Dawn reports that in a letter to the Interpol director in Islamabad, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has sought the red corner notice against "fugitive Farhat Shahzadi in FIR 04/23 of FIA anti-money laundering circle in Lahore."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khans-wifes-friends-wealth-increased-fourfold-during-his-administration-report-569014">Wealth of Imran Khan's wife's friend increased fourfold during his administration: Report</a>

In its letter, the FIA said that it was investigating Farhat Shahzadi on charges of laundering millions of rupees.

"On fearing that her heinous crime is likely to be exposed, Farhat Shahzadi alias Farah Gogi escaped to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on April 3, 2022," alleges the agency.

"She has been declared as proclaimed offender by the court of Mr Ghulam Murtaza Virk on March 14, 2023, by the issuance of a proclamation order (warrant)," it further said.

The investigation agency has reportedly requested Interpol to escalate the process to get the approval of this request. They've urged Interpol to send the process to its headquarters in the French city of Lyon for the early issuance of the red notice.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khans-wifes-close-aide-farah-khan-receive-a-red-corner-notice-494305">Pakistan: Moves on for 'red warrant' against Farah Khan, close aide of Imran Khan's wife</a>

FIA said that it would vigorously pursue Shahzadi's arrest abroad once the red corner notice was issued.

Shahzadi is reportedly a close friend of Bushra Bibi, the third wife of PTI chief Imran Khan.&nbsp;

Once during the tenure of Usman Buzdar, who was appointed by Khan, PML-N chief organiser Maryam Nawaz Sharif had even called her Punjab's "real chief minister".

Several Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leaders, including some federal cabinet members, have been pushing the current government to allow the FIA to bring back Shahzadi to the country. They want to make Shahzadi face the cases filed against her.

According to Dawn, the FIA is also investigating Ahsan Jamil Gujjar, husband of Shahzadi, concerning the money laundering case.&nbsp;According to the report, it is believed that Shahzadi left UAE and is assumed to be living either with her husband in the US or in some other nation. 
 
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Pakistan has sought an Interpol red corner notice against Farhat Shahzadi, a close friend of Bushra Bibi — the wife of former prime minister Imran Khan — over money laundering charges.

Pakistan has sought an Interpol red corner notice against Farhat Shahzadi, a close friend of Bushra Bibi — the wife of former prime minister Imran Khan — over money laundering charges. Red corner notice, as per Interpol, is not an international arrest warrant, rather it is a request to law enforcement globally to "locate and provisionally arrest a person pending extradition, surrender, or similar legal action." As per the PTI news agency, Farhat Shahzadi, alias Farah Khan and Farah Gogi, left the country weeks before Imran Khan was ousted from power in April last year. Her departure from Pakistan came amidst allegations by the then-opposition that claimed she was involved in corruption. Pakistan-based publication Dawn reports that in a letter to the Interpol director in Islamabad, the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has sought the red corner notice against "fugitive Farhat Shahzadi in FIR 04/23 of FIA anti-money laundering circle in Lahore." Also read | Wealth of Imran Khan's wife's friend increased fourfold during his administration: Report In its letter, the FIA said that it was investigating Farhat Shahzadi on charges of laundering millions of rupees. "On fearing that her heinous crime is likely to be exposed, Farhat Shahzadi alias Farah Gogi escaped to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on April 3, 2022," alleges the agency. "She has been declared as proclaimed offender by the court of Mr Ghulam Murtaza Virk on March 14, 2023, by the issuance of a proclamation order (warrant)," it further said. The investigation agency has reportedly requested Interpol to escalate the process to get the approval of this request. They've urged Interpol to send the process to its headquarters in the French city of Lyon for the early issuance of the red notice. Also read | Pakistan: Moves on for 'red warrant' against Farah Khan, close aide of Imran Khan's wife FIA said that it would vigorously pursue Shahzadi's arrest abroad once the red corner notice was issued. Shahzadi is reportedly a close friend of Bushra Bibi, the third wife of PTI chief Imran Khan. Once during the tenure of Usman Buzdar, who was appointed by Khan, PML-N chief organiser Maryam Nawaz Sharif had even called her Punjab's "real chief minister". Several Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leaders, including some federal cabinet members, have been pushing the current government to allow the FIA to bring back Shahzadi to the country. They want to make Shahzadi face the cases filed against her. According to Dawn, the FIA is also investigating Ahsan Jamil Gujjar, husband of Shahzadi, concerning the money laundering case. According to the report, it is believed that Shahzadi left UAE and is assumed to be living either with her husband in the US or in some other nation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan seeks Interpol red notice against Bushra Bibi's close friend Farhat Shahzadi alias Farah Gogi

Pakistan's inflation rate has reached 36.4%, the highest inflation in Asia. This comes amid a major economic crisis where people are starving for basic commodities. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Record-inflation hits Pakistan

Pakistan's former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has warned that the current crisis in the country is enough to lead to a military takeover. Is Pakistan headed for military rule once again? Is a coup on the cards? Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas : Former Pak PM Abbasi warns of military takeover

The imposition of fines and stalling of various projects have increased economic mistrust between Pakistan and China, at a time when the former nation is facing a financial crisis. A Pakistan civil court had imposed a USD 2.48 million fine on China National Petroleum Corporation after it was alleged of violating the contract signed with Petroleum Exploration (Pvt) Ltd.

Pakistan stuck in Chinese debt trap : Analysts

Amid earlier reports claiming that Islamabad Police has denied providing security to the travelling New Zealand team for their upcoming white-ball tour of Pakistan, the concerned department refuted those claims by promising to abide by their duties in a tweet posted on Sunday. ICTP claim to provide fool-proof, world-class security to the Kiwi side, who will depart for Pakistan on April 9th for five-match T20Is, and ODI series

Pakistan police promise ‘world-class’ security to New Zealand team during white-ball tour

The federal cabinet was called to a "emergency" meeting on Sunday to decide whether to contest the Supreme Court's rulings or provide funding to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for the May 14 provincial elections in Punjab.

Pakistan cabinet holds emergency meet to discuss funding for elections

In March, Pakistan launched its first-ever digital population and housing census and to make every person count, the officials reached 210 kilometres east of Balochistan's capital. Watch how camelback counters trek wilderness for Pakistan Census

Pakistan’s first ever digital census

A storm has engulfed Pakistan, critics say history is repeating itself in the South Asian country. Today’s political turmoil and crisis have strong echoes of the past. Pakistan faces formidable challenges in a deeply divided and politically fractured state. The Shehbaz Sharif government has a huge task at their hand as the country faces economic, political, security & constitutional crises.

Pakistan's perfect storm: Economic crisis meets a political one

The Pakistan army reported that a "high-value target" was captured by Pakistan's top intelligence agency during an operation against a Baloch rebel organisation in the southwest of the nation. Gulzar Imam, better known as Shambay, is the founder and commander of the outlawed Baloch Nationalist Army, according to a military statement released on Friday.

Pakistan army says top Balochistan separatist leader arrested

The ever-growing crises in Pakistan and the failing establishments raise the spectre of another military intervention in the south Asian nation. The economy is in shambles, and inflation is sky-high, but the ruling elites are engaged in an ugly tug-of-war.

Crisis pushes Pakistan in unchartered territory

Pakistan's election commission recently delayed assembly polls in the politically crucial state of Punjab by over 5 months. Imran Khan's party has moved Pakistan's Supreme Court against the poll deferment. Now, the country's foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has sounded the alarm over the possibility of a constitutional crisis. The ruling coalition has been seeking the formation of a full court bench on the matter. Bilawal Bhutto has warned that if a larger supreme court bench is not constituted, it could lead to a martial law or an emergency-like situation. Political infighting is common in Pakistan, where no prime minister has yet completed a full term. Pakistan's military has ensured dominance over the political elite - during periods of martial law; or as guardians of centrally controlled civilian regimes. Over the years, the military has repressed political parties and cobbled together regime-friendly alliances.

Bilawal Bhutto's big warning on 'martial law, emergency-like situation' in Pakistan

On Tuesday, Brigadier Mustafa Kamal Barki of the inter services intelligence, Pakistan's main spy agency, was killed in an encounter with militants. Seven team members of the high-ranking Pakistani intelligence official were also injured in the South Waziristan encounter. In November, Tehreek-E-Taliban Pakistan called off a shaky ceasefire agreed with the Pakistan government. The armed group ordered fighters to stage attacks across the country. Pakistan has seen a surge in attacks from the Afghan side of the border; following the Taliban takeover in 2021. Almost all Afghan governments have refused to accept the colonial-era border demarcation. The durand line runs through the mountainous border, splitting tribes on either side. The border dispute has led to periodic skirmishes & tensions between Pak & Afghan forces. As of now, Pakistan's military have not given reasons for Brigadier Barki's presence in the border area.

High-ranking Pakistani intelligence official KILLED in encounter

Veteran poet, lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar has emphasised the importance of Urdu and the role Punjab played in its growth and prominence during an Urdu poetry album&nbsp;launch event. He was accompanied by his wife and veteran actress Shabana Azmi for the launch of Shayarana – Sartaj.

Speaking at the event, Akhtar said that Urdu doesn’t belong to Pakistan or Egypt, it belongs to "Hindustan".

The 78-year-old&nbsp;said, “Urdu hasn’t come from any other place. It is our own language. It isn’t spoken outside of Hindustan. Pakistan also came into existence after partition from India, earlier it was a part of India only. So, the language isn’t spoken outside Hindustan…”

He added, “Punjab has a big contribution towards Urdu and it is the language of India! But why did you leave this language? Because of partition? Because of Pakistan? Urdu should be given attention. Earlier it was only Hindustan – Pakistan later separated from Hindustan. Now Pakistan says&nbsp;that Kashmir is ours…will you believe that? I think ‘No’! Likewise, Urdu is a Hindustani&nbsp;language and it remains (so). Nowadays, new generation youths speak less Urdu and Hindi in our country. Today more focus is on English. We must speak in Hindi because it’s our national language.”

Akhtar continued, “Language is not based on religions, but is of regions. If language was based on religion, then the whole of Europe would have one language. That’s why the language is not of religion, but of the region.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/parasite-fame-choi-woo-shik-opens-up-about-working-with-bts-singer-v-in-jinnys-kitchen-571976">Parasite fame Choi Woo Shik opens up about working with BTS singer V in Jinny’s Kitchen</a>

The heart and soul behind the Urdu album&nbsp;Shayarana – Sartaj&nbsp;is famous Punjabi singer Dr Satinder Sartaaj. It comprises beautiful poetry in the nearly extinct Urdu&nbsp;language.

Akhtar had recently created a buzz with his statement against Pakistan. He said&nbsp;that the perpetrators and conspirators of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks were still “roaming freely” in Pakistan.

A clip of the poet-lyricist&nbsp;speaking about “bitterness” in the hearts of Indians over the 26/11 attacks had&nbsp;gone viral on internet. Responding to an audience member while attending a poetry festival in Lahore, he was purportedly heard saying, “When you visit your homeland, do you tell your fellow citizens, ‘we (Pakistanis) are good people, we don’t just bomb people but also greet them with garlands?'”

“Blaming each other won’t solve our problems. We saw how Mumbai was attacked. They (terrorists) didn't come from Norway nor Egypt. They are still roaming freely in your country. So you shouldn’t be offended if there’s a grouse and bitterness in Indian hearts over the 26/11 attacks,” Akhtar said at the literary event held in the memory of Urdu poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz.

Akhtar added, “I wouldn’t hesitate to say that though we have organised so many grand functions of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan&nbsp;and Mehdi Hassan in our country, Pakistan couldn’t organise a single event of Lata Mangeshkar&nbsp;ji."

(With inputs from agencies) 
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Veteran poet, lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar has emphasised the importance of Urdu and the role Punjab played in its growth and prominence during an Urdu poetry album launch event.

Veteran poet, lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar has emphasised the importance of Urdu and the role Punjab played in its growth and prominence during an Urdu poetry album launch event. He was accompanied by his wife and veteran actress Shabana Azmi for the launch of Shayarana – Sartaj. Speaking at the event, Akhtar said that Urdu doesn’t belong to Pakistan or Egypt, it belongs to "Hindustan". The 78-year-old said, “Urdu hasn’t come from any other place. It is our own language. It isn’t spoken outside of Hindustan. Pakistan also came into existence after partition from India, earlier it was a part of India only. So, the language isn’t spoken outside Hindustan…” He added, “Punjab has a big contribution towards Urdu and it is the language of India! But why did you leave this language? Because of partition? Because of Pakistan? Urdu should be given attention. Earlier it was only Hindustan – Pakistan later separated from Hindustan. Now Pakistan says that Kashmir is ours…will you believe that? I think ‘No’! Likewise, Urdu is a Hindustani language and it remains (so). Nowadays, new generation youths speak less Urdu and Hindi in our country. Today more focus is on English. We must speak in Hindi because it’s our national language.” Akhtar continued, “Language is not based on religions, but is of regions. If language was based on religion, then the whole of Europe would have one language. That’s why the language is not of religion, but of the region.” Also read: Parasite fame Choi Woo Shik opens up about working with BTS singer V in Jinny’s Kitchen The heart and soul behind the Urdu album Shayarana – Sartaj is famous Punjabi singer Dr Satinder Sartaaj. It comprises beautiful poetry in the nearly extinct Urdu language. Akhtar had recently created a buzz with his statement against Pakistan. He said that the perpetrators and conspirators of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks were still “roaming freely” in Pakistan. A clip of the poet-lyricist speaking about “bitterness” in the hearts of Indians over the 26/11 attacks had gone viral on internet. Responding to an audience member while attending a poetry festival in Lahore, he was purportedly heard saying, “When you visit your homeland, do you tell your fellow citizens, ‘we (Pakistanis) are good people, we don’t just bomb people but also greet them with garlands?'” “Blaming each other won’t solve our problems. We saw how Mumbai was attacked. They (terrorists) didn't come from Norway nor Egypt. They are still roaming freely in your country. So you shouldn’t be offended if there’s a grouse and bitterness in Indian hearts over the 26/11 attacks,” Akhtar said at the literary event held in the memory of Urdu poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz. Akhtar added, “I wouldn’t hesitate to say that though we have organised so many grand functions of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Mehdi Hassan in our country, Pakistan couldn’t organise a single event of Lata Mangeshkar ji." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Poet, lyricist, screenwriter Javed Akhtar says Urdu ‘doesn’t belong to Pakistan or Egypt, but to Hindustan’

The cash-strapped Pakistan government has directed the accountant general to cease the clearing of bills, including salaries, owing to the current economic crisis, according to a media report on Saturday (February 25). The Ministry of Finance and Revenue also instructed the Accountant General of Pakistan Revenues (AGPR) to halt the clearing of all the bills of the federal ministries or divisions and attached departments until further notice, The News International, a local daily, quoted official sources as saying.

The newspaper reported that the operational cost-related releases faced difficulties mainly due to the economic hardship facing the country. Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves, which fell to a critically low level of USD 2.9 billion a few weeks ago, have now risen closer to USD 4 billion, even as the country eagerly waits for the USD 1.1 billion tranches of funding from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Minister for Finance Ishaq Dar, who was contacted for a comment by the newspaper, said it might be untrue but promised to get back after confirmation.

Sources said that they went to the AGPR office for clearance of their outstanding bills but were informed that the Ministry of Finance had directed them to stop clearing all the bills, including the salaries, because of the prevailing difficult financial positions. The exact reasons could not be ascertained why the clearance of bills was stopped on an immediate basis. Sources said the salaries and pensions of defence-related institutions had already been cleared for next month. 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
Finance Minister Dar while meeting on February 22 with a delegation of Rothschild and Co had said "the government was steering the economy towards stability and growth". He added that "the government is committed to completing the IMF programme and fulfilling all international obligations".

Dar's commitment to unlocking the IMF tranche was visible on February 20 when the national assembly had unanimously approved the Finance (Supplementary) Bill 2023 or "mini-budget" - a move mandatory for seeking funding. The bill increases sales tax from 17 to 25 per cent on imports ranging from cars and household appliances to chocolates and cosmetics. A general sales tax was raised from 17 to 18 per cent. "The prime minister will also unveil austerity measures in the next few days," the minister told the lower house of parliament as the bill was passed, adding "we will have to take difficult decisions".

Also watch: Pakistan announces austerity drive: PM Sharif orders 15% cut in expenses

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The country's weekly inflation remained stubbornly elevated at 2.78 per cent week-on-week and 41.54 per cent year-on-year during the seven-day period that ended on February 23, official data showed on Friday. This comes as the government of Pakistan almost doubled the gas charges from Rs 147.57 to Rs 295 to get the IMF's approval for the USD 1.1 billion tranches out of the USD 6.5 billion bailout package under the Extended Fund Facility.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-no-business-class-flights-five-star-stays-for-ministers-amid-financial-crunch-565284">Pakistan: No business class flights, five-star stays for ministers amid financial crunch</a>

Analysts had said last week that inflationary pressures would intensify as the government took tax measures and made electricity, petroleum, and gas price adjustments to unlock the IMF programme. Consumers have been reeling under the burden of rising prices of essential items, particularly edibles.

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The cash-strapped Pakistan government has directed the accountant general to cease the clearing of bills, including salaries, owing to the current economic crisis, according to a media report on Saturday (February 25).

The cash-strapped Pakistan government has directed the accountant general to cease the clearing of bills, including salaries, owing to the current economic crisis, according to a media report on Saturday (February 25). The Ministry of Finance and Revenue also instructed the Accountant General of Pakistan Revenues (AGPR) to halt the clearing of all the bills of the federal ministries or divisions and attached departments until further notice, The News International, a local daily, quoted official sources as saying. The newspaper reported that the operational cost-related releases faced difficulties mainly due to the economic hardship facing the country. Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves, which fell to a critically low level of USD 2.9 billion a few weeks ago, have now risen closer to USD 4 billion, even as the country eagerly waits for the USD 1.1 billion tranches of funding from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Minister for Finance Ishaq Dar, who was contacted for a comment by the newspaper, said it might be untrue but promised to get back after confirmation. Sources said that they went to the AGPR office for clearance of their outstanding bills but were informed that the Ministry of Finance had directed them to stop clearing all the bills, including the salaries, because of the prevailing difficult financial positions. The exact reasons could not be ascertained why the clearance of bills was stopped on an immediate basis. Sources said the salaries and pensions of defence-related institutions had already been cleared for next month. Finance Minister Dar while meeting on February 22 with a delegation of Rothschild and Co had said "the government was steering the economy towards stability and growth". He added that "the government is committed to completing the IMF programme and fulfilling all international obligations". Dar's commitment to unlocking the IMF tranche was visible on February 20 when the national assembly had unanimously approved the Finance (Supplementary) Bill 2023 or "mini-budget" - a move mandatory for seeking funding. The bill increases sales tax from 17 to 25 per cent on imports ranging from cars and household appliances to chocolates and cosmetics. A general sales tax was raised from 17 to 18 per cent. "The prime minister will also unveil austerity measures in the next few days," the minister told the lower house of parliament as the bill was passed, adding "we will have to take difficult decisions". Also watch: Pakistan announces austerity drive: PM Sharif orders 15% cut in expenses × The country's weekly inflation remained stubbornly elevated at 2.78 per cent week-on-week and 41.54 per cent year-on-year during the seven-day period that ended on February 23, official data showed on Friday. This comes as the government of Pakistan almost doubled the gas charges from Rs 147.57 to Rs 295 to get the IMF's approval for the USD 1.1 billion tranches out of the USD 6.5 billion bailout package under the Extended Fund Facility. Also read: Pakistan: No business class flights, five-star stays for ministers amid financial crunch Analysts had said last week that inflationary pressures would intensify as the government took tax measures and made electricity, petroleum, and gas price adjustments to unlock the IMF programme. Consumers have been reeling under the burden of rising prices of essential items, particularly edibles. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Cash-strapped Pakistan government halts clearance of bills, salaries: Report

Tensions have escalated between Afghanistan and Pakistan after the border crossing closed. Now, a High-level Pak delegation visits Afghanistan to resolve tensions. Watch here.

Pakistan’s defence and spy chiefs discuss security with Taliban

India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday (February 23) yet again spoke of Pakistan's tacit support to terror groups at a time when the country faces multiple economic challenges and almost dismissed the idea of helping the western neighbour to come out of its economic mess. No country can come out of a difficult situation, Jaishankar insisted, "if it's basic industry is terrorism".&nbsp; 
 
"Terrorism is a fundamental issue in relationship with Pakistan... we must not be in denial of it," the Foreign Minister said at an event. The minister, who is known for making sharp comments about China and Pakistan on international platforms while&nbsp;reflecting the government's stand, dropped clear hints at not extending any help to Pakistan for helping it tide over the crises by saying that he will consider the local public sentiment while making any such big decision.

"...If I were to look at any big decision I am making, I will also look at what is the public sentiment. I would have a pulse what do my people feel about it. And I think you know the answer," Jaishankar was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. 
 
Underlining that India is a very "forbearing and patient country", he stressed that the nation "will do whatever it takes to protect its borders".

Also Watch: German Chancellor Olaf Scholz quotes India's S Jaishankar at Munich conference

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<h2>India and other nations on Pak economic crises</h2>

Pakistan is facing one of its worst economic crises. Earlier last year, cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan was ousted out of power amid accusations over poor handling of the economic crises. Despite his removal, the situation has hardly improved amid a political blame-game. Even as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has delayed its next tranche of $6.5 billion loan, China and Pakistan now come to the rescue of the country. Beijing has reportedly lent a $700 million loan to shore up the country's foreign reserves, which have hit a new low.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-proven-itself-as-an-exceptional-international-power-eam-jaishankar-564536">India has proven itself as an 'exceptional international power': EAM Jaishankar</a>

New Delhi, meanwhile, has been seeking measures by Islamabad for tackling terror. Earlier this week, in an interview with news agency ANI, Jaishankar underlined: "Pakistan’s future is largely determined by its own actions and choices. Nobody reaches a difficult situation suddenly without cause. It is for them to find out. Today, our relationship is not one where we can be relevant directly to that process." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday (February 23) yet again spoke of Pakistan's tacit support to terror groups at a time when the country faces multiple economic challenges and almost dismissed the idea of helping the western neighbour to come out of its economic mess.

India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday (February 23) yet again spoke of Pakistan's tacit support to terror groups at a time when the country faces multiple economic challenges and almost dismissed the idea of helping the western neighbour to come out of its economic mess. No country can come out of a difficult situation, Jaishankar insisted, "if it's basic industry is terrorism". "Terrorism is a fundamental issue in relationship with Pakistan... we must not be in denial of it," the Foreign Minister said at an event. The minister, who is known for making sharp comments about China and Pakistan on international platforms while reflecting the government's stand, dropped clear hints at not extending any help to Pakistan for helping it tide over the crises by saying that he will consider the local public sentiment while making any such big decision. "...If I were to look at any big decision I am making, I will also look at what is the public sentiment. I would have a pulse what do my people feel about it. And I think you know the answer," Jaishankar was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. Underlining that India is a very "forbearing and patient country", he stressed that the nation "will do whatever it takes to protect its borders". Also Watch: German Chancellor Olaf Scholz quotes India's S Jaishankar at Munich conference × India and other nations on Pak economic crises Pakistan is facing one of its worst economic crises. Earlier last year, cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan was ousted out of power amid accusations over poor handling of the economic crises. Despite his removal, the situation has hardly improved amid a political blame-game. Even as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has delayed its next tranche of $6.5 billion loan, China and Pakistan now come to the rescue of the country. Beijing has reportedly lent a $700 million loan to shore up the country's foreign reserves, which have hit a new low. Also read: India has proven itself as an 'exceptional international power': EAM Jaishankar New Delhi, meanwhile, has been seeking measures by Islamabad for tackling terror. Earlier this week, in an interview with news agency ANI, Jaishankar underlined: "Pakistan’s future is largely determined by its own actions and choices. Nobody reaches a difficult situation suddenly without cause. It is for them to find out. Today, our relationship is not one where we can be relevant directly to that process." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

On Pak’s economic crises, Jaishankar calls out neighbour’s ‘basic terrorism industry’ for its ills

In a quick turn around of events, Washington and Islamabad are seeking to repair ties. Here's what you need to know...

A newer kind of relationship is emerging between U.S and Pakistan | India | World News

Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan was on Wednesday (February 15) denied relief in the case linked to a protest outside the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) last year as an Islamabad Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) rejected his interim bail. The matter can't be stretched for an "indefinite period", Judge Raja Jawad Abbas Hassan said during the hearing, Pakistan daily <a href="https://www.dawn.com/news/1737281">Dawn reported</a>, in reference to the former premier's absence. &nbsp;Stressing that Imran Khan "tried to come, but he could not", his lawyer had sought an extension of the pre-arrest bail.&nbsp;

Multiple opportunities were given to Khan to appear in the case, the court stressed, "but to no avail". The 70-year-old cricketer-turned-politician did not appear for the hearings at least eight times since October, as per the report, apart from twice on Wednesday. &nbsp;His lawyer also reportedly told the court that "injuries take time in healing at this age" in a reference to the attempt on his life on November 3 during a rally. &nbsp;He has been recovering in Lahore since the assassination attempt and could not fly to Islamabad for the hearing, his attorney said.&nbsp;

Khan can now challenge the decision in the Islamabad High Court.&nbsp;

The case was filed against Imran Khan in October after workers of his party - Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) - took to the streets and held demonstrations outside ECP offices across the country. The protests were held against the disqualification of the former prime minister over accusations related to Toshakhana, a government department that stores gifts given by heads of other governments and foreign dignitaries.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-assassination-attempt-meet-the-hero-who-saved-paks-former-pm-531188">Imran Khan assassination attempt: Meet Ibtisam Hassan, the ‘hero’ who saved Pak former PM’s life</a> 
&nbsp; 
The Election Commission took action against the ex-prime minister after he allegedly "concealed his assets relating to Toshakhana gifts retained by him particularly in year 2018 and 2019 […] in the statements of assets and liabilities filed for the year 2017-2018 and 2018-19”.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan was on Wednesday (February 15) denied relief in the case linked to a protest outside the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) last year as an Islamabad Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) rejected his interim bail.

Pakistan's former prime minister Imran Khan was on Wednesday (February 15) denied relief in the case linked to a protest outside the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) last year as an Islamabad Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) rejected his interim bail. The matter can't be stretched for an "indefinite period", Judge Raja Jawad Abbas Hassan said during the hearing, Pakistan daily Dawn reported, in reference to the former premier's absence. Stressing that Imran Khan "tried to come, but he could not", his lawyer had sought an extension of the pre-arrest bail. Multiple opportunities were given to Khan to appear in the case, the court stressed, "but to no avail". The 70-year-old cricketer-turned-politician did not appear for the hearings at least eight times since October, as per the report, apart from twice on Wednesday. His lawyer also reportedly told the court that "injuries take time in healing at this age" in a reference to the attempt on his life on November 3 during a rally. He has been recovering in Lahore since the assassination attempt and could not fly to Islamabad for the hearing, his attorney said. Khan can now challenge the decision in the Islamabad High Court. The case was filed against Imran Khan in October after workers of his party - Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) - took to the streets and held demonstrations outside ECP offices across the country. The protests were held against the disqualification of the former prime minister over accusations related to Toshakhana, a government department that stores gifts given by heads of other governments and foreign dignitaries. Also read: Imran Khan assassination attempt: Meet Ibtisam Hassan, the ‘hero’ who saved Pak former PM’s life The Election Commission took action against the ex-prime minister after he allegedly "concealed his assets relating to Toshakhana gifts retained by him particularly in year 2018 and 2019 […] in the statements of assets and liabilities filed for the year 2017-2018 and 2018-19”. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Imran Khan denied bail in protest case: 'Can't stretch for indefinite period' 

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