<p>A Hindu minister in Pakistan, Kheal Das Kohistani, was attacked in Sindh by protesters opposing the government&rsquo;s irrigation canal projects. Kheal Das Kohistani, a state minister for religious affairs in Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif&rsquo;s cabinet, was attacked with tomatoes and potatoes in Sindh on Saturday by protesters opposing the federal government&rsquo;s proposed canal projects, which critics say will reduce the southern province&rsquo;s share of irrigation water.&nbsp;</p>
<p>A group of demonstrators in the Thatta district had targeted Kohistani, who luckily was not harmed. The assault on the minister amid rising tensions over the Green Pakistan Initiative was condemned by both federal and provincial authorities.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also Read |<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-announces-easter-truce-in-ukraine-conflict-orders-military-to-halt-fighting-8980135" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Putin announces &lsquo;Easter truce&rsquo; in Ukraine conflict, orders military to halt fighting</a></strong><br><br>PM Shehbaz Sharif termed the assault on Kohistani &ldquo;unacceptable&rdquo; and assured of &ldquo;a thorough investigation&rdquo; into the incident.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&ldquo;The attack on public representatives is unacceptable. The persons involved in the incident would be given exemplary punishment,&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Federal information minister Atta Tarar also condemned the attack and sought a report from the Sindh Inspector General of Police and the federal interior secretary.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah instructed Hyderabad&rsquo;s deputy inspector general to arrest the culprits immediately and issued a strict warning to those taking the law into their own hands.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Kohistani, a member of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), hails from Sindh&rsquo;s Jamshoro district and won his first election to parliament in 2018. He returned to the National Assembly in 2024 and was appointed as a state minister.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read:<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/volodymyr-zelensky-dismisses-vladimir-putins-easter-truce-labels-it-another-attempt-to-play-with-human-lives-russia-ukraine-war-8980598" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Zelensky dismisses Putin's Easter truce as 'another attempt to play with human lives'</a></strong></p>
<p>The protestors shouted slogans against the PML-N-led federal government, accusing it of threatening Sindh&rsquo;s agricultural livelihood. They are against the controversial canal projects in Punjab under the Green Pakistan Initiative, supported by the federal government, Punjab authorities, and the military.<br><br>The federal government&rsquo;s proposal includes the construction of six new canals in the Punjab province to irrigate land in the Cholistan region.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Those opposing the canal project contend that it will cut downriver water flow to Sindh and further worsen irrigation issues in the province.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-greets-crowds-delegates-easter-mass-service-to-high-ranking-cardinal-8982447">Pope Francis greets crowds, delegates Easter Mass service to high-ranking cardinal</a></strong><br><br>Political tensions flared up after PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari issued a strong warning to the PML-N at a rally in Hyderabad. He said the PPP would withdraw support from the federal government if the canal plan wasn&rsquo;t shelved.&nbsp;<br><br>Reacting to the threat, PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif directed the federal government to initiate talks with the PPP to resolve the dispute amicably.&nbsp;<br>Rana Sanaullah, a senior PML-N leader and adviser to the prime minister, later stated, &ldquo;Politics should not be played over the issue of water. Matters must be resolved through dialogue.&rdquo;&nbsp;<br>He reiterated that the 1991 Water Accord and 1992 IRSA Act protect interprovincial water rights.</p>
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World | Pakistan: Kheal Das Kohistani, state minister for religious affairs, was attacked in Sindh on Saturday by protesters opposing the federal government’s proposed canal projects, which they say will reduce their share of irrigation water.

A Hindu minister in Pakistan, Kheal Das Kohistani, was attacked in Sindh by protesters opposing the government’s irrigation canal projects. Kheal Das Kohistani, a state minister for religious affairs in Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s cabinet, was attacked with tomatoes and potatoes in Sindh on Saturday by protesters opposing the federal government’s proposed canal projects, which critics say will reduce the southern province’s share of irrigation water. A group of demonstrators in the Thatta district had targeted Kohistani, who luckily was not harmed. The assault on the minister amid rising tensions over the Green Pakistan Initiative was condemned by both federal and provincial authorities. Also Read | Putin announces ‘Easter truce’ in Ukraine conflict, orders military to halt fighting PM Shehbaz Sharif termed the assault on Kohistani “unacceptable” and assured of “a thorough investigation” into the incident. “The attack on public representatives is unacceptable. The persons involved in the incident would be given exemplary punishment,” he said. Federal information minister Atta Tarar also condemned the attack and sought a report from the Sindh Inspector General of Police and the federal interior secretary. Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah instructed Hyderabad’s deputy inspector general to arrest the culprits immediately and issued a strict warning to those taking the law into their own hands. Kohistani, a member of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), hails from Sindh’s Jamshoro district and won his first election to parliament in 2018. He returned to the National Assembly in 2024 and was appointed as a state minister. Also read: Zelensky dismisses Putin's Easter truce as 'another attempt to play with human lives' The protestors shouted slogans against the PML-N-led federal government, accusing it of threatening Sindh’s agricultural livelihood. They are against the controversial canal projects in Punjab under the Green Pakistan Initiative, supported by the federal government, Punjab authorities, and the military. The federal government’s proposal includes the construction of six new canals in the Punjab province to irrigate land in the Cholistan region. Those opposing the canal project contend that it will cut downriver water flow to Sindh and further worsen irrigation issues in the province. Also Read | Pope Francis greets crowds, delegates Easter Mass service to high-ranking cardinal Political tensions flared up after PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari issued a strong warning to the PML-N at a rally in Hyderabad. He said the PPP would withdraw support from the federal government if the canal plan wasn’t shelved. Reacting to the threat, PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif directed the federal government to initiate talks with the PPP to resolve the dispute amicably. Rana Sanaullah, a senior PML-N leader and adviser to the prime minister, later stated, “Politics should not be played over the issue of water. Matters must be resolved through dialogue.” He reiterated that the 1991 Water Accord and 1992 IRSA Act protect interprovincial water rights.

Hindu minister in Pakistan attacked during protest in Sindh; govt vows probe, action

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that he will step down on the 9th of August and dissolve the government. This signifies the country's general elections will have to be held within 90 days.

Pakistan: PM Shehbaz Sharif set to dissolve parliament, national assembly on August 9

<p>Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has once again stirred&nbsp;a new controversy. A video of the Pakistan leader who is in France to attend the two-day New Global Financing Pact Summit in Paris is going viral on Twitter. Here's why it is causing a controversy on social media.</p>

<h2><strong>Here's what happened</strong></h2>

<p>Following his arrival in France, a video shared by his office has sparked a row on social media.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-village-mourns-24-feared-dead-in-greek-migrant-tragedy-607006">Pakistan village mourns 24 feared dead in Greek migrant boat tragedy</a></strong></p>

<p>In the video which is being widely shared by people on Twitter and other platforms, Sharif can be seen taking an umbrella away from a woman protocol officer who came to receive him in rain.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch the video here:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif insisted on holding the umbrella himself when a protocol officer received him at a summit hosted by the French president on Thursday. But his “good gesture” left the woman officer walking in the rain. ☔️ <a href="https://t.co/8R50EvHy3j">pic.twitter.com/8R50EvHy3j</a></p>
— Baker Atyani (@atyanibaker) <a href="https://twitter.com/atyanibaker/status/1671807239437398017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Why is this a big deal?</strong></h2>

<p><br />
Upon Shehbaz Sharif's landing and the subsequent arrival at Palais Brogniart to attend the summit, it was raining in Paris.</p>

<p>To receive the Pakistani Prime Minister, a lady protocol officer was waiting for him with an umbrella. Once Sharif exited the car, the two started walking towards the venue.</p>

<p>They can then be seen having a word, following which the Pakistani leader takes the umbrella from the female protocol officer and paces ahead with it. The female officer follows the Pakistan PM, walking in the rain just a few steps behind him.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-new-sc-bench-to-hear-pleas-against-military-trial-of-civilians-after-senior-judge-recuses-himself-607271">Pakistan: New SC bench formed to hear pleas against military trial of civilians after senior judges' concerns</a></strong></p>

<p>Now, the video has sparked a debate. While some people are calling it a "good gesture", others are calling the behaviour an "embarrassment", yet others have labelled Sharif's conduct as "impolite".</p>

<p>However, many have also jumped to his defence. One user posted a screenshot from the video and wrote, "There are many others so she could have used another female officer's umbrella 🤷".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">There are many others so she could have used another female officer's umbrella 🤷 <a href="https://t.co/mECnFff9yQ">pic.twitter.com/mECnFff9yQ</a></p>
— Halima (@HalimaS01) <a href="https://twitter.com/HalimaS01/status/1671854291769004032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Another wrote: "Good intentions and good deeds can also have bad outcomes. Sad, but such is the life."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Good intentions and good deeds can also have bad outcomes. Sad, but such is the life.</p>
— BIKKI JHA (@BIKKIJHA13) <a href="https://twitter.com/BIKKIJHA13/status/1671935313864970241?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Yet another user pointed out that Sharif may have taken the umbrella from the officer "because last time in Iran when someone else held the umbrella for him - Pakistani Twitter had a severe meltdown."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Because last time in Iran when someone else held the umbrella for him - Pakistani Twitter had a severe meltdown</p>
— عمر (@OZK_Speaks) <a href="https://twitter.com/OZK_Speaks/status/1672039377558728711?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"We are proud of our Prime Minister. This gesture shows his respect for a woman. Protocol officer could easily have asked for another umbrella. He is such a great man," said another.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We are proud of our Prime Minister. This gesture shows his respect for a woman. Protocol officer could easily have asked for another umbrella.<br />
He is such a great man.</p>
— MUHAMMAD ANWER KHAN (@MUHAMMADANWERKH) <a href="https://twitter.com/MUHAMMADANWERKH/status/1671906640520704001?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 22, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Why is Shehbaz Sharif in France?</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif is visiting Paris to attend the two-day summit, on the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron.</p>

<p>As per an Radio Pakistan report, the Pakistani PM earlier met with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva in a last-ditch effort to get a much-needed loan to aid Pakistan through its financial troubles.</p>

<p>The South Asian nation has also asked the United Stes to play a role in reviving the stalled International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme, reported IANS. However, the US is reportedly more interested in finding out what Paksitan will do to cope with the economic challenges, in case the IMF funding falls through.<br />
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Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has once again stirred a new controversy. A video of the Pakistan leader who is in France to attend the two-day New Global Financing Pact Summit in Paris is going viral on Twitter.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has once again stirred a new controversy. A video of the Pakistan leader who is in France to attend the two-day New Global Financing Pact Summit in Paris is going viral on Twitter. Here's why it is causing a controversy on social media. Here's what happened Following his arrival in France, a video shared by his office has sparked a row on social media. Also read | Pakistan village mourns 24 feared dead in Greek migrant boat tragedy In the video which is being widely shared by people on Twitter and other platforms, Sharif can be seen taking an umbrella away from a woman protocol officer who came to receive him in rain. Watch the video here: PM of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif insisted on holding the umbrella himself when a protocol officer received him at a summit hosted by the French president on Thursday. But his “good gesture” left the woman officer walking in the rain. ☔️ pic.twitter.com/8R50EvHy3j — Baker Atyani (@atyanibaker) June 22, 2023 × Why is this a big deal? Upon Shehbaz Sharif's landing and the subsequent arrival at Palais Brogniart to attend the summit, it was raining in Paris. To receive the Pakistani Prime Minister, a lady protocol officer was waiting for him with an umbrella. Once Sharif exited the car, the two started walking towards the venue. They can then be seen having a word, following which the Pakistani leader takes the umbrella from the female protocol officer and paces ahead with it. The female officer follows the Pakistan PM, walking in the rain just a few steps behind him. Also read | Pakistan: New SC bench formed to hear pleas against military trial of civilians after senior judges' concerns Now, the video has sparked a debate. While some people are calling it a "good gesture", others are calling the behaviour an "embarrassment", yet others have labelled Sharif's conduct as "impolite". However, many have also jumped to his defence. One user posted a screenshot from the video and wrote, "There are many others so she could have used another female officer's umbrella 🤷". There are many others so she could have used another female officer's umbrella 🤷 pic.twitter.com/mECnFff9yQ — Halima (@HalimaS01) June 22, 2023 × Another wrote: "Good intentions and good deeds can also have bad outcomes. Sad, but such is the life." Good intentions and good deeds can also have bad outcomes. Sad, but such is the life. — BIKKI JHA (@BIKKIJHA13) June 22, 2023 × Yet another user pointed out that Sharif may have taken the umbrella from the officer "because last time in Iran when someone else held the umbrella for him - Pakistani Twitter had a severe meltdown." Because last time in Iran when someone else held the umbrella for him - Pakistani Twitter had a severe meltdown — عمر (@OZK_Speaks) June 23, 2023 × "We are proud of our Prime Minister. This gesture shows his respect for a woman. Protocol officer could easily have asked for another umbrella. He is such a great man," said another. We are proud of our Prime Minister. This gesture shows his respect for a woman. Protocol officer could easily have asked for another umbrella. He is such a great man. — MUHAMMAD ANWER KHAN (@MUHAMMADANWERKH) June 22, 2023 × Why is Shehbaz Sharif in France? Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif is visiting Paris to attend the two-day summit, on the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron. As per an Radio Pakistan report, the Pakistani PM earlier met with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva in a last-ditch effort to get a much-needed loan to aid Pakistan through its financial troubles. The South Asian nation has also asked the United Stes to play a role in reviving the stalled International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme, reported IANS. However, the US is reportedly more interested in finding out what Paksitan will do to cope with the economic challenges, in case the IMF funding falls through. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif takes away umbrella from woman, leaving her to walk behind in rain. Watch!

<p>Pakistan's Prime Minister&nbsp;Shehbaz Sharif&nbsp;has urged his brother Nawaz Sharif to return to Pakistan and take charge of the party's election campaign, media reports said citing the country's local media outlet Geo News. The Pakistani PM also made the plea during the central general council meeting of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), stating that he was waiting for his elder brother to come back so that he could hand over the presidency of the PML-N to him.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-achieves-historic-milestone-launches-41-satellites-in-single-mission-setting-new-record-605522">China achieves historic milestone: Launches 41 satellites in single mission, setting new record</a></p>

<p>Nawaz Sharif has been in self-imposed exile in London since November 2019 due to health reasons. Shehbaz Sharif, who took over the PML-N's presidency after Nawaz Sharif's disqualification by the Supreme Court, acknowledged the need for young leadership within the party and praised the efforts of Nawaz Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz.</p>

<p>"You will see that the map of politics will change when Nawaz Sharif returns to Pakistan," Shehbaz Sharif said.</p>

<p>The statement from Shehbaz Sharif comes after Pakistan President Arif Alvi signed the Supreme Court Review of Judgements and Orders Act 2023, which allows Nawaz Sharif to exercise his right to appeal against lifetime disqualifications within 60 days. The new law permits appeals against court decisions under Article 184(3) and applies to past verdicts as well.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uganda-25-students-killed-in-overnight-militant-attack-605495">Uganda: 25 students killed in overnight militant attack</a></p>

<p>Nawaz Sharif was disqualified by the Pakistan Supreme Court in the Panama Papers case on July 28, 2017, for concealing unpaid salary from his son. Later, the court ruled that individuals disqualified under Articles 62 and 63 cannot serve as the head of a political party.</p>

<h2><strong>Shehbaz Sharif chosen as PML-N president</strong></h2>

<p>During the PML-N general council meeting, the ruling party appointed Shehbaz Sharif as the president, and Maryam Nawaz, the daughter of Nawaz, as the senior vice president. The meeting also selected other office bearers, including Ahsan Iqbal as secretary general, Marriyum Aurangzeb as secretary of information, Ataullah Tarar as deputy secretary, and Ishaq Dar as secretary of finance and overseas affairs.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy</strong></p>

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<p>The uncontested elections within the PML-N showcased a facade of unity but revealed the strong influence of the Sharif family, with virtually every office holder being hand-picked by them, the report suggested.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shehbaz Sharif assumed leadership of the party in 2018 after Nawaz Sharif's disqualification as prime minister and subsequent ban on his presidency. It is widely believed that despite residing in London, Nawaz Sharif continues to exert significant control over the PML-N, with decisions made in the party requiring his consent.</p>

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Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged his brother Nawaz Sharif to return to Pakistan and take charge of the party's election campaign, media reports said citing the country's local media outlet Geo News.

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged his brother Nawaz Sharif to return to Pakistan and take charge of the party's election campaign, media reports said citing the country's local media outlet Geo News. The Pakistani PM also made the plea during the central general council meeting of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), stating that he was waiting for his elder brother to come back so that he could hand over the presidency of the PML-N to him. Also Read | China achieves historic milestone: Launches 41 satellites in single mission, setting new record Nawaz Sharif has been in self-imposed exile in London since November 2019 due to health reasons. Shehbaz Sharif, who took over the PML-N's presidency after Nawaz Sharif's disqualification by the Supreme Court, acknowledged the need for young leadership within the party and praised the efforts of Nawaz Sharif's daughter Maryam Nawaz. "You will see that the map of politics will change when Nawaz Sharif returns to Pakistan," Shehbaz Sharif said. The statement from Shehbaz Sharif comes after Pakistan President Arif Alvi signed the Supreme Court Review of Judgements and Orders Act 2023, which allows Nawaz Sharif to exercise his right to appeal against lifetime disqualifications within 60 days. The new law permits appeals against court decisions under Article 184(3) and applies to past verdicts as well. Also Read | Uganda: 25 students killed in overnight militant attack Nawaz Sharif was disqualified by the Pakistan Supreme Court in the Panama Papers case on July 28, 2017, for concealing unpaid salary from his son. Later, the court ruled that individuals disqualified under Articles 62 and 63 cannot serve as the head of a political party. Shehbaz Sharif chosen as PML-N president During the PML-N general council meeting, the ruling party appointed Shehbaz Sharif as the president, and Maryam Nawaz, the daughter of Nawaz, as the senior vice president. The meeting also selected other office bearers, including Ahsan Iqbal as secretary general, Marriyum Aurangzeb as secretary of information, Ataullah Tarar as deputy secretary, and Ishaq Dar as secretary of finance and overseas affairs. Watch | China targets ‘unity in thought’ with campaign on Xi’s philosophy × The uncontested elections within the PML-N showcased a facade of unity but revealed the strong influence of the Sharif family, with virtually every office holder being hand-picked by them, the report suggested. Shehbaz Sharif assumed leadership of the party in 2018 after Nawaz Sharif's disqualification as prime minister and subsequent ban on his presidency. It is widely believed that despite residing in London, Nawaz Sharif continues to exert significant control over the PML-N, with decisions made in the party requiring his consent. 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. ×

Shehbaz Sharif calls on Nawaz Sharif to become Pakistan PM again, lead election campaign

<p>Pakistani politics was witness to a strong demand made by a federal minister to none other than the president of the country. Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant to PM and a federal minister, called on Pakistan President Arif Alvi a few days ago to 'resign and go home'. The demand was made very publicly in a tweet in Urdu.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"President Alvi is holding individual meetings with foreign diplomats without informing the Foreign Office. This is a very inappropriate act and it does not flatter the President that these meetings are held above the Foreign Office. Arif Alvi President Kim and PTI workers. Looks like more. Please resign and go home," the translation made available by Twitter of his tweet said.</p>

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<p dir="rtl" lang="ur">صدر علوی غیر ملکی سفارتکاروں سے بغیر دفتر خارجہ کو بتائے انفرادی ملاقاتیں کر رہے ہیں۔یہ انتہائی نا مناسب فعل ہے اور صدر کو یہ زیب نہیں دیتا کہ دفتر خارجہ سے بالا بالا یہ ملاقاتیں کی جائیں۔عارف علوی صدر کم اور تحریک انصاف کے کارکن زیادہ لگ رہے ہیں۔ علوی صاحب استعفی دو اور گھر جاو</p>
— Attaullah Tarar (@TararAttaullah) <a href="https://twitter.com/TararAttaullah/status/1658807271697031173?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>President Arif Alvi belongs to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the political party headed by former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan, who is sparring with current regime headed by PM Shehbaz Sharif of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz).</p>

<h2><strong>Unrest continues</strong></h2>

<p>Pakistan is currently experiencing protests by Imran Khan's supporters in many parts of the country. The protests started on May 9 after the arrest of Khan. He was subsequently released on bail.</p>

<p>Protesters stormed military installations, including the house of a top general in Lahore, which was set ablaze. Thousands of people, most of them Khan's supporters, have been rounded up since.</p>

<p>On Friday (May 26), civilian authorities said that they had handed over 33 suspects who will be tried in military courts</p>

<p>"The accused who are being handed over to the military are those who trespassed and entered very sensitive defense installations," Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah told reporters as per Reuters.</p>

<p>Military courts are closed to outsiders, and no media is allowed. Rights groups have criticised the secretive nature of the process.</p>

<h2><strong>Economic crisis fuels protests</strong></h2>

<p>The political protests wouldn't have come at a worse time for Pakistan as it is going through worst economic crisis in decades. The effects on the economy and budget of common people are fuelling the unrest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dollar reserves have dwindled to only USD 4.4 billion. It is enough for only three weeks of import. The country is talking with International Monetary Fund (IMF) for bailout but the talks have stalled since November last year.</p>

<p>"Right now, everyone is so affected by the economic crisis that they feel the need to come out on the streets," said 27-year-old doctor Shahab Afzal as quoted by AFP.</p>

<p>"You can't even afford the basics," he said at a pro-Khan protest in the eastern city of Lahore.</p>

<p>Official data says that food inflation has soared to nearly 50 per cent in April.</p>

<p>"The sense of economic deprivation is the rocket fuel for Imran Khan's anti-government movement," said analyst Mosharraf Zaidi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Zaidi was quoted by AFP.</p>

<p>"It creates room for hyper-growth of his support when you have trouble feeding your children."<br />
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Pakistani politics was witness to a strong demand made by a federal minister to none other than the president of the country. Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant to PM and a federal minister, called on Pakistan President Arif Alvi a few days ago to 'resign and go home'.

Pakistani politics was witness to a strong demand made by a federal minister to none other than the president of the country. Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant to PM and a federal minister, called on Pakistan President Arif Alvi a few days ago to 'resign and go home'. The demand was made very publicly in a tweet in Urdu. "President Alvi is holding individual meetings with foreign diplomats without informing the Foreign Office. This is a very inappropriate act and it does not flatter the President that these meetings are held above the Foreign Office. Arif Alvi President Kim and PTI workers. Looks like more. Please resign and go home," the translation made available by Twitter of his tweet said. صدر علوی غیر ملکی سفارتکاروں سے بغیر دفتر خارجہ کو بتائے انفرادی ملاقاتیں کر رہے ہیں۔یہ انتہائی نا مناسب فعل ہے اور صدر کو یہ زیب نہیں دیتا کہ دفتر خارجہ سے بالا بالا یہ ملاقاتیں کی جائیں۔عارف علوی صدر کم اور تحریک انصاف کے کارکن زیادہ لگ رہے ہیں۔ علوی صاحب استعفی دو اور گھر جاو — Attaullah Tarar (@TararAttaullah) May 17, 2023 × President Arif Alvi belongs to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the political party headed by former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan, who is sparring with current regime headed by PM Shehbaz Sharif of the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz). Unrest continues Pakistan is currently experiencing protests by Imran Khan's supporters in many parts of the country. The protests started on May 9 after the arrest of Khan. He was subsequently released on bail. Protesters stormed military installations, including the house of a top general in Lahore, which was set ablaze. Thousands of people, most of them Khan's supporters, have been rounded up since. On Friday (May 26), civilian authorities said that they had handed over 33 suspects who will be tried in military courts "The accused who are being handed over to the military are those who trespassed and entered very sensitive defense installations," Interior Minister Rana Sanaullah told reporters as per Reuters. Military courts are closed to outsiders, and no media is allowed. Rights groups have criticised the secretive nature of the process. Economic crisis fuels protests The political protests wouldn't have come at a worse time for Pakistan as it is going through worst economic crisis in decades. The effects on the economy and budget of common people are fuelling the unrest. Dollar reserves have dwindled to only USD 4.4 billion. It is enough for only three weeks of import. The country is talking with International Monetary Fund (IMF) for bailout but the talks have stalled since November last year. "Right now, everyone is so affected by the economic crisis that they feel the need to come out on the streets," said 27-year-old doctor Shahab Afzal as quoted by AFP. "You can't even afford the basics," he said at a pro-Khan protest in the eastern city of Lahore. Official data says that food inflation has soared to nearly 50 per cent in April. "The sense of economic deprivation is the rocket fuel for Imran Khan's anti-government movement," said analyst Mosharraf Zaidi. Zaidi was quoted by AFP. "It creates room for hyper-growth of his support when you have trouble feeding your children." 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.

'Resign and go home': Pakistan's minister tells president via tweet for meeting foreign diplomats

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidbJIvTVUcv9Gm" /><meta charset="utf-8" />If reports are to be believed, the Pakistani government has repackaged the aid it had received from Turkey during the 2022 floods and delivered it back as earthquake relief material to the disaster-struck country.&nbsp;The Turkish authorities, upon opening the relief material found it had the&nbsp;message they had written for the Pakistani flood victims last year.&nbsp;The Turkish relief material was delivered to Sindh, a southwestern region of Pakistan which was one of the worst-hit areas due to the flood,&nbsp;according to Pakistani media reports. It appears, the same package was repurposed, repackaged and delivered to Ankara.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The consulate general has reportedly raised the matter in front of Pakistan's External Affairs Ministry after not being overly impressed.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The goods that Turkey sent as aid to Pakistan during the floods, Pak rescue teams took the same goods with them to Turkey to help <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> victims in the name of Pakistan aid. <a href="https://t.co/FgVyiiN82G">pic.twitter.com/FgVyiiN82G</a></p>
— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) <a href="https://twitter.com/MeghUpdates/status/1626481035797209088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>The revelation has come as another egg-on-the-face moment for the Pakistani government. Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was left red-faced after Ankara told him to postpone his visit to the earthquake-hit region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, Sharif, alongside his foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari was ready to leave for Turkey, two days after the earthquake had battered the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gasps-of-air-protein-powder-and-miraculous-rescues-from-turkey-earthquake-563264"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gasps of air, protein powder and miraculous rescues from Turkey earthquake</strong></a></p>

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<p>Moreover, some reports have claimed that Pakistan allegedly denied India the airspace to carry relief material&nbsp;to Turkey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Countries from around the world have come together to help the people in quake-hit areas of Turkey and Syria. However,&nbsp;Pakistan's antics may not have gone down well with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-syria-quake-anonymous-pakistani-donor-in-us-donates-30-million-to-victims-561506" target="_blank"><strong>Read more: Turkey-Syria quake: Anonymous Pakistani donor in US donates $30 million to victims</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>What has happened in Turkey?</strong></p>

<p>Turkey and Syria were ravaged by a powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake nearly a fortnight ago. The deadly earthquake was followed by nearly same-magnitude aftershocks that exacerbated the damage before the people had managed to seek protection.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As of the last reports, over 44,000 have died across the two countries. The rescue and rehabilitation process is currently underway and could take several weeks to conclude.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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If reports are to be believed, the Pakistani government has repackaged the aid it had received from Turkey during the 2022 floods and delivered it back as earthquake relief material to the disaster-struck country.

If reports are to be believed, the Pakistani government has repackaged the aid it had received from Turkey during the 2022 floods and delivered it back as earthquake relief material to the disaster-struck country. The Turkish authorities, upon opening the relief material found it had the message they had written for the Pakistani flood victims last year. The Turkish relief material was delivered to Sindh, a southwestern region of Pakistan which was one of the worst-hit areas due to the flood, according to Pakistani media reports. It appears, the same package was repurposed, repackaged and delivered to Ankara. The consulate general has reportedly raised the matter in front of Pakistan's External Affairs Ministry after not being overly impressed. The goods that Turkey sent as aid to Pakistan during the floods, Pak rescue teams took the same goods with them to Turkey to help #earthquake victims in the name of Pakistan aid. pic.twitter.com/FgVyiiN82G — Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) February 17, 2023 × The revelation has come as another egg-on-the-face moment for the Pakistani government. Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was left red-faced after Ankara told him to postpone his visit to the earthquake-hit region. Notably, Sharif, alongside his foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari was ready to leave for Turkey, two days after the earthquake had battered the region. WATCH | Gasps of air, protein powder and miraculous rescues from Turkey earthquake × Moreover, some reports have claimed that Pakistan allegedly denied India the airspace to carry relief material to Turkey. Countries from around the world have come together to help the people in quake-hit areas of Turkey and Syria. However, Pakistan's antics may not have gone down well with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Read more: Turkey-Syria quake: Anonymous Pakistani donor in US donates $30 million to victims What has happened in Turkey? Turkey and Syria were ravaged by a powerful 7.8 magnitude earthquake nearly a fortnight ago. The deadly earthquake was followed by nearly same-magnitude aftershocks that exacerbated the damage before the people had managed to seek protection. As of the last reports, over 44,000 have died across the two countries. The rescue and rehabilitation process is currently underway and could take several weeks to conclude. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Return gift? Did Pakistan just send back to Turkey the aid it received for floods?

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday said that the government has no choice but to agree to bailout conditions of IMF that are "beyond imagination". Watch further to know more.

WION Dispatch: No choice but to give in to IMF demands, says Pak PM Shehbaz Sharif

<p>Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday said that the government has no choice but to agree to bailout conditions of IMF that are &nbsp;"beyond imagination".&nbsp;A delegation from International Monetary Fund (IMF) landed on Tuesday in Pakistan for the last talks to revive the months-stalled financial aid.</p>

<p>The government has opposed the demands of the IMF related to tax rise and subsidiary slashing, as it fears backlash before the elections which are scheduled in October.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistanis-call-for-intelligence-chiefs-removal-over-peshawar-mosque-blast-failure-557781">Pakistanis call for intelligence chief's removal after Peshawar mosque blast</a></p>

<p>"I will not go into the details but will only say that our economic challenge is unimaginable. The conditions we will have to agree to with the IMF are beyond imagination. But we will have to agree with the conditions," said Sharif, in televised comments.</p>

<p>The economy of Pakistan is in dire conditions, hit by the balance of payments crisis as the government is trying to manage high levels of external debt, amid deteriorating security and political chaos.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The central bank of the country on Thursday announced a drop in foreign exchange reserves to $3.1 billion, which analysts stated is sufficient for less than three weeks of imports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday, the data showed the&nbsp;year-on-year inflation at a 48-year high due to which Pakistanis have been struggling to purchase basic food items.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Gravitas: Pakistan is heading for a civil war</strong></p>

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<p>The control&nbsp;on the rupee was also loosened by the government to rein in the black market in US dollars which led to the currency dropping to a record low.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Accepting IMF conditions will definitely increase prices, but Pakistan has no other choice. Otherwise, there is a fear of a situation like Sri Lanka and Lebanon," said analyst Abid Hasan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday said that the government has no choice but to agree to bailout conditions of IMF that are "beyond imagination".

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday said that the government has no choice but to agree to bailout conditions of IMF that are "beyond imagination". A delegation from International Monetary Fund (IMF) landed on Tuesday in Pakistan for the last talks to revive the months-stalled financial aid. The government has opposed the demands of the IMF related to tax rise and subsidiary slashing, as it fears backlash before the elections which are scheduled in October. ALSO READ | Pakistanis call for intelligence chief's removal after Peshawar mosque blast "I will not go into the details but will only say that our economic challenge is unimaginable. The conditions we will have to agree to with the IMF are beyond imagination. But we will have to agree with the conditions," said Sharif, in televised comments. The economy of Pakistan is in dire conditions, hit by the balance of payments crisis as the government is trying to manage high levels of external debt, amid deteriorating security and political chaos. The central bank of the country on Thursday announced a drop in foreign exchange reserves to $3.1 billion, which analysts stated is sufficient for less than three weeks of imports. On Wednesday, the data showed the year-on-year inflation at a 48-year high due to which Pakistanis have been struggling to purchase basic food items. WATCH | Gravitas: Pakistan is heading for a civil war The control on the rupee was also loosened by the government to rein in the black market in US dollars which led to the currency dropping to a record low. "Accepting IMF conditions will definitely increase prices, but Pakistan has no other choice. Otherwise, there is a fear of a situation like Sri Lanka and Lebanon," said analyst Abid Hasan. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Pakistan ‘will have to agree’ to IMF’s bailout conditions though it will trigger price rise: PM Sharif

<p>Addressing the passing-out ceremony of probationary officers of the Pakistan Administration Service (PAS) on Saturday,&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said it was shameful&nbsp;to have a nuclear weapon in one hand and a begging bowl in the other.&nbsp;Shehbaz said that seeking more loans made him feel ashamed and that turning to overseas lenders was the wrong course of action, given they needed to pay the money back. He criticised the&nbsp; main opposition party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, saying that, in the past, they have lost time with disorder and protests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Shehbaz said that if their "bus moved at a faster rate" and in the proper direction, they could achieve the sustainable development goals (SDGs) and avoid foreign loans.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="www.wionews.com/south-asia/who-is-stealing-our-chickens-and-wheat-asks-pakistan-senator-amid-ongoing-food-crisis-552621">‘Who is stealing our chickens and wheat,’ asks Pakistan senator amid ongoing food crisis</a></p>

<p>Sharif explained his perspective on the nation's economic problems and&nbsp;expressed regret that, throughout the last 75 years, many administrations, whether led by civilian leaders or military dictators, had failed to solve the problems plaguing the nation.</p>

<p>Pakistan's PM stated that President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) had pledged a $1 billion loan to Pakistan during his most recent trip to the UAE. In his remarks, PM Shehbaz praised Saudi Arabia for its financial assistance.</p>

<p>PM Shehbaz encouraged public officials to perform their duties for the country and nation to the best of their abilities and expressed his optimism that they would be able to guide the country out of the current difficulties.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan's Punjab Assembly dissolved after governor refuses to sign summary</strong></p>

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<p>In the meantime, Quaid Nawaz Sharif of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) gave the party's leaders and workers instructions on the elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.</p>

<p>According to Minister for Information and Broadcasting Marriyum Aurangzeb, Quaid Nawaz Sharif had directed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the President of PMLN, to set up a parliamentary board.</p>

<p>She said Nawaz asked the party leaders and workers to contest the election in Punjab with full passion, confidence, strength and preparations.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Addressing the passing-out ceremony of probationary officers of the Pakistan Administration Service (PAS) on Saturday, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said it was shameful to have a nuclear weapon in one hand and a begging bowl in the other.

Addressing the passing-out ceremony of probationary officers of the Pakistan Administration Service (PAS) on Saturday, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said it was shameful to have a nuclear weapon in one hand and a begging bowl in the other. Shehbaz said that seeking more loans made him feel ashamed and that turning to overseas lenders was the wrong course of action, given they needed to pay the money back. He criticised the main opposition party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, saying that, in the past, they have lost time with disorder and protests. PM Shehbaz said that if their "bus moved at a faster rate" and in the proper direction, they could achieve the sustainable development goals (SDGs) and avoid foreign loans. Also Read | ‘Who is stealing our chickens and wheat,’ asks Pakistan senator amid ongoing food crisis Sharif explained his perspective on the nation's economic problems and expressed regret that, throughout the last 75 years, many administrations, whether led by civilian leaders or military dictators, had failed to solve the problems plaguing the nation. Pakistan's PM stated that President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) had pledged a $1 billion loan to Pakistan during his most recent trip to the UAE. In his remarks, PM Shehbaz praised Saudi Arabia for its financial assistance. PM Shehbaz encouraged public officials to perform their duties for the country and nation to the best of their abilities and expressed his optimism that they would be able to guide the country out of the current difficulties. Watch | Pakistan's Punjab Assembly dissolved after governor refuses to sign summary In the meantime, Quaid Nawaz Sharif of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) gave the party's leaders and workers instructions on the elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. According to Minister for Information and Broadcasting Marriyum Aurangzeb, Quaid Nawaz Sharif had directed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the President of PMLN, to set up a parliamentary board. She said Nawaz asked the party leaders and workers to contest the election in Punjab with full passion, confidence, strength and preparations. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

It's shameful for a nuclear power to beg for funds, says Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif

<p>Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday (January 12) for a two-day visit to ramp up bilateral economic and trade ties. According to a tweet by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), Shehbaz landed in Abu Dhabi and was received by the UAE's Minister of Economic Affairs Abdullah Touq Al-Marri and officials of the Pakistan Embassy. Sharif is leading a key delegation of Pakistani ministers. This is his third visit to the UAE since becoming the Prime Minister.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"My visit to the UAE is aimed at building on the conversation I have had with H.H. President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed. We share a resolve &amp; understanding that continuous efforts need to be made to further strengthen trade, investment &amp; economic relations," Prime Minister Sharif tweeted. He met the UAE's President &nbsp;Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and will&nbsp;also meet Vice President Mohammad bin Rashid Al Makhtoum.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif meets the President of the United Arab Emirates H.H. Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan (12 January 2023)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PMShehbazinUAE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PMShehbazinUAE</a> <a href="https://t.co/EOaYsH8jg8">pic.twitter.com/EOaYsH8jg8</a></p>
— Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/PakPMO/status/1613502335648399360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/world-economic-forum-identifies-top-five-risks-faced-by-crisis-hit-pakistan-reports-551910">World Economic Forum identifies top five risks faced by crisis-hit Pakistan: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>During his two-day visit, Shehbaz Sharif will seek a fresh economic package for Pakistan from the UAE, news agency Reuters reported on Thursday citing a report by ARY news. The report added the Prime Minister will also seek deferment of a $2 billion loan repayment to the UAE due in the coming weeks and hold discussions on finalising a $2 billion investment in Pakistan. There is no comment from the government on this development yet.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">My visit to the UAE is aimed at building on the conversation I have had with H.H. President Sheikh <a href="https://twitter.com/MohamedBinZayed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MohamedBinZayed</a>. We share a resolve &amp; understanding that the continuous efforts need to be made to further strengthen trade, investment &amp; economic relations.</p>
— Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) <a href="https://twitter.com/CMShehbaz/status/1613463610486886400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Sharif's visit comes as Pakistan is facing an economic crisis because of many factors including political instability, depleting forex reserves and high inflation. Last year's devastating floods,&nbsp;which killed at least 1,700 people and displaced around eight million, have further added to the economic pressure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Monday (January 9), international donors in Geneva committed more than $9 billion to help Pakistan recover from the floods. Prime Minister Sharif termed the financial pledges as a testament to his government's credibility.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-with-pm-abroad-pakistanis-struggle-to-put-food-on-table-economy-on-track-551157">Explained: With PM abroad, Pakistanis struggle to put food on table, economy on track</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Pakistan's negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have not reached any positive outcome yet. The Shehbaz Sharif government has been asking a team from the IMF to come, review and approve the ninth assessment to release the next tranche of $1.1 billion. The IMF's plan is being seen as the only way forward for Pakistan. On Wednesday, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar said the government will take fiscal measures set by the IMF to meet its budgetary targets for the 2022-23 financial year, Reuters reported. Dar said some of these measures include subsidies in the farming and export sectors and shedding energy sector debt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the economic crisis in Pakistan worsens, the World Bank on Tuesday slashed the country's economic growth by half from 4 per cent to 2 per cent for the current fiscal year, saying the government faces mounting economic difficulties.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday (January 12) for a two-day visit to ramp up bilateral economic and trade ties.

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday (January 12) for a two-day visit to ramp up bilateral economic and trade ties. According to a tweet by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), Shehbaz landed in Abu Dhabi and was received by the UAE's Minister of Economic Affairs Abdullah Touq Al-Marri and officials of the Pakistan Embassy. Sharif is leading a key delegation of Pakistani ministers. This is his third visit to the UAE since becoming the Prime Minister. "My visit to the UAE is aimed at building on the conversation I have had with H.H. President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed. We share a resolve & understanding that continuous efforts need to be made to further strengthen trade, investment & economic relations," Prime Minister Sharif tweeted. He met the UAE's President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and will also meet Vice President Mohammad bin Rashid Al Makhtoum. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif meets the President of the United Arab Emirates H.H. Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan (12 January 2023)#PMShehbazinUAE pic.twitter.com/EOaYsH8jg8 — Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) January 12, 2023 × ALSO READ | World Economic Forum identifies top five risks faced by crisis-hit Pakistan: Reports During his two-day visit, Shehbaz Sharif will seek a fresh economic package for Pakistan from the UAE, news agency Reuters reported on Thursday citing a report by ARY news. The report added the Prime Minister will also seek deferment of a $2 billion loan repayment to the UAE due in the coming weeks and hold discussions on finalising a $2 billion investment in Pakistan. There is no comment from the government on this development yet. My visit to the UAE is aimed at building on the conversation I have had with H.H. President Sheikh @MohamedBinZayed. We share a resolve & understanding that the continuous efforts need to be made to further strengthen trade, investment & economic relations. — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) January 12, 2023 × Sharif's visit comes as Pakistan is facing an economic crisis because of many factors including political instability, depleting forex reserves and high inflation. Last year's devastating floods, which killed at least 1,700 people and displaced around eight million, have further added to the economic pressure. On Monday (January 9), international donors in Geneva committed more than $9 billion to help Pakistan recover from the floods. Prime Minister Sharif termed the financial pledges as a testament to his government's credibility. ALSO READ | Explained: With PM abroad, Pakistanis struggle to put food on table, economy on track Meanwhile, Pakistan's negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have not reached any positive outcome yet. The Shehbaz Sharif government has been asking a team from the IMF to come, review and approve the ninth assessment to release the next tranche of $1.1 billion. The IMF's plan is being seen as the only way forward for Pakistan. On Wednesday, Finance Minister Ishaq Dar said the government will take fiscal measures set by the IMF to meet its budgetary targets for the 2022-23 financial year, Reuters reported. Dar said some of these measures include subsidies in the farming and export sectors and shedding energy sector debt. As the economic crisis in Pakistan worsens, the World Bank on Tuesday slashed the country's economic growth by half from 4 per cent to 2 per cent for the current fiscal year, saying the government faces mounting economic difficulties. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan PM arrives in UAE on two-day visit to seek fresh economic package: Report

Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced a special tax on the super rich. Pakistan which is facing a crippling economic crisis is now looking for ways to shore up its finances.

Pakistan Government announces 'Robin Hood' tax

<p>Pakistan’s current Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his predecessor, Imran Khan, have accused each other of corruption and amassing disproportionate assets. But as per the data released by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), the wives of these two politicians are richer than them. This data has been compiled after the statements of assets were filed by different politicians for the fiscal year ending on June 30, 2020. This interesting revelation has come at a time when Pakistan is reeling under financial crisis and have taken several loans from many countries. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The wealth of Shehbaz Sharif is worth Rs 104.21 million and his liability is Rs 141.78 million. The assets of PM include 495 kanals of agricultural land in Lahore and Sheikhupura. Shehbaz is also the owner of two houses, one is in Murree and the other one is in Lahore. His residence in London is worth around Rs 137.43 million. Not just this, he possesses two vehicles, has investments in the country and maintains around Rs 20 million in bank accounts for years. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-government-raises-fuel-prices-again-petrol-diesel-at-new-high-488587" hreflang="en">Pak government raises fuel prices again; petrol, diesel at new high</a></strong></p>

<p>The PM’s first wife, Nusrat Shehbaz, is richer than her husband. She does not own a vehicle. Her wealth is worth Rs 230.29 million. She owns a house each in Lahore and Hazara divisions and nine agricultural properties. Along with this, she has significant investments in several sectors. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The second wife of the PM, Tehmina Durrani, has a wealth of around Rs 5.76 million. She has the same car for some years. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch WION's live TV here:</strong></p>

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<p>According to the data, Imran Khan owns four goats, which are worth Rs 200,000. He also has six properties. The most prominent one is 300-kanal villa in Banigala. Not just this, he has also inherited properties, like a house in Lahore’s Zaman Park, non-agricultural land and around 600 acres of farm land. He does not own a vehicle or property outside Pakistan. The former PM does not have any investment and has over Rs 60 million in bank accounts. This is apart from $329,196 and 518 pound sterlings, he has in Pakistani foreign currency accounts. &nbsp;</p>

<p>But the net worth of his current wife, Bushra Bibi, is Rs 142.11 million. She is the owner of four properties, which includes a house in Banigala. Bushra Bibi does not own a vehicle. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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Pakistan’s current Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his predecessor, Imran Khan, have accused each other of corruption and amassing disproportionate assets. But as per the data released by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), the wives of these two politicians are richer than them.

Pakistan’s current Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his predecessor, Imran Khan, have accused each other of corruption and amassing disproportionate assets. But as per the data released by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP), the wives of these two politicians are richer than them. This data has been compiled after the statements of assets were filed by different politicians for the fiscal year ending on June 30, 2020. This interesting revelation has come at a time when Pakistan is reeling under financial crisis and have taken several loans from many countries. The wealth of Shehbaz Sharif is worth Rs 104.21 million and his liability is Rs 141.78 million. The assets of PM include 495 kanals of agricultural land in Lahore and Sheikhupura. Shehbaz is also the owner of two houses, one is in Murree and the other one is in Lahore. His residence in London is worth around Rs 137.43 million. Not just this, he possesses two vehicles, has investments in the country and maintains around Rs 20 million in bank accounts for years. Also Read: Pak government raises fuel prices again; petrol, diesel at new high The PM’s first wife, Nusrat Shehbaz, is richer than her husband. She does not own a vehicle. Her wealth is worth Rs 230.29 million. She owns a house each in Lahore and Hazara divisions and nine agricultural properties. Along with this, she has significant investments in several sectors. The second wife of the PM, Tehmina Durrani, has a wealth of around Rs 5.76 million. She has the same car for some years. Watch WION's live TV here: According to the data, Imran Khan owns four goats, which are worth Rs 200,000. He also has six properties. The most prominent one is 300-kanal villa in Banigala. Not just this, he has also inherited properties, like a house in Lahore’s Zaman Park, non-agricultural land and around 600 acres of farm land. He does not own a vehicle or property outside Pakistan. The former PM does not have any investment and has over Rs 60 million in bank accounts. This is apart from $329,196 and 518 pound sterlings, he has in Pakistani foreign currency accounts. But the net worth of his current wife, Bushra Bibi, is Rs 142.11 million. She is the owner of four properties, which includes a house in Banigala. Bushra Bibi does not own a vehicle. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif, predecessor Imran Khan’s wives richer than husbands, says data

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

Pakistan Political Crisis: Imran leads mega rally against coalition government

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

Pakistan Political Turmoil: Shehbaz Sharif versus Imran Khan again

The question of early elections is staring at Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif. The uncertainty is also making the coalition members uneasy.

Early elections in Pakistan or not: PM Shehbaz Sharif's dilemma

PTI Chief and Former PM of Pakistan, Imran Khan has distanced himself from the heckling incident at Masjid-i-Nabwi. Khan claimed that he would never ask anyone to violate the islamic sacred space with sloganeering

Medina Incident: Sharif Govt alleges PTI's hand in attack, Imran Khan denies role

After wrapping the 3-day official visit to Saudi Arabia, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is in UAE for a day-long visit. He will meet the crown prince of Abu Dhabi. Before his UAE visit, Pak PM in a separate meeting met the Secretary General of OIC in Mecca and raised the issue of Kashmir

Pak PM seeks OIC's diplomatic assistance on Kashmir

<p>Pakistan’s closeness to Russia seems to be increasing as new Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Russian President Vladimir Putin have recently exchanged letters quietly, as per a media report. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The letters were shared to strengthen bilateral relations after former PM Imran Khan alleged that his maiden visit to Moscow had led to his departure from the top post. He had accused the US of making conditions for his ouster. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-accuses-nawaz-sharif-of-conspiring-to-dislodge-his-government-473299" hreflang="en">Imran Khan accuses Nawaz Sharif of conspiring to dislodge his government</a></strong></p>

<p>The exchange was carried out after the election of Shehbaz as the PM. The news of the exchange of letters was kept under wraps by both sides to avoid any kind of public attention, The Express Tribune newspaper said in the report. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The development was confirmed to the newspaper by a senior Pakistan foreign office official on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Desire was also expressed by Putin to deepen cooperation between the two nations, the official said. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Pakistan: 150 names including PM Shehbaz Sharif removed from ECL</strong></p>

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<p>"Our countries share friendly and constructive relations. I hope that as Prime Minister you will seek to further promote closer multifaceted cooperation between Russia and Pakistan, as well as partnership in the Afghan settlement and countering international terrorism," the report had cited Putin as saying on April 12. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the reply, Shehbaz thanked Putin for his felicitation message and expressed similar feelings on bilateral ties between the two nations, the paper reported. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Pakistan’s closeness to Russia seems to be increasing as new Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Russian President Vladimir Putin have recently exchanged letters quietly, as per a media report.

Pakistan’s closeness to Russia seems to be increasing as new Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Russian President Vladimir Putin have recently exchanged letters quietly, as per a media report. The letters were shared to strengthen bilateral relations after former PM Imran Khan alleged that his maiden visit to Moscow had led to his departure from the top post. He had accused the US of making conditions for his ouster. Also Read: Imran Khan accuses Nawaz Sharif of conspiring to dislodge his government The exchange was carried out after the election of Shehbaz as the PM. The news of the exchange of letters was kept under wraps by both sides to avoid any kind of public attention, The Express Tribune newspaper said in the report. The development was confirmed to the newspaper by a senior Pakistan foreign office official on condition of anonymity. Desire was also expressed by Putin to deepen cooperation between the two nations, the official said. Watch | Pakistan: 150 names including PM Shehbaz Sharif removed from ECL × "Our countries share friendly and constructive relations. I hope that as Prime Minister you will seek to further promote closer multifaceted cooperation between Russia and Pakistan, as well as partnership in the Afghan settlement and countering international terrorism," the report had cited Putin as saying on April 12. In the reply, Shehbaz thanked Putin for his felicitation message and expressed similar feelings on bilateral ties between the two nations, the paper reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Is Pak getting closer to Russia? PM Shehbaz, President Putin share letters quietly, says report  

The new Pakistan government has modified rules regarding the Exit Control List (ECL) which as per Pakistan government sources was done to help cut through red tape and stop the practice of retaining people on the no-fly list for multiple years. 150 names have been taken off ECL including that of current PM Shehbaz Sharif

Pakistan: 150 names including PM Shehbaz Sharif removed from ECL