Wednesday, February 18th, 2026
Russia reaffirms commitment to Pakistan partnership
DNA ISLAMABAD, FEB 18: Russian Ambassador to Pakistan, Albert P. Khorev, today addressed students at Bahria University in a compelling lecture focused on the evolving dynamics of Russia-Pakistan relations. The event underscored the deepening bilateral cooperation amid a complex global landscape and highlighted opportunities for enhanced academic and strategic partnerships.In his remarks, Ambassador Khorev emphasized that, despite challenges in international relations, ties between Moscow and Islamabad have remained consistently constructive. He pointed to historical examples of Soviet-era support in the 1970s and 1980s, including the establishment of major industrial projectsRead More
When Rules Apply Selectively
Dr. Muhammad Akram Zaheer When Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed the World Economic Forum in Davos, his remarks cut through the usual diplomatic pleasantries. He spoke not of optimism or resilience, but of contradiction. For decades, he argued, Western states claimed to uphold a rules-based international order while quietly bending those very rules whenever it suited their interests. Liberal values were celebrated in speeches, free trade was praised in principle, and international law was invoked selectively firmly against rivals, cautiously against allies, and rarely against oneself. This was notRead More
PEACE BOARD MEET: PM Shehbaz to seek clarity on troops for Gaza in US visit
“We will not be part of any other role, such as disarming Hamas. It is out of the question,” says PM’s aide News Desk/DNA ISLAMABAD: Before Pakistan commits to sending troops to Gaza as part of the International Stabilisation Force it wants assurances from the United States that it will be a peacekeeping mission rather than tasked with disarming Hamas, three sources told . Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is set to attend the first formal meeting of President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace in Washington on Thursday, alongside delegations fromRead More
Russia establishes national committee to strengthen BRICS business cooperation
The committee was created by decree of President Vladimir Putin on 16th February 2026, which took effect on the day of its signing, according to TV BRICS. According to the presidential order, the new body is tasked with ensuring effective interaction between representatives of the business community and relevant federal executive agencies that participate in the development of multilateral and bilateral business cooperation under the BRICS framework. The committee is expected to play a central role in formulating proposals on cooperation priorities for the BRICS Business Council and preparing recommendationsRead More
American Author John Kiser visits IRS
ISLAMABAD, FEB 18 /DNA/ – John Kiser, distinguished American author, historian, and interfaith advocate, visited the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS), Islamabad, during his recent trip to Pakistan. During his visit, Mr. Kiser interacted with the Institute’s researchers and scholars, where he shared insights from his extensive intellectual work focusing on moral courage, ethical leadership, and interfaith harmony. He particularly highlighted themes from his acclaimed book Commander of the Faithful, which chronicles the life and legacy of Emir Abdelkader as a model of humanitarian values, spiritual depth, and principled leadershipRead More
Ramadan moon sighted in Pakistan, first fast to be observed tomorrow
PESHAWAR, FEB 18: Pakistan will observe the first day of Ramadan 2026 tomorrow (Thursday) as the crescent moon for the holy month was sighted on Wednesday. However, a formal announcement in this regard would be made by Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Chairman Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad.