Tuesday, April 14th, 2026
The Stark Reality Behind the Gentle Decline
by Muhammad Mohsin Iqbal In the course of human affairs, both individuals and nations have long laboured under the necessity of sustaining certain cherished illusions that lend purpose to their endeavours and preserve their collective dignity. These illusions, woven from habit, shared conviction, and the memory of past triumphs, enable peoples to uphold peace among themselves and command respect from the wider world. They serve as a bulwark against despair, allowing statesmen and citizens alike to navigate the uncertainties of existence with a measure of confidence. Yet when the illusionRead More
Govt announces loadshedding, cautions of hiking power tariffs amid Middle East crisis
ISLAMABAD, APR 14: The federal government has announced loadshedding of more than two hours during “peak hours” and warned that the nation should be ready to brace for an increase in electricity prices. The major move comes as the world grapples with an energy crisis following Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz in retaliation for US-Israel strikes, sending governments scrambling to conserve power. In a statement, the Power Division’s spokesperson said that in light of the situation, the government has decided that from 5pm to 1am (peak hours), electricityRead More
US, Iranian teams could return to Islamabad for peace talks this week, say sources
ISLAMABAD, APR 14: Negotiating teams from the US and Iran could return to Islamabad later this week, five sources said on Tuesday, days after the highest-level inaugural talks between the two countries in decades ended inconclusively. A source involved in the negotiations said a date is not yet decided, but both countries could return as early as the end of this week. “No firm date has been set, with the delegations keeping Friday through Sunday open”, a senior Iranian source said. The weekend meeting in Islamabad to resolve the conflictRead More
PM Shehbaz set to visit Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkiye amid Middle East tensions
ISLAMABAD, APR 14: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is expected to undertake a three-nation visit to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Türkiye as Pakistan steps up diplomatic engagement amid rising Mideast tensions. According to sources the visit, which was initially planned only for Saudi Arabia, has now been expanded and rescheduled. The prime minister will begin his tour in Saudi Arabia, followed by Qatar, and will conclude it in Türkiye. During the trip, the prime minister is expected to meet key leadership across the region to discuss important diplomatic and security matters,Read More
All options on table for funding, strategic fuel reserves under consideration: FinMin Aurangzeb
ISLAMABAD, APR 14: The government is considering Eurobonds, loans from other countries and commercial debt to replace a $3.5 billion facility from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and manage foreign reserves, Federal Minister for Finance Muhammad Aurangzeb said. The FinMin also told Reuters the shock from the ongoing war in the Middle East meant that Pakistan must consider a strategic petroleum reserve and a faster switch to renewable energy. “All options are on the table,” Aurangzeb said when asked if the government was in talks with Saudi Arabia for aRead More
Empowering artisans and preserving heritage at Nomad Craft Festival
DNA ISLAMABAD: Serena Hotels in collaboration with Nomad Art Gallery under the Cultural Diplomacy initiative, proudly presents the Nomad Craft Festival, a vibrant celebration of Pakistan’s diverse cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and artistic excellence. The festival brings together master artisans, designers, and craft enthusiasts from across the country, offering a unique platform to showcase indigenous art and promote sustainable livelihoods. Rooted in a shared vision, the collaboration aims to highlight and empower women, honor the indigenous art and artisans of Pakistan, and support communities through skills and creativity in arts andRead More