Wednesday, May 13th, 2026
Federal capital needs proper representation in NFC Award: ICCI President
ISLAMABAD, MAY 13 /DNA/ – President Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) Sardar Tahir Mehmood has called for the immediate inclusion of Islamabad in the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award, stating that the federal capital cannot effectively meet its growing developmental, administrative and civic challenges without receiving an appropriate share in national financial resources. He emphasized that the business community, which serves as the backbone of the country’s economy, must be given proper recognition and meaningful participation in economic policymaking to ensure sustainable growth and business-friendly reforms. Talking toRead More
Hajj 2026: Saudi Ministry Unveils Digital Revolution to Facilitate Pakistani Pilgrims
khuram shahzad MAKKAH MUKRRAMAH, May 13: The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has achieved a major milestone in early preparations for the Hajj 1447H (2026) season through its ‘Electronic Track’ platform. This digital initiative is set to provide unprecedented ease for pilgrims from around the world, including Pakistan, in securing accommodation, transport, and other essential services. A Hub for Digital Innovation According to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj, the electronic platform now offers more than 250 digital services. The system ensures seamless cooperation between Hajj service providers and relevantRead More
Spanish Ambassador meets SAPM Fahd Haroon, discusses digital media landscape
ISLAMABAD, May 13 /DNA/ – Carlos Aragón, Ambassador of Spain to Pakistan, called on Fahd Haroon, Minister of State/Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Digital Media, at his office in Islamabad on Wednesday. During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on the evolving digital media landscape and discussed matters of mutual interest, particularly the growing role of digital platforms and broader developments in the media and information ecosystem. The discussion also focused on opportunities for cooperation in the field of digital media engagement. The meeting reflected the warm andRead More
PM directs to provide all possible facilities to Hajj pilgrims at airport
ISLAMABAD, May 13: Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf on Wednesday called on Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and briefed him on the arrangements for ongoing Hajj operation. “Intending Hajj pilgrims are the guests of Allah Almighty. There should be no negligence whatsoever in their service and facilities by the Pakistani Hajj Mission in Saudi Arabia,” the prime minister directed. He also instructed that all possible facilities be provided to the intending Hajj pilgrims at the airport.
China urges Pakistan step up mediation in Middle East: State media
BEIJING, MAY 13: China’s top diplomat urged Pakistan to step up mediation efforts between Iran and the United States, and to help “properly” address the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, Chinese state media said on Wednesday. Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke to his Pakistani counterpart Ishaq Dar in a call on Tuesday, state news agency Xinhua reported. US President Donald Trump is expected to arrive in Beijing on Wednesday evening for talks with leader Xi Jinping, whose country is a key strategic and economic partner of Iran. For allRead More
UAE deepens economic ties with Damascus, eyes major investment in Syria’s postwar reconstruction
DUBAI, MAY 13: The UAE is looking to increase its role in Syria via investment. Of the many countries that embraced the new government in Damascus, the UAE has taken a more cautious approach. On May 12, a large UAE delegation held meetings in Syria. This illustrates how Abu Dhabi is moving toward investment and important ties with Damascus. The UAE’s more cautious approach contrasts with those of Turkey and Saudi Arabia, which have gone all-in on working with the Ahmed al-Sharaa government. The UAE, which tends to be concernedRead More