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Pakistan News

PM Shehbaz allows spectators for all PSL 11 playoff matches

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PM Shehbaz

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has granted permission for spectators to attend all three playoff matches of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) Season 11.

According to a statement issued by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on X, fans will now be allowed to enter stadiums for playoff fixtures scheduled in Karachi and Lahore.

Mohsin Naqvi further stated that the Prime Minister has directed spectators to use public transport when traveling to stadiums to ensure smooth arrangements and avoid congestion.

Earlier, the Prime Minister had approved spectator entry for the PSL 11 final. The latest decision extends this permission to all playoff matches.

Prior to this, Mohsin Naqvi also met the Prime Minister to discuss the overall security situation and arrangements for fan attendance during PSL matches. The Prime Minister expressed satisfaction over security measures in place during the ongoing regional diplomatic developments.

The playoff stage begins tomorrow, with Peshawar Zalmi set to face Islamabad United in the Qualifier in Karachi. The first Eliminator will be played in Lahore between Hyderabad Kingsmen and Multan Sultans, followed by the second Eliminator on May 1 at the same venue.

The grand final of PSL 11 is scheduled for May 3 at Gaddafi Stadium.

SpaceX reportedly offers $60b to acquire Pakistani founder’s AI startup ‘Cursor’

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SpaceX reportedly

KARACHI: Elon Musk’s SpaceX has reportedly made a massive $60 billion offer to acquire AI startup “Cursor,” founded by Karachi-born entrepreneur Sualeh Asif.

According to reports, the deal could also include an alternative $10 billion strategic partnership option, signaling strong interest in the company’s cutting-edge artificial intelligence capabilities.

Cursor is known for developing AI-powered coding automation tools, positioning itself among leading global AI firms such as OpenAI and Anthropic.

If finalized, the agreement would allow Cursor’s engineering team access to SpaceX’s advanced supercomputing infrastructure, enabling the development of next-generation coding and AI systems.

Saleh Asif co-founded Cursor at Massachusetts Institute of Technology along with three partners. He also represented Pakistan at the International Mathematical Olympiad between 2016 and 2018.

The startup has seen rapid growth, raising $2.3 billion in funding in November 2025 and reportedly surpassing $1 billion in annual revenue, with its valuation exceeding $29 billion.

Industry experts say the potential deal could mark one of the largest-ever transactions involving a Pakistani-founded startup, highlighting the growing global impact of talent emerging from the country.

PM Shehbaz, Ishaq Dar review regional security after Araghchi call

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PM Shehbaz

ISLAMABAD: Following a telephone call from Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar briefed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on his discussions and the latest diplomatic developments.

During the meeting, the two leaders reviewed the regional security situation and concerns over rising tensions, while also holding detailed discussions on the expected second round of talks between the United States and Iran.

Ishaq Dar apprised the prime minister of ongoing diplomatic efforts, including Pakistan’s role in facilitating dialogue between the two sides. Shehbaz Sharif described the expected arrival of the Iranian delegation as a significant diplomatic development.

Both leaders agreed to closely monitor the evolving situation, with the prime minister issuing key policy and diplomatic directives aimed at promoting peace and stability in the region.

Shehbaz Sharif also directed that high-level diplomatic engagements be intensified and consultations continue, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to de-escalation, confidence-building, and advancing the negotiation process.

PSX turns positive as Iran-US talk’s news boost investor sentiment

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PSX turns positive

Karachi: The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) rebounded sharply into positive territory following reports of an Iranian delegation’s expected visit to Pakistan for the second round of Iran-US talks.

The benchmark KSE-100 Index surged by 1,498 points to close at 170,672 points. Earlier in the trading session, the index had plunged by 2,165 points to 167,007 points before reversing its losses.

Market analysts linked the recovery to emerging diplomatic developments, including expectations of renewed dialogue between Iran and United States, with Pakistan playing a mediating role.

In global commodities, crude oil prices also declined amid easing geopolitical concerns. Brent crude fell from $107 to $104 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) dropped by $2 to trade near $95 per barrel.

According to sources, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected to arrive in Islamabad, while a US delegation may also travel to Pakistan as part of ongoing diplomatic engagements aimed at facilitating peace talks.

Pakistan, China discuss Middle East situation and peace efforts in high-level meeting

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Pakistan

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong, during which discussions were held on the situation in the Middle East and Pakistan’s ongoing diplomatic efforts for peace.

The meeting in Islamabad focused on bilateral relations and regional developments. The prime minister expressed pride in Pakistan’s strategic partnership with China and said that close cooperation with Chinese leadership would continue to further strengthen ties between the two countries.

Shehbaz Sharif also conveyed good wishes for the Chinese President and Premier, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations.

The Chinese ambassador appreciated Pakistan’s diplomatic initiatives aimed at promoting lasting peace in the region and reiterated the commitment of both countries to further strengthen their longstanding friendship.

Pakistan playing key role in preventing breakdown of US-Iran talks: Report

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Pakistan playing

Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Asim Munir is reportedly playing a key role in efforts to prevent a complete breakdown of US-Iran negotiations and facilitate diplomatic communication between the two sides.

According to a report by Financial Times, Pakistan Armed Forces is actively engaged in behind-the-scenes diplomatic efforts amid escalating tensions between Iran and United States.

The report describes Pakistan’s role in mediation as important in easing regional tensions, with Field Marshal Asim Munir viewed as playing an unconventional but central part in maintaining communication channels between the parties.

It further states that mistrust, sanctions, and military tensions have complicated the peace process. However, Pakistan is continuing efforts to keep dialogue alive and encourage diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation in the region.

Pakistan steps up diplomatic efforts to bring Iran to second round of talks

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Pakistan steps up

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has intensified high-level diplomatic engagement with Iran to persuade Tehran to participate in the second round of negotiations aimed at sustaining a fragile ceasefire and paving the way for lasting peace, informed sources said.

According to officials familiar with the development, Pakistan’s top leadership is in active contact with Iranian authorities. Key figures involved include Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Asim Munir, and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.

Sources said Islamabad’s primary objective is to prevent any potential escalation while ensuring the continuation of the ceasefire. Pakistan is also working to bring both sides to the table for direct negotiations to achieve long-term regional stability.

A well-placed source stated that Pakistan is making every possible effort and is currently awaiting a formal response from Iran regarding its participation.

Officials indicated that once confirmation is received, Pakistan is prepared to host the second round of talks in Islamabad. “We are ready to facilitate and host the talks,” the source added.

Meanwhile, Federal Minister for Information Attaullah Tarar clarified that Pakistan is still awaiting official confirmation from the Iranian side regarding the proposed peace talks.

He emphasized that Pakistan continues to play a mediatory role and remains engaged with Iranian leadership through ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Tarar also noted that the current ceasefire is set to expire early on April 22 (Pakistan time), underlining the urgency for Tehran to make a timely decision on joining the next phase of negotiations.

NEPRA license made mandatory for solar system users across Pakistan

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NEPRA license

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Energy has made it mandatory for all solar system users to obtain a license from the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA), introducing new regulatory requirements for electricity generation.

According to NEPRA sources, consumers installing solar systems will now be required to secure a license based on their power generation capacity.

Previously, distribution companies were authorized to issue licenses for systems up to 25 kilowatts, often at no cost. However, under the new amendments introduced by the Power Division, obtaining a NEPRA license has become compulsory for all such users.

Sources further revealed that consumers will now have to pay a fee calculated at Rs1,000 per kilowatt, along with submitting a pay order in favor of NEPRA. Earlier, licenses for systems up to 25 kW were issued free of charge.

Under the revised rules, eligible consumers will be able to obtain connections under the net billing system, while those using hybrid solar technology will be exempt from the licensing requirement.

The move is aimed at streamlining solar energy regulation and ensuring proper oversight of distributed power generation in the country.

PM Shehbaz directs acceleration of development projects through PPP

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PM Shehbaz

ISLAMABAD: Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to fast-track development projects across the country through enhanced use of Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).

The directive came during a high-level meeting chaired by the prime minister to review progress and reforms in the PPP framework. Key decisions were taken to improve efficiency and coordination within the system.

The meeting granted in-principle approval to further streamline the Public Private Partnership Authority and integrate its structure more effectively.

It was also decided that the authority will operate under the Privatization Division to align its performance with modern requirements and accelerate project execution.

The prime minister instructed relevant ministries and departments to strengthen their capacity for initiating and managing development projects under the PPP model.

He further directed that such projects should be made part of institutional Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to ensure accountability and progress.

Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that reforms through P3A aim to make the PPP system more transparent and efficient, enabling faster delivery of infrastructure and development initiatives.

During the meeting, officials presented a comparative analysis of PPP models adopted in various countries, along with a briefing on the proposed new framework. It was informed that under the revised structure, P3A will be overseen by the Cabinet Committee on Privatization and the Privatization Division.

The prime minister directed authorities to expedite implementation of the newly approved system.

Aleema Khan says more capable leaders should come forward

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Aleema Khan

RAWALPINDI: Aleema Khan, sister of Imran Khan, has said that while she is capable of holding a party position, she prefers to support her brother and believes more committed and capable individuals should take the lead.

Speaking to media near Gorakhpur checkpoint close to Adiala Jail, she stated that Imran Khan “was, is, and will remain” the party chairman, adding that the party should continue to function according to his vision, for which he struggled over three decades.

Aleema Khan emphasized that their role as family members is to stand by Imran Khan, not to seek positions within the party. “It is not that I am not eligible for any role, but there are more committed and capable people who should move forward,” she said.

She also urged party workers and leaders to overcome fear and stand firm, saying the public expects leadership to take a strong stance. “Voters have the right to question their representatives,” she added.

Criticizing recent political developments, she claimed the government had requested the party to avoid holding a rally on April 9, and argued that the leadership should have instead demanded that Imran Khan be shifted to a hospital for medical treatment while continuing peaceful negotiations.

Commenting on ongoing Iran-US tensions, Aleema Khan said that trust can only be built when both sides act in good faith. She expressed skepticism over the United States’ position, stating that conflicting signals from Donald Trump undermine confidence in the negotiation process.